NEWS HISTORY - 2005
Tuesday, 15 November 2005, 09:33:49
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | 84 | 26 | 20
|
comment:
2005 was an excellent season with fish caught and released almost through out the season, with the exception of early February.
2005 has seen the close of Bob Hunt’s tenure as “Fishery Manager” we wish him well. Mark Mitchell picks up the mantle.
Mark a grand nephew of Willie Mitchell and a cousin of Bob Hunt works in Perth as a Chartered Surveyor and has managed the estate for the last five years and can be contacted at the above address or by email at mark.mitchell@bellingram.co.uk
The Dee Conservation Code for 2006 is as follows:
1. The Fishing Season is from 1st February to 30th September.
2. 100% catch and release of salmon and grilse.
3. Fly only, no trebles, barbless or crimped.
4. Alternate seatrout released.
Offer letters have been issued and the only definate availability is 6th to 11th February 2006 for four rods, 24th to 29th July and 31st July to 5th August 2006 for two rods.
Tuesday, 15 November 2005, 09:26:13
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
Sunday, 2 October 2005, 11:35:41
Water ht: 0ft. 8in.
Water temp: 48° farenheit
Wind: NW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | `1 | 2 | 0
|
| Total for season | 84 | 27 | 20
|
comment:
The last report of the season 2005: My last report ever, as I am now on the south coast of England, having handed over my role at Cairnton to cousin Mark Mitchell....mark.mitchell@bellingram.co.uk....
It was so sad that the rise of Thursday came too late for those fish in Leggart to reach Banchory; beats from Crathes down had a remarkably good few days; the rest fed from the crumbs off the rich man's table. Typical, I spit !!
It was another first; a young lady landed a grilse in Cottage..rather red, but a wee smasher; she may now be hooked herself !. The sport of salmon fishing depends on the young finding the pleasures of a riverbank; whether they catch a fish or not; no YOUNG, NO investment by proprietors; NOT enough salmon to attract regular tenants.
I retire feeling that Cairnton has a lot to offer; not the numbers of yesteryear, but a pleasure of a bank that is loved, that is cared-for, that is not greedy (commercial); where the fisher is king.
Mark will make future reports: Dont expect him to publish vacant dates until well into DEcember, when the replies to his initial offers have been received.
Contact mark@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 2 October 2005, 11:35:40
Water ht: 0ft. 8in.
Water temp: 48° farenheit
Wind: NW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | `1 | 2 | 0
|
| Total for season | 84 | 27 | 20
|
comment:
The last report of the season 2005: My last report ever, as I am now on the south coast of England, having handed over my role at Cairnton to cousin Mark Mitchell....mark.mitchell@bellingram.co.uk....
It was so sad that the rise of Thursday came too late for those fish in Leggart to reach Banchory; beats from Crathes down had a remarkably good few days; the rest fed from the crumbs off the rich man's table. Typical, I spit !!
It was another first; a young lady landed a grilse in Cottage..rather red, but a wee smasher; she may now be hooked herself !. The sport of salmon fishing depends on the young finding the pleasures of a riverbank; whether they catch a fish or not; no YOUNG, NO investment by proprietors; NOT enough salmon to attract regular tenants.
I retire feeling that Cairnton has a lot to offer; not the numbers of yesteryear, but a pleasure of a bank that is loved, that is cared-for, that is not greedy (commercial); where the fisher is king.
Mark will make future reports: Dont expect him to publish vacant dates until well into DEcember, when the replies to his initial offers have been received.
Contact mark@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 25 September 2005, 17:51:13
Water ht: 0ft. 6in.
Water temp: 50° farenheit
Wind: W light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | ` | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 83 | 25 | 20
|
comment:
A Fish on Monday morning, then nothing !! So disappointing, as we saw a few diuring the week, and the water roe by 18" on thursday night. The lower river did quite well on Saturday; but considering the nunbers of fish waiting in Leggart Pool, this showed that they are not prepared to make their move upriver.
So coming to the end of another season: Foiled in the end by low water, but encouraged by the earlier catches.
Like my swallows I am ready to migrate south to warmer climes and 3 of our 4 daughters. The 2 pairs of swallows nested well; in fact, 1 pair had 2 hatches; the other probably had 3 !!. They left 2 weeks ago, and today I saw the first of the migrating geese; their cackling resounds long before they are visible. It must be getting cold in their northern nesting grounds.
I have now handed over my Fishing management to Mark; You can reach him on mark.mitchell@bellingram.co.uk A final report next Sunday from Eastbourne.
