Friday, July 30, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Summer Salmon Fishing.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Summer Salmon Fishing.

Some pictures from successful anglers on the Almondmouth beat at Perth today.

Neil Tong from Perth with a fresh grilse caught in the Throat at the mouth of the Almond on the Tay just above Perth, Scotland.


Steven Watt with a lovely fresh grilse from the Throat on the Almondmouth beat just above Perth.

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.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay, Perthshire, Scotland in July 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay, Perthshire, Scotland in July 2010.


Tom Jennings plays a fresh summer salmon from the boat on the fly in the Long Shot pool on the lower Tay Benchil beat just below Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


A fresh 6 pounds salmon safely landed.


Tom Jennings releasing his salmon back to the river.


A 6 pounds grilse caught fly fishing in the Long Shot on the Benchil beat. The salmon took a 1.5 inch Monkey fly stripped just under the surface.

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.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the third week in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the third week in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

River Tay Salmon fishing report for the third week of July 2010.
After 65 salmon being reported last week, this week was much more encouraging with 88 salmon and 18 Sea Trout. This coming week with far more settled weather and an improving run there should be more caught. A few other salmon and sea trout were caught as well this week but not registered.

The river rose to over nine feet in the middle of the week with filthy water and the temperature dropped back to 56F or 13C making difficult conditions for consistent sport. However the river has now settled back. Saturday was the river’s best day of the season with 47 reported.

This week the catches were dominated by Saturday and came from all over the system. There was a good proportion of salmon caught as opposed to grilse, which was encouraging. The grilse run should improve, as we get closer to August. It is absolutely imperative we continue to adhere to our catch and release policy to return as many salmon as possible to preserve what we have for the future. Thank you all for making this possible so far.

A Summer salmon caught fly fishing at Benchil.
The lower river produced 43 out of the 88 salmon caught. All the lower beats caught as the salmon ran up the river but would have done much better with lower river levels. The Salmon seem to be continuing to run hard through the lower stretches with few showing. These fish must be running to the upper areas, as the fish start to slow down and even stop they will start to show more and more. The lower river needs settled conditions now to improve catches for future weeks and this should be the case for this coming week.
Best catch in a day was on Almondmouth on Saturday with 6 salmon but most of the lower river produced on the same day.

A summer salmon caught spinning on the lower Tay at Stanley.
The middle Tay caught 16 salmon for the week. Dunkeld House and Dalmarnock had a good day on Saturday with 7 between them. The rise in water levels has certainly helped the middle river and this will continue next week.

The Isla caught 18 for the week all reported from Coupar Grange which included 9 on Saturday.

The Upper River and Loch reported 11, which is an improvement on previous weeks but there is room for improvement with the increase in river levels allowing salmon and grilse to run upstream. The Pitlochry Angling stretch at Portnacraig had a good day on Saturday with 5. There are now over 2700 salmon through the Pitlochry fish ladder which is on a par with the 5 year average.


Many thanks for all the pictures and information everyone sent me in the past (ghillies and anglers) and also to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences. I would be most grateful if you continue to send me information by emailing me at stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.

Prospects for the coming week.
As of Monday the river will have settled back after last week’s rain, a run of summer salmon and grilse has started and the fresh water plus settled weather this coming week should make this continue and encourage them to run up river.

The water temperature remains at 58 degrees Fahrenheit or 14 degrees Celsius. 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 summer salmon and grilse. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay for fly fishing, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. When spinning at this time of year a Toby or Flying C spun quickly can do the trick. Cast slightly upstream then wind like mad. 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 hen salmon, male salmon over 10 pounds and all sea trout to conserve stocks for the future . i.e. the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for hen salmon and sea trout. 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.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Returning Tay Summer Salmon 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Returning Tay Summer Salmon 2010.

Irish Ghillie John Bennett returning a fresh 10 pounds summer salmon in the Horsey pool of the Pitlochrie beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland on the river Tay



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 Catching Summer Salmon Fishing on the Tay in July 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon Fishing on the Tay in July 2010.

