Rod average - 4.0
It has been a typical autumnal week weather-wise with some low air pressures followed by some very high pressures and variable wind direction changes. All of which have contributed to the fishing being somewhat challenging. Given the right conditions there have been some great returns from both the boats & the banks, however the inconsistent nature of the weather has meant that two days have rarely been the same & some have found some days harder than others. One thing that has remained consistent is the number of overwintered Rainbows & Browns showing with a good number of fish from 4-8lb being recorded.
The fish continue to feed well on the abundant shrimp around the margins where fish have fed in very shallow water with bank anglers reporting fish feeding in & around their feet & even taking shrimp off their waders. When fishing the banks do not be in a rush to wade, fish the water from the bank & work your way into the water to cover the water in front of you effectively.
The North Shore continues to fish well from the bank, with different known areas producing on different days so it pays to adopt a mobile approach when fishing the banks, The Harbour walls are also beginning to produce some good fish, with those fishing early morning benefitting most. The Dam is always worth a look this time of year too, however, be advised that Dam restrictions are still in place as the water authorities are currently pumping in water, so the water level is rising again.
From the boats, those who have avoided the crowded areas have been rewarded with some good returns with fish caught along the Stumps, Hill Farm, Pig & Church Bay. Other areas remain the Seat & G to N Buoy where fish can be caught on Perch Fry imitations & Snakes, along with the usual seasonal suspects of Hares Ears, Shrimp Patterns & given the right conditions, Popper Fry & Dries, on Floating lines & Midge Tips.
The weather forecast for the forthcoming week gives light variable winds but mainly overcast, which is great for this time of year. Given the water clarity so clear & the fishing challenging do not underestimate the effectiveness of fishing long leaders, single flies & as fine tippet as you can, to try to tempt naturally feeding fish, that are difficult to catch, to take your fly.
Boat in time for the forthcoming week is 4.00pm.