Sunday, 18 September 2005, 11:00:42
Water ht: 0ft. 3in.
Water temp: 49° farenheit
Wind: W light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 2 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 82 | 25 | 20
|
comment:
A start and a finish, but nothing in the middle ! Th water was up and down a bit....from+3" to -2", but it did not encourage any numbers of fish to make their way upriver.
Talking with the ghillie at Lower Durris/Upper Drum, it seems that while Park had a fair week, they only landed a single fish: His beats are immediately downstream from Park... Weird ??. He went on to say that 2 divers had patrolled Leggart Pool, and claim to have seen some 10,000 fish in the 200m lenght: Even allowing for the difficulty of number assessment, that is a lot of fish waiting to move upstream !!
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 11 September 2005, 16:56:08
Water ht: -ft. 2in.
Water temp: 48° farenheit
Wind: SW minimal
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 2 | 0
|
| Total for season | 80 | 25 | 20
|
comment:
Low water is a barrier to fresh fish; this week was no different. There was a small rise on thursday; but so small it did not have any effect !. While the South has problems with torrential showers, Scotland has been given forecasts, which fail to produce more than a light misting. Today has been almost a washout at the cricket due to mist: We would not have given much more play. Well done our bowlers: Who could have imagined that form 200 for 1, they would skittle them to 260 all out ?.
It is almost as disconcerting, for the Aussies, as failing to land a fish over a whole week. Nature is cruel.
No availability in 2005. contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 4 September 2005, 11:10:02
Water ht: 0ft. 5in.
Water temp: 53° farenheit
Wind: SW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 2 | 0
|
| Total for season | 80 | 23 | 20
|
comment:
Well, We landed our 100th salmon/grilse; the fisher responsible won a bottle of champaigne ! This is a day or two earlier than last year; so if !! we catch a few more fish in September we will match 2004, and feel releived that the progress is being maintained.
Looking at the fishdee website, mostof the catches are being made below Banchory. This follows the usual pattern, once the grilse have been into the river system. We were sorry to learn that some of this year'd grilse have been awfully thin; a result of poor feeding off the scottish coasts ? Probably.
The river rose on Thursday from an isolated storm in the hills to 1ft 10"; it brought black water which cleared only slowly; and failed to bring up the fish which, we assume, are resting in the lower reaches. Fishdee rather confirms that the second half of the week was a disappointment for all: Time will tell.
There is no availability in 2005.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 28 August 2005, 18:10:04
Water ht: 0ft. 3in.
Water temp: 53° farenheit
Wind: NW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 2 | 1 | 1
|
| Total for season | 79 | 21 | 20
|
comment:
I am speechless again !. Have just finished watching the 4th test between Australia and England; nail-biting for the third time in a row..........bad for the nerves and worse for the cigarette consumption !!.
Fishing was difficult again; the water levels were low; there was a dirty rise of almost 2 feet on thursday, but this cleared and was back to 3" by sat. It did bring up some fresh grilse and small salmon; 2 of the 3 fish were sea-liced; but they were going through like a dose of Epsom Salts; (for our overseas friends, this is a gentle laxative !.)
There has been further rain over the weekend; how this will affect water levels we must wait and see. It was noticeable that only 1 fish so far has been even slightly coloured: This may reflect a good migration to the upper river; it certainly shows that there is no resident stock of any size, or inclination to defend their right to spawn.
There is no further availability in 2005.
We have not yet resolved our problems with "@cairnton" addresses....sorry; the holiday season and test cricket dont help
Sunday, 21 August 2005, 17:23:58
Water ht: 0ft. 5in.
Water temp: 55° farenheit
Wind: N light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 3 | 1
|
| Total for season | 77 | 20 | 19
|
comment:
With some fear for their success in such low water, I welcomed our 2 tenants: They went away with a small, rather stale salmon, and 3 silver grilse. I was as surprised, as they were pleased !! Miracles never cease; but Cairnton does have several good streams even when the water level is below zero on or guage; the fish came from Upper Ferroch, Grey Mare, Glister and Invercannie.
Tenants pleased?. Well the one who landed all the fish was, the other has left wondering what he was doing wrong. The answer is nothing; he was coverong the water well, using similar flies, had several strong tugs; but they would not stick. Following last week's chat about flies, perhaps I should add a third called Luck !. Charm is a synonym of Luck; so should unlucky fishers stick with the Blue Charm, the favourite of A.H.E Wood ?.