John Bennett from Northern Ireland had a day to remember on the Pitlochrie beat today.
He successfully landed and returned 3 fresh summer salmon weighing 10, 8 and 4 pounds.

Irish Ghillie John Bennett hooks his first salmon of the day on a flying C in the Horsey pool on the Pitlochrie beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


John with his first salmon from the Stanley beats. The salmon weighed 10 pounds and was returned.


The salmon covered with sea lice. These fish have run straight out of the sea on the flood we had this week.


Irish Ghillie John Bennett playing a summer salmon in the Horsey pool of the Pitlochrie beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


John Bennett with another lovely fresh 8 pounds salmon prior to returning to the river.

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.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer on the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer on the Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.


Blue sky this morning and a much better day all round. The river was dropping nicely after the rains but the colour was still in it. Fishing should be much better tomorrow on the lower river. Hopefully some more grilse and good summer salmon will be running.


This shows how quickly the river Tay came up with all the rain on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. The river was running nicely at about 3 feet then 12 hours later the river peaked at over 9 feet.

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.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer on the River Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer on the River Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.

This was the view of the river Tay this morning at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.
We had a very warm day yesterday but there was very heavy rain during the night and this was the result this morning. There was flooding everywhere as the drains could not cope.





Perth struck by serious flooding.

Perth city centre has been seriously affected by flooding after 40mm of rain fell during Wednesday morning.

Scores of homes and businesses were flooded and Tayside Fire and Rescue drafted in appliances from across Tayside to pump out buildings.

People living in central Perth were being asked not to contact the brigade unless they were in immediate danger.

The worst affected roads were Feus Road, County Place, South Street, Scott Street and High Street.

The B898 Dalguise Road by Dunkeld has been closed.

A Tayside Fire and Rescue spokesman said the situation was being managed on an incident by incident basis and priority was being given to those who were most at risk.
Floods in perth Tayside emergency services have been responing to multiple flooding incidents

He said: "We would advise all residents in central Perth to remain calm and monitor the water levels regularly and only call the emergency services if in danger."

He advised affected residents to move family, pets and essential items upstairs or to a high place with means of escape.

He also said if flood water was about to enter their home, they should turn off gas, electricity and water supplies, if it was safe to do so.

Residents were being urged to avoid walking or driving through flood water.

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 Bait fishing for Salmon.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Bait fishing for Salmon.

Bait restrictions to be lifted as River Tay salmon yield decreases.

A measure to preserve salmon stocks on the River Tay could be withdrawn on a trial basis to see if it helps improve dwindling fish catches.
This is an article written by Mark Mackay which was published in the Courier today.
This is certainly a very emotive subject with anglers. Your comments are welcome.


The river Tay at Cargill.
The Tay District Salmon Fisheries Board is considering allowing anglers on some beats to resume using shrimp and prawn as bait 11 years after they were banned.

Their use was stopped in 1999 in the interests of salmon conservation as the baits caught too many salmon.

However, high water levels in recent years have resulted in very poor fishing conditions during peak salmon fishing season in July and August.

As catches have dropped significantly, according to Fishtay — which provides details of fish catches — so too have the number of anglers hiring beats and visiting the area.

Figures comparing 2010 to the five-year-average suggest that the decline has continued, with this season one of the poorest for many years.

That has led some to call upon the board to reintroduce shrimp and prawn as salmon bait in a bid to beat the conditions, improve catches and protect local tourism.

An application for an "experimental licence" has now been submitted to the Scottish Government, with a decision keenly awaited.

Prawn bait

Fears that fish stocks could be adversely affected by the move have been hotly disputed by the board, with the licence relating to a "controlled" trial.

In years gone by, beats using shrimp and prawn bait are reported to have seen over 100 salmon caught and killed in two days, an unsustainable level.

However, the board's fisheries director David Summers has categorically ruled out any return to wholesale use of shrimp and prawn as salmon bait on the river.

