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Here's
your chance to complete your Fly Fishing and Fly Tying
collection, or catch up on articles you may have missed.
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| September 2009 |
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The pig's whiskers! – Frank Moors shares some favourite patterns of the salmon fly that is currently ‘hogging’ the limelight. Click here to read the article.
Manna from heather – Chris James gives the tactical options in a fall of heather flies.
Today's traditionals – George Barron demonstrates how the genius of traditional favourites have spawned today’s super-variants, firstly with the Peter Ross.
Take out the unseen enemy – How to improve your stillwater dry-fly fishing in a drifting boat.
The wild trout's wish list – Neil Patterson introduces us to his dry Caddis that says “Shucks, why didn’t I think of that?”
The fine art of 'twigging' – Toby Coe travels light and fishes light to tackle our untouched brooks and streams.
Textbook Tying – Mick Huffer demonstrates how to tie and fish the great standby pattern, Ivens’ Black & Peacock Spider.
A conundrum on the Soro – Malcolm Greenhalgh fishes a Slovenian river that breaks all his dry fly rules.
V for Victory – Dave Wiltshire ties a transluscent soft-hackle Grub which has become the ‘go-to’ pattern in his bugging box.
Champion of the Cheviots – Peter Lapsley uncovers excellent salmon, sea trout, trout and grayling fishing on Northumberland’s River Till.
Fly of the Month – Hoppers – Bristol and Grafham styles.
One man in a boat – Will Shaw sets the alarm to stalk summer chub from the Thames with a dry fly, from a boat.
Where the trout can't believe their eyes – Neil Patterson uses massive foam flies to tempt the monsters that live in the blue-ribbon trout waters of Argentinian lakes.
He who dares ... – ... gets eaten by midges. Mike Harding has a tactic to counter them.
Sandison's Scotland – Fish Loch Heilen before you die; Sad Gladhouse; fishing Shetland’s Simmer Dim Festival; Freedom Food figures don't add up.ymph for the 'washing line'.
Don't miss our regulars: Letters, Reservoir reports, Gordon Mackie's View from the Chalkstreams, Morgan & Son - Moc and Hywel report from Wales, Chris Sandford's Vintage Valuations, Fishy Story and Reflections.
Also, Magnus Angus' takes a look at some new dubbing, hooks, blends and finds some Flexibody, while on the tackle front, he reviews a Lennox salmon travel rod, Vision zip-fronted breathable waders, a Wychwood Competition fly box, Hardy tippet, a Greys reel case and Fastnet's Trout net
PLUS!
• Win a Sonik rod, reel and line outfit in our popular quiz competition.
• The essential challenge – Book your free materials using our special code, then use them to tie an innovative fly. £500 voucher for the winner. |
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| April 2009 |
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Margin of profit - Dave Southall explains how to get a better return from the bank.
The unsinkable Dun – Peter Smith demonstrates how to tie his realistic Baetis pattern, the FB Dun.
Fisher kings – Joe MacDonald ties his salmon flies with the jungle cock tied 'over and under'.
If only I'd known … – More tips from John Goddard to make your season more enjoyable.
A fly fishing fortnight – Moc Morgan kicks off our new credit-crunch holiday destinations feature with a look at the angling attractions of south-west Wales.
Downsizing for white water – Charles Jardine tells us of the lessons he learned while fast water dry-fly fishing in the Rockies.
Homage to a master – Charles Jardine pays tribute to Bev Perkins, a fly fishing great.
In pursuit of the spring treble – Jim Fisher's diary of his mission to secure an incredible salmon record on the Tay, Dee and Spey
In Walton’s footsteps – Peter Lapsley meets the team behind the success of the fabled Amwell Magna fishery.
Fly of the Month – Charles Jardine ties Stuie’s Olive, a fly for when emerging olives are being taken by fussy feeders.
The unsung lochs of South Uist – “As near to a fly-fishing naturalist’s heaven as I have come across”, says Malcolm Greenhalgh.
Textbook tying – Mick Huffer ties the Joey, a little known hill loch fly which produces fantastic results.
Tiny dries with a twist – Agostino Roncallo’s new and interesting technique for rolling CdC to produce small floating duns and spinners.
The Conductor – Mike Harding recalls the weirdest place he’s ever fished … the pub!
Scratching for pike - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds discusses how to transform a pike fishing session from dull to dazzling.
The wild trout wish list – Neil Patterson improves the Sunk Spinner, his fly for imitating egg-laying female spinners.
Free subscription gift – Subscribe to FF&FT and receive a free Wilderness landing net.
Reader offer – Hone up your pike skills with the chance to catch a monster with David Wolsoncroft-Dodds at a ‘secret’ Irish venue.
Quiz - 5 Hardy Demon rods to be won!
Reviews – Magnus Angus assesses a Snowbee Flymate vice and a fly holder; two new DVDs; a Daiwa Wilderness XT 3-pce rod; an LED UV torch; a wooden frame landing net; Greys X-Flite and GRXi+ reels; and a Leeda 9ft 6in 6/7-weight rod.
Focus on Scotland 2009
• Troot frae the tapwater – Drew Jamieson says when the engineers of old created the Central Belt reservoirs they created a great fishing resource.
• Silver lining – Bruce Sandison lists his favourite brown trout lochs with also produce salmon and sea trout.
• Minimalise for the hill lochs – Clive Halnan tells us how he prepares for a day’s hill loch trouting.
• Navigating the labyrinth – Robert MacDougall-Davis reveals his top ten North Uist trout lochs. |
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| March 2009 |
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Slobs from the seaweed - Hunting big trout from the sea lochs of North Uist.
“It signals six weeks’ good fishing” – Oliver Edwards explains why the Yellow May is a vital fly, and reveals his swimming nymph.
Click here to read part of Oliver's article.
Masters’ plan – How they’re preparing for the new season.
Rocky Mountain hop – Learn the technical steps to wild fish success
The experienced angler – John Goddard's hints and tips to help you through the season with a little less frustration.
New season resolutions – Peter Lapsley’s checklist on how he intends to prepare for the new season.
Talking tactics – Charles Jardine details the ultra-long leader presentation pioneered by the French.
Fly of the Month – The Rambo-Mary. Charles Jardine ties a mainstray fly for the Duo or Trio.
The wild trout wish list– Neil Patterson discusses a method of floatation that blows floatants out of the water.
Textbook tying – Mick Huffer ties the Cock Robin, the early bird for the Irish loughs.
Frankenfly – Mike Harding stumbles across a Gothic piscatorial tale.
On the bench – Magnus Angus compares trebles for salmon fly tying, and takes a look at a fly dryer plate.
Tackle Bag – A Leeda Profile rod; Fulling Mill fly box; Harrison Lorhic blanks; Blank Buster Buzzers; and the Wychwood Aura are all under the scrutiny of Magnus.
Fly-tying League 2008/9 – The leader boards from rounds 1, 2 and 3.
Free subscription gift – Subscribe to FF&FT and receive a free Wilderness tackle bag.
Reader offer – Hone up your pike skills with the chance to catch a monster with David Wolsoncroft-Dodds at a ‘secret’ Irish venue.
Quiz - 9 Diawa Wilderness XT rods to be won!
Focus on Ireland 2009
John Todd on the good, the bad, and the strange – Round up of the 2008 season.
Silver on the crest of a wave – Salmon and sea trout on the drift with Ally Gowans and Mark Corps.
Kicking up a fuss – Patsy Deery and Mark Bowler show how lough flies are growing legs. |
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| February 2009 |
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9 little devils - Moc and Hywel Morgan trace the origins of the Diawl Bach.
Treble chance - Smoothie Charles Jardine demonstrates how to fish the Duo and Trio dry fly/nymph combination.
Fly UK or USA? - Unrestricted access, technique, flies … Peter Lapsley explores the different ways fly fishing has developed over the pond.
Queen Kate – Bruce Sandison and Stan Headley explore the origins and variants of the loch fisher's favourite fly.
Double-handed for pike – David Wolsoncroft-Dodds suggests winter pike action for your salmon rod.
The Italian fly-tying trapeze – No vice? And an eye made of thread? Mark Bowler uncovers a method of tying a fly on two tensioned monofilament lines. Capice? Click here to read part of Mark's article.
Magic of the Jeannie – Norman Blake shows how to tie that classic strip-wing salmon fly, the Jeannie.
Fly of the Month – To complement his article on the Duo and Trio technique, Charles Jardine illustrates how to tie the Sacrificial Beast.
The bird man of Broadcasting House – Mike Harding puts road kill to good use …
The experienced angler – Alex Wessolowski explains why he always carries a thermometer when going fishing.
Sitting proud – A Quill Wet and Dry is the final test fly in this year's Fly Tying League competition. Magnus Angus guides us through the tying.
The borrowers – There's no substitute for experience, says Brian Harris who takes issue with angling writers who merely plagiarise.
The size of it – Sometimes size does matter, says Dave Southall, especially to an opportunistic trout feeding on tiny invertebrates.
The wild trout wish list – Mike's Midge is a great fly for bottom-grubbing fussy trout, says Neil Patterson.
From Russia with … – Charles Jardine caught his biggest-ever brown trout, fishing wet fly on the mighty Varzina.
Quiz – 6 fleece, jacket and waistcoat sets of Wychwood clothing to be won
Hosted saltwater trip to Cuba 2009 – It's not too late to book onto FF&FT’s Cuban saltwater adventure.
Fly Tying League 2008-9 Round Four, final round – tie three Quills (wet and dry).
PLUS
Magnus Angus runs his eye over Grey’s new X-Flite and the Daiwa Wilderness XT rods; Leeda Profil reel; Scierra retaining loop and Wychwood’s new Truefly jacket. He also scrutinises Dr Slick Prism Scissors, Chevron hen saddle discusses thread sizing.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story – Tell a tall tale and win a great read.
Northern climes – Why transferring planning controls has achieved nothing.
Reflections – You Wensum, you lose some. By Logie Bruce Lockhart..
A View from the Chalkstreams – Gordon Mackie fishes dry fly in a snowstorm.
Letters – Orkla ... the whale?; Success in sight; Credit where it's due; the Riverfly Abundance argument etc. |
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| January 2009 |
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Shedding light - Dave Southall says many fish are "genetically wired" to respond to certain colours.
From Russia with … - Charles Jardine experiences exciting upstream streamer tactics on the mighty Varzina.
The great escape - Bruce Sandison explores the game fishing potential of the remote and wild Knoydart peninsula on Scotland's west coast.
Purple highlights – Two unusual grilse patterns hot from Ireland: the Golden Grilse and the Grilse Fly.
The Ivens legacy – Geoffrey Bucknall looks at how Tom Ivens' stillwater work continues to affect our approach today.
When eyes grow dim – Peter Lapsley's 30 tips to help with fading eyesight.
Letters extra – Oliver Edwards says the S&TA's River Fly Abundance Survey is flawed but can be made workable.
Textbook Tying – Mick Huffer demonstrates how he ties – and fishes – the Grey Duster, one of best general dry fly patterns devised.
The Experienced Angler – Mark Bowler shares his favourite knots and tells how he thinks of a fried egg when he ties on a salmon fly …
That sinking feeling – Darren Lewis investigates how differently our fly lines behave in saltwater.
Split-cane and bluebottles – Mike Harding recalls fond childhood memories.
8 go to Ireland – Mobility was the key to success, says David Wolsoncroft-Dodds as he reports on our recent reader offer pike trip to Ireland.
The wild trout's wish list – Neil Patterson prepares for the early spring hatches by tying The Mole Fly, an old prototype of the Klinkhåmer, which was designed in Surrey.
Depth charge – Magnus Angus demonstrates how he ties the Czech Nymph to aid Round 3 entrants of the Fly Tying League 2008/9 competition.
Quiz – Answer six questions and win a Beyond the Rise DVD.
Armchair fishing – Magnus Angus assesses a riverkeepers' manual, Hugh Miles' latest production, a book on fishing huts, and a book on the trout of Croatia.
Fly-fishing skills school – Book now for FF&FT’s Cuban saltwater adventure.
Fly Tying League 2008-9 - Round Three – tie three Czech Nymphs.
PLUS
Magnus Angus rates a colourful Abel reel, Truefly tippet retainer, The Essential Fly Superflite reel, Greys’ new Platinum XD Competition rod, camouflaged tapered leader and a tippet tamer. Magnus also tests Marc Petitjean's ‘Swiss army vice, and draws a distinction between pattern creation and tying skills.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story – Tell a tall tale and win a copy of Tell tall tales and win Dennis Moss’ Trout from a Boat.
Northern climes – Rod McGill asks: how come Scotland keeps avoiding ISA?
Vintage valuations – 2009 could be a vintage year for collectors, says Chris Sandford, who values a few of the smaller collectibles.
Morgan & Son – Moc Morgan uncovers how the rivers Trusts are performing miracles in Wales.
Reflections – Future proof. By Steven Murgatroyd. |
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| December 2008 |
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Egg beaters - Neil Patterson showcases a trout fly which is also has grayling in egg-stacy.
Nations divided - Chris Mann's extensive study of Atlantic salmon flies reveals international nuances and trends.
Steps to heaven - Gordon Mackie on how to discover unfished chalkstreams.
Uncommonly good – Mick Huffer shows how to tie and fish the Green Peter Muddler, an all-round top-dropper attractor.
Saving salar’s cousins – Drew Jamieson explains why Scottish anglers are suddenly catching vendace, powan, and charr in their wild trout waters.
Wets with an aerial twist – Charles Jardine shows how the wet-fly fisher can gain valuable extra drift with a simple flick of the wrist.
Class of 2008 – A mixed and difficult season gave Peter Lapsley plenty of food for thought.
Welsh work of art – Andrew Cartwright fishes Victorian artist Henry William Banks' bolt-hole on the upper Wye.
In the shop window – Magnus Angus demonstrates how to tie a bubble-wing with CdC to help entrants to round two of the Fly Tying League 2008-9 competition.
Tigers in Livingstone’s footsteps – Clive Holloway becomes one of the first fly fishers to tackle a beautiful African lake.
Grand slam crab – Mark Bowler uncovers a unique crab fly which swims on an even keel.
The doctor will see you now – Mike Harding muses over fly fishing ailments and offers some cures.
The wild trout’s wish list – Mais oui. Neil Patterson explains why the Cul de Canard is the one above all others.
The Knowledge – Stan Headley says there's a lot to be learnt from a blank day.
Quiz – Answer six questions and win a complete signed set of Oliver Edwards DVDs.
Armchair fishing – Charles Rangeley Wilson’s new film, Chris Sandford’s new book of stories, and an angler’s logbook are under scrutiny.
Fly-fishing skills school – Book now for FF&FT’s Salmon School or for our Cuban saltwater adventure.
Fly Tying League 2008-9 - Round Two – tie three CdC Loopwing Emergers.
