The heatwave has finally abated and the Helmsdale has sprung into action. Lots of fish were landed all over the river last week and a few grilse are now on the go too. The biggest fish reported was a thumping 25 pounder for John Hardy way up in Miss Moulds pool on beat 5 above on one of his home tied Alistair coneheads, its a lovely bright version of the fly tied with dyed yellow squirrel tail and topped off with a sliver cone, John also had a classic 4lbs grilse on beat one along with several other fish for his week.

13 were caught on beat 2 one day and the highlight of the week from the Association water was a first fish for young Aaron Grant also caught on an Alistair conehead tube.

The river is in full spate today ( Sat ) and although it is a washout it is sure to set up some great fishing next week.

As usual, we have all the flies you need to enjoy your fishing from South American sea-trout to hitching in Iceland and everywhere in between, have a good rake through the website. We are also in full manufacturing mode getting loads of out of stock flies tied up again. Our top RS flies are so popular since launch on 2007 online we are always fighting with keeping up with stock - "not a bad thing I suppose" The new Rs collection has been blitzed and we have forward orders for so many flies - quickest seller, Rons Naked Kinnermony killer, RS Solar Monkey and Rs Firetail Cascade...watch this space, no flies sell like RS flies! they are worldwide flyers!

Aaron Grant proudly displayes his sparkling first salmon caught in Roaries pool on the Association water

Johns home made Alistair variant

The Lower Caen pool beat 1 below in a sedate mood before the big weekend spate