He said, "It has been put to us that re-introducing shrimp and prawn bait might be helpful in increasing catches.
'No evidence'

"We don't know if that is the case or not and there is no evidence to support that view.

"We have suggested that some beats could reintroduce the baits on a trial basis.

"The board has applied to the Scottish Government for an "experimental licence" but at the moment I don't know if we will get this.

"At the end of the day it is purely an experiment and if it went ahead it would be limited.

"All the fish caught would have to be returned to the river. That would be an iron-clad condition for anyone taking part in the experiment.

"There is no intention of allowing a wholesale return to using these baits, as some people appear to believe.

"That is simply not the case."

Mr Summers said while some believe stringent conservation measures are required to protect salmon stocks, others believe there are more fish than anyone knows.

He said it was vital for the state of the industry and tourism in Perthshire that the board explores every possible method of boosting business.

Mr Summers added, "Some people wonder whether there are more fish than we think.

"One of the reasons for the low number of catches is the fact that over the last couple of years, during the summer months, we have experienced unusually high water levels.

"When we have these in the summer, it makes fishing conditions difficult.

"A couple of weeks ago we were feeling very positive about summer 2010, but sadly we are now in high water again.

"If we continue having these bad conditions it will affect catches and the local economy.

"With these conditions during July and August there has been a drop in the number of people fishing the river.

"That has been obvious.

"We must explore every method possible to reverse this trend, otherwise it will begin to impact upon the jobs of ghillies and the business of hotels and other tourism providers."

Should the scheme be given the go-ahead by the Scottish Government, it is the board's intention that it runs for four or five weeks to the end of August.

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.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay in July 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay in July 2010.

Fly Fishing on the Benchil beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.

I was lucky to get a cast today myself. I was fly fishing out of the boat in the Long Shot on the Lower Tay Benchil beat just below Stanley, Perthshire. I was not long started when the line tightened and I was into a lively summer salmon. I was using a long sink tip on a skagit line fishing with a small Yellow Firelighter Pot Belly Pig.


A quick picture before the release. A lovely 10 pounds summer salmon and caught fly fishing.


The Salmon is returned back to the river unharmed to continue its run up river.

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.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the second week in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the second week in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

River Tay Salmon fishing report for the second week in July 2010.

After 98 salmon being reported last week, this week was much more difficult with 65 salmon and 11 Sea Trout after more rain and unsettled conditions with the river being in spate twice in the past week. A few other salmon and sea trout were caught as well but not registered.

The river rose to over four feet twice and the temperature dropped back to 58F or 14C making difficult conditions for consistent sport. We now need more settled weather and lower water levels to improve catches.

This week the catches form the lower and middle river were effectively halved from last week with the unsettled water levels. There was a good proportion of salmon caught as opposed to grilse, which was encouraging. The grilse run should improve, as we get closer to august. 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 25 out of the 65 salmon caught. All the lower beats caught as the salmon ran up the river but would have done much better with lower river levels. The Salmon seem to be continuing to run hard through the lower stretches with few showing. These fish must be running to the upper areas, as the fish start to slow down and even stop they will start to show more and more. The lower river needs settled conditions now to improve catches for future weeks. The numbers will increase as the grilse run strengthens but the lower river needs low water to give good sport.
Best catch in a day was on the Miekleour Islamouth on Monday with 6 salmon landed all fly fishing.

Ballathie caught 6 during the week and the largest salmon came from Almondmouth weighing 16 pounds.

The middle Tay caught 26 salmon for the week. Coupar Grange had a much reduced catch of 7 Salmon on the Isla with a few grilse included. Kercock faired better with 7 salmon this past week. The rise in water levels has certainly helped the middle river and this will continue next week.

The Upper River and Loch reported 14, which is an improvement on previous weeks but there is room for improvement with the increase in river levels allowing salmon and grilse to run upstream. There are now over 2500 salmon through the Pitlochry fish ladder which is on a par with the 5 year average.
Many thanks for all the pictures and information everyone sent me in the past (ghillies and anglers) and also to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences. I would be most grateful if you continue to send me information by emailing me at stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Prospects for the coming week.

