Salmon Fishing Scotland May Salmon Fishing on the Tay 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland May Salmon Fishing on the Tay 2010.


Scandinavian angler Leif Stavmo holds up a fine 12 pounds salmon caught fly fishing on the Islamouth stretch on Saturday. Leif represents Guideline and was rod testing with their latest fly rods as well as enjoying some superb sport.


Leif Stavmo safely returns a good salmon on the Islamouth beat.


Ian Kettles from Glasgow with a lovely fresh May Salmon caught on the Catholes beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


A superb 15 pound Tay salmon caught on the Islamouth beat on Saturday fly fishing by Leif Stavmo.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Steve Rajeff visit to Willowgate Fishery in Perth, Scotland 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Steve Rajeff visit to Willowgate Fishery in Perth, Scotland 2010.

This is news of a forth coming event at the Willowgate fishery in Perth.
World distance fly casting record holder and Director of Research & Development at G.Loomis Steve Rajeff will be visiting our area on the 17th June 2010. Come along and see Steve do his stuff and have a go with the latest G Loomis rods and tackle.



STEVE RAJEFF TOUR
THURSDAY JUNE 17TH
Holder of 13 World Championship titles, World distance record holder and Director of Research & Development at G.Loomis. When it comes to delivering long, accurate casts or dropping a fly on a coin, nobody in the world does it better than Steve. Steve has dominated the world of competitive casting for over three decades and has no less than 29 national and 13 World All Round Championships on his casting CV. Steve holds the current U.S. National single and two hand fly distance records at 238 feet and 295 feet respectively. Steve gives G. Loomis a powerful advantage over the competition with a deep understanding of how fly rods work and will be on hand to demonstrate his casting prowess and to share his knowledge.
Joining Steve will be fellow Pro-Guides ANDY MURRAY, BOB WHITE, RAFFAELE MASCARO, ROBERT HARPER and DAVE BURGESS
Free admission.
Open 3pm to 7pm.

To be held at: Willowgate Trout & Salmon Fishery, Lairwell, Kinfauns, Perth, PH2 7JU


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Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for last week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for last week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.


River Tay report for the week ending 29th May 2010.
After last week’s 52 spring salmon being reported this week was a bit better with 66 and 11 Sea Trout but still disappointing. A few other salmon were caught as well and not registered for the last week of May but hopefully better to come.

The river remained at summer level all week despite some heavy showers. The weather was a bit fresher towards the end of the week with the river temperature remaining at around 56F or 14C by Saturday.

This week was again dominated by the upper part of the lower river with few more salmon coming from the middle and upper areas. We have not had a strong run as yet which hopefully will improve. It is absolutely imperative we continue to adhere to our catch and release policy to return all spring salmon to preserve what we have for the future. Thank you all for making this possible so far.

The lower river produced 29 out of the 66 spring salmon caught. The beats in or just below the mouth of the Isla fished well especially at the end of the week. The Salmon seem to be running hard through the lower stretches and then slowing down in the Islamouth area. 27 salmon were caught in the Islamouth area for the week from the Islamouth, Ballathie and Cargill beats. On Saturday there was 7 salmon landed on Islamouth, which was a superb day for Leif Stävmo of the Guideline Company who had the beat for the last three days of the week. Leif sent me this small report.

“In a short, intense 3-hour spell at Islamouth, Leif landed a great threesome of fresh run silver with his single hand 10' #9 Reaction rod, a Float/Hover/Intermediate head and a small turbo coned Grey&Green tube fly from the Mikael Frödin Series of Salar Flies.
The three fish, all safely and happily released, were estimated at 7, 12 and 15 lbs.
A great last morning before heading off to Edinburgh for the flight back home to Sweden.”

Sea Trout catches continue to be disappointing this past week but hopefully this will improve.

The middle Tay caught 19 salmon for the week and could do with a bit more water to improve prospects and encourage salmon to run. Coupar Grange had 13 Salmon on the Isla.

The Upper River and Loch reported 18 salmon which was slightly better despite the lack of water curtailing sport. There are others being caught and not reported here as well. The milder conditions have encouraged spring salmon to run further upstream but we need more water to encourage more to run. This was the latest news from the Pitlochry Angling Club from Innes Smith.
“Last week we were, again, blighted by very low water. Despite this the run of fish strengthened with some big fish reportedly being seen. Graeme Stewart caught a sealiced fish of around 11lbs on Sawmill on Tuesday and then lost a much bigger fish after a 15mins tussle. On Wednesday Jason Hendry took another sea licer, this time an 8lbs fish off Pitlochry bank and on Thursday Bean McGowan took a 6lbs fish off Portnacraig. It’s going to be tough until we have some decent rain but plenty of fresh fish are running with some really good ones amongst them so if you are in the right place at the right time ...all is not lost. Over 1000 have now run through the fish ladder that is well up on last year at the same time.”
Lower Kinnaid also had a good week with 9 salmon landed up to 18 pounds.

Many thanks for all the pictures everyone sent me of opening week spring salmon and thanks to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences over the last season on the river. I would be most grateful if you to do the same this season by emailing stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Prospects for the coming week.
As of Monday the river is settled and running at summer level.