PLUS
Magnus Angus runs his eye over Sage’s new TCX; Hardy’s ‘The Trout Fisher’; Deer Creek flies; gloves for fly fishers; and a bargain fly box, while Malcolm Greenhalgh and Chris Sandford join Magnus in assessing two books, new and old fly tying products, DVDs, and auction items with special appeal.
Also this month: Fly Fishing in Norway supplement
Land of the giants – Tony King fishes for big trout in the Begna watershed.
The changing face of Norway’s salmon fishing – As well as more fish, the new netting restrictions have seen a change of attitude amongst anglers.
Inside Norway – Mark Bowler was one of the first anglers to visit Norway since the lifting of coastal nets
Putting the parasite into perspective – Gyrodactylus is not as widespread as some might think, says Harald Oyen.
Adrift in the Arctic Circle – Magnus Angus finds himself fishing loch-style in the sea for sea trout and pollack.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story – Tell a tall tale and win a copy of Laurence Catlow’s That Stange Alchemy, just published by Merlin Unwin Books.
Northern climes – The real picture of wild salmon and sea trout’s ‘comeback’.
Vintage valuations – Chris Sandford finds the credit crunch hadn’t reached Chiswick by October.
Stillwater scene – Fly fishing back at Weir Wood; Grand display at Bewl; Locals clinch Rutland epic; Guide to Vyrnwy. Plus fishery reports.
Morgan & Son – Good finish; High-calibre leader required; Problems at sea.
Reflections – Two men in a boat. By William Danes-Volkov.
Win a salmon fishing break for two on the River Tay, courtesy of the Kenmore Hotel. |
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| November 2008 |
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Join up! - Join a club and reap the rewards, says Malcolm Greenhalgh.
Grayling focus - Peter Lapsley profiles The Grayling Society; Jeremy Lucas shows how he ties and fishes the Tup Wool Bug; Gordon Mackie's bouncing Bug tactic.
Salmon on the Dog - Mick Huffer demonstrates how to tie and fish the Garry Dog.
Mylar in a spin – Dave Riding shows how he spins Mylar to create new flies.
Catch the Bugeilyn bug
– Rob Yorke finds the true wild fishing spirit of brown trout alive and kicking in mid-Wales.
Casting clinic – Charles Jardine demonstrates how to cast big fry patterns without hooking the back of your head.
Wake up and smell the coffee! – Giuliano Masetti ties a floating snail or beetle imitation with the aid of a coffee bean!
Fly of the Month – Tie Aylottt’s Orange and The Puppa with the aid of Charles Jardine’s sketches.
A merrry dance – How to tie the Yellow Dancer, the fly that’s selling out in central Scotland. Tie three and enter our unique Fly Tying League competition.
Sticks and carrots and Luddites
– Mike Harding wonders what Izaac Walton would have made of a rod made from carrots …
The Knowledge – Stan Headley tells us how tying on flies in the wrong place on the cast can lead to tangle trouble.
Quiz – Answer six questions and win a complete signed set of Oliver Edwards DVDs.
Armchair fishing – Charles Rangeley Wilson’s new film, Chris Sandford’s new book of stories, and an angler’s logbook are under scrutiny.
Fly-fishing skills school – Book now for FF&FT’s Salmon School or for our Cuban saltwater adventure.
PLUS
Magnus Angus demonstrates how materials that fluoresce could catch the fish’s eye. Magnus also puts to the test a Hardy Demon 15-footer; Sonik SK4 reels; Essential TechPack; Orvis Helios #8 Mid-flex; RioMax shooting heads and the Monomaster waste nylon holder.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story – Tell tall tales and win great prizes.
Northern climes – How to reverse the catastrophe of Loch Maree’s sea trout.
Vintage valuations – Chris Sandford in the art world.
Stillwater scene – Tempest on Trawsfynydd; Conn tradition re-surfaces; Fishery reports.
Morgan & Son – Welsh rivers in the ‘lime’ light.
Reflections – What price dignity? By Tom Nelson.
Also this month:
International Fly-Fisher’s Guide 2009
Trout down under – Mick Hall uncovers the superb wild trout fishing on offer in Australia.
Northern delights – Steve Cooper uncovers a stillwater fisher’s paradise in Iceland.
France’s secret corner – Mark Bowler finds the Peche 64 ticket is the gateway to extensive, affordable trout and salmon fishing in the south-west
Hit me one more time! – Henry Gilbey enjoys the insane, exhilarating aggression of Argentina’s biggest dorado. |
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| October 2008 |
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Weight for it! - John Goddard's new approach for grayling. It's an idea which has legs …
Catching the eye - Biologist Alex Wessolowski's theory on how trout and salmon actually view our flies may have some of us re-organising our fly boxes.
Unmask the Foam Ranger - Neil Patterson's daddy of all Daddies has wild trout foaming at the mouth
Just what the doctor ordered – How to tie and use the famous GP Shrimp this autumn
Lead in the air – Maintaining tension is the key to casting heavy bugs
Tempting torpedoes – Roman Moser explains how he catches big pike from a river's 'magic triangle'
Serious Norway – Following netting restrictions, Mark Bowler says Norway has seen an upsurge in catches of big salmon
Fly of the Month – Charles Jardine ties the Sassenach – a traditional style of fly based on an imitative theme
Liverpool's legacy – George Barron’s favourite fishery – Lake Vyrnwy – is an old city water supply in Wales but is the best kept secret in Wales
Paddle power – Graham Ewins showcases his ingenious Road Runner Corixa, a fly that swims like an Olympic champion. Click here to read part of Graham's article.
The Knowledge – Stan Headley tells us why the dry fly fisher needs to be observant and keep an open mind
More strings to the Bow – Big fish, big skies, big flows, big flies. Toby Coe's unforgettable experience on Canada's Bow River
A load of old cow – or is it? Mike Harding's love of the countryside
The modest magician – Peter Lapsley receives useful tips, innovative gadgets and handy flies from one of the best tyers in the business. Click here to read part of Peter's article.
Kite’s heights – 40 years on, Terry Lawton looks back on Oliver Kite’s lasting contribution to angling
Quiz – Answers six questions correctly and you could win rods and reels courtest of Bloke
Armchair fishing – Peter Lapsley reviews John Goddard's latest book
Fly-fishing skills school – Enrol for this autumn’s salmon course on the Annan, or do you fancy a hosted saltwater trip to Cuba next February?
PLUS
Magnus Angus has his hackles up over a cape price rise, offers a better eye for detail tip, and reviews some successful pike flies. Magnus also reviews Hardy’s new Demon cassette reel, Greys Acuflex, Marryat Tactical and Burkheimer rods
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story – Tell us a story, and win a beautiful landing net
A View from the Chalkstreams – Tactical ploys for autumn trout (and grayling)
Northern climes – The decline of east coast sea trout
Vintage valuations – Forget the credit crunch – Chris Sandford sees a world record price set for a creel, a line dryer sell for £384, and shows us a rubber frog worth £100
Stillwater scene – Brenig on song for Ty Nant; World Cup Wet Fly winner; Fishery reports
Morgan & Son – Upholding the Welsh tradition of fly dressing
Reflections – Total recoil. By RK Plunkett |
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| September 2008 |
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I'm a trout fisher get me out of here! - How to succeed in overgrown streams with simple terrestrials and careful wading.
Daddy-no-legs - When faced with the autumn crane fly fall, Brian Harris opts for Peter Deane's little-known suggestor, Deane's Daddy.
Better than 'the good ol' days' - The River Borgie is proving more prolific and bountiful now than it did 100 years ago, says David Barrington-Barnes.
Rutland buzzes again - Charles Jardine finds the locals are opting for streamside set-ups, tactics and skills to catch its residents.
Arctic charr and polar bears - Stten Larsen fishes the abundant waters of Ungava Bay, Arctic Canada.
Fly of the Month - Charles Jardine ties his fly of the moment for Rutland – the Shaggy Bits.
Run shallow, run deep - George Barron describes the tactics and flies that almost clinched him the Brown Bowl in the recent international on Lough Melvin
Shock tactics - John Goddard explains why and how he incorporates elasticised cord into all his leaders.
The wild trout’s wish list - Neil Patterson’s caddis design which causes trout “to lose their natural instinct for survival”.
St Peter’s Gate - Peter Lapsley explores the Derbyshire Wye – the river that produces its own, self-sustaining stock of rainbow trout.
Double snap - Strong downstream wind? Alastair Gowans has a Snap cast to replace the double Spey.
Daddy cool - Brian Harris divulges his favourite Crane fly imitation – a design of a past master which doesn’t rely on fiddly legs.
Man-made menace - Hazel Brockie implores fly fishers to be extra careful with waste nylon.
The Knowledge - Stan Headley explains why we have different fly lines to fish the same flies.
Casting clinic - Quick-fire changes. Charles Jardine demonstrates how a twist of the wrist can alter cast direction in an instant.
The wild trout's wish list – How to tie a Caenis that picky wild trout will, er, pick.
The Loop Series - In which we consider giving the trout nothing it can argue about – an offering it can’t refuse
Casting Clinic – Charles Jardine illustrates the Backhand Haul, a cast for tight spots.
Quiz – Answers seven questions correctly and you could win a Sonik sk3 trout rod.
Fly-fishing skills school – Travel to Ireland and learn the techniques and the flies to contact pike, or enrol for this autumn’s salmon school on the Annan.
PLUS
Magnus Angus rates a Loomis Eastfork 10ft #6 and 9ft #5, a new chest backpack from Fishpond, a Loop Opti Stream 9ft #4 and a fly box from Angling-Designs which minimises moisture getting to our flies by utilising crystals.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story - Tells us a story, and win a personalised bottle of whisky.
A View from the Chalkstreams - Gordon Mackie explains why the success of his Itchen Olive is down to percentages, not innovation on his part.
Northern climes - Rod McGill says fish farmers on South Uist are making a mockery of SSPO’s Code of Good Practice.
Vintage valuations - Chris Sandford casts an expert eye over some of the older angling items readers may have hiddden in their tackle dens
Stillwater scene - Brown trout record broken again on Heilen; Northern highlights; Back to the future at Sweethope; Tal y Llyn tonic … plus reservoir reports.
Reflections - Gone with the wind? By Earl A Stanek. |
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| August 2008 |
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Goddard's Gang of Four - The maestro's essential stillwater dry flies – they are all you need!
Spot the shrimp – Research that shows why we should tie our shrimps with red spots on.
Pooling your resources – Keys to coastal sea trouting in the North Uist sea pools.
A walk on the wild side – Mark Bowler seeks the best wild fishing that Scotland has to offer.
Snap to it! - Alastair Gowans demonstrates the easy way to Spey cast
Christening the rod – Radio 2's Mike Harding lands a beast on his latest acquisition from America
The Cable Guy – Find out how Andrew Hennessey ties snake lures and tube flies from co-axial aerial cable
The Knowledge – Stan Headley explains why we use different lines to present flies at the same depth.
Trout fishing with altitude – Dominic Garnett fishes one of the highest fishing lakes in Europe, by taking a Swiss cable car.
Fly of the Month – Charles Jardine ties the Four-water Special – one of the great point flies.
The wild trout's wish list – How to tie a Caenis that picky wild trout will, er, pick.
The Loop Series - In which we consider giving the trout nothing it can argue about – an offering it can’t refuse
Casting Clinic – Charles Jardine illustrates the Backhand Haul, a cast for tight spots.
Quiz – Answers seven questions correctly and you could win a Sonik sk3 trout rod.
Fly-fishing skills school – Travel to Ireland and learn the techniques and the flies to contact pike, or enrol for this autumn’s salmon school on the Annan.
PLUS
Magnus Angus rates a Loomis Eastfork 10ft #6 and 9ft #5, a new chest backpack from Fishpond, a Loop Opti Stream 9ft #4 and a fly box from Angling-Designs which minimises moisture getting to our flies by utilising crystals.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story - Tells us a story, and win a personalised bottle of whisky.
A View from the Chalkstreams - Gordon Mackie explains why the success of his Itchen Olive is down to percentages, not innovation on his part.
Northern climes - Rod McGill says fish farmers on South Uist are making a mockery of SSPO’s Code of Good Practice.
Vintage valuations - Chris Sandford casts an expert eye over some of the older angling items readers may have hiddden in their tackle dens
Stillwater scene - Brown trout record broken again on Heilen; Northern highlights; Back to the future at Sweethope; Tal y Llyn tonic … plus reservoir reports.
Reflections - Gone with the wind? By Earl A Stanek. |
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| July 2008 |
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Grab a Snatcher – Its versatility means you shouldnt be without it. Mick Huffer ties this imitative sub-surface pulling fly.
Days of plunder – A good breeze and a rolling wave will bring you a red letter day, says George Barron.
Wild West Country – Dominic Garnett says the Westcountry Rivers Trust's Angling 2000 scheme means anglers can fish Devon and Cornwall's wild fish for a pittance.
The science of the surface lure – 'In' not 'on' the surface. Steffan Jones ties the Jambo and explains the best way to fish this Welsh beauty.
The whole shooting match – Lee Cummings demonstrates how to improve your presentation with a shooting-head. Click hear to read part of Lee's article.
Icelandic hero – How do you taper yours? Magnus Angus shows how he ties the all-conquering Red Frances salmon fly.
The golden corner – As the Durness lochs come under new management, Bruce Sandison fishes some of Scotland’s most productive wild waters – lochs Lanlish, Caladail, Croispol and Borralie.
The Knowledge – Grease is the word, says Stan Headley, who explains what the term means to the fly fisher.
First, catch your barmaid
– Mike Harding’s quest for the perfect fly-tying material takes him to the pub …
Sea trout at the end of the world – Gimme shelter. Anthony Hooley samples stunning sea trout sport in Tierra del Fuego.
Fly of the Month – Charles Jardine ties Gareth Jones' highly effective Floating Blob.
The wild trout's wish list – Less weight, less hook. Drive trout wild with Neil Patterson’s unique Funnelspinner.
Casting Clinic – Charles Jardine illustrates the Backhand Haul, a cast for tight spots.
The river dancers – Recognise the dance of the silverhorn caddis and summer afternoon dry fly sport beckons, says Stuart Crofts.
Quiz – Answers six questions correctly and you could win a Belmont trout rod.
Fly-fishing skills school – Travel to Ireland and learn the techniques and the flies to contact pike, or enrol for this autumn’s salmon school on the Annan.
PLUS
Magnus Angus rates a fast-action, cane 7ft 6in #3 from Nicho, an Echo2 Twin Tip rod, leather accessories from Hardy and a Daiwa large arbour reel.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story - Tells us a story, and win a personalised bottle of whisky.
A View from the Chalkstreams
Gordon Mackie recalls the thrill of an angling lifetime on the Avon.
Northern climes - Rod McGill on why seal numbers are declining.
Vintage valuations - Chris Sandford assess a priceless vice, some gut-tied trout flies, an early fly selection and a Hardy clearing ring.