As of Monday the river is settling back after last weeks rain, a run of summer salmon and grilse has started and the fresh water should make this continue and encourage them to run up the river.

The weather is to continue unsettled for the week with a chance of some rain showers but hopefully the river will settle to enable the current conditions to improve and enjoy some good sport. A bit of fresh water in the river will again encourage salmon to run and improve sport even to the outer most areas of the system.

The water temperature remains at 58 degrees Fahrenheit or 14 degrees Celsius. 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 summer salmon and grilse. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay for fly fishing, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. When spinning at this time of year a Toby or Flying C spun quickly can do the trick. Cast slightly upstream then wind like mad. Harling is also a favoured method at this time of year if there is enough water.

Finally you are reminded that the Tay's policy for June - October 2010 is that all hen salmon, male salmon over 10 pounds and all sea trout should be released, ie the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for hen salmon and sea trout. 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.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon Fishing at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon Fishing at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


Beat owner Francis Jennings with a lovely fresh Sea Trout of about 3 pounds.


Gordon Hunter trying his luck from the boat at the tail of the Horsey pool on the Pitlochrie beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland. Gordon had an unlucky afternoon loosing a grilse and a salmon close to the net. That's fishing!

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.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching July Summer Salmon on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching July Summer Salmon on the Tay.


This was Ian Wightman who fished on the Stobhall beat last week. This was one of the double figure summer salmon caught on the 4 days last week on Toby's and fly. His great thanks went out to scottish ghillies Bob and Ernie for an enjoyable time on the Tay. Many thanks Ian.

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.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the first week in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the first week in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the first week in July 2010.
After 49 salmon being reported last week, this week was much better with 98 salmon and 12 Sea Trout after the rise in water last weekend. The fresh water seemed to trigger off a run of summer salmon and grilse with the prospect of more to come. A few other salmon and sea trout were caught as well but not registered.

The river rose by two and a half feet and the temperature dropped back to 60F or 15C making ideal conditions for salmon to run. The result was the start of an encouraging summer run of salmon and grilse which moved up throughout the Tay system as the catches demonstrated. The river dropped back throughout the week and the peaty stain started to disappear. The weather was not ideal with heavy showers and strong winds but you cannot have everything! The river came up a foot on Saturday due to a hydro rise on Friday night, which curtailed catches on Saturday.

This week the catches came form the lower and middle river with the water levels rising. There was a good proportion of salmon caught as opposed to grilse, which was encouraging. The grilse run should improve, as we get closer to august. 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 45 out of the 98 salmon caught. All the lower beats caught as the salmon ran up the river. The Salmon seem to be continuing to run hard through the lower stretches with few showing but they are being caught as the catches indicate. These fish must be running to the upper areas, as the fish start to slow down and even stop they will start to show more and more. The lower river needs settled conditions now to improve catches but last week was very encouraging for future weeks and the number of summer salmon that were caught was good. Numbers will increase as the grilse run strengthens but the lower river needs low water to give good sport.
Best catch in a day was on Islamouth on Friday with 6 salmon landed all fly fishing.

Mike Lelacheur featured well landing several during his three day visit.

Dr Francis Jennings also had a good week down at Stanley landing and releasing 4 salmon on the Pitlochrie and Benchil fishing’s during the week on fly and spinner. It is heartening that all the beats were featuring in the catches and long may this continue.

The middle Tay caught 38 salmon for the week. Coupar Grange had 24 Salmon on the Isla with a few grilse included, which were described as being in good condition in the 4 to 5 pound class. The largest salmon of the week came from the Kercock beat weighing 20 pounds. The rise in water levels has certainly helped the middle river and this will continue next week.