The Tay just below Stanley.
The weather is to remain showery with heavier rain on Tuesday but get much warmer for the end of the week, which should be better for Sea Trout fishing.
Hopefully there will be a bit of rain to freshen the river and that should bring better catches especially after last week with some disappointing results. Hopefully there will be a few more fish running to let the whole river have a chance. The warmer weather should make it worthwhile to go out for an evening cast for salmon and for sea trout on the lower river.

The water temperature is 56 degrees Fahrenheit or 14 degrees Celsius, which will encourage salmon to run further upstream. Assuming we get a bit of fresh water the middle and Upper River should certainly benefit.
There is good availability throughout the river so why not have a go.

As to methods, spinning and fly fishing from the bank should enable you to catch the elusive Tay Springer. It is time to get the floating lines out. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. Harling is also a favoured method at this time of year if there is enough water.


Finally all anglers are reminded that the Tay's policy for Catch and Release in 2010 is that we now recommend every angler should release all spring salmon to conserve stocks for the future . i.e. the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for spring salmon. Spring salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please help preserve both them and the long-term future of your sport by following the recommendations.
To help you follow our guidelines I have included these helpful pointers.

How to SAFELY Release a Salmon
“The best method of releasing a salmon is to leave it in the water
and touch nothing but the hook with fingers or pliers.
“Whatever the method, care combined with speed, will give the fish the best chance of survival.”
Lee Wulff, Atlantic Salmon Journal Winter 1964/65

• Use barbless or pinched hooks
• Retrieve your fish quickly; release it immediately
• Keep the fish in the water
• Use rubber or knotless cotton net, if one must be used
• Cut the leader if necessary
• Remove the hook carefully
• Hold the fish gently in natural swimming position, facing upstream until it revives
• Don’t pump the fish. That is, don’t move the fish back and forth in the water.

How should hooks be removed?
Very Carefully
In quiet water, bring the wild salmon quickly within reach. Leaving the salmon in water and without squeezing it, remove the hook carefully with pliers or thumb and forefinger. If a net must be used, it should be rubber or knotless cotton. If necessary, cut the leader near the fly and spare the fish.

The Science of Live Release
“Peer-reviewed science supports live release as a proven and effective conservation tool.”
Dr. Fred Whoriskey,
ASF Vice-President, Research & Environment

Studies in North America and Europe have shown live release works, and in some instances Atlantic salmon have been angled 2 and 3 times.
Science has shown that virtually all Atlantic salmon will survive when released, as long as the angler uses the proper techniques, refrains from angling in overly warm water, and does not overplay the Atlantic salmon.
Like athletes sprinting on a track, Atlantic salmon build up lactic acid in their muscle tissues when they are being played.
The Key is Oxygen – The fish need oxygen in order to recover and continue their journey.
To recover, Atlantic salmon need:
• careful handling by the angler to reduce stress
• to remain in the water where they can breathe and reduce the oxygen deficit in their tissues
• to be held in an upstream position for water to flow more easily across their gills

Photographing Your Spectacular Live Release Salmon.

Use a photo partner:

* Digital camera: make settings on the camera before you begin fishing or use a point and shoot film camera. Give it to your partner before the angling session.

* Whether a digital camera or a film camera, tell your partner to fill the frame, and take several images.

* If it is a film camera, be sure there is film in the camera. This may seem to be a simple matter, but mistakes do happen...

Let your Partner get into Position:

* Tell him/her what you are going to do. Alert your partner before you take the fish out of the water.

Support the Atlantic salmon:

* Carefully take the barbless hook out of the fish’s mouth. With rod tucked under your arm, move one hand to the base of the tail. With your other hand, support the fish under the forward part of its body. Keep it in the water, with the fish pointed upstream to help its recovery.

* If a third person is present, give him or her the rod to hold, so you can concentrate on the wild salmon.

Take the Picture Quickly:

* With your photo partner warned, raise the wild Atlantic salmon partially out of the water for less than five seconds - or consider leaving it semi-submerged for the photo instead!

Return the Fish to Continue its Spawning Run:

* Support the salmon underwater in a natural position facing the current, handling it as little as possible. Give it time to recover. The goal is for the wild salmon to swim away on its own.



* Digital cameras offer the opportunity to adjust the film speed to suit conditions. In low light, such as evening, morning, heavy cloud, or deep shadow, consider setting the speed to 400, to take care of both movement and the low light. Experiment beforehand on speeds above 400, as many digital images become heavily pixilated at greater sensitivity.

* Remember to adjust the white balance for deep shadow, to warm the image.

* Today’s print films even at 400 speeds are superb. Use 400-speed film at dawn, dusk or in shadow.

* Don’t forget to smile! Your photo is a valuable memory.


If you have any news or pictures of catches or experiences on the Tay and you would like to share them please email me on stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Tight lines.



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Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Salmon in May 2010 on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Salmon in May 2010 on the Tay.


