A doorway into another world – 50 years of fishing at Milne Graden

 

This year, Mr Ian Hayward celebrates an amazing 50 years of committed fishing here at Milne Graden.

Given his extraordinary loyalty to this beat, we thought it would be a nice opportunity to share some key soundbites from Ian himself which may help and encourage those keen fishermen and women out there to further their interest in fishing at Milne Graden.

Mr Hayward illustrates that when it comes to fishing, its not just about the sport, but a doorway into another world, and it’s how you approach it that broadens your horizons even further.

 

 

Thank you Mr Hayward for being kind enough to share some of your experiences.

What makes you return year on year to Milne Graden?
“It can provide good fishing for quite a bit of the season in a beautiful rural environment and for 30 years I had the lease of the fishing so I know what I am letting myself in for.”

What is it about salmon fishing that you enjoy so much?
“I find salmon fishing mentally relaxing interspersed with excitement.”

What are your top tips for fishermen?
“1. Fish through a pool at a steady pace having regard to the height, clarity, and temperature of the water.”
“2. Have tackle available, especially lines, tips, and flies, for change in conditions.”
“3. Wade as quietly as possible.” 
“4. Rest the pool if bright sun is shining directly downstream in clear water.”

How has this sport enhanced your life?
“Given me time to relax from work and meet many interesting people which, in some cases, has resulted in getting into other aspects of the sport around the world.”

Can you give us an insight into some of your greatest fishing memories here at Milne Graden?
“My largest salmon at Milne Graden was 28lbs in November 1975 and I had another of 27 ½ lbs in 1988.  

One event I remember was a Thursday morning in November 1999 when I had two fish of 24lbs and 19lbs in two casts at the Cat Rock. With the rota with Tillmouth Park I would have next fished there on Saturday morning but was going home to attend an aunt’s 90th birthday party so I told the boatman he could invite a friend and fish with him. In the same spot the friend landed a huge coloured salmon which, before putting it back they measured the length and girth but did not know the weight formula so sent the figures to The Tweed Foundation who said the fish weighed 35lbs, the biggest in my time at Milne Graden.”

What are your top phrases frequently used on the river?
“Hold her by the boulder.”
“Keep it steady in the eddy.”  
“Not much fun in the sun.”
“Not easy when it’s breezy.” 
“A bit of a pain the rain.” 
“A bit slow in the snow.”
“A bit of a dog in the fog.”