Summer is on the way!

 

The Summer, a fantastic time of year here at Milne Graden where timings, tactics and conditions are altered.

I am often told this and must admit, in my excitement of casting a line, I sometimes miss thoroughly addressing this crucial part of the process until I am in the river, at which point, time is ticking on and I may have missed that biting moment!

It helps talking this through with the ghillies or the other fisherman who are often happy to share and discuss their strategies. A great part of the day – that morning ritual of deciding your approach.

I am told fish are more active at this time. They enjoy warmer temperatures and need more food to survive.

I certainly enjoy seeing fish holding in the pools, jumping as if checking on you, as opposed to those fast-paced springers on their upstream mission. More activity is starting to show in the Quarry so watch out for this pool.

So, what fly might I consider as we start experiencing seasonal changes? In low, clear, warm summer water, I might select a smaller fly for instance a delicately dressed, tiny red or black francis.

At this time of year one might enjoy a longer more liquid based lunch and enjoy fishing at the later part of the day as the sun begins to sink!