This was an 8 pound salmon James McKay caught in the Skellies on the Lower Tay beat just below Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland. James caught his salmon on a flying C and released it back to the river.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon fly fishing on the Tay May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon fly fishing on the Tay May 2010.


David Crabb from Dundee with a lovely fresh 7 pounds salmon caught on the Cargill beat of the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland. David was fly fishing in the famous Pot Shot pool in front of the Ballathie House Hotel when he caught his salmon.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Sea Trout fishing on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Sea Trout fishing on the Tay.


The river Tay at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland at the moment. The river is down at summer level. There are a few Sea Trout about and there is always the chance of a summer salmon. Daily bookings are available on Benchil and Pitlochrie for £20 and summer permits are available on the Catholes until the end of July(£150) as well as daily rod lets.


This was a lovely Sea Trout caught and returned by James McKay yesterday on the Benchil beat at Stanley.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland The Salmon's Journey on BBC Alba.

Salmon Fishing Scotland The Salmon's Journey on BBC Alba.
If you have not seen this program before it is well worth a watch. It is on the television tonight at 8.30pm on Channel 168 BBC ALBA. Tonight's episode is the second in the series. You can catch last weeks on BBC i player.

THE SALMON’S JOURNEY RETURNS TO BBC ALBA

TURAS A’ BHRADAIN
Commences Tuesday 18 May at 8.30pm on BBC ALBA

The second stage of a unique, visual feast will be coming to your screens as the stunning ‘Turas a’ Bhradain’ series returns to BBC ALBA. From STV Productions, ‘Turas a’ Bhradain’ ‘The Salmon’s Journey’ takes viewers on an exhilarating journey, discovering the best salmon fishing rivers in Scotland.

Presenter Neen Mackay will focus this time on the best summer spate rivers, against the magnificent backdrop of the west coast and the Western Isles. The angling series has to date explored spring salmon fishing, in a hugely successful first series. Neen’s odyssey now continues with instruction along the way from some of Scotland’s top fly casters, including former world champion Scott Mackenzie.



New, internationally influenced fly patterns will be revealed with fly tying demonstrations, as well as fascinating underwater filming. Neen will experience the flies being put through their paces as salmon are caught, and released. Conservation is very much the watch word today, and ‘catch and release’ in some shape or form is encouraged on almost every salmon river in Scotland.

There is also a very strong environmental focus throughout the programmes. The salmon’s life cycle is looked at in depth as Neen meets top scientists developing groundbreaking methods of regenerating stocks, and reveals the cutting edge research being carried out which indicates major threats to the species.


From the great loch and river systems like the Forsa and Grimersta on the Isle of Lewis, Amhuinnsuidhe on Isle of Harris to the Lochay, the Orchy, the Inver and the Kirkaig on the mainland, ‘Turas a’ Bhradain’ takes viewers on a mesmerising journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Western Europe.

As summer and autumn salmon are generally more plentiful than spring fish, this series also captures the sight of the majestic Scottish sea creature, in frequent close-up. The beautifully crafted programmes have also examined some of Scotland’s greatest historical salmon fishing stories, and will celebrate more in this latest strand.

‘Turas a’ Bhradain’ ‘The Salmon’s Journey’ is produced and directed by Chris Webster, and written by John Carmichael. Patsi Mackenzie is Executive Producer for STV Productions.

The six part series will be broadcast every Tuesday from 18th May at 8.30pm on BBC ALBA Satellite Channel 168.



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Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for third week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for third week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

River Tay Report for the week ending 22nd May 2010.
After last week’s 80 spring salmon being reported this week was much poorer with only 52 and 7 Sea Trout. A few other salmon were caught as well and not registered making it a disappointing week for the third week of May but hopefully better to come.

The river dropped further throughout the week now leaving the river at summer level. The thundery rain over Sunday and Monday may make the river rise a bit at the start of the week and encourage more sport. The weather was very warm towards the end of the week with the river temperature rising to 58F or 15C by Saturday.

This week was again dominated by the upper part of the lower river with only a few salmon coming from the middle and upper areas. We have not had a strong run as yet which hopefully will improve. It is absolutely imperative we continue to adhere to our catch and release policy to return all spring salmon to preserve what we have for the future. Thank you all for making this possible so far.

The lower river produced 30 out of the 52 spring salmon caught.

The Castle stream on the Islamouth beat ot the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.
The beats in or just below the mouth of the Isla fished very well. The Salmon seem to be running hard through the lower stretches and then slowing down in the Islamouth area. 23 salmon were caught on the Islamouth beats for the week with Ballathie, Cargill and Stobhall all catching odd fish as well. On Saturday there was a 19 pounds salmon landed at Islamouth, which was the largest salmon for the week. As the river level drops some salmon are coming out the Isla and back to the main river. Sea Trout catches were also disappointing this past week but hopefully this will improve.

The middle Tay caught 12 salmon for the week and could do with a bit more water to improve prospects and encourage salmon to run. Coupar Grange had 7 Salmon on the Isla.

On Newtyle Clive Mason had 2 lovely salmon on Wednesday on the fly, fishing from the bank.

