We had some somewhat tricky conditions in May. Where has all the water gone (answers please Northumbrian Water …) it was a spring of terrific rainfall and snows and our lakes are testament to the real picture of our spring bounty. Perhaps the fishing people as protectors of the rivers need to hold these private businesses to account because all life surrounds our rivers and the levels need better management .

Anyway that said the fishing has been tricky due to the lack of water, fish are still running spring salmon and early sea trout. I sat at lunchtimes watching the water with rods and it was reassuring to see the odd back of a fish here and there along with people getting the occasional pull. Tony R brought a team which had two Norwegians a Bermudian and then Yorkshire folks for a day! As luck would have it one of the Norwegian gentlemen had a 30″ plus beauty early doors and Tony left a lovely comment ; “Thanks for making the group welcome and its a great venue. Will look forward to fishing it again”. Thanks to them and I wish it had been easier but boy did the sun shine.

Graham L brought his team next in mid May and the sun once again dealt the proceedings a blow with two of his friends missing the last day. Graham great to meet you and your friends, your a great fisherman and the flies you tie were absolutely brilliant. Next time you deserve more !!

Dr Malcom W and his merry men from Norfolk were totally new to the estate so without trying to enthuse them too much (there were fish running in the days before I’d seen so I was hopeful despite the low water). Anyway Andrew Malcom and David enjoyed their trip which included a sea trout and lovely 15Lb salmon. Malcom was broken by a fish too ! IS the beat jinxed we are due a thirty or two but the biggest seem to rightly evade capture, good quality hooks and tough line always here !