Stillwater scene - Scierra Pairs sizzle; Rutland hits the buzzer; Eyebrook outfitter … plus reservoir reports.
Reflections - Weelum Doo. By Harold Stewart.
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| June 2008 |
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Presentation perfect – Ally Gowans analyses leader make-up and explains why it is so important.
The Rochdale fluffchucker – BBC Radio 2's Mike Harding begins his new column with homicidal thoughts.
Different Stoats – Ian Bennet's Gledswood Stoat series of flies – great on Tweed and in Norway.
Princes of Wales – James Waltham enthuses over the Elwy and the Clwyd.
Devon in Scotland – The clear, winding waters of this veritable Arcadia provide great sport, says Drew Jamieson.
Second-hand tricks – Bill Logan shows us some simple two-handed tying tricks.
Fly of the Month – Charles Jardine uses foam to introduce a new concept with his Shambolic Hare.
Textbook Tying – Mick Huffers demonstrates how to tie a Nomad, the lure which lends itself to being fished as a nymph.
Hunting Irish crocodiles – David Wolsoncroft-Dodds goes on the trail of monster Irish pike.
An ace up the sleeve – Stuart Crofts says we shouldn't ignore caddisflies from the Glossosomatidae family.
The Knowledge – Stan Headley considers why fly rods come in such a range of lengths.
Casting Clinic – Your initial lift-off is the bedrock of your cast, says Charles Jardine.
40 years on – Peter Lapsley goes to Vermont and wallows in the world's biggest collection of fly-fishing memorabilia.
A bad case of buck fever – James Paterson is addicted to the adrenalin rush of fly-fishing for bluewater billfish.
Offers – subscribe and receive your choice of a trout or salmon Orvis Wonderline; enrol now for this autumn's salmon school on the Annan. Also, your chance to win a Gordon 2 trout rod in our popular quiz competition.
Reviews – Magnus Angus raves about Chevron's new, natural guinea feathers. He also rates two new Hardy Demon rods, a stripping basket, a Dutch reel and a limited edition watch.
Also, don't miss our regulars:
• Northern Climes – can the Scottish government handle a possible outbreak of Gyrodactylus in Scottish waters?
• Vintage Valuations – Chris Sandford covers a mad March in the vintage tackle collecting world.
• Stillwater Scene – new design of wheelyboat at Rutland; Chew's biggest rainbow; fishery reports.
• Morgan & Son – a look at Llyn Trawsfyndd, host venue of this year's Four Nations.
plus A View from the Chalkstreams, Letters, Fishy Story, and Reflections.
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| May 2008 |
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The deadly dozen – Bev Perkins' 12 Buzzers to make your year.
Leven rises again – 'The Loch' has returned to the wild, and Stan Headley finds it fishing better than ever.
Salmon and the nymph – Mark Corps gets to the bottom of nymphing for salmon in Connemara.
Magic in the Weald – Peter Lapsley is shown how best to tackle Bewl with expert Bob Barden.
Multiple choice for salmon – A multi-tip fly line lets you change your flie's depth quickly, says Ally Gowans.
Judge's report – Magnus Angus sums up the skills he looked for when judging the Fly-tying League 2007/8.
Teifi back on top – The good old days are returning to Wales thanks to the club structure, says Moc Morgan.
Loch of surprises – Mark Bowlers showcases Loch Tay, a water trout fishers should not ignore.
Anyone for Ennis? – Pat O'Reilly contrasts two great rivers which run through Ennis in Ireland and Ennis in Montana.
Fly of the Month – Fish the Spiller's Sunk Daddy with fast or slow jerks on the line once it's a foot from the bottom, says Charles Jardine.
Duck's Humpy – CdC magicians Agostine Roncallo conjures up a small Humpy-style fly using a single CdC feather.
The wild trout's wish list – Trout can't ignore Neil Patterson's Hawthorn fly which rests hook-point upwards.
Spin doctor – Chris Sandford twists wire with deer hair to create naturally floating Emergers.
Casting Clinic – Charles Jardine demonstrates how to improve presentation with the backhand/wind cast.
Quiz – Fancy a two-night break for two at the Pierhouse Hotel in Argyll? Just answers six questions correctly.
PLUS
Magnus Angus is impressed by a new DVD about the history of Hardy, and a DVD on fly-fishing in Sutherland. Magnus and Mark Bowler also test Echo, Barrio Lightweight and Greys Platinum XD rods, a Hardy Zane reel, a Sage Performance Taper fly line, and the new Dakota frames from Optilabs.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story - Tell us a story, and win a personalised bottle of whisky.
A View from the Chalkstreams - Gordon Mackie considers how the weather can affect Mayfly hatches and the angler’ approach.
Northern climes - Punish the farmers; ‘Stringent’ watchdogs; cod walloped.
Vintage valuations - Chris Sandford casts his eye over a hand-held vice and a tiny line winder, but has yet to find the pulley-driven line drier from 1895.
Stillwater scene - FF&FT covers a mad March opening.
Reflections- The Long and Short of it. By John Hamilton.
• Also, we have polarised sunglasses priced at just £14.95 for FF&FT readers. |
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| April 2008 |
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Picking pockets - Roman Moser's masterclass on fishing pocket water with streamers.
Taking Stocks - "Why entrust the teaching of something as fly-fishing to anyone not qualified to do so?" Charles Jardine talks to the casting instructor's instructor, Roger Beck.
Something in the air - Alexander Keachie's spring salmon fishing features a three- or four-pace stroll.
Casting clinic - Start with your back to the water. Charles Jardine shows how to cast in an awkward wind.
The Knowledge - Go down a fly size, says Stan Headley, when the trout is turning away from your fly.
The wild trout’s wish list - Neil Patterson begins a new series where he showcases flies which simply work, beginning with the Grizzle Mink.
Fly of the Month - Charles Jardine ties a fly he rates alongside Sawyer’s PTN – The Micro Sniper.
Textbook tying - Mick Huffer demonstrates how to tie his Scratch Head dry, a fly specifically devised for challenging rises such as a flat calm.
That ‘fooled you’ moment - Peter Lapsley asks how we can ever know what any trout took our artificial fly for?
On the wild beat - John Todd delights in Donegal’s Gweebarra River, which has now been split into six beats.
Reviews - Magnus Angus assesses thelatest fly-tying and fly-fishing items.
Also, we have four pairs of Snowbee Prestige breathable waders to be won, polarised sunglasses for just £14.95, and two courses on the Annan this November (plus another one strictly for the ladies).
Don't forget our regulars: A View from the Chalkstreams; Tricks of the Trade; Vintage Valuations; Web directory; Stillwater Scene; Fishy story; Morgan & Son; Reflections.
… PLUS!
Fly-Fishing in Scotland 2008 free supplement:
• Treasures of the Tay – How and where to uncover its trout and salmon riches
• Let’s fish the Clyde! – Scotland’s best and most democratic fishery?
• Isle of Salmon and Sea Trout – “We moved fish on every drift”
WIN a £95 limited edition bottle of The Macallan – The Ghillies Dram!
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| March 2008 |
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King Cormorant- Tactics and ties of stillwater's super-fly.
The Special Ones - Fishing the magical machair lochs of South Uist.
Deep thinking - Alastair Gowans gives us the low-down (and all the tricks) to get your fly down to a spring salmon.
London Calling - Peter Lapsley explores the excellent trout fishing to be had at Farmoor and Walthamstow.
Tweed's latest fashions - Jim Smail's best dressings for the season
Rabbit punch - Mike Sugg says rabbit fur is far more useful than just a dubbing material.
Heart-breakers - Stan Headley shows how to avoid break-offs.
Packing backup - Bill Logan ties a nymph which can be converted to Caddis, Stonefly or Mayfly straight from the fly box.
Capital fishing - Peter Lapsley finds some quality reservoir fishing under the gaze of London’s skyscrapers.
A twist of lime ... and a dash of history - Charles Jardine explores trout-rich Pennsylvania
Fly of the Month - Two for the price of one from Charles Jardine this month – Lindsay Palmer and Gallows Pole.
Casting clinic - The case for the Finger/V grip.
IRISH SUPPLEMENT WITH THIS ISSUE:
Earning its reputation - Why Lower Lough Erne is back in the trout-fisher's major league.
Good timing - Picking the best times to fish Ireland's salmon rivers.
Heard of the Silver River? - A prolific Donegal day-ticket river where 75% of the fish fall to the fly.
Strike it lucky! - Malcolm Greenhalgh searches for the perfect Mayfly drift.
PLUS
Magnus Angus looks at a new range of fine wire barbless hooks, great value ceramic bobbin holders and Stonefly’s latest LED lamp, and takes an in-depth view of the new Orvis Helios range of rods; Ross Evolution reel; and a folding, zip-off scoop net, whilst Stuart Letford tests some new-generation comfy wellingtons.
Don't miss our regulars:
Fishy story - Tells us a story, and win a personalised bottle of whisky.
A View from the Chalkstreams - Gordon Mackie dusts off his dry flies for St Valentine’s Day.
Northern climes - New Year, new leader ... new hope?
Vintage valuations - Chris Sandford looks at 100 years of the travel rod.
Morgan & Son - Moc and Hywel Morgan relate the simple killing pattern of Dai Lewis – a professional fisher on the Teifi in the 1940’s and 50’s.
Tricks of the Trade - Flower power Buzzer – a gift from a florist.
Stillwater scene - Loch Fitty closes; Teaming up for summer matches; New-look Eyebrook.
Reflections - That sinking feeling, by Jim McKean.
• Also, we have three of Hywel Morgan’s HM3 Scierra salmon fly rods to be won!
• Polarised sunglasses for just £14.95; Chris Mann’s Flies for Salmon for £13.00
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| February 2008 |
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Salmon virgin?September-October offers the best chance to catch your first salmon, says Malclm Greenhalgh.
Keep calm! Stan Headley uses delicacy and one fly to get the best from settled conditions.
Functional junctions Don't use a PVC sleeve, says Mick Huffer, whip it in place with tying thread and secure with a whip finish.
"The answer is 18 feet" John Goddard has found the ideal leader length.
Win with Spinners Alan Bithell shares his techniques for tying his Something for Nothing Spinner. Read part of Alan's article.
Fishy Story Tell us your fishiest story and you could win a personalised bottle of whisky.
Armchair fishing Malcolm Greenhalgh has the first look at the new biography of Hugh Falkus. "It is, by far, the best biography ever published about the life of a pioneering fly fisher," he says.
Black salmon bonus David Profumo opens his season in New Brunswick fishing for the smelt-feeding 'kelts' of the Miramichi.
Fly of the Month The Crunchy Spider is an ideal travelling companion, says Charles Jardine.
Deer's kin! The fourth and final fly in our unique fly-tying competition is a Deer-hair Caddis. Magnus Angus shows how he ties one.
It's showtime! Veteran showman Marvin Nolte has some advice for the would-be demonstrator.
Teesdale's old-timers Geoffrey Bucknall wallows in the cheap, beautiful and lightly fished unstocked dams at the head of the Tees.
Wild about trout Peter Lapsley talks to Wild Trout Trust chairman, Edward Twiddy, about his plans for its future.
Double-quick Dun Agostine Roncallo shows us how he achieved a more natural Mayfly imitation by substituing mallard feather with CdC.
Casting Clinic Charles Jardine tilts his casting arc to produce the highly useful side-cast.
PLUS
• The latest bench items and tackle items are reviewed by Magnus Angus.
• £1,000 worth of fly reels to be won in our regular quiz competition.
• A winter week in the sun – escape to Cuba in February.
… and all our other regulars: A View from the Chalkstreams, Northern Climes, Reflections, Morgan & Son and Stillwater Scene.
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| January 2008 |
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X-factor fly 2007 - The winning fly is revealed: Neville Walker's Pink Lady Mayfly.
Hogs and Anorexics - Inside the modern wild trouter's fly box.
Pure-bred browns - Peter Lapsley examines the consequences of stocking on wild trout.
Flexible friends - Alf McMahon's lightweight tube flies increase his salmon catch rate.
Grayling with the flow - Many anglers have hooking issues with grayling. Malcolm Greenhalgh solves the problem. Read part of Malcolm's article.
A stitch in time … - Mick Huffer shares his fail-safe method of creating a loop in a fly line.
Northern Climes - There comes a point when saying sorry for salmon farm escape simply isn't enough, says Bruce Sandison.
Duck to water - Agostino Roncallo extols the virtues of simple tying in CdC
Fly of the Month - Charles Jardine shows us how to tie a sinewy, taut and funky fry pattern, the Super Fry.
The rainbows nation - Peter Brigg reveals the delightful dry-fly fishing in the KwaZulu Natal Drakensberg region of South Africa.
Nomads of the Monnow - Steffan Jones confesses his love affair with the River Monnow.
Casting Clinic - How to eliminate energy-sapping wiggles from our back/up casts.
Picture this! - A new Snowbee rod and FF&FT shirts are up for grabs in our festive, cryptic quiz.
The praise of Gairloch - Bruce Sandison guides us around the wild trouter's paradise in Wester Ross.
The Knowledge - Take a rain check. Stan Headley explains why clouds don't always mean good fishing.
Textbook Tying - Mick Huffer demonstrates how to tie a Teasy Weasy.
Scruffy, spikey and buggy - Magnus Angus ties the third fly in our unique competition, a Gold-ribbed Hare's ear Nymph.
The aliens have landed - Charles Dutton calls for the eradication of Himalayan balsam.
PLUS
• The latest books, bench items and tackle items are reviewed by Ross MacDonald, Magnus Angus and Mark Bowler.
• 50 Beyond the Rise DVDs to be won in our regular quiz competition.
• A winter week in the sun – escape to Cuba in February.
… and all our regulars: Casting Clinic, Tricks of the Trade, A View from the Chalkstreams, Reflections, Morgan & Son and Stillwater Scene.
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| December 2007 |
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Pin-point presentation - Dave Southall explains why it is more critical than fly choice.
First-year report - A year on from the drift-net ban, John Todd finds Ireland's salmon rivers benefitting
Nymphs as nature intended - Alan Bithell's simple tying technique to produce bi-colour Pheasant Tail Nymphs.
Dry as a bone - Axel Wesselowski compares the various systems we employ for drying our flies.
The monsters of 'Jurassic Lake' - Bruce de Courcy was among the first Britons to fish this phenomenal Patagonian lake. Read part of Brian Harris' article here.
Making good weather of 2007 - This season was a good one for the dry fly, reports Peter Lapsley.
Heads of gold - Malcolm Greenhalgh digs up evidence that Goldheads have been in use since Izaak Walton’s time.
Casting clinic - This month Charles Jardine discusses the tailing loop and its remedy.
The Knowledge - Stan Headley explains how trout react to sunshine and what that means for the fly fisherman.
Piker’s choice - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds ties the fly that catches 90% of his annual pike haul, and shows us how he uses it.