The Upper River and Loch reported 10 salmon with the lack of water curtailing sport. There are others being caught and not reported here as well. The milder conditions have encouraged spring salmon to run further upstream but we need more water to encourage more to run. Even the Portnacaig beat at Pitlochry slowed down with only 2 for the week. Over 800 have now run through the fish ladder that is well up on last year at the same time. This is the current report from Loch Tay from Alex Stewart. Water levels are so low it is almost impossible to get out to the Loch from Killin. Even Highland Lodges are using the outer harbor, as boats can't get inside the inner harbor mouth.
There are salmon lying deep behind the island and below the junction of the rivers.
Since the beginning of May there have been four fish reported but not fresh run salmon.
The River Dochart has had no fish for seven weeks. Anglers are staying away with only a few regular bookings being taken up. Conditions have not been favorable this spring at the Killin end of the Loch.

Many thanks for all the pictures everyone sent me of opening week spring salmon and thanks to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences over the last season on the river. I would be most grateful if you to do the same this season by emailing stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Prospects for the coming week.
As of Monday the river is settled and running at summer level.

The warm weather is to stay with us for a few days then get a bit fresher by mid week. Hopefully there will be a bit of rain to freshen the river and that should bring better catches especially after last week with some disappointing results. Hopefully there will be a few more fish running to let the whole river have a chance. The warmer weather should make it worthwhile to go out for an evening cast for salmon and for sea trout on the lower river.

The water temperature is 58 degrees Fahrenheit or 15 degrees Celsius, which will encourage salmon to run further upstream. Assuming we get a bit of fresh water the middle and Upper River should certainly benefit.
There is good availability throughout the river so why not have a go.

As to methods, spinning and fly fishing from the bank should enable you to catch the elusive Tay Springer. It is time to get the floating lines out. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. Harling is also a favoured method at this time of year if there is enough water.

Finally all anglers are reminded that the Tay's policy for Catch and Release in 2010 is that we now recommend every angler should release all spring salmon to conserve stocks for the future . i.e. the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for spring salmon. Spring salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please help preserve both them and the long-term future of your sport by following the recommendations.
To help you follow our guidelines I have included these helpful pointers.

How to SAFELY Release a Salmon
“The best method of releasing a salmon is to leave it in the water
and touch nothing but the hook with fingers or pliers.
“Whatever the method, care combined with speed, will give the fish the best chance of survival.”
Lee Wulff, Atlantic Salmon Journal Winter 1964/65

• Use barbless or pinched hooks
• Retrieve your fish quickly; release it immediately
• Keep the fish in the water
• Use rubber or knotless cotton net, if one must be used
• Cut the leader if necessary
• Remove the hook carefully
• Hold the fish gently in natural swimming position, facing upstream until it revives
• Don’t pump the fish. That is, don’t move the fish back and forth in the water.

How should hooks be removed?
Very Carefully
In quiet water, bring the wild salmon quickly within reach. Leaving the salmon in water and without squeezing it, remove the hook carefully with pliers or thumb and forefinger. If a net must be used, it should be rubber or knotless cotton. If necessary, cut the leader near the fly and spare the fish.

The Science of Live Release
“Peer-reviewed science supports live release as a proven and effective conservation tool.”
Dr. Fred Whoriskey,
ASF Vice-President, Research & Environment

Studies in North America and Europe have shown live release works, and in some instances Atlantic salmon have been angled 2 and 3 times.
Science has shown that virtually all Atlantic salmon will survive when released, as long as the angler uses the proper techniques, refrains from angling in overly warm water, and does not overplay the Atlantic salmon.
Like athletes sprinting on a track, Atlantic salmon build up lactic acid in their muscle tissues when they are being played.
The Key is Oxygen – The fish need oxygen in order to recover and continue their journey.
To recover, Atlantic salmon need:
• careful handling by the angler to reduce stress
• to remain in the water where they can breathe and reduce the oxygen deficit in their tissues
• to be held in an upstream position for water to flow more easily across their gills

Photographing Your Spectacular Live Release Salmon.

Use a photo partner:

* Digital camera: make settings on the camera before you begin fishing or use a point and shoot film camera. Give it to your partner before the angling session.

* Whether a digital camera or a film camera, tell your partner to fill the frame, and take several images.

* If it is a film camera, be sure there is film in the camera. This may seem to be a simple matter, but mistakes do happen...

Let your Partner get into Position:

* Tell him/her what you are going to do. Alert your partner before you take the fish out of the water.

Support the Atlantic salmon:

* Carefully take the barbless hook out of the fish’s mouth. With rod tucked under your arm, move one hand to the base of the tail. With your other hand, support the fish under the forward part of its body. Keep it in the water, with the fish pointed upstream to help its recovery.

* If a third person is present, give him or her the rod to hold, so you can concentrate on the wild salmon.

Take the Picture Quickly:

* With your photo partner warned, raise the wild Atlantic salmon partially out of the water for less than five seconds - or consider leaving it semi-submerged for the photo instead!

