Hillend Dabbler
Tuesday 30 April 2024
Sunday 28 April 2024
Harold's Grouse & Claret
Saturday 20 April 2024
Monday 15 April 2024
The Clan Chief
Saturday 6 April 2024
My Angling Library
As an enthusiastic Flyfisher, Flytyer and book collector of the aforementioned pastimes, I often find myself immersed in the vast world of angling literature.
Over the years, my collection has grown to include a wide range of angling novels, essays, reference guides and a few how - to books. However, despite the assumption of some people that I've read every page of every book in my library, the reality is quite different.
Many people are surprised at this and some may even question, why not?
But to truly understand the essence of my passion for angling literature, one must grasp the multifaceted nature of this genre.
First and foremost, my collection serves as a valuable resource of knowledge and inspiration for me.
My library also serves as practical guide that I can refer to whenever I encounter a new challenge.
Moreover, angling literature encompasses more than just instructional manuals. It delves into the rich history, culture and traditions surrounding flyfishing and flytying.
From the timeless wisdom of legendary anglers to the captivating narratives of fishing adventures, angling novels offer a unique glimpse into the soul of the angler.
While I may not have read every book in the how - too section from cover to cover, each one holds significance in its own right.
Some books even serve as cherished mementos of past fishing trips, others represent a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the rich social history and traditions of angling.
For those who question why I collect books I haven't read, they fail to grasp the true essence of my passion.
It's not just about consuming every word on every page; it's about embracing the diversity and depth of the angling experience. Whether it's discovering old and new fly patterns, learning new techniques, gaining insight into the history of the sport, or simply finding inspiration in the words of fellow anglers, each book in my collection adds value in its own unique way.
Understanding why I collect angling books goes beyond just reading; it's about experiencing the journey and inspiration they offer me one page at a time.
Wednesday 3 April 2024
Fishing a Perthshire Loch
Friday 29 March 2024
Two Days at Cobbinshaw
On Monday, March 18th, I embarked on my first day of the fishing season at Cobbinshaw Reservoir.
As a new member, I was eager to get out and get to know Cobbie.
I had booked a four-hour slot on one of the excellent Coulam boats.
The wind proved to be a formidable opponent but despite my initial enthusiasm, the southwest wind and strong gusts made for challenging conditions. Positioned in the north-east corner of the reservoir, I found myself battling against the elements, struggling to maintain control of my drifting boat even with the drogue set up.
After a series of fruitless drifts, I made the decision to relocate to the south-west part of the reservoir.
Here I found refuge from the exposed main body of water and felt more at ease navigating the slower drifts. Equipped with my sink tip line, I fished deep in search of trout.
Throughout the day, I made various changes of flies.
It wasn't until the final hour that I struck gold, or rather, lime green and black. Opting for a single, eye-catching lure proved to be the correct choice for fooling a trout.
As my time on the boat ended, I reflected on the day with a sense of satisfaction.
Despite the challenges posed by the wind, my maiden voyage at Cobbinshaw Reservoir had been a good one.
With the promise of future outings on the horizon, I eagerly awaited the next opportunity to visit Cobbie.
Ten days later it was a little different at Cobbie.
Weather conditions were much better as the wind wasn't as strong.
My day is best described as sitting in a boat waving a stick at invisible trout whilst listening to an audio book titled “ Standing in a river waving a stick” by John Gierach.
It was a very enjoyable day all the same and it was good to meet a couple of fellow anglers when I got back to base. Although they too found it a little tough they actually managed to catch a couple of trout.
I'm already looking forward to my next day out at Cobbie.
Friday 22 March 2024
The Sharp & Gentles Way.
Tuesday 19 March 2024
Fair Thee Well My Friend!
It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of longtime fishing friend Davie Graham who I oftened referred to on my blog as the Hillend Veteran.
Davie left this earth for another place on the 15th of March, ironically the date of the start of the fishing season at Hillend.
Only last week Davie commented that he was sorry to hear that I had given up my membership at Hillend and said that i’d be missed.
I told him I'd pop into the clubhouse to see him for a coffee and have a catch up with him now and again during the course of the fishing season.
Its such a shame we’ll never have that coffee.
Davie was a valuable, committed member of Airdrie & District Angling Club, He often manned the clubhouse and cafe, was a member of committee and the minute secretary.
He knew the loch like the back of his hand and was a wealth of information on every aspect of flyfishing at Hillend. He often complimented me on my fly dressing which he was a dab hand at himself too.
We shared a boat on Hillend many a time. He was a fantastic fly caster and always happy to share his knowledge of the fly life at Hillend.
Davie was originally from Dalmellington in East Ayrshire and would ofter regale me with his stories and experiences of fishing the local lochs in that area as well as his many fishing expetiences all over Scotland.
He had a family caravan based at Bettyhill in Sutherland and loved his time there fishing with family and friends especially on the River Naver.
It was Davie who encouraged me to try the salmon fishing up there and gave me all the advice I required which I was pleased to see come to fruition when I caught my first ever salmon on the Naver a number of years ago.
In his later days Davie was given honorary membership of Airdrie and District Angling Club and I know he was looking forward to the season ahead. Its so sad he never got to see it.
Fair thee well my friend, Fair thee well! You will be sorely missed!
Tuesday 12 March 2024
Heres' to better days ahead!
Sunday 25 February 2024
Regional Flytying
The Dirty Weeker
Hope you enjoy my latest flytying video of a pattern of Caithness origins. The Dirty Weeker