There is 1 day in September available for 3 rods; please look up our page on fishdee.
Sunday, 14 August 2005, 12:39:48
Water ht: 0ft. 0in.
Water temp: 54° farenheit
Wind: NW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 3 | 0
|
| Total for season | 76 | 17 | 18
|
comment:
WOW !!. The river which has been varying from -5 to -1" for 4 weeks now, rose over saturday night by 6". Light rain in the hills has at last made for conditions where the less adventurous fish can pass up from the Leggart pool: Let us hope that the coming week will see 54° farenheit
Wind: NW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 3 | 0
|
| Total for season | 76 | 17 | 18
|
comment:
WOW !!. The river which has been varying from -5 to -1" for 4 weeks now, rose over saturday night by 6". Light rain in the hills has at last made for conditions where the less adventurous fish can pass up from the Leggart pool: Let us hope that the coming week will see 54° farenheit
Wind: NW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 3 | 0
|
| Total for season | 76 | 17 | 18
|
comment:
WOW !!. The river which has been varying from -5 to -1" for 4 weeks now, rose over saturday night by 6". Light rain in the hills has at last made for conditions where the less adventurous fish can pass up from the Leggart pool: Let us hope that the coming week will see an influx of fish.
I have said from time to time, that the best flies in a fly box were Perseverence and Patience: Certainly for our team this week P and P paid off; 2 more grilse caught at 7 am. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. Graeme tells me that he found a size 14 Cascade on the ground at Ferroch Hut; put it on and was twice successful !
Another fisher reported that he took a rest in the Greymare hut; saw an otter come out of the river with an eel; ate it on the bank; went in to try again; was back out with a second course !!!.
Understand the bobbie@cairnton address is not connecting: Will try to do better.
Sunday, 7 August 2005, 13:06:43
Water ht: -ft. 5in.
Water temp: 55° farenheit
Wind: N light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 0 | 1
|
| Total for season | 76 | 14 | 18
|
comment:
Still almost speechless. It was a rotten week for the two parties fishing on friday and saturday; no water, no fish. There were showers during the week but not enough to lift water levels by more than an inch or two for a short period. I have heard on the grapevine that Kinneskie, Banchory, caught 2 sealiced grilse during the week; so there may be a chance for our future tenants.
I was showing the saturday tenant the water at Rockhead, when I Heard a splash. A fish ??. No, it was a sparrow hawk having a go at a sandpiper, who had been forced to land on the river; the hawk tried three times to 'hook' the bird off the surface; failed; the sandpiper flew away, and the hawk gave up. Long live the Queen, and sandpipers.
Do sandpipers have the ability to survive on the water; let alone dive to safety ?.
There is no availability.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 31 SCALAR(0x9fb4884) 2005, 13:30:18
Water ht: 0ft. 0in.
Water temp: 54° farenheit
Wind: N light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 76 | 14 | 17
|
comment:
I am dismayed: I am speechless.
Availability:-
w/c 19 Sep 1 rod at £40= rod/day
26 and 27 Sep 3 rods at £40= rod/day
28 and 29 Sep 1 rod at £40= rod/day
30 Sep 3 rods at £40= rod/day
contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 23 SCALAR(0x8285884) 2005, 19:53:01
Water ht: -ft. 2in.
Water temp: 62° farenheit
Wind: NW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | 1 |
|
| Total for season | 75 | `14 | 17
|
comment:
With little more than an occasional short shower and some very light drizzle, the water has stayed stubbornly below 0" on our guage: It is said that fish are beginning to queue-up at Leggart pool..../ the first pool above the tideway. Let us hope that the naughty boys dont do a lot of damage as in 2003.
I tried to buy off our tenant this week; but he was not to be dissuaded, ( have I spelt this correctly ? ). His one success after a pull in Grey Mare was a splendid grilse, finally hooked on a Collie Dog, stripped violently across the water: A pull in the Spout and that was about it !!.
It was a sorry week; albeit predictable. It reminds me of a little story ! A young man at university was running short of the means to enjoy his burgeoning manhood.....He sent his father a telegram.....Dad, no mon, no fun, your son........His father replied....Son, how sad, too bad, your dad.
Availability:- see fishdeed
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk.
Sunday, 17 SCALAR(0x8ab4884) 2005, 18:33:42
Water ht: -ft. 2in.