Return the Fish to Continue its Spawning Run:

* Support the salmon underwater in a natural position facing the current, handling it as little as possible. Give it time to recover. The goal is for the wild salmon to swim away on its own.


* Digital cameras offer the opportunity to adjust the film speed to suit conditions. In low light, such as evening, morning, heavy cloud, or deep shadow, consider setting the speed to 400, to take care of both movement and the low light. Experiment beforehand on speeds above 400, as many digital images become heavily pixilated at greater sensitivity.

* Remember to adjust the white balance for deep shadow, to warm the image.

* Today’s print films even at 400 speeds are superb. Use 400-speed film at dawn, dusk or in shadow.

* Don’t forget to smile! Your photo is a valuable memory.


If you have any news or pictures of catches or experiences on the Tay and you would like to share them please email me on stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Tight lines.



Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Fly Fishing on the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland for Salmon May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Fly Fishing on the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland for Salmon May 2010.


Scottish Ghillie Stuart Lean with a lovely fresh 13 pound salmon caught in the Bleachings pool of the Lower Redgorton beat fly fishing from the bank. Stuart's salmon was caught on a size 10 Cascade with a floating line and an intermediate sink tip.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland G Loomis New Website 2010.

There is a new G Loomis web site for Europe. Click here to view.

Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.

Salmon Fishing Scotland May Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland May Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay 2010.


This was Ray Doonan with a lovely 9 pounds spring salmon caught fly fishing on the Farleyer beat of the Tay yesterday. The salmon was caught on a size 10 cascade fly and returned to the river.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Casting Open Day at S J Fawcetts on the Lune.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Casting Open Day at S J Fawcetts on the Lune.

I was down in the Lancaster area on Sunday for the Stephen J Fawcett Casting day on the river Lune on the Underley Estate near Kirby Lonsdale in England for G Loomis.
It was a very successful day with many fly fishing rod manufactures represented including G Loomis, Hardys, Greys, Bruce and Walker, Vision, Loop, Guideline, Diawa, T & T and Zpey. This was a few of the images of the day.

The bridge going over the river Lune on the Underley Estate where the casting day was held.


Day organizer Jeff Robinson.


Andy Murray demonstrating his casting techniques with the G Loomis rods.


An aerial view from the bridge looking down the river Lune.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Large Salmon caught Fly Fishing on the Spey May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Large Salmon caught Fly Fishing on the Spey May 2010.

This is the largest Atlantic Salmon caught on Scottish waters this year so far and returned unharmed. This is a real contender for the Savilles Malloch Trophy 2010.

Mr McCulloch with a prize Spey spring salmon caught on the Delfour beat in Morayshire, Scotland fly fishing.


Scottish Ghillie Grant Morrison returns the magnificent 36 pound salmon.


The 36 pound spring salmon returns to the Spey unharmed.


Spey Ghillie Grant Morrison's Orange tube fly which caught the huge salmon.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for second week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for second week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.


River Tay Salmon fishing report for the week ending 15th May 2010.
After last week’s 60 spring salmon being reported this week was a bit better with 80. The odd Sea Trout are starting to run with 15 reported. A few other salmon were caught as well and not registered making it a reasonable week for the second week of May with hopefully better to come.

The river dropped steadily throughout the week now leaving the river at summer level. The weather was a bit colder towards the end of the week but the river temperature remained at 50F or 10C by Saturday enabling Salmon to run freely.

This week the upper parts of the lower and middle river dominated the catches with only a few from the upper areas. We have not had a strong run as yet which hopefully will improve. It is absolutely imperative we continue to adhere to our catch and release policy to return all spring salmon to preserve what we have for the future. Thank you all for making this possible so far.

The lower river produced 35 out of the 80 spring salmon caught. The beats in or just below the mouth of the Isla fished very well. The Salmon seem to be running hard through the lower stretches and then slowing down in the Islamouth area. Islamouth, Ballathie, Cargill, Stobhall and Taymount all fished well this past week with the river dropping nicely. At the start of the week the Meikleour Islamouth beat had 11 for the first 3 days and Islamouth had 6 for the last three days with superb fly fishing conditions. Stobhall did fairly well with 4 salmon which included an 18 pound salmon on Monday then George Kuczera had a lovely 12 pound fish fly fishing from the boat in the upper Eels brigs pool on Wednesday. Cargill also had some good sport landing 8 for the week mostly off the top beat.

Ben Thompson and his father had a good three days on the river. This was his message to me. “My father (Ed Thompson) and I fished for 2 days at Cargill and 1 day at Kercock and managed to get 3 fish between us. I returned 2 fish of 6lb (Bridge Pool) and 15lb ('Sands') from Cargill while my father returned a fish of 7lb ('sands') all fish were covered in long tailed sea lice. All fish were taken on Tobies. We saw a large number of fresh fish during our stay, many more than at same time of year in previous years.” Thanks Ben. Jim Lowe also had a good day on Cargill with a lovely 12 pounder from the Bridge stream fly fishing and

Jane Rutherford had a sea liced 6 pounds salmon from the Cradle.