Fly Tying League 2007/8 - Tie a Black Brahan – you could win a Sage rod, or loads of gear in our unique competition.
X-factor fly 2007 - Michael Polin’s foam-bodied Buzzer excites the judges.
Fly of the Month - Charles Jardine ties Sharkey’s PT Nymph, as he’s found straight patterns out-fish curved ones.
Soon enough we’ll be there - The curious fly tyer No. 43 – Bill Logan ties The Quick Change Artist, a fly of many guises.
Textbook Tying - When two greats combine. Mick Huffer ties and fishes the Solwick.
Brighter waters? - Peter Hayes reports on how the battle of the Bourne is being won by anglers.
Gift wrapped - Stuck for ideas? Magnus Angus has some Christmas suggestions for the fly fisher/tyer.
A View from the Chalkstreams - Gordon Mackie fears a dangerous precedent for our spring-fed streams.
Northern Climes - Rod McGill says farm escapes should be made a crime.
PLUS
• Three Hardy Swifts II rods to be won!
• Christmas reads, saltwater materials, rods from Hardy and Scierra and other tackle items are reviewed.
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| November 2007 |
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Shell shock! - Jack Pangburn ties the perfect snail using shoe laces.
Sea trout during office hours - With sewin fishing becoming unpredictable due to the weather, Moc Morgan tells us how best to fish during the day. Click here to read part of Moc's article.
Happy landings! - Malcolm Greenhalgh explains why we must carry a good selection of land-bred patterns, and not just a Daddy.
Going wild? - Allan Liddle enjoys the sheer versatility of float tubing and offers a selection of suitable waters.
X-factor fly - Michael Patrick Martin's Sodare Gold Shrimp salmon fly is a hit with the judges.
Torpedoes of the Bann - Blistering runs from powerful fish. Gardiner Mitchell shares the excitment of catching mullet on salmon flies.
Fly-tying League 2007/8
Find out how good a tyer you are by entering our unique and popular competition. First up: Wingless Wickhams and a fly of your choice (over 16s).
Casting clinic - Charles Jardine gets to grips with creep.
The Knowledge - When the wind blows … Stan Headley's good wind guide.
Breaking the rules in Sussex - Charles Jardine explains why Arlington reservoir closes during the summer.
Textbook Tying - Mick Huffer shows how to tie McVay's Gotcha, a bonefish fly par excellence.
Fly of the Month
The Real-Deal Zonker is tied by Charles Jardine.
Flies of the British isles
Six great trout and grayling flies head to the Catskills Museum, courtesy of Geoff Hill.
Tricks of the Trade
Jim Lucas has a novel way of stripping peacock eye quills to form two-tone bodies using rubber thimbles.
• 20 best sellers to be won.
• Also, Magnus Angus puts the latest tackle items to the test.
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Grayling high - Malcolm Greenhalgh sings the praises of great October grayling sport … on dry fly! Click here to read part of Malcolm's article. He also reviews Stephen Johnson's Fishing From Afar.
Grilse magnet - The Executioner is a salmon fly which really lives up to its name, says Mick Huffer.
Urban chubbing - Jason Lowe stalks chub amidst Oxford’s lofty spires.
More deadly than the dibble - "What do I do at the end of the retrieve?" Stan Headley explains 'the hang'.
Searching for the big, fat fellow - Trout of over 5lb plus are not uncommon in Lough Neagh, says John Todd who spends a day dollaghan fishing with Stevie Munn.
150 years of Stewart rule - Stephen Cheetham celebrates 150 years of the Black Spider.
Extreme sea trouting - Orkney's sea trout are thriving once again, says Malcolm Russell.
The joy of tight spandex - Stan Headley says this translucent, stretchy material is now essential to the fly tyer.
Australia's most wanted - Aggressive, good looking, and delicious. Just a few words Ross Bray uses to describe the legendary barramundi.
Genius of youth - Spey gillie Ian Gordon is still using the same salmon patterns he designed as a youth.
Jitterbugs - Bill Logan ties – and sets up for – skittering flies.
A place for everything - Peter Lapsley builds a 'stowaway' tying bench, and reviews a new book by Itchen riverkeeper, Ron Holloway.
Fly of the Month - Charles Jardine meddles with the classic Hippy Bibio. Why? Improved imitation and stability.
X-factor Flies 2007 – This month's entry sees Neville Walker's Pink Lady Mayfly get the thumbs up from the judges.
Hopper heroes – The secret of Greg White's successful Irish team on Brenig this summer included a Bibio Hopper, a CdC Hopper and a Claret Hopper.
£1,000 worth of Scierra XDP reels to be won.
Also, Magnus Angus puts the latest tackle and bench items to the test.
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| August 2007 |
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Herbie goes to Assynt – Mark Bowler climbs aboard a VW camper van to seek wild trout
When salmon rivers sizzle – Confidence is the best tactic, says Ally Gowans
Shameful flies – We all have them. Bill Logan admits to egg imitations, stripped down worm imitations, and spawn flies … but they work!
At the end of the day – Peter Lapsley has the flies and tactics for the late evening cabaret.
Dark secrets – For more consistent sea trout success, fish a still pool with a Snake Fly, or a Night Muddler – just don't be set in your ways.
100 metres of Irish golf – Butler's Pool on the Waterville River in Co. Kerry is Ireland's most proflific – but abused – salmon pool. Brian Harris finds it now in safe hands.
Darting in the shallows – With simple tackle and flies, Dave Grove tells us how to expect 30 fish a day from the Dart this month.
In search of Cortez's gold – Toby Coe tells us of the sensational saltwater sport off Mexico's peninsula
Textbook Tying – A variant of Roman Moser's Balloon Caddis is expertly tied by Mick Huffer.
Passport to a new country – Paul Reddish enjoys the freedom afforded by the Passport Scheme on the Wye and its tributaries.
Blue-ribbon ties – The winning entries to our fly-tying competition ran in conjunction with Ty Nant.
The Knowledge – Stan Headley shows how the 'washing line' technique covers all bases. Stan also reports from the recent spring international held at Rutland: Who dares wins …
PLUS
Magnus Angus's widely respected tackle, bench and book reviews
9 Stillwater reels and lines to be won
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| July 2007 |
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10 loughs to fish before you die – From Kerry to Donegal, Peter O'Reilly selects 10 loughs you must fish before you die.
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Catching salmon in their sleep – Neil Patterson makes a dawn raid to north Harris, home of some of the best salmon and sea trout fishing in the world. |
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Perfect skin – Using fish skin has enabled Mauro Raspini to create the perfect Caddis. |
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Big, bad Brenig? – Good management and quality stock have ensured this Welsh water's status. George Barron shares his Dabblers and Hoppers for success there. |
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Jungle-busting for jumbos – While trees and bushes may sometimes be an annoyance, John Goddard explains why they can be used to your advantage. |
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Is your fly behaving properly? – The best dry-fly fisher ensures his fly behaves just like the natural, says Malcolm Greenhalgh.
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Swivel and shrink – Steffan Jones shows how to get movement and durability in the Snake Fly. |
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Swotting up on sea trout – Ben Dixon's trio for dawn sea trout success near Edinburgh. |
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Textbook Tying – Mick Huffer shows how to tie Stan Headley's Doobry fly. |
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Why do pike take a fly? – David Wolsoncroft-Dodds says that even when the fish isn't hungry it can still be provoked into a reaction. |
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The Knowledge – 'Loch style' usually means fishing three flies. Stan Headley says it's all down to how they reach to each other and how the fish respond |
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An influential ally – Peter Lapsley meets Dafydd Evans, Head of Fisheries at the Environment Agency. |
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X-Factor Fly 2007 – John Hartland's Gold Diawl Bach could be the solution for the awkward middle dropper position. |
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PLUS
• Fancy a week fishing in Cuba or the Bahamas?
• £1,000 worth of Snowbee XS reels to be won.
• Get a #7 Snowbee XS Midge-tip fly line FREE by taking out a subscription to FF&FT.
• Magnus Angus's tackle and bench reviews. |
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| June 2007 |
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Keys to the lochs – Hugo Ross discloses three extra-special wild trout patterns
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The fly, the fly … oh, for the right fly! – Having identified the food source, Malcolm Greenhalgh helps us select the right dry fly. |
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The life and death of The Accidental Angler – Disappointment with the BBC has led Charles Rangeley-Wilson to film a new series on his own. Click here to see the trailer. |
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Cracking summer grayling – John Goddard has had to fine-tune his nymphs this month. |
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Thurso's new chapter – Ross MacDonald looks forward to the future of his favourite Scottish salmon river. |
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Seeking sonaghan – Gardiner Mitchell has an inspirational day on the drift on Lough Melvin.
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These will do nicely – Alun Rees introduces us to two modern flies – one his own – which combine successfully on the same cast all night. |
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Fever pitch – Pike fishing is at its best, this month. Stick to trout if you are of a nervous disposition, David Wolsoncroft-Dodds! |
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Rubber solution – Tobias Renkawitz shows how a latex-based adhesive helped him to form highly imitative and robust bodies for Mayflies. |
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Textbook Tying – Mick Huffer shows how to tie a great variant of the Griffiths Gnat. |
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The curious fly tyer no. 40: Head games – Bill Logan's tricks for instantly improving your flies' appearance. |
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A very good news story – A new national scheme which helps anglers to reverse fly life decline, reports Peter Lapsley. |
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X-Factor Fly 2007 – Jim Bennett's Phuzzer pleases the judges. |
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PLUS
• Magnus Angus's tackle and bench reviews.
• £1,000 worth of Greys G-Tec rod, reel and line outfits to be won. |
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| May 2007 |
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The gentle touch – Malcolm Greenhalgh discusses what 'good presentation' actually means. |
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Top of the lochs – Bruce Sandison praises Loch Watten in Caithness, that 'Leven of the north'. |
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Alaskan jackpot – As well as the world's largest runs of sockeye salmon, Alaska's wild Kanektok River has plenty of other species, says Patrick Lloyd. |
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Reservoir ace – John Wadham profiled and the Ace of Spades tied. |
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Mayflies tried and tested – Resist the temptation to overdress your Mayflies, says Peter Lapsley. |
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A weighty matter – Brian Harris says a bit more thought to your type of fishing will save you more than money. |
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Crash landings – John Tyzack explains why his Hawthorn fly is always on the menu. |
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Doing your homework – Cast your eyes to the hills, says Dave Grove. The weather there will have a profound effect on sea trout success. |
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X-Factor Fly 2007 – Geir Kjensmo's sea trout and salmon fly gets a mixed review from the judges. |
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Seasonal flies – A UV Claret Diawl Bach, a Straggle Kingfisher Cruncher and a Lime Spot Cruncher will all be in Malcolm Anderson's fly box on Menteith this month. |
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PLUS |
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Win tickets to the Game Conservancy Scottish Fair at Scone Palace. |
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Magnus Angus's tackle and bench reviews. |
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Four pairs of Hardy EWS waders to be won. |
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| April 2007 |
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Master the dry fly – Malcolm Greenhalgh begins a new series by discussing the importance of observation. |
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Outwit the overwintered – Three essential flies to entice quality fish from Snowbee's Simon Kidd. |
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Eat me! – Dave Ecclestone says the trout of New Zealand find his nymph irresistible. |
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Serious salmon – Ross MacDonald has some unfinished business to attend to on Norways Suldal and Beiar. |
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Ultra-soft hackles – Angus McLeod's Drowning Marabou Midge is the ultimate in either still or slow-moving water. |
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The Knowledge – Stan Headley clears up the confusion of sinking lines.