Water temp: 62° farenheit
Wind: W light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 3 | 0
|
| Total for season | 75 | 13 | 17
|
comment:
I predicted a poor week, and am surprised to report 3 grilse; the fishers tried hard, working from 5 a.m. and not stopping until 11p.m. A fly in the water is ever a lure to passing grilse: Simon was extremely lucky !!. Grey Mare has been a favourite pool; we are surprised that Glister, Spout and Invercannie have been blank...Ah well !.
Usually we invoke the Cairnton Catch criterion; one fisher felt he did not qualify, having brought his grilse to within a whisker of the net, only to lose it. The principle is that as we release fish, we should play them as hard as possible, (without being stupid ); the last 5 yards are always the most damaging to the fish, as they have no current to help keep them out of range, often taking as much time to cover as the first 20 yards. Touch the bank, hit the net, or the wader, and we call that a Cairnton kill; the fish comes off and is free to spawn lots of little 10lbrs.
As I write, the prospect of rain is low; the river is low and hot: On wednesday the early temperature was 68f, probably rising to over 70f during the day: At this level the oxygen levels are dangerously low for river life.
Availability:- see fishdee website
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 10 SCALAR(0x983c884) 2005, 18:48:05
Water ht: 0ft. 4in.
Water temp: 60° farenheit
Wind: W light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 4 | 3
|
| Total for season | 75 | 10 | 17
|
comment:
No rise in water levels to make a significant difference, but still fresh grilse were found: Thet are determined creatures !. It rained 1" on Aberdeen on tuesday; alas -06" in Aviemore in the hills where it really matters. So the prospects are rather poor, unless our fishers choose to go for the seatrout overnight; and face the midges, ( the Americans call them 'no-see-ems' ).
I have been amazed to find that already wagtails, martins, swallows and no doubt many other bird species have started, even hatched, a second brood. This can only be good in halting the reported decline of so many species. Having shown some optimism, I must say that there seem to be so few larks, green plover, cuckoo, curlew..to mention only a few.
Availability:- see fishdee website
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 3 SCALAR(0x9b9d884) 2005, 12:45:36
Water ht: 0ft. 6in.
Water temp: 59° farenheit
Wind: SW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 3 | 0
|
| Total for season | 74 | 6 | 14
|
comment:
The water has dropped steadily, while the temperature has climbed. We were blessed with fine,warm, conditions without the thunder showers that plagued the south. Yes a drizzle or two but not enough to stir the fish.
I witnessed a fisher new to salmon fishing become so frustrated at his lack of success that he fished, covering the water as well as anyone, from 7a.m. to 11p.m. and still without more than a snatch or two. I hope that he does not give up, as many before him have gone on to achieve success after many blank weeks.
Our June report for the Dee Board makes respectable reading: 17 salmon..good, 5 grilse..they have been slow to appear, and then in no real numbers, 11 seatrout..as grilse disappointing. I read from fishdee that specialist seatrout fishers at Birse, Dess and Woodend have been taking 10 and more fish a day, (perhaps a night).
As ever, fishers would like to see a sustained rise in water level; as much to bring in new fish as to stir up resident stock. They are there but not showing and certainly not taking with any enthusiasm.
Availability: See Fishdee.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 26 June 2005, 13:37:18
Water ht: 1ft. 2in.
Water temp: 57° farenheit
Wind: NW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 3 | 1 | 3
|
| Total for season | 73 | 3 | 14
|
comment:
Quite a week !!. The river started high and black: It rose 3ft in less than an hour on sunday evening; presumably from a cloudburst in the hills. This seems to be happening more frequently...some say that the forestry works have created 'vertical' drainage which channels rainwater all the more immediately into the river system. It went down almost as quickly as it went up, and then dropped and cleared steadily.
It was good to see fish landed from tuesday to thursday; but inexplicable that nothing was landed on friday and saturday. Yes, fish were lost after some time in playing, but this is not unusual. A 'big' fish hooked in the Rockheads eventually decided to go back down the rapids, and there was no stopping it !.
Ladies luck: An experienced and much admired lady fisher hooked a 14lbr in the Cottage. It played like a determined father, and went well into the backing...Horror, the line and backing parted at the sleeve join....Saviour, DC was on hand, collected his rod with sink tip, cast over the pool several times and managed to collect the floating line under the Blackhall bank, and bring it to hand ! You can imagine the dilemma; refasten line to backing without spooking the fish who was still attached; much thrashing; much heartache; but landed and released; a 14lbr, and we hope a relieved father-to-be. The lady was credited with the fish, but I hope that DC was handsomely rewarded !!
Availability:- see fishdee for detail.
