16/8/09 

A reasonable week on the Helmsdale last week boosted hopes of an extended summer run. The upper river saw some good sport however not the high percentage of fish caught were fresh run and most that were showed signs of starvation. This recent phenomenon affecting grilse especially is common all over the UK and is a worrying trend that needs to be investigated in great detail.

With visitor numbers dropping off the Association water struggled to catch more than 10 salmon last week but a few better quality salmon were landed. We have good water levels as of today (Sunday) after some heavy rain. Prospects for the week ahead are good and anglers should expect to hook up with some better quality fresh fish. Day ticket availability is good for the Helmsdale Association water at the moment so it is well worth a chuck!

The Helmsdale Highland Games open salmon distance casting championship yesterday was won by Helmsdale head water bailiff Peter Quail with a cracking cast of 144ft. The competition rod used was the new DTX 15ft from Scott Mackenzie teamed with a Carron Jetstream 105ft Competition line.

Alistair Jappy lifted first prize for trout distance with 97ft and visitor John Sweetman was best sharp-shooter in the trout accuracy scoring 18 hoops in 2mins.  

Don’t forget to stock up on flies if you still have fishing lined up (lots of fishing still to be had!); we are now well on in the season and fast approaching autumn. Cooling waters will start to herald a move towards more sub-surface fly presentation so pop a few coneheads, copper & tungsten tubes into your armoury for best results.