• A perfect team – Peter Lapsley chats to two fine ambassadors for our sport, Pat O'Reilly and Sue Parker. |
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Tackled up to the nines – The pike are spawning this month so David Wolsoncroft-Dodds shares his tackle preferences with us. |
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Textbook Tying – Mick Huffer expertly dresses the Black Shrimp, a highly versatile salmon fly. |
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Basil's banker – Basil's Buzzer was devised on Corrib but Bob Preston found it equally successful on Farmoor. |
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The curious fly tyer no. 39 – Bill Logan shares some clever weighting and tailing tricks. |
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PLUS |
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Magnus Angus's tackle and bench reviews. |
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£1,000 worth of Snowbee XS reels to be won. |
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| March 2007 |
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Harbingers of spring – the four flies you need to be aware of for spring success |
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Scotland's prime cut – Bob Wyatt says the River Don ranks with the world's best. |
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Peas, please! – Peas have been saving blanks for 30 years, says Bev Perkins. It's due some recognition. |
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Make do, or mend – salmon fishing isn't just about casting, says Ally Gowans. How you mend is crucial. |
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Do disturb – Mick Huffer shows how to tie great poppers. |
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Chalkstream prospects – Orvis's Adam Parsonage has three 'must have' flies for his early sojourns on the chalkstreams: CdC Danica, Peeping Caddis and Gold-head Pheasant Tail. |
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Hit by flashbacks – adding a holographic strip along the back of his nymphs has increased James Waltham's catch rate. Try it on the point. |
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Dixon's beat – Charles Jardine profiles Cumbria's Andrew Dixon, a man of stealth. |
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Pre-spawn piking – March is the month for monster pike. Guide David Wolsoncroft-Dodds tells us how he prepares for a trophy fish. |
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Fly of the Month – How to tie a Sugg's Greenwell Nymph, a great fly for when lake olives are active. |
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Tie a company fly – and fish the Ty Nant Classic. |
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PLUS |
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Magnus Angus's tackle, bench and dvd reviews |
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3 Daiwa Signature salmon fly rods to be won |
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| February 2007 |
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Rough diamond - Let it bob! Let it dance! Mick Huffer ties a dry fly gem for white water |
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Striking success - Ally Gowans shares his methods for hooking a taking fish |
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Discover Kerry's gold - The eager, wild brown trout of Lough Leane deserve our attention |
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Collector's items - Investments of tomorrow for the canny collector |
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Cast master - Charles Jardine chats to Bruce Richards, the man who has probably designed your fly line |
• |
Get smutty - John Goddard shares his tips for success when trout lock onto micro-flies.t? |
• |
A chance missed - Sidney Vines isn't impresssed by the BBC's recent angling programme, The Accidental Angler. |
• |
Opening shots - Hugo Ross prepares for spring fly-fishing in the north of Scotland. |
• |
Lessons learned - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds tells us what he has learned from 2005 with reagrd to fly-fishing for pike. |
| • |
Going solo - Freedom in the wilds of Alberta. |
| • |
Giss me quick - Don't theorise too much, says Bob Wyatt. The size and shape of your fly are al that matters. |
| • |
5 Cortland rods, reels and 444 line outfits to be won |
|
 |
| January 2007 |
|
• |
Catch the winter Bug! -Critical tips and flies for big-river grayling |
• |
New series! -Castaway - The best wilderness fishing revealed |
• |
Spread your wings - A new concept for flat-film spinners |
• |
Behind the drift-net ban - What does it mean for Irish salmon rivers? |
• |
It's knot difficult! - The hand-tied whip-finish explained |
• |
Pink power - Are you ignoring a legendary ingredient? |
• |
Prince charmer - How to tie the Prince Nymph |
• |
Hammer it home - How to tighten that casting loop |
• |
Big-water theory - Piking the big lakes |
| • |
The farthest shore - Bob Wyatt wades Western Australia |
| • |
Ten of the Best of British - Chris Watson's ten flies destined for the US |
| • |
Foaming sedges - Buoyant imitative flies with stillwater applications |
| • |
4 Beulah rods and lines to be won! |
|
 |
| December 2006 |
| |
|
| November 2006 |
|
• |
It's back! The Fly-tying league 2006-7 sponsored by Veniard. How good are your flies? Great prizes are on offer for the best. |
• |
Deadly trail - Bill Logan's visibility tags will make low-riding flies more dangerous. |
• |
BBC Trout - Fly-fishing goes terrestrial as Charles Rangely-Wilson global sojourn is filmed by the BBC. |
• |
Bobbin' 'n weavin' - Steve Wilkinson presents his ingenious salmon fly. |
• |
Don't blame the cormorant! - Malcolm Greenhalgh says stocking policy may is to blame for the 'black death'. |
• |
Keep a feather in your cap - When you need movement from your fly in high water, Chris Mann suggests using a featherwing fly. |
• |
Running on empty - Cheshire's rivers are under threat, says bailiff Mike Handyside. |
• |
Turned on - After witnessing massive hatches on New England rivers, David Coupland considers what prompts fish to feed? |
• |
Pike corner - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds has been eagerly awaiting this time of year. It's magic time! |
| • |
Master of the Guild - Peter Lapsley talks to Mike Humphreys of The Flydressers' Guild. |
| International Fly Fisher's Guide 2007 |
| • |
Kangaroos, gum trees and trout - Chris Paris finds gold in Victoria state, Australia. |
| • |
Northern highlights - Magnus Angus chills out with an ugly dry fly in the Arctic Circle. Time for a brew … |
| • |
A problem of riches - The fly fisher is spoilt for choice in Cuba. Paul Reddish selects three top destinations for us. |
| • |
At your service - Mark Bowler asks what makes a good guide? |
|
 |
| October 2006 |
|
• |
Hit singles - Ally Gowans wonders whether multiple hooks are any beter than singles. |
• |
A Fyne kettle of sea trout - James Waltham travels to Argyll for a saltwater trip to remember. |
• |
Prime time piking - This is the hottest month for pike fishing and David Wolsoncroft-Dodds shows us how to productively extend the season. |
• |
Tweed's upper hand - With a bumper salmon run on the river under way, guide Finlay Wilson gives us the inside story on the best tactics, beats and patterns. |
• |
Now with added mara-bility - Angus McLeod shows us his spinning technique which forces fibres to flare and so improving the action. |
• |
Breaking through the pain barrier - Do fish really feel pain? Dr Malcolm Greenhalgh analyses the evidence. |
• |
Finding the ferox - Geoffrey Bucknall tells us how he fishes for this fascinating cannibal. |
• |
Textbook Tying - This month, Mick Huffer ties a Bay Anchovy. |
• |
PLUS MUCH MORE |
|
 |
| September 2006 |
|
• |
Fishing the perfect fly - Charles Jardine profiles Welsh internationalist Gareth Jones, who likes to fish the spent spinner at the edge of night on the Usk. |
• |
Mackerel mayhem! - This is a great time of year for fly-fishing for mackerel, says David Pilkington. It may be easy but it's rewarding. |
• |
Spanish treasures - Phil Pembroke suggests 10 great destinations in Spain, including Catalonia, Asturias, Galicia and Andalucia. |
• |
Twist and trout - A simple twist of a Waddington and a tube fly alteration pushed up Derek Hoskins' hook-up rate. Click here to read part of Derek's article. |
• |
Sea-pool saviours - John Todd discusses the mysteries and benefits of sea pools on the Dawros, Galway Weir, the Lackagh, the Moy and the Bush. A bit of effort for about two hours after the tide starts to ebb can be a lot more productive than six hours hard slogging on a half-ebbed to full-flood tide. |
• |
The tarn that anglers forgot - Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales has a unique fly life and is a spectacular wild trout water, says Stephen Cheetham. |
• |
The curious fly tyer - Bill Logan spent his summer holiday in Illinios seeking bluegills on a fly and catfish with a fist. |
• |
World Cup chronicle - Malcolm Greenhalgh was the top scorer of World Cup 2006. In part 1 of his entertaining diary, Malcolm tells us his tactics, substitutes and star performers. |
• |
Call of the wild - The open moorland and rolling hills of Craig y Pistyll in mid-Wales gave Andrew Cartwright a true wilderness fishing experience. And it's only a short walk from the road. |
• |
For the guidance of wise men - Peter Lapsley examines the evolution of the rules and conventions governing chalkstream fly-fishing, where, even now, echoes of Halford's mantras are still evident. |
| • |
Pike corner - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds says fishing in a way similar to fishing Bobbies for stillwater trout should bring summer success. |
| • |
Great expectations - For the occasional or holiday fly fisher, it is important to remember that the months of July and August are the least propitious in the year. Stealth and observation become the keys to success. |
| • |
X-factor flies - The judges deliberate over James Curry's Iron fly. Could this be a fly to challenge the Peter Ross? |
| • |
August augurs well - Bev Perkins focuses on the weed-beds of the reservoirs during the cooler times of these tough summer days and suggests three flies: Damsel, Corixa and Daddy. |
| • |
Dye-ing to fish - Sir William Perkin invented the process for producing the colour mauve. On this the 150th anniversary, his great-grandson David Young, has created a new fly incorporating this vibrant colour and which is already proving to be successful. |
| • |
Summer stand-by - Nadica and Igor Stancev have observed and photographed the blue-winged olive hatch very carefully and show us how to tie a great imitation and tells us why they incorporate an olive sparkle Ice dubbing tail on their Emergers. |
| • |
Textbook Tying - The Parmachenee Belle is an age-old attractor which still grabs the attention of the trout. Mick Huffers shows how to tie this striking wet fly for summer. |
|
 |
| July 2006 |
|
• |
King of kings - Magnus Angus tackles monster salmon in Vancouver's Campbell River while Phil Curzons suggests how to fish there in a style which could be problematical in the UK: upstream. |
• |
Wobble and wake - John Graham submitted a sea trout fly to our X-factor Flies competition called the Jambo. John tells us a bit more about his fly including how its broad, flat head produces wake and disturbance to wobble the body. |
• |
A finer Inagh - A sea trout catch of 1,000 is predicted on this beautiful Irish lough, John Todd reports. |
• |
Fine-tuning for grilse - Grilse are the most numerically significant class of adult salmon in the British Isles and rightly deserve the angler’s attention. Ally Gowan's explains the nuances of the grilse and tells us how to set up. Click here to read part of Ally's article. |
• |
Bristol fashion - Charles Jardine discusses dry fly subtlties with Chew’s expert, Martin Cottis. |
• |
Close encounters - Equally at home inland or off-shore, the kayak has many advantages for the fly fisher. Simon Everett discusses. |
• |
The curious fly tyer – no. 30 - Wouldn’t it be something if we could see our flies as well as fish can? When it comes to visibility tags, Bill Logan advises to never use red, orange or chartreuse. Too much of a blatant colour is a bad, bad thing. |
• |
Pike corner - A sub-surface fly and a floating line should serve you well, says David Wolsoncroft-Dodds. |
• |
Month of the shrimp - For salmon and sea trout at this time of year, Midge Little will favour a shrimp fly with a red head. |
• |
When they're hot, they're hot - A frustrating fortnight in New Zealand convinced Bob Wyatt that for good fly-fishing all one needs is a STEADY supply of insects on or in the water. |
| • |
Skye high - John Pass found rivers on Skye which he believes had been virtually untouched and offered great sport. |
| • |
Great expectations - For the occasional or holiday fly fisher, it is important to remember that the months of July and August are the least propitious in the year. Stealth and observation become the keys to success. |
| • |
Textbook Tying - Mick Huffer ties a Rat-faced McDougal, a larger-than-life dry fly which represents a hearty meal for trout and bass. It is a fly for those times when the trout get only a moment to make up their mind and react. |
|
 |
| June 2006 |
|
• |
X-factor flies - Trevor Monaghan's Pink Butted Russy is the first entry to be judged in our new fly-tying competition. |
• |
Running water - Malcolm Greenhalgh has more evidence of the link between the numbers of salmon returning from the Atlantic and the fluctuating climate. |
• |
Pike corner - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds explains how to use Poppers in June – prepare for drama! |
• |
Today's traditionals - How would the great UK fly tyers of yesteryear have adaped their dressings if today's materials had been available to them? asks George Barron. Click here to read part of George's article |
• |
So you want to be an angling instructor? - FF&FT Editor, Mark Bowler, had a tough but demanding time of it when he successfully passed AAPGAI's examinations. |
• |
Go slow! - June and July are great months for fly-fishing in northern Scotland. Categorise your flies according to 'family' resemblance, says Bob Wyatt. |
• |
Textbook Tying - The Amber Nymph is a great fly, whether fished from bank or boat. Mick Huffer shows how to tie it and fish it successfully. |
• |
Right time, right stuff - John Todd says a small Green Peter or a sedge pattern on the Irish loughs will fool the trout with catholic tastes. |
• |
Year of the Dog - Ross MacDonald unleashes a pack of 'dogs' including a Collie dog, a Yellow Dog Shrimp and a Black Dog. All proven salmon killers. |
• |
The immortals - Frank Sawyer, Oliver Kite and Dermot Wilson … three fly fishers Sidney Vines says will still be talked of in a 100 years. |
| • |
Montana in Europe - Bob Preston found the Alpine mountains of Austria offered great USA-style sport. |
| • |
A passion for books - Peter Lapsley talks to Jon Ward-Allen of The Medlar Press, who is revitalising the world of angling literature. |
| • |
The curious fly tyer – No. 29 - We've all fished with him … Japan's Kenshiro Shimizaki designed every Tiemco hook, and, Bill Logan says, his flies are incredibly believeable. Bill ties Kenshiro's Marshmallow Pupa. |
|
 |
| May
2006 |
|
• |
An
embarrassment of riches
Just because there are some Mayflies on the water and the trout are rising
freely, we should not suppose they are necessarily taking Mayflies, says
Peter Lapsley.The key to success is observation and experimentation … don't
be fooled. Click here
to read part of Peter's article. |
• |
Pike
corner - David Wolsoncroft-Dodds
begins his new monthly pike-fishing series
by discussing appropriate flies and tackle;
next month he'll explain how to use them. |
• |
Small
minded - Most stillwater fly fishers
appear to be wedded to size 10 flies tied
on extra-strong hooks and regard anything
smaller than a 12 as not worth consideration,
says Brian Harris, who advocates the use
of flies as small as 24. |
• |
Fruit
from the heather - Beetles have
become a significant part of the loch-trout’s
diet, says Allan Liddle, who shows us how
to tie two of his successful patterns which
have produced fantastic red letter days. |
• |
Beyond
the limit - Malcolm Greenhalgh
has been a supporter of salmon hatcheries
for years, but he now questions their existence. |
• |
An
outer isles experience - Mark
Bowler travels to the Isle of Lewis to
find the sea trout and salmon stocks are
better than he expected, and the trout
potential is even greater than he imagined. |
• |
Don’t
adjust the contrast -
Geoffrey Bucknall
finds majestic wild trout sport in two differing
Yorkshire waters – the River Ure and
Scar House reservoir. |
• |
Casting
in Castro’s bay of plenty - The
recent FF&FT readers’ trip to
Cuba proved to be an outstanding success
with size and power of Cuban bonefish making
a lasting impression |
• |
Make
a connection - The Telephone Fly
was said to be Ireland’s best all-round
fly last season. Larry Gibb tells us how
it came about and how best to fish it. |
• |
Victor’s
conquerors - John Todd profiles
Victor Wallace, a man of the Mourne, whose
subtle colour variations and make-up of
his flies are vital for this classic salmon
river. |
| • |
The
curious fly tyer - No. 28 – Breaking
the rules. Bill Logan and Tomonori Higashi
look at the innovative caddis and dun patterns
of Ryo Shimzaki. |
| • |
Textbook
Tying - Mick Huffer ties the Gosling.
Not just a great wet-fly for Mayfly time,
but also a first-class attractor. |
|
 |
| April
2006 |
FREE
Fly-fishing in Scotland supplement
|
| FEATURING... |
|
• |
French
kissing – their ways with
a dry fly – During a recent trip
to France, Charles Jardine was taught a
new way to French kiss. It involves short-casting
and having as little line on the water
as possible. Click
here to read part of Charles's article. |
• |
The
2006 silver rush – Malcolm
Greenhalgh analyses the science surrounding
the winter high and low pressure systems
in the North Atlantic and its link to salmon
survival and growth. On the basis of this
evidence he makes an exciting prediction
for this year's salmon run. |
• |
The
hole approach – George Barron
gets to grip with the technicalities of
fishing imitations rather than tradtional
wet flies from a drifting boat on Irish
loughs at duckfly time. |
• |
Arresting
April runners – For salmon
fishing on the Spey at this time of year,
Bill Drury casts square and mends little,
a technique he honed in Russia. He also
only uses three simple flies... |
• |
What
is the best way to manage our rivers? "Pay
a river keeper and not a fish farmer",
says John Tyzack. |
• |
Take
it to the limit – What do
you do when stillwater trout are feeding
deep on small buzzer pupae on the edge
of your casting range? Mick Huffer says
the key is in the wind. In his Textbook
Tying feature this month, Mick ties a fly
which has stood the test of time and which
can be used from the first day of the season. |
• |
Driven
to a frenzy – David Grove
learns the secrets to locating and fishing
for the ferocious tiger fish of the Zambezi. |
• |
Sheer
perfection – Paul Whillock's
flies are so realistic they were once apprehended
by Customs officials! Peter Lapsley talks
to this extraordinary fly tyer who follows
three essential rules: only materials available
to fly tyers are to be used, there should
be no wooden or plastic bodies, and all
the material used should be tied in, never
glued. |
• |
The
curious fly tyer – no. 27 – Ted
Patlen ties simple, murderous flies … but
he has no fly recipes! Bill Logan spends
some time with him and ties his all-purpose
Nymph, which includes n ingenious use of
deer hair. |
• |
Doyen
of Donegal – John McLaughin
is a forward-thinking and innovative salmon
fly tyer. John Todd profiles the man who
caught the first salmon on the Lackagh
this year – and did so on his own
fly patterns |
Fly-fishing
in Scotland 2006 supplement |
| • |
A game
variety act – Perthshire's
River Tummel offers great sport for the
angler. Ally Gowans takes us on a game-fishing
journey from its source and says this is
the time of year when it is easiest to
catch trout. |
| • |
Dubh
yourself a favour – The
huge wilderness of Caithness is home to
some of the best lochs in Scotland with
more fish than you can shake your 'carbon
stick' at. Allan Liddle is already planning
his return. |
| • |
Small
is beautiful – The end of
March to the end of October is the best
time to try float-tubing on Scotland's
small stillwaters, says Sandy Nelson. It's
fun, compelling and addictive. |
• |
Every
cloud … – You can
keep the big trout of New Zealand, the
thumping cutthroats in British Columbia,
and the bruiser sea-runners of Tierra Del
Fuego, says Bob Wyatt. The Scottish hill
loch fishing experience is amongst the
best in the world... and six FF&FT
contributors select their very favourite
hill lochs. |
|
 |
| March
2006 |
|
|
• |
Inspiration
in a flash – The Cascade
salmon fly is probably the most popular
salmon fly today. Its creator, Ally Gowans,
tells us how he came to devise it and shows
how to tie it. |
• |
The
honest method – Simple dry
flies are often overlooked when tackling
upland lochs. Allan Liddle discusses this
method which performs well in various conditions.