The Upper River and Loch reported 15, which is an improvement on previous weeks but this will get better now with the increase in river levels allowing salmon and grilse to run upstream. There are now over 2500 salmon through the Pitlochry fish ladder which is on a par with the 5 year average.

Tom Leitch also got his Tummel season going with a nice 9 pound salmon from the Sawmill stream on the Pitlochry Angling stretch fly fishing. Michael Bouyer caught a lovely 14 pounds fresh salmon on the Upper Farleyer beat on Wednesday fly fishing following his successful visit to the same beat earlier in the season.

Many thanks for all the pictures and information everyone sent me in the past (ghillies and anglers) and also to all who have sent me their individual fishing experiences. I would be most grateful if you continue to send me information by emailing me at stanley.fishing@ukonline.co.uk to be included in this report.


Prospects for the coming week.
As of Monday the river is settling back after a four feet rise on the lower river due to the weekend rain, a run of summer salmon and grilse started last week and the fresh water should make this continue and encourage them to run up the river.

The weather is to continue unsettled for the week with a chance of some rain showers but hopefully the river will settle to enable the current conditions to improve and enjoy some good sport. A bit of fresh water in the river will again encourage salmon to run and improve sport even to the outer most areas of the system.

The water temperature remains at 60 degrees Fahrenheit or 15 degrees Celsius. 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 summer salmon and grilse. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay for fly fishing, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. When spinning at this time of year a Toby or Flying C spun quickly can do the trick. Cast slightly upstream then wind like mad. Harling is also a favoured method at this time of year if there is enough water.

Finally you are reminded that the Tay's policy for June - October 2010 is that all hen salmon, male salmon over 10 pounds and all sea trout should be released, ie the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for hen salmon and sea trout. Salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please help preserve both them and the long
term future of your sport by following the recommendations.


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 Summer Salmon Release on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon Release on the Tay.


Gordon Hunter releasing a summer salmon on the Benchil beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland on the Tay July 2010.

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.

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon on the Tay in July 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon on the Tay in July 2010.


Gordon Hunter playing a summer salmon in the Todd Holes pool of the lower Tay Benchil beat just below Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland. Gordon hooked the salmon on a Rapala cast from the boat.


Gordon with a lovely 11 1/2 pounds summer salmon prior to releasing it back to the river.

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.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon fishing on the Tay, Perthshire, Scotland 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon fishing on the Tay, Perthshire, Scotland 2010.


Gordon Hunter with a lovely fresh 7 pounds summer salmon caught on the Pitlochrie beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland. Gordon's salmon was caught on a flying C in the Dyke stream.

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.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon Fly Fishing on the Tay.


Mike Lelacheur with a lovely 8 pounds summer salmon caught fly fishing on the Islamouth beat today. This was one of three salmon caught for the day.


This was a fresh 14 pounds salmon caught by Michael Bouyer on the Upper Farleyer beat yesterday. Michael caught and released his salmon fly fishing from the bank. The salmon was caught on a sink tip line and a cascade fly.

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.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Catching Summer Salmon on the Tay.

A good day to remember at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland on the Pitlochrie beat.

A salmon is hooked fly fishing in the Kirkie stream by beat owner Francis Jennings.


A lovely fresh summer salmon of 10 pounds covered in sea lice and caught on the fly.


A summer salmon is hooked in the Horsey pool of the Pitlochrie beat at Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland.


Francis Jennings with a lovely 9 pounds fresh run summer salmon caught on a spun flying C.


The salmon is carefully released back to the river.

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.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon fishing on the Tay 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Salmon fishing on the Tay 2010.


This was a 10 pound beauty from the Benchil beat just below Stanley, Perthshire today.
The summer salmon was caught by beat owner Francis Jennings on a flying C and was carefully released.
The river is fining down nicely after the weekend rain and there would appear to be a few fish running. Hopefully this will improve as the month goes on.

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.

Monday, July 5, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the last days of June and first few days in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

Salmon Fishing Scotland River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the last days of June and first few days in July 2010 and Prospects for the coming week.