The middle Tay did much better with 30 salmon for the week. This figure is conservative, as Glendelvine, Lower and Upper Murthly would account for a few more at least but do not report. The milder conditions should encourage fish to run up to the middle river for next week so let us hope for better catch returns. Coupar Grange were back to their best with 15 Salmon and 7 Sea Trout on the Isla. Newtyle, Dunkeld and Dalmarnock all had a few salmon for the week.

The Upper River and Loch had 15 salmon. There are others being caught and not reported here as well. The milder conditions have encouraged spring salmon to run further upstream. The Tummel accounted for 4 on the Pitlochry Angling Club Portnacraig beat and the lower Tummel.

Glasgow angler Jim Fisher had a lovely 12 pounds salmon fly fishing on the Portnacraig beat. Loch Faskally caught 7 for the week with the salmon running through the dam including a 19 pounds fish. Over 400 are now through the ladder. There have been no reports from Loch Tay.

Many thanks for all the pictures everyone sent me this past week and also to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences over the last season on the river. I would be most grateful if you to do the same this season by emailing me at stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.

Many thanks for all the pictures everyone sent me of opening week spring salmon and thanks to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences over the last season on the river. I would be most grateful if you to do the same this season by emailing stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Prospects for the week commencing 17th May 2010.
Finally all anglers are reminded that the Tay's policy for Catch and Release in 2010 is that we now recommend every angler should release all spring salmon to conserve stocks for the future . i.e. the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for spring salmon. Spring salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please help preserve both them and the long-term future of your sport by following the recommendations.
To help you follow our guidelines I have included these helpful pointers.

How to SAFELY Release a Salmon
“The best method of releasing a salmon is to leave it in the water
and touch nothing but the hook with fingers or pliers.
“Whatever the method, care combined with speed, will give the fish the best chance of survival.”
Lee Wulff, Atlantic Salmon Journal Winter 1964/65

• Use barbless or pinched hooks
• Retrieve your fish quickly; release it immediately
• Keep the fish in the water
• Use rubber or knotless cotton net, if one must be used
• Cut the leader if necessary
• Remove the hook carefully
• Hold the fish gently in natural swimming position, facing upstream until it revives
• Don’t pump the fish. That is, don’t move the fish back and forth in the water.

How should hooks be removed?
Very Carefully
In quiet water, bring the wild salmon quickly within reach. Leaving the salmon in water and without squeezing it, remove the hook carefully with pliers or thumb and forefinger. If a net must be used, it should be rubber or knotless cotton. If necessary, cut the leader near the fly and spare the fish.

The Science of Live Release
“Peer-reviewed science supports live release as a proven and effective conservation tool.”
Dr. Fred Whoriskey,
ASF Vice-President, Research & Environment

Studies in North America and Europe have shown live release works, and in some instances Atlantic salmon have been angled 2 and 3 times.
Science has shown that virtually all Atlantic salmon will survive when released, as long as the angler uses the proper techniques, refrains from angling in overly warm water, and does not overplay the Atlantic salmon.
Like athletes sprinting on a track, Atlantic salmon build up lactic acid in their muscle tissues when they are being played.
The Key is Oxygen – The fish need oxygen in order to recover and continue their journey.
To recover, Atlantic salmon need:
• careful handling by the angler to reduce stress
• to remain in the water where they can breathe and reduce the oxygen deficit in their tissues
• to be held in an upstream position for water to flow more easily across their gills

Photographing Your Spectacular Live Release Salmon.

Use a photo partner:

* Digital camera: make settings on the camera before you begin fishing or use a point and shoot film camera. Give it to your partner before the angling session.

* Whether a digital camera or a film camera, tell your partner to fill the frame, and take several images.

* If it is a film camera, be sure there is film in the camera. This may seem to be a simple matter, but mistakes do happen...

Let your Partner get into Position:

* Tell him/her what you are going to do. Alert your partner before you take the fish out of the water.

Support the Atlantic salmon:

* Carefully take the barbless hook out of the fish’s mouth. With rod tucked under your arm, move one hand to the base of the tail. With your other hand, support the fish under the forward part of its body. Keep it in the water, with the fish pointed upstream to help its recovery.

* If a third person is present, give him or her the rod to hold, so you can concentrate on the wild salmon.

Take the Picture Quickly:

* With your photo partner warned, raise the wild Atlantic salmon partially out of the water for less than five seconds - or consider leaving it semi-submerged for the photo instead!

Return the Fish to Continue its Spawning Run:

* Support the salmon underwater in a natural position facing the current, handling it as little as possible. Give it time to recover. The goal is for the wild salmon to swim away on its own.



* Digital cameras offer the opportunity to adjust the film speed to suit conditions. In low light, such as evening, morning, heavy cloud, or deep shadow, consider setting the speed to 400, to take care of both movement and the low light. Experiment beforehand on speeds above 400, as many digital images become heavily pixilated at greater sensitivity.

* Remember to adjust the white balance for deep shadow, to warm the image.

* Today’s print films even at 400 speeds are superb. Use 400-speed film at dawn, dusk or in shadow.