The key, he says, is they have a low-riding
profile – crucial to the whole dry
approach. |
• |
March
river madness – For years
John Tyzack listened to stories of the
Scottish Borders in early April: the short-lived
but massive hatches of March Browns, and
the potential of catching huge wild brown
trout. He finally made a trip … |
• |
French
accent – Mark Bowler looks
at the simple, innovative, imitative and
suggestive streamside fly dressings from
France, including a novel way of weighting
a Nymph. |
• |
Opening
trio – Now that we can once
more wander along the river in search of
wild trout, Allan Liddle selects his team
of flies to cover more water and get those
legs moving again. |
• |
Three
capricious lakes – Geoffrey
Bucknall has long since become jaded with
stocked waters and their dim-witted rainbows.
He recalls three waters in the Lake District
which mesh with his fishing philosophy – Buttermere,
Crummock Water, and Loweswater. |
• |
A
welcome Bill falls on our doorstep – With
the Aquaculture and Fisheries Bill soon
to be debated in the Scottish Parliament,
fish farmers are sure to try and water
down any proposals. Anthony Steel guides
us through it and urges us to complete
the questionnaire because opinions lodged
now can influence the its final form. |
• |
Textbook
Tying – The Cockroach is
a fly you must have in your box if you're
fishing for saltwater species. It's easy
and quick to tie. Mick Huffer demonstrates
how to tie it and fish it. |
• |
Total
recall – After observing
trout at close range, Doug Agar has revised
his approach to refusals. "On one
occasion, I stood for half an hour just
watching the trout before I re-offered
the Nymph and it still refused it. However,
change the pattern and it was taken unhesitantly." |
• |
The
curious fly tyer – no. 26 – Dampen
your fingers to increase traction. Apply
dubbing wax to your thread beforehand if
your dubbing rudely refuses to stay put.
Always mix or judge colours using wet rather
than dry samples … Bill Logan has
some simple tricks to help improve your
dubbing technique. |
• |
Match
of the day – Peter Lapsley
ponders over the term ‘fly fishing’ and
wonders if it is no more than a convenient
but inaccurate label for a much more varied
sport? By using attractor patterns and
lures, and the representation on hooks
of a range of creatures that were not ‘flies’,
perhaps a more accurate term would be 'artificial
bait fishing’ |
Fly-fishing
in Ireland 2006 supplement |
| • |
A dry
fly tour – Malcolm Greenhalgh
takes us on a quick tour around a dozen
of the best brown trout waters, including
the Suir, the Clare, the Boyne, the Foyle
and the rivers of the Lough Neagh system. |
| • |
The
pike men of Ireland – From
Clare to Monaghan and from Leitrim to Cavan,
Ad Swier has spent the last few years searching
out the secret, unexplored pike loughs
of Ireland. |
| • |
Just
a perfect day – again – George
Barron recalls two memorable trips to Lough
Corrib (bot involving intensely dense duckfly
hatches) and looks forward to another this
spring. |
• |
Ups
and downs – The 2005 salmon
season varied around the country. John
Todd looks back and pin points the highs
and lows |
|
 |
| January
2006 |
|
• |
Winter
pike - how and where to find the hottest
fly-action |
• |
Traditional
make-overs - even better than the real
things? |
• |
The
fly-line of 2005 - make your own midge-tip |
• |
Get
on stream! - Attack the river with
a pattern that growls - just like they
do everywhere else but the UK |
• |
Shrimps
on an even keel - copper-bottomed salmon
doubles for big flows |
• |
Fly-fishing
in 2006 - "How 2005 taught me
a lesson" - Malcolm Greenhalgh |
• |
Scooby
snacks - making the most of the latest
kids' craze |
• |
Minkie
business - For prowlers of the margins |
• |
In
the deep mid-winter - stillwater patterns
for New Year sorties |
• |
Belt
and braces - How to make your flies
last longer |
• |
Flies
and fireworks - report from the British
Fly Fair |
• |
Dry
fly in the snow - magical spring stonefly
fishing in Finland |
|
 |
| December
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
Czech
this out! – In this follow
up to his October report from the Czech
Republic, Charles Jardine tells how the
Czechs get their streamers really deep by
holding the fly line pinioned to the bottom
via the sunk rod tip |
|
• |
December bankers –
This month has hitherto been uncharted territory
for the reservoir fly fisher. Bev Perkins
says that by keeping our tackle and methods
simple we'll have success |
|
• |
Loopy?
- get the shrink – Rudy
van Duijnhoven announces a new method for
making loops on fly lines and binding them
together. |
|
• |
The
way of a salmon with a fly –
Alastair Gowans gets up close and personal
and finds out just how salmon take a fly |
|
• |
Cape
crusade - You don't have to travel
too far in South Africa's Western Cape to
experience some great mountain trouting,
says Tom Sutcliffe |
|
• |
The
ace in the hole – Why, when
fishing for winter grayling, Bob Wyatt will
use a team of Red Tags. |
|
• |
Wading with carp –
Mark Bowler went to the Camargue in southern
France in the hope of landing a record-breaker. |
|
• |
Nelson's
cocktails fly again - On the 200th
anniversary of Trafalgar, Theo Pike and
others trace Admiral Lord Nelson's love
of fly-fishing, and suggest the flies he
woud have cast. |
|
• |
Net
reward - Salmon anglers usually
feel revulsion towards salmon netsmen, but,
says Malcolm Greenhalgh, there are many
advantages in having them... |
|
• |
Stocking
fillers – Last-minute hints
for the perfect Christmas gift for the angler
in your life |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer – Earrings?
Bill Logan fashions some festive fly-tying
gift ideas for our long-suffering friends
and families. High fashion, indeed! |
|
|
| November
2005 |
|
|
| Also
this month: International fly-fishers
international guide 2005.
Wild trout in France, steelhead in
North America, browns and rainbows
in Argentina and tips for tuna, jacks,
snapper and dorado in saltwater |
|
|
• |
Final
fling – Bev Perkins plots
the downfall of the cream of the remaining
late-season reservoir residents –
control of your tackle and boat are crucial,
he says. |
|
• |
Rea
of light – Charles Jardine
is praises the Rea Brook in Shrewsbury,
but asks if we are neglecting the trout
and grayling sport in other urban towns. |
|
• |
Caddis
contrasts and conundrums –
The gaping hole in the UK's knowledge of
sedges in comparison to the US is exposed
by Oliver Edwards. Click
here to read part of Oliver's article. |
|
• |
Cone-head
revolution - The Norwegians are
now changing the cone's position on the
tube to get extra kick and pulse from cone-head
tubes. Einar Norgaard demonstrates. |
|
• |
Quality
control – To tie flies of
the highest quality you need to use materials
of the highest quality. This is not too
difficult when it comes to synthetic materials
but where natural materials are concerned
it is a different matter. Steve Cooper tells
us what we should be looking for. |
|
• |
All
to shot – Andrew Cartwright's
methods for grayling fishing at this time
of year mainly involve the correct set-up
and reading of the river. I've been experimenting
with split shot for the last two seasons,
so that in deep, fast flow I can get the
Bugs to the bottom quickly … I've
found that positioning the shot between
the point and middle dropper helps avoid
tangles. |
|
• |
Beyond
the golden gate - After a recent
visit to the Golden Gate Angling & Casting
Club in San Francisco, Peter Lapsley suggests
the need for national centre of casting
excellence in the UK. What is surprising
is that Britain, with a long tradition of
fly-fishing and with a remarkable number
of outstandingly skilful casters, has been
so slow to begin cohesive development of
casyting as a sport. |
|
• |
Open
range - The new non-resident fees
for fishing British Columbia's Elk River
is an inevitable sign of fishing pressure.
But, Bob Wyatt asks, is it the best solution
to the problem? |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer – No. 22
– Bill Logan recalls his first fly-fishing
hero who only used one fly, and from whom
we could learn a lot from. Maybe I will
become a one-fly fisherman for a season.
If it's a bit foolish to consider, it also
has lunatic charm. I'm sure it would be
temporary. Well, almost sure. So much of
my enjoyment comes from ingenuity, particularly
in my tying. |
|
• |
Isn't
it time we got rid of barbed hooks?
– Is sticking with barbed hooks leaving
the angler better or worse equipped? Malcolm
Greenhalgh presents the case for barbless
hooks. |
|
• |
Textbook
tying – This month Mick Huffer
ties and fishes a simple family of flies
which continue to fool modern trout on stillwater
and stream – the Pennells. |
|
|
| October
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
October
alternatives – October can
be one of the prime months of the year,
but it is often mis-labelled as ‘fry
feeding time’. In reality, not all
fish in the reservoir are gorging on small
fish’ Bev Perkins advises us how to
tackle these fish. |
|
• |
Combat
fly-fishing – At the recent
World Youth Fly Fishing championships in
the Czech Republic Charles Jardine was amazed
at how different and committed Czech anglers.
Click here
to read part of Charles's article. |
|
• |
To
boldly go … - Geoffrey Bucknall
has fished upper Teesdale for three decades.
He tells us why he returns time and time
again to this wilderness just off the A1
where truly wild fish are found. |
|
• |
Hair
today: a consumer's guide - An
abundance of new materials has stimulted
today's salmon fly-tyer's imagination. Ross
MacDonald assesses some of the new hairs
and furs on the market. |
|
• |
Swinging
some lead - Casting with heavily
leaded flies can be made easier by adapting
an oval cast, says Charles Jardine |
|
• |
Dam
fine fishin'! - After a lifetime
of fly-fishing, Derek S Stratton experiences
his finest fishing adventure in Colorado. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying - Buoyancy plus a slim profile
is a deadly fly-tying cocktail, and the
Muddle May has both. It is a classic from
the mid-80's and is an ideal fly for rough
water. Mick Huffer demonstrates how to tie
and fish it. |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer – No. 21
– This issue, Bill Logan looks at
dubbing and says that by giving this just
a bit of thought and extra effort we’d
have better flies. |
|
• |
Golden
Gunns – Davy MacPhail selects
his three favourite October patterns and
tells us how to fish them. |
|
• |
The
Coot.com – The rise and falls
of the stock market inspired Peter Hayes
to name the fly he uses when fish are feeding
on ‘infinitesima’. |
|
• |
Adjusting
to change – Environmental
changes are breaking down the fishes’
food chain, and anglers need to modify their
patterns and approach to suit, says George
Barron. |
|
• |
Don't
let the Killer Bug go down the plug hole
– If you are a grayling fanatic and
have never tried Frank Sawyer’s Killer
Bug, give it a go, urges Malcolm Greenhalgh,
who suggests that the copper wire is perhaps
a more significant part of the dressing
… |
| • |
Bridge
builders to the future - The Wild
Trout Trust is undertaking a project to
restore the River Wensum near Fakenham.
Peter Lapsley talks to its Director, Simon
Johnson. |
| • |
If looks
could kill – Vague suggestion
or close imitation? Stan Headley investigates
a trout's 'trigger' points to find out why
close copies are poor fish-catchers –
apart from close-copy Buzzers. |
|
|
| September
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
Pining
for the fjords - Fed up with the
slog of salmon fishing in the UK? Magnus
Angus discovers the delights of salmon fishing
in Norway. |
|
• |
The
big Daddy experiment - Malcolm
Greenhalgh tested different Daddy-long-legs.
Find out which one had the best fish-catching
properties … |
|
• |
A
Frog in the throat - The Frog Fly
is the piscatorial equivalent of a dinner
bell to a pike, says Mark Bowler, who finds
Gordon Mackenzie’s Floating Frog to
be a fun fly to tie and an exciting way
to tempt pike from shallow water on a hot
day. |
|
• |
10
big trout tips - Don't leave it
all to Lady Luck – John Goddard gives
us his 10 top tips to catching the big specimens. |
|
• |
September
stand-bys - Duncan Egan covers
all eventualities as he selects his three
favourite salmon patterns for the final,
most prolific weeks of the season. |
|
• |
A
Proper steal - Peter Hayes borrows
some ideas to construct a pattern which
imitates the hatched dun sitting up on the
surface. |
|
• |
Damsels
in distress? Not a bit of it -
Today, sisters really are doing it for themselves.
FF&FT looks at some women hoping to
level the piscatorial playing field further
and make fly-fishing more of an equal-opportunity
endeavour. |
|
• |
Judge's
report - Magnus Angus summarises
the quality of fly-tying skills submitted
to the 2004-05 Fly-tying League. All the
winners are listed, round by round. |
|
• |
Harvest
festival time - Bev Perkins looks
forward to the winds of September when corixa
are blown onto the reservoirs. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying - In his latest instalment,
Mick Huffer introduces a new – and
excellent – saltwater shrimp imitation. |
|
• |
Cambrian’s
rich pickings - Drama, pathos,
majestic beauty … if you haven’t
fished Llyn Clywedog before, you simply
must. Charles Jardine reports. |
|
• |
An
Orkney saga - The Orkney Angling
Club celebrated its 100th anniversary this
year. Allan Liddle travelled north to take
part. |
|
|
| August
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
Peaty
perfection - Malcolm Greenhalgh
uncovers some grilse patterns for fishing
Ireland's salmon spate rivers and gives
a nod to Col. Robert Venables. |
|
• |
Beating
the summertime blues - When damselflies
hatch, Bev Perkins turns to his top dropper. |
|
• |
Stock
out of control - Should we be concerned
about stocking wild trout in wild waters?
