Fish 487 (Season 16,657) Returns 101 (3,734) Rod average 4.8 (4.46)
The fishing at Grafham Water has been of a very high standard continuously now for a number of weeks. We have enjoyed one of the best Autumns in years. The fish being caught are in fantastic fighting condition and attracting many positive comments and compliments from anglers returning to the pontoon after a day’s fishing as the cold, wintery night draws in.
The wind has been rather frustrating changing its direction and speed without any warning, yet the fishing goes from strength to strength. The main flies and tactics have changed little. So long as the angler is willing to use two inch snakes, either white or green, then there is a good chance of catching.
Any lures that are worked either mid water or, believe it or not, high up will also stand a good chance of creating a take from a trout. Minkies and boobies can’t be ignored, both boat and bank anglers would be well advised to fish G mark and any of the north shore from Pylon Point to the Dam. Make use of the bays and don’t be afraid to pull the line quickly through the rod rings, the fish seem to be biting more out of aggression than necessarily feeding, therefore you may find that you receive a number of pulls before you manage the hook up.
Grafham Fur and Feather, GWFFA Winter Plate and Shrimpmasters 3
Grafham’s own Fur and Feather match was run alongside the GWFFA Winter Plate and the third Shrimpmasters event. Fished on Sunday 24 November in less than favourable conditions; a flat calm, with only the lightest of light ripples in very few places. However this match was a resounding success with 31 anglers taking 99 fish. The winner of the Fur & Feather finished with a total bag weight of 19lb 7oz including a wonderful Rainbow of 4lb 4oz. Second place finished with a total of 19lb 1oz and third a respectable 17lb 4oz. A huge thank you to all who took part or helped to organise this popular event.
It turned out to be a good day with a rod average of well over 4, and some excellent fish caught. Even the smaller ones are in great condition and there seem to be plenty of them. Many stayed for the post match curry and prize-giving which rounded off a very friendly and enjoyable day.
The next Shrimpmasters, (number 4) is Sunday 8 December. It is a series of six, but the winner will be decided on the best four results, so you don’t have to fish all to become Shrimpmaster 2019!
If you are wanting to catch predators then the only place to be is Grafham. The zander have moved into deeper water. Small shads with head weights of up to 50gm have been producing bites. With the water levels steadily rising all the time the boils have been working intermittently, the depths can get to about 55 feet at these boils so be sure to fish deep and with pink lures.
Day boat prices are now reduced for the winter – the Winter boat is available from 9am to sunset £21, single man £15.
Tackle shop opening hours are 8am to 1pm from 1 December.
Forthcoming events
Grafham Shrimpmasters bank series 8 December, 22 December; 12 January.
Beginners courses: 7 December; 5 January 2020.