* Don’t forget to smile! Your photo is a valuable memory.
If you have any news or pictures of catches or experiences on the Tay and you would like to share them please email me on stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Tight lines.




Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Fly Fishing on the Tay for Salmon May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Fly Fishing on the Tay for Salmon May 2010.


Jim Lowe with a lovely 12 pound sea licer caught fly fishing in the Bridge Stream on the Cargill beat on Saturday. The weeks fishing report and prospects will follow tonight with 80 salmon and 15 sea trout reported last week.

Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon Fishing on the Tay May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon Fishing on the Tay May 2010.


Ben Thompson returning a lovely 15 pound spring salmon on the Cargill beat on the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Fly Fishing on the Tummel for Salmon May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Fly Fishing on the Tummel for Salmon May 2010.

Action from the Tummel at Pitlochry, Perthshire, Scotland today.

Visiting South African angler Arthur Painting who now lives in London hooks his first ever salmon fly fishing on the Portnacraig beat of the Tummel on the Pitlochry Angling stretch. After a lengthy fight his salmon came off close to the net. That's fishing!

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Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay.


George Kuczera with a lovely 12 pound spring salmon caught fly fishing from the boat on the upper Eels Brigs pool on the lower Stobhall beat on the lower Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.

Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay System May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay System May 2010.

May can be a good month on the Tay System for fly fishing. The weather has been unusually cold but despite this spring salmon are being caught throughout the river.

Jim Fisher with a lovely 12 pound spring salmon caught fly fishing on the Tummel at the Portnacraig beat at Pitlochry, Perthshire, Scotland.

Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon Fishing on the Tay May 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon Fishing on the Tay May 2010.

The leaves are at last coming out on the trees after a very cold winter. This is a magical time of year on the Tay.

Summer is approaching fast despite the cold nights. This is a typical evening view on the Tay with the sun going down at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


John McElroy playing a good salmon on the Islamouth beat fly fishing from the boat.


Ian Illingworth with a lovely 8 pounder from the Manse Bay on the upper Ballathie beat.

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Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for first week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for first week of May 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for week ending 8th May 2010.
After last week’s 61 spring salmon being reported this week was much the same with 60. The odd Sea Trout are starting to run with 7 reported. A few other salmon were caught as well and not registered making it a reasonable week for the first week of May with hopefully better to come.

The river dropped steadily throughout the week with only a small rise in the river on Thursday giving good conditions for spring fishing. The weather was a bit colder towards the end of the week but the river temperature rose to 50F or 10C by Saturday enabling Salmon to run freely. It is time to get your floating lines out!

This week the upper parts of the lower river dominated the catches with only a few from the middle river and slightly more from the upper areas. We have not had a strong run as yet which hopefully will improve. It is absolutely imperative we continue to adhere to our catch and release policy to return all spring salmon to preserve what we have for the future. Thank you all for making this possible so far.

The lower river produced 37 out of the 60 spring salmon caught. The beats in or just below the mouth of the Isla fished very well. The Salmon seem to be running hard through the lower stretches and then slowing down in the Islamouth area. Last week signaled the end of the spring fishing on the lower beats with the boats coming off the river. Bank fishing continues on the lower Tay with the added interest of Sea Trout as a few were recorded this past couple of weeks. Islamouth, Ballathie and Cargill all fished well this past week with the river dropping nicely. At the start of the week the Meikleour Islamouth beat had 14 for the first 3 days with superb fly fishing conditions. Local anglers Neil Tong and Steven Watt, and

John McElroy all enjoyed good sport landing fresh spring salmon up to 17 pounds. Willie McAdam from Perth caught a lovely salmon on the Tuesday evening making 2 salmon in 2 outings this year. Steven Brown’s party and John Milligan’s party had a good week on Ballathie landing 8 salmon.

A cracking 10 pound salmon caught by former Tay Board Chairman John Milligan.
Cargill also did well with 6 salmon for the week and interestingly all the salmon caught came off the top beat on these stretches.

Martin Ferry had a lovely 14 pounds salmon on Saturday from the Bridge Stream fly fishing from the boat.

The middle Tay did not do so well this past week with 9 salmon for the week. This figure is conservative, as Glendelvine, Lower and Upper Murthly would account for a few more at least but do not report. The milder conditions should encourage fish to run up to the middle river for next week so let us hope for better catch returns. Coupar Grange didn’t do so well either with 4 on the Isla.

The Upper River and Loch had 14 salmon. There are others being caught and not reported here as well. The milder conditions have encouraged spring salmon to run further upstream.

The Tummel accounted for 5 on the Pitlochry Angling Club Portnacraig beat with John Kane landing the largest estimated at 20 pounds fly fishing from the Pitlochry bank. Upper and Lower Kinnard continue to produce the odd salmon as well. There have been no reports from Loch Tay.

Many thanks for all the pictures everyone sent me of opening week spring salmon and thanks to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences over the last season on the river. I would be most grateful if you to do the same this season by emailing stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Prospects for the week commencing 10th May 2010.
As of Monday the river is settled and running at early summer level.