Stan Headley reports. |
|
• |
Murrough
minefield - When he seeks total
trout commitment, Irish angler Jim Seymour
goes out at night. |
|
• |
Emerging
truth – EXCLUSIVE! - What's
really going on down there? Bob Wyatt sees
the trout's perspective in the exlusive
article on the underwater insect photography
of Takashi Yoshida. |
|
• |
Sending
out an SOS - When trout refuse
to co-operate, Peter Hayes turns to this
fly for dire emergencies. |
|
• |
The
return of the King - Pat O'Reilly
charts the return to glory of Cardiff's
River Taff. |
|
• |
Getting
the measure of rods - FF&FT
rod reviewer Magnus Angus uses a common
cents method to quantify rod actions and
stiffness. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying - In his latest instalment,
Mick Huffer ties a tiny Goldhead pattern
– a Nymph that has everything. |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer – No. 19
- Gone fishin' … Bill Logan writes
from Montana. |
|
• |
Harperrig
resurrected - Local landowners
have taken over a brown trout haven near
Edinburgh. Drew Jamieson tells you what
to expect. |
|
• |
Majoring
on the minor - Peter Lapsley takes
us through the nuances of nymph fishing
on the chalkstreams and suggests some patterns. |
|
• |
Residential
candidates - Don't frighten them,
induce them. George Barron has some special
variants for those summer 'residents'. |
|
|
| July
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
It's
wild mountain time ' Will ye' go ? Scottish
loch fishing, there's nothing like it. Allan
Liddle tells us how to approach Ð and get
the best from Ð Scottish loch fishing. |
|
• |
Days
and nights of bass and sea trout - Mark
Bowler travels to Devon and offers some
'friendly' advice about the county's best-kept
secret Ð fishing for bass and sea trout
on the fly. |
|
• |
The
charr of the land over there - Chris
McCulley is captivated - indeed, charr-med
Ð by the abundance of Greenland. The Land
Over There is so remote that on the boat
journey across the fjord Kim pressed a VHF
radio on me. It's the first time I've carried
emergency alongside the fly-box. Out there
among hundreds of square miles of glacial
emptiness, I would have no guide, no company
except the wind, the trickle of streams,
and the sea eagle. |
|
• |
Angling's
avengers - Peter Lapsley is an enthusiastic
supporter of the Anglers' Conservation Association.
Here he tells why it is worthy of your support,
too.
It is vital that we should all understand
each other's passions for the sport as a
whole, and that all anglers and angling
bodies should pull together in common cause. |
|
• |
The
hills are alive - George Barron says
June and July are when the Welsh mountain
lakes can provide fast, furious sport all
day Ð avoid still days and flat calms, however,
because Welsh midges have a genetic make-up
to match anything that Scotland can produce! |
|
• |
Half-inching
salmon - When all others fail you,
try salmon tube-flies, says Yuri Shumakov. |
|
• |
Reverential
flies - The Rev. Edward Powell was a
lone voice in seeking recognition for the
fly-fishing traditions of the Border country
between England and Wales. Chris Knowles
sings his praises. |
|
• |
Floating
lures for sea trout - In investigating
the variety of lures that will bring sea
trout crashing to the surface, Malcolm Greenhalgh
recalls the late Hugh Falkus, latterly to
become guru of the world of sea trout fishing. |
|
• |
Deconstructing
Gary - Bob Wyatt scrutinises the late
Gary LaFontaine's theories on fly design,
and one of nature's paradoxes in particular.
Click
here to read part of Bob's article. |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer - No. 18 - As we contemplate
chubby beetles tumbling into the stream
we must quit thinking like traditionalists
if we wish to cash in on their misfortune,
says Bill Logan; it's easy to tie flies
that wallow - has it ever occurred to you
that yours may be doing it poorly? he asks. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying - Mick Huffer ties a Stimulator,
an irresistible and versatile American fly,
and gives us 12 tips. |
|
• |
Sock
it to them - Neil Patterson looks back
on a period of high fly-tying creativity
that produced the Suspender nymph Ð and
a Mayfly pattern that never got the credit
it deserved. |
|
|
| June
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
24/7
on the fly- FF&FT editor Mark Bowler
visited Norway last summer to experience
all-night twilight fishing for tout, grayling
and pike. |
|
• |
The
Way - Ever get days when everything
clicks? Ever wonder how you might achieve
this more regularly? Bob Wyatt considers
the essential requirements for entering
'the zone' |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer - No. 17. Hackle colour
can be a bit of a minefield to understand.
In Bill Logan's latest installment he guides
us safely through it. |
|
• |
Au
naturel - In Russ Dyer's selection of
flies for June he shows his preference for
flies that suggest natural food, and focuses
on their natural appearance. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying - Mick Huffer ties the Bitch Creek
Nymph, a strange but versatile beast with
lots of trigger points and a proven 'standby'
pattern.
Somewhat strange to look, but it really
is quite a versatile pattern. |
|
• |
The
thin end of the wedge - Andrew Allen
expresses his concern over manufacturers'
keenness to phase out double taper lines,
stressing that river anglers will be the
main ones to suffer. Click
here to read part of Andrew's article. |
|
• |
Low-water
lies and flies - Robert McHaffie gets
the most from low-flowing salmon rivers
by combining movement with shape on salmon
flies. Why use Fritz? Why not! |
|
• |
Are
you a dedicated Spider fisher? Sandy
Nelson has combined the Spider style with
cul de canard to a form dun imitations which
out-score his parachure dries. |
|
• |
Lifting
the white curse - Bright summer evenings
can trigger massive Caenis hatches. With
fish rising in abundance how do we get them
to take our representation? Peter Albutt
reports. |
|
• |
All
passion for spent - Mayfly time on Irish
loughs could never be described as 'duffer's
fortnight'. Malcolm Greenhalgh ties his
two imitations which fool most of the trout
most of the time. |
|
|
| May
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
Trout's
eye view Does fly-line colour matter? |
|
• |
Putting
in the hard yards how to become a hot
rod |
|
• |
Salmo's
big month May- your best chance for
a springer |
|
• |
Introducing...
the Shuttleshuck the emerger for over-wintered
fish |
|
• |
Whistle-stop
Shetland Island-hopping for wild trout |
|
• |
The
adrling bugs of May 3 current stillwater
essential patterns for the month |
|
• |
Dry
fly PhD for educated trout |
|
• |
Public
& prolific an in-depth look at the
River Teifi |
|
• |
Footloose
in Paradise Do-It-Yourself Slovenia |
|
• |
Olive
explosion! prepare for this year's
big hatch |
|
|
| April
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
Spring
essentials - the latest salmon flies
from Scotland |
|
• |
Chop-and-change
leader - a versatile rig for today's
river fisher |
|
• |
Transitional
traditionals - Duckfly/Olive combinations
for Ireland |
|
• |
Spring
pilgrimage - why does Malcolm Greenhalgh
say the River Usk is one of the best places
to visit early season? |
|
• |
Enough
grunt - combine knowledge with today's
cheaper and lighter outfits to produce big
trout, with Bob Wyatt. |
|
• |
Born
on the breeze - Peter Lapsley notes
the growing importance of terrestrial insects
to trout and river fishers. |
|
• |
Build
It Yourself - part 4 of our popular
rod-building series. Alan Brown adds the
rings and the finishing touches. |
|
• |
The
curious fly tyer Bill Logan borrows
from childhood to solve those flat-bodied
Heptagenid Nymph problems. |
|
• |
Build
It Yourself
Part 3 of our popular rod-building series.
This issue, Alan Brown puts the pieces together.
Don't miss it! If you missed the previous
two issues of Alan's series, these are still
available to purchase as back issues £3.50
UK; £4.20 Europe/RoW) |
|
• |
The
expert, the inexperienced and the executioner
- follow Neil Patterson's journey to Norway's
Stjordal as he tries to catch the first
salmon of the season. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying - tie the Flue Brush and Tricolore
variants with Mick Huffer. |
|
• |
Mastering
the Midge, Part 2
Davy Wotton explains how and where to present
your tiny fly for the best results. |
|
• |
Fingers
on the Buzzers - April tying and take-reading
situations |
|
• |
Chop
and change - Jeremy Lucas has perfected
one adaptable leader set-up for dry-fly,
wet-fly and Nymph fishing. |
| |
FLY
FISHING IN SCOTLAND 2005
Where God fishes
- step into 'dead man's shoes' on Lewis
Licensed to roam!
- rove the North on a single trout ticket
Tayside's treble chance
- join Alastair Gowans on the Tay's eastern
reaches to find budget salmon
Under new management
- Central Belt trouting: what's in it for
you? |
|
|
| March
2005 |
|
|
|
|
|
• |
Discover
wild trout from unique places:
- England: fish beautiful Haweswater
in the Lake District, a lake that consistently
outperforms its reputation
- Scotland: Allan Liddle and Mark
Bowler take a stealthy approach on a wee
river just south of the famous Dalwhinnie
distillery, with the help a gem of a book
- Wales: pop along with Charles Jardine
to Upper Severn and Onny Vale, two great
fishing locations - and where you only need
to take one rod outfit |
|
• |
9
deadly Spiders Add to your armoury!
Tie the simplest - and deadliest - flies
with Mick Huffer, and read some of the secrets
he shares |
|
• |
The
bare necessities Stan Headley reveals
his central core of patterns which catch
him most of his early season fish |
|
• |
Icelandic
silver - and gold
If you like the sound of Iceland's prolific
salmon run, then discover what its added
attraction might just be |
|
• |
A
moving experience
Capture a salmon with Alastair Gowans. He
says a fly's movement is key in gaining
their interest, especially in slow water |
|
• |
The
power behind the books
Peter Lapsley meets Paul Morgan, proprietor
of Wales' Coch-y-Bonddu Books. But that's
not all: Paul is also an accomplished game
angler, saltwater fly-fisher, publisher
and author |
|
• |
Master
the Midge - part 1
If you agree that leader make-up is crucial
to tiny fly presentation, don't miss Davy
Wotton's series, starting on page 48 |
|
• |
Mind
your language!
Your language to describe trout behaviour,
that is. Bob Wyatt gives the low-down |
|
• |
Build
It Yourself
Part 3 of our popular rod-building series.
This issue, Alan Brown puts the pieces together.
Don't miss it! If you missed the previous
two issues of Alan's series, these are still
available to purchase as back issues £3.50
UK; £4.20 Europe/RoW) |
|
|
| February
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
Red-hot
larva Bloodworms literally carpet our
stillwaters. Don't neglect them this year
- Mick Huffer ties his Flexi-Floss Gold
Bead Bloodworm |
|
• |
America's
casting king Alastair Gowans interviews
Steve Rajeff, one of the world's finest
casters and fly-fishers |
|
• |
Good
vibrations! Fact: pike are attracted
to noise. Get in on the action with a unique
design to up the decibel count |
|
• |
Permit:
a professional approach Fly fishing's
most exhilarating fish? Definitely one of
the most cussed. Find out how to increase
your chances of success with permit |
|
• |
Grayling
about-turn A time for a re-think on
dry fly presentation? See the difference
for yourself |
|
• |
Kicking
Bumbles into touch Tie this version
of the Bumble - it has better shape, more
kick, and a much neater finish |
|
• |
Shrimp
gets subtle Discover this Shrimp fly,
which scores well with Scottish salmon |
|
• |
Top
of the Don Is this the ultimate wild-trouter's
dream river? Allan Liddle thinks so |
|
• |
Burning
love Why there's nothing better than
having a Scottish burn all to yourself |
|
• |
River
flies - a beacon for environmental quality
Peter Lapsley shares how anglers can help
conserve and enhance our riverfly populations |
|
• |
Build-It-Yourself
In the January issue we kicked off a new
series on building your own fly rod. This
issue, we set out the materials and tools
to get you under way with your own custom-built
9ft, four section rod for a #5 line, and
provide you with the rod-building contacts
you need. |
|
|
| January
2005 |
|
|
|
• |
FREE
DVD!
