The salmon fishing pause button is still pretty much engaged around the country as winter holds its grip on proceedings. Barring a very few spots, grue and ice is still winning the battle. Archie Richie braved the elements and took a fine 15 pounder off the Ness and Spey expert Graham Ritchie had a sparkling 8 pounder from the icy Rothes & Aitkenway beat.

The North is quiet although the Brora river has reported 5, the Helmsdale is still treading water on 2. The forecast is for more normal March conditions next week so hopefully we witness a thaw and rivers flowing again ice free with springers on the move.

If you have not heard already, we have a new salmon fly collection on the go ( and they are very much on the go!) flying out the door in preperatin for lots of fishing to ahead. They are being snapped up quickly espacially our new Cascade SuperSquid and Blue Ass Willie Gunn, These are set to be huge sellers. The good news is that at the rest of the collection arrives, the flies are available to trade dealers by the dozen for the first time. Call me for details if you want to stock any and I will send samples and a price list.

You can view and purchase the first arrivals here which include some of our best and most powerful designs based on years of experience - http://www.helmsdalecompany.com/new-rs-collection.html

Also check out the superb new tube fly box from Fulling Mill which we now have in stock. It can be totally and easily customised to hold any length of tube or fly as all compartments are fully adjustable. It also fits in your wading jacket pocket so grab one and get all your "go to" flies organised as well as hooks and extension tubing. Drop into the Ronald Sutherland facebook page to win this great box and all its deadly contents in our latest caption competition which will be running for 1 week from midday today (Sunday 4th ), good luck!