The weather is settled this coming week with high pressure and maybe the chance of an odd shower but hopefully this will not affect the river levels. Hopefully it will be a settled week, which should bring better catches especially after last week with some encouraging catches. Hopefully there will be a few more fish running to let the lower river have a chance.


The water temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 degrees Celsius with warmer weather to come, which will encourage salmon to run further upstream. The middle and Upper River should certainly benefit from this. Assuming the river continues to run at a consistent level there should be a better catch this coming week.

There is good availability throughout the river so why not have a go.

As to methods, spinning and fly fishing from the bank should enable you to catch the elusive Tay Springer. It is time to get the floating lines out. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. Harling is also a favoured method at this time of year.


Finally all anglers are reminded that the Tay's policy for Catch and Release in 2010 is that we now recommend every angler should release all spring salmon to conserve stocks for the future . i.e. the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for spring salmon. Spring salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please help preserve both them and the long-term future of your sport by following the recommendations.
To help you follow our guidelines I have included these helpful pointers.

How to SAFELY Release a Salmon
“The best method of releasing a salmon is to leave it in the water
and touch nothing but the hook with fingers or pliers.
“Whatever the method, care combined with speed, will give the fish the best chance of survival.”
Lee Wulff, Atlantic Salmon Journal Winter 1964/65

• Use barbless or pinched hooks
• Retrieve your fish quickly; release it immediately
• Keep the fish in the water
• Use rubber or knotless cotton net, if one must be used
• Cut the leader if necessary
• Remove the hook carefully
• Hold the fish gently in natural swimming position, facing upstream until it revives
• Don’t pump the fish. That is, don’t move the fish back and forth in the water.

How should hooks be removed?
Very Carefully
In quiet water, bring the wild salmon quickly within reach. Leaving the salmon in water and without squeezing it, remove the hook carefully with pliers or thumb and forefinger. If a net must be used, it should be rubber or knotless cotton. If necessary, cut the leader near the fly and spare the fish.

The Science of Live Release
“Peer-reviewed science supports live release as a proven and effective conservation tool.”
Dr. Fred Whoriskey,
ASF Vice-President, Research & Environment

Studies in North America and Europe have shown live release works, and in some instances Atlantic salmon have been angled 2 and 3 times.
Science has shown that virtually all Atlantic salmon will survive when released, as long as the angler uses the proper techniques, refrains from angling in overly warm water, and does not overplay the Atlantic salmon.
Like athletes sprinting on a track, Atlantic salmon build up lactic acid in their muscle tissues when they are being played.
The Key is Oxygen – The fish need oxygen in order to recover and continue their journey.
To recover, Atlantic salmon need:
• careful handling by the angler to reduce stress
• to remain in the water where they can breathe and reduce the oxygen deficit in their tissues
• to be held in an upstream position for water to flow more easily across their gills

Photographing Your Spectacular Live Release Salmon.

Use a photo partner:

* Digital camera: make settings on the camera before you begin fishing or use a point and shoot film camera. Give it to your partner before the angling session.

* Whether a digital camera or a film camera, tell your partner to fill the frame, and take several images.

* If it is a film camera, be sure there is film in the camera. This may seem to be a simple matter, but mistakes do happen...

Let your Partner get into Position:

* Tell him/her what you are going to do. Alert your partner before you take the fish out of the water.

Support the Atlantic salmon:

* Carefully take the barbless hook out of the fish’s mouth. With rod tucked under your arm, move one hand to the base of the tail. With your other hand, support the fish under the forward part of its body. Keep it in the water, with the fish pointed upstream to help its recovery.

* If a third person is present, give him or her the rod to hold, so you can concentrate on the wild salmon.

Take the Picture Quickly:

* With your photo partner warned, raise the wild Atlantic salmon partially out of the water for less than five seconds - or consider leaving it semi-submerged for the photo instead!

Return the Fish to Continue its Spawning Run:

* Support the salmon underwater in a natural position facing the current, handling it as little as possible. Give it time to recover. The goal is for the wild salmon to swim away on its own.



* Digital cameras offer the opportunity to adjust the film speed to suit conditions. In low light, such as evening, morning, heavy cloud, or deep shadow, consider setting the speed to 400, to take care of both movement and the low light. Experiment beforehand on speeds above 400, as many digital images become heavily pixilated at greater sensitivity.

* Remember to adjust the white balance for deep shadow, to warm the image.

* Today’s print films even at 400 speeds are superb. Use 400-speed film at dawn, dusk or in shadow.

* Don’t forget to smile! Your photo is a valuable memory.
If you have any news or pictures of catches or experiences on the Tay and you would like to share them please email me on stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Tight lines.





Fishing Salmon River, Salmon River, Fishing for Salmon, salmon Fishing Alaska, Fishing Alaska, Fly Fishing Salmon, Fly Fishing, Salmon Fishing Report, Trout Fishing, King Salmon Fishing, Salmon Fishing Forum, Salmon Fishing Scotland, Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland, River Tay Scotland, Scottish Salmon, Salmon Rivers Scotland, Fishing Tackle Scotland, Salmon Fishing Flies, Fly Fishing Flies.