Weaving Masterclass - Oliver Edwards
demonstrates how you can shuttle weave to
produce Polish Nymphs and many other fly
patterns |
|
• |
Bass
boom! Why UK coastal sport is set to
explode |
|
• |
Looks
and charmTie and fish this salmon classic |
|
• |
Grayling
low-downwinter tactics for big surprises |
|
• |
Cup
of plentySimple
invention lends lifelike swimming action
to Baitfish |
|
• |
The
supreme wet fly? Love it or hate it,
but don't fish without it |
|
• |
Saltwater
secretsLefty's latest tips |
|
• |
Handle
with care Is catch-and-release a dangerous
tool? |
|
• |
Build-It-Yourself
The DIY rod-building course starts here! |
|
• |
Casting
clinic How not to get knotted in boats |
|
• |
Painful
abstraction Is this what's causing our
insect decline? |
|
• |
The
wilder West Drift-boating in Montana |
|
• |
5
Daylight lamps and accessories to be won! |
|
|
| December
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
Deep
thinking Innovative heavy Nymphs |
|
• |
Loch
Leven 2005 A fresh mindset for the new
regime |
|
• |
Snap
to it! Learn the revolutionary Spey
cast |
|
• |
26
essential accessories for the river-fisher |
|
• |
Crooked
style Bonefish and bluewater sport in
the Bahamas |
|
• |
Big
hatch, but no rise What's going on?,
asks Malcolm Greenhalgh |
|
• |
Canada
dry Dry fly, drift-boats & cutthroats |
|
• |
Feather
security How to keep the pests out |
|
• |
Paradise
in the concrete jungle Hot winter sport
in Oxfordshire |
|
• |
Get
them covered! How to change casting
angles quickly |
|
• |
Don't
become a couch potato Bob Wyatt's close-season
training programme |
|
• |
Bright
and clear The fry imitation for difficult
conditions |
|
• |
£1,000
worth of Lakeland fly-tying materials
to be won! |
|
|
| November
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
By
the Mountains of Mourne Reporting on
the Carlingford Lough bass festival, and
examining this significant sea lough's saltwater
potential. |
|
• |
A
season of challenges
Reflect on this season with Peter Lapsley,
who this year has made minor -but impressive
- adjustments to his approach. |
|
• |
Back-end
trends
Study the world's top salmon flies with
Chris Mann. |
|
• |
Elegant
Snakes Obtain extra casting distance
with our step-by-step (pictures too!) guide
to the Snake Roll. |
|
• |
Getting
in phase It's not just the trout's life-cycle
we need to consider; it's also its seasonal
feeding regime. |
|
• |
Woolly
thinking Spin and scuplt yarn into Minnows,
Baitfish and Frogs. |
|
• |
Nymphs
at the double Find out how competition
fishing has evolved and mastered a new upstream
Nymphing technique. |
|
• |
Loch
Leven It's the end of the rainbow as
Leven reverts to browns. |
|
• |
Textbook
Tying Tie a Zulu - and its variants
- with Mick Huffer. |
| • |
NEW
SERIES! Antiques of the future You are
invited ... to your attic! Chris Sandford
urges you to check what tackle goodies might
be lurking up there - and he will value
your potential treasures. |
| • |
FLY-TYING
LEAGUE STARTS! £3,500 of prizes! The
deadline for Round 1 of the League is December
17, 2004, so get tying now! |
|
|
| October
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
Sons
of a Gunn Willie Gunn variants for autumn |
|
• |
Utterly
wild! Where Irish trouting is world-class |
|
• |
Clever
feather An innovative, easy technique
for dries |
|
• |
Beachcombing
for bass How to identify the hot spots |
|
• |
Grayling
on a bungee Spot more takes to Czech
Nymphs |
|
• |
Furrocking
in the Borders we select the cream of
fishing along Scotland's Borders |
|
• |
Stars
in stripes Don't be afraid of bees or
wasps - we show you how to make the most
of them for back-end trout and grayling |
|
• |
Let
us Spey - part 2 Focus on the basics
of Single Spey-casting: how you can make
a more accomplished cast |
|
• |
Land
of the giants Yes, that's 50lb-plus
salmon, in North Norway |
| • |
United
we stand Profile Jim Glasspool, chief
architect of a proposed new body intended
to be the government's main contact point
with anglers. |
| • |
Streamers
come on stream - part 2 we give you
the tools and tricks for tackling big river
trout with lures |
|
|
| July
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
THE
BIG FISH ISSUEUsing streamers to lure
our larger river trout
The advanced Floating Fry for trophy huntersPopping
for five-foot giants in Mongolia |
|
• |
Let
us Spey! improve your double-handed
casting |
|
• |
Harvest
festival how to make hay with greenfly |
|
• |
Down-sizing
for the future getting the best from
our wild fisheries |
|
• |
Record
Spey cast the casting action dissected |
|
• |
Casting
in the dark keys to improving your timing |
|
• |
Improving
cul de canard how to make CdC more buoyant |
|
• |
Spirit
of the Shrimp The fly for running salmon
and low-water lies |
|
• |
Seduced
by a Sea-ducer Stage by stage tying
and fishing instruction |
|
|
| July
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
High-riding
in Harris loch-style subtleties for
salmon and sea trout |
|
• |
Crack
the mirror how to rise above a flat
calm |
|
• |
Happy
crash-landings! Make the most of July's
accidental terrestrials |
|
• |
California
gold In search of the golden trout |
|
• |
Creative
sea trouting
Flies that give you a little bit extra |
|
• |
Flies
tied up with ribbon Why Bill Logan likes
unwrapping parcels |
|
• |
Sights
for sore eyes
Sunglasses for fly fishers |
|
• |
Key
to the river have you got the vital
veteran dry fly? |
|
• |
Improve
your short game how to get the best
from loch-styling |
| • |
Highland
highlight Focus on the loch of the North |
| • |
The wizard's
secret How to tie Clegg's favourite
salmon fly |
| • |
Casting clinic
A twist for distance |
|
|
| June
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
Down
with the floater! Do wet flies fish
better on an intermediate? |
|
• |
Spectacular
Spey nights tackle up for the river's
prolific sea trout |
|
• |
From
the gillie's fly box
a secret grilse fly |
|
• |
Buzzers
in the dark new dry-fly tactics from
Ireland |
|
• |
After the
duffers' feast when Mayfly feeders get
tough |
|
• |
Best
sea trout fishing in Europe? the clubbable,
affordable river Towy |
|
• |
Logan's
Ballet Dancer
tie the detached body fly that rides on
its tippy toes |
|
• |
Down-sizing
size
matters for stillwater dry fly success |
|
• |
Small deception
in New Mexico Davy Wotton fine-tunes
his river-midge technique |
| • |
Let it go!
Do our egos get in the way of catch-and-release? |
| • |
Green Peter
how to tie and fish an Irish favourite |
|
|
| May
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
The
joys of spring! Early loch browns from
the margins |
|
• |
Hidden
treasures discover England's unsung
chalkstreams |
|
• |
Flat
calm & Irish charm Boat-fishing
'on the drop' Buzzers |
|
• |
Crunch
& Juicy are these stillwater's tastiest
Nymphs? |
|
• |
Interactive
Tweed how to cherry-pick your salmon
beats |
|
• |
On
with the little black numbers are you
ready for the river May Ball? |
|
• |
Pin-point
drifting with the one-man adjustable
drogue |
|
• |
Banking
on Brenig An early visit to the Welsh
reservoir |
|
• |
Get
the drift Steer down the wind with an
adjustable drogue |
| • |
Mind
the gap
A hint for Secret Weapons, tandems and Snakes |
| • |
Western
Isles odyssey Discover North and South
Uist's angling wealth |
| • |
Trigger happy
what's so special about a large Klinkhamer? |
|
|
| April
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
Slack-water
salmon fly tactics for shrimping pools |
|
• |
Reality
check! Do we need super-realistic flies? |
|
• |
Flat
calm & Irish charm Boat-fishing
'on the drop' Buzzers |
|
• |
Beware
of the snakes Rod-rings are under the
microscope |
|
• |
Snowshoes
for May New hackle-less floating Mayfly
designs |
|
• |
Have
you got what it takes? How to fish for
your country |
|
• |
Grizzly
truth killer in an upwing hatch |
|
• |
Foam
on the range Hoppers on horseback in
Montana |
|
• |
40 Stonefly
rotary fly dryers to be won! |
| PLUS!
FREE accompanying 16-page supplement
Fly Fishing in Scotland 2004 |
|
| • |
Islands
of opportunity Bounty of the Hebrides |
| • |
Clyde essentials
tried-and-tested surface tactics |
| • |
Loch of the
Mayfly A hidden moorland classic |
| • |
Grampian
champion! Is this UK's best wild-trout
river? |
|
|
| March
2004 |
|
|
|
• |
Fathers
of invention fish the new loch-style |
|
• |
Flyweight
or heavyweight? are your river Nymphs
heavy enough? |
|
• |
Bright
young thing Tie 2004's hottest salmon
fly |
|
• |
White
lightning Don't ignore the exciting
whitefish |
|
• |
Summer
salmon-fishing ban? The experts' opinion |
|
• |
Dangerous
liaisons catching a record barracuda
on fly |
|
• |
Reel
style What to look for in a fly reel |
|
• |
NEW
SERIES! Stillwater
learning curve
Adopting modern methods for success |
|
• |
Colour
seduction Why do traditional flies work
so well? |
|
• |
Legging
it New tying techniques for legs |
|
• |
Czech nymphs with a British accent
Adapting deep Nymphs for UK rivers |
| • |
Tricks and
Stones Tying clever for stoneflies |
| PLUS!
FREE accompanying 16-page supplement
- Fly
Fishing in Ireland 2004 |
|
| • |
Summer holiday
salmon grilse runs at your convenience |
| • |
Lough Neagh's
silver lining The rich rivers of the
North |
| • |
Erne your
pike A new fly-fishing experience opens
up |
| • |
Western
glow meet the fly for daphnia feeders |
|
|
|
|
|
• |
Dry
fly on Wandsworth High Street - London's
chalkstream revival |
|
• |
Hunt
the springer Where and how to catch
an early Scottish salmon |
|
• |
Circle-hook
research Why they aren't the answer
all our prayers |
|
• |
Czech
Nymph, or British Bug? Fish the heavy
Nymph UK-style |
|
• |
150 glorious
years How to tie and fish our most
famous fly |
|
• |
Hear
about the three Irishmen? True stories
from Tyrone trio |
|
• |
NEW
SERIES! Futuristic fly-tying techniques
with Bill Logan |
|
• |
Australia's
new bones Action 'down under' |
|
• |
Identity
parade How you help track the UK's March
browns |
|
• |
Stillwater
update Avington reborn; try a Sparkle
Gnat this February |
|
• |
Long leaders How to cast them |
| • |
Things will
have to change How angling can survive
and thrive |
| • |
Grayling
from the freezer River fishing on the
coldest day for many years |
|
Award-winning
magazine's
special celebratory
SPECIAL 100-PAGE issue! |
| December
2003/January 2004 |
|
|
|
• |
Grayling
on a diet Goddard's tactics for
stubborn fish |
|
• |
Plya
the angles - boost your dry-fly
success rate |
|
• |
Meet
the McBooby - David McPhail's new
slants on the buoyant fly |
|
• |
Drought-stricken?
- how to cope with dry, hot summer water
levels |
|
• |
Make
all the difference - why you need
a range of salmon flies |
|
• |
The
Irish answer - setting the standards
for conservation and education |
|
• |
Big
bites - Mick Bewick sings the praises
of the Cruncher |
|
• |
Any
old irons? - are those old flies
worth anything? |
|
• |
Predatory
instinct - a new product for a
fry pattern with silhouette |
|
• |
Get
a grip - the pick of the contemporary
vices |
|
• |
Surf's up! - tying Popovics'
sandeel imitation |
| • |
Double
trio - Cuba's double grand slam:
same day, same skiff! |
| • |
Casting
club - it's back in Britain! |
| • |
Cirrhosis
of the river - startling evidence
on our rivers' insect decline |
|
|
| November
2003 |
|
|
|
• |
Chasing
the lady - Bugging, Bugs and wet
flies for grayling |
|
• |
Meet
Lefty Kreh - America's greatest
fly fisher? |
|
• |
Trigger
happy
- The Kilnkhamer takes a devastating new
turn |
|
• |
Hog-tied!
- New salmon Shrimp flies |
|
• |
At home with the
Shastas - rainbow trout in their
native waters |
|
• |
New!
Fly Tying Chamionship - £5,000
of prizes |
|
• |
Cane
still able - arguing the case for
cane rods |
|
• |
Black & blue
- tying and fishing the Blae & Black |
|
• |
Ritz revisited
- casting with light-line rods |
|
• |
Deer-hair
Roach - Dressing John Moore's Flat
Roach |
|
• |
Europe competes on a wee island
- fly fishing showdown on a Scottish island |
|
|
| October
2003 |
|
|
|
• |
Grayling
on streamers the lady takes the bait |
|
• |
Crunch
time! how do you cope with floating
snails? |
|
• |
Typically
tropical tuna tackling bluewater
tuna |
|
• |
Bright
lights of Bewl who makes Bewl tick? |
|
• |
Last cast
how and where to find an October salmon |
|
• |
Seeing
the ultra-light changing up to lighter
lines |
|
• |
A
fry for all reasons the vital back-end
prospecting pattern |
|
• |
Familiarity
breeds success a new imitative winging
technique |
|
• |
Booby secrets
Mick Bewick prepares for winter |
|
• |
Lost
at sea are our salmon breeding a disaster? |
|
• |
5 Scierra HM2 rods to be won! |
|
|
| September
2003 |
|
|
|
• |
Killer
instinct Sawyer's grayling Bug secrets |
|
• |
Cane
rods just what is the attraction? |
|
• |
Spider skills
how to fine-tune your wet-fly fishing |
|
• |
Use
your head! Introducing cone head tube-flies
to Scotland |
|
• |
Designer
daddies Top droppers - Irish style |
|
• |
Head
to the Med
Explore Europe's growing saltwater scene
|
|
• |
Bare
necessities John Goddard ties three
astonishingly simple, killing flies |
|
• |
Pollack
ahoy! Casting for monsters from the
rocks |
|
• |
Pale and
interesting September on rivers means
dry fly |
|
• |
Deepest
claret Floating line, drifting boat
- imitative fishing 25 feet down |
|
• |
Dressing
crab How to tie Del's Merkin |
|
|
| August
2003 |
|
|
|
• |
FREE!
The Complete Spider Guide - 24
full-colour pages of spider patterns |
|
• |
Daylight
sea trout mini-tube magic |
|
• |
Creep
and peep boost your low-water
trouting |
|
• |
What's
your style? choosing the right
salmon rod |
|
• |
Caddis
know-how Sharper sedge tactics |
|
• |
Top
of the lochs Specially blended
flies from the whisky isles |
|
• |
Devonshire
cream Summer-holiday sea trout |
|
• |
Salmon
secret Tadpole tying tips and
tactics |
|
• |
Amazon
bites! Toothy delights from the
rain-forest |
|
• |
Gene
genie Can Sawyer's techniques
of old save our insects? |
|
• |
Dressing
Mrs Tiggywinkle Stan Headley demonstrates
the tying of his Sedgehog |
|
• |
Gripping
stuff How do you hold the
rod? |
|
• |
Win
a Dyna-King Barracuda rotary vice
from Lakeland worth £350! |
|
|
|
| July
2003 |
|
|
|
• |
Beetles'
latest hits Who needs a fly hatch? |
|
• |
Blue-winged
opportunities Tactics and flies
for top July river sport |
|
• |
Extreme
charr Fishing Canada's far edge of wilderness |
|
• |
The
lure of the Snake How to charm big sea
trout |
|
• |
Dry-fly
masters Who was the greatest of them
all? |
|
• |
Salmon
lines and AFTM A Ficticious Tangled
Mess? |
|
• |
Slow
summer stillwater sport? Try pike as
a fun alternative |
|
• |
Marc's magic
Marc Petitjean's latest innovation |
|
• |
Capital
trout Trouting around Edinburgh |
|
• |
Hammer
time DIY striped foam bodies |
| |
Another
curve Learn a better reach cast |
|
• |
In the pink
A new technique for the Moseley May |
|
• |
Bridgett's
diary Long lost letters and flies of
loch-doyen RC Bridgett |
|
|
| June
2003 |
| MAIN
FEATURE SELECTION: |
|
• |
Thump
in the night - sea trout surface tactics
under the moon |
|
• |
Beat
the boilie
- fish surface flies for carp |
|
• |
Spey
surprise - trout where you least expect
them |
|
• |
Sparkling
performers - how to add more fizz to
stillwater wets |
|
• |
River
spectacular - hit this month's hatch
jackpot! |
|
• |
What
a pain! - the experts have their say
about fish and hooks |
|
• |
One
Gun - the best northern bob fly |
|
• |
Damned
lies - how to make a high backcast to
avoid trees and dam walls |
|
• |
Fish
till you drop - charr and grayling in
Swedish Lapland |
|
• |
The
unsinakble - an adaptation for the Klinkhamer |
|
• |
In
pursuit of polluters - meet the face
behind the ACA |
|
|
| May
2003 |
| MAIN
FEATURE SELECTION: |
|
• |
A
new salmon fly from Thurso |
|
• |
A
new Adult Caddis from Sweden |
|
• |
The
latest reservoir damsels |
|
• |
Join
the Magic Circle - buzzers on circle-hooks. |
|
• |
Take
a fresh look at conventional sea trout thinking
- is a sinking line the best option for
nocturnal sea trout? |
|
• |
Dancing
with Gnats - the best place and time
for fishing the Spent Gnat?
Tactics and flies for Grannom Blizzards |
|
• |
Brook
dun's and olive upright's make May a
very merry month - the flies and how to
fish them. |
|
• |
Tie
a textbook Clouser - the essential saltwater
fly! |
|
• |
Which
is the best salmon fly line - should
you use a sink-tip or an intermediate? |
|
READER
OFFER! |
|
• |
Join
Malcolm Greenhalgh for his 2003 trip to
Sweden. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
