Saturday 1 February 2014

Well here we go again, another season upon us. Christmas and Hogmanay a distant memory and several Burns nights attended which also meant several hangovers. Put the boats on yesterday and fell in the Cauldstream in the process which I hope is the last time I fall in this year. 3’7” and 40 degs this morning with a fair bit of colour and a south east wind getting stronger all day, the lads who had the first day booked decided not to come which was a wise decision. With the river being so big all winter and the weather being mild any early running fish could be anywhere in the system, I have seen the odd Kelt splashing about but I can’t say that I’ve seen anything that resembles a Springer. Saw an Oyster Catcher along with an Egret so it must be February. Checking the boats this morning there was a big flock of Golden Plover displaying over the Cauld and the resident Otter munching on a Kelt on the Slap Croy, that’s the earliest I’ve seen Golden Plover on the Lees. Walking round the beat I can’t say I’ve noticed any chances but it’s been so big it’s hard to tell. Anyone who took gate keys home with them make it a new years resolution to send them back or you’ll be walking up and down the beat! I have been in touch with a few lads up and down the river and there are no reports of any Springers being caught, that might change as I’m at home watching the rugby and writing this at half time. Photos of the gauge and some nice single iron flies for you to try this season.