River Tay Salmon Fishing Report for the last days of June and first few days in July 2010.
After 59 salmon being reported last week, this week was only 49 salmon and 6 Sea Trout probably due to the very low water. A few other salmon and sea trout were caught as well but not registered.

The river was at its lowest level for the year and with the warm dry weather the river temperature crept up to 64F or 18C. Conditions are not easy but often in low water the Tay can produce especially in the main stem of the river. Let us hope things improve with some rain this coming week to liven things up a bit. A heartening note is the arrival of some Grilse, which are now being caught throughout the system but in small numbers.

This week the catches came form the lower and middle river with the water dropping back to below summer level. 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 21 out of the 49 salmon caught. The beats in or just below the mouth of the Isla continued to have the most success but fish were caught lower down the river just above the tide this past week. The Salmon seem to be continuing to run hard through the lower stretches and then slowing down in the Islamouth area. The Islamouth beat caught 11 for the week with some good fish caught on the fly.

This was a 7 pounds salmon caught at Cargil and then an hour later this young lady, Gillian Anderson from Crieff caught a 12 pounds salmon. The girls have all the luck!
Cargill had the largest salmon from the river weighing 20 pounds. Almondmouth started back on the river this week as did most of the other lower Tay beats and caught 4 salmon for the week, which was heartening. The lower water certainly benefits the lower beats at this time of year.

The middle Tay caught 26 salmon for the week. Coupar Grange had 12 Salmon on the Isla with a few grilse included, which were described as being in good condition in the 4 to 5 pound class. The Meikleour home beat produced a few which must have due to the low water and salmon hanging around the mouth of the Isla. Dunkeld House had a good day on Friday with 4 landed and a few others lost.

Peter Murray had 3 of the salmon fly fishing in the Rock pool and lost another.

The Upper River and Loch reported 2, which is a reflection of the river level dropping off. There are now over 2200 salmon through the Pitlochry fish ladder which is on a par with the 5 year average.

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 settling back after the weekend rain, which put the river up by two and a half feet. This should certainly make a few summer salmon and grilse run and liven things up throughout the river.

The weather is good for the week with a chance of some rain showers at the end of the week. A bit of fresh water in the river will encourage salmon to run and improve sport.

The water temperature is slightly above 60 degrees Fahrenheit or 15 degrees Celsius. 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 summer salmon and grilse. I would suggest using sink tips on the Tay for fly fishing, as it is a fast flowing river and this would stop the fly skating on the surface. When spinning at this time of year a Toby or Flying C spun quickly can do the trick. Cast slightly upstream then wind like mad. Harling is also a favoured method at this time of year if there is enough water.

Finally you are reminded that the Tay's policy for June - October 2010 is that all hen salmon, male salmon over 10 pounds and all sea trout should be released, ie the Tay has adopted a policy of 100% catch and release for hen salmon and sea trout. Salmon are a scarce and precious resource. Please help preserve both them and the long
term future of your sport by following the recommendations.


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.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Fly Fishing on the Tay.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Summer Fly Fishing on the Tay.


A lovely 9 pounds salmon caught by Stuart Robertson fly fishing in the Long Shot pool of the lower Tay Benchil beat just below Stanley, Perthshire. Stuart's salmon took a home tied silver stoat and was successfully returned to the river.


A good sea trout caught fly fishing on the Benchil beat in the Long Shot pool.

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.

Friday, July 2, 2010

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon fishing on the Tay July 2010.

Salmon Fishing Scotland Salmon fishing on the Tay July 2010.

These were some of the first summer salmon caught on the Tay in July

This was Anthony Lennox with a fresh 9 pounds summer salmon caught fly fishing in the Donnits pool of the Islamouth beat fishing with the Alan Parker party. Anthony returned his salmon and caught and returned another salmon of about 8 pounds in the same morning.


This was Howard with a lovely summer 20 pound salmon from the Cargil beat on the 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.

Bargain Fishing Books and DVDs