It is sad to report that a regular has been struck down with severe sciatica, and cannot fil his 2 rods this week. If anyone would like and can fish 2 rods on Wed, Thurs, Sat this week, it is free, though we would ask for a donation to Middle Dee Project.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk phone 01330 811544.
Sunday, 19 June 2005, 13:03:06
Water ht: 1ft. 8in.
Water temp: 59° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 6 | 2 | 3
|
| Total for season | 70 | 2 | 11
|
comment:
Well, Quite a week, and we were not fielding all the rods. The water started a little high and perhaps rather peaty with acid foam. There was a swing of 11f over the week, but it brought in fresh fish and the first grilse. I was lucky enough to talk to a rod as he hooked a fish in Colonel; able to net a 6lbr with sealice in the Plank.....it had slid through the gap !!.
There will be a dropping river this week, with quite high temperatures; but enough to bring up the summer grilse. It was interesting that only 2 catches were made in the evenings, in spite of trying: What if anything does this prove ? Only that fishing is quite unpredictable ??.
Availability Look up fishdee.co.uk
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 12 June 2005, 13:05:38
Water ht: 1ft. 3in.
Water temp: 57° farenheit
Wind: N light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 0 | 1
|
| Total for season | 64 | 0 | 8
|
comment:
From a happy week when I was able to report good catches and 1 really important catch, I have to report that 'Your's Truly' was sadly unable to keep the euphoria going: The sad fact is that we only landed i salmon and a small seatrout. Our opposition landed at least 10 salmon in daylight, and we cover most of the same water; we were not very active in the evening hours, but the opposition caught their fish under our noses in daylight. My guests were all competent fishers and I cannot explain our jack of success. My week is now history !!.
As the season progresses, two elememts become apparent: The grilse have not come into the system; the grass grows greener at a great rate. We found, and picked, a lovely orchid at Invercannie; I was told that an important specimen existed, but have not yet traced the species name, nor the info provider. DC tells me that in strimming, he goes through the lot.
Seriously, the time has come to do the first of bank improvements; clearing the bank-edge vegetation that threatens the spey-caster........it is lovely to admire the grasses and flowers, but they do frustrate the careless fisher.
For availability, please look up fishdee.co.uk
contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 5 June 2005, 20:07:50
Water ht: 2ft. 8in.
Water temp: 51° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 5 | 0 | 5
|
| Total for season | 63 | 0 | 7
|
comment:
A lively week for a reporter; some good catches, in reasonably good water, with the family fishing.
Peter, new to salmon fishing landed 3 salmon; and everyone contributed to the catch. A number of the fish were caught after supper !. It is delightful to report that Peter is now hooked on the possibilities: There will be no catch-and-release in his recent marriage.
Not so lucky was Andrew: He caught nothing but the hand in marriage of my cousin............I know which I would prefer..........yes a girl like K.....not a 20lber.
Availability:- see recent report, or look up fishdee
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 29 May 2005, 12:01:42
Water ht: 2ft. 6in.
Water temp: 50° farenheit
Wind: NW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 0 | 2
|
| Total for season | 58 | 0 | 2
|
comment:
A thin week, and we saw few fish; what more can I say ?. Conditions were reasonable if a little cold on some days; water level was rather erratic, but not unduly coloured.
We have seen sudden rises before, but again on Thursday, following heavy showers south of Braemar, the Muick, the Tanar and other tributaries into the right bank ran riot. The water level rose some 18" in an hour and probably 12" in 30 minutes. Fortunately noone was fishing Rockhead and no damage was done: Middle Blackhall had a fisher in the Rockhead area, and by all accounts it was a struggle for him to reach the bank. Mother Nature can be so fickle !!.
Availability:-w/c 27 June 1 rod of3 at £360= the week
w/c 1 Aug 2 rods of 2 at £360= the week
w/c 19 Sept 1 rod of 3 at £240= the week
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 22 May 2005, 18:38:38
Water ht: 3ft. 5in.
Water temp: 50° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 3 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 58 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
A thin week; indeed most of the middle Dee beats were thin. The water started at a good height, gradually dropped until heavy showers in the hills brought a rise on Friday night; the river has dropped rapidly since then. At last the water temperature has reached 'floater' levels; so that with thin pickings, very few fish showing, it was a relief to be using the preferred method of presenting the fly.
The last birds have arrived...the swift, and arctic tern: No more chatter on that topic !!.
Our trees are almost all fully in leaf; the exception is the ash, and this seems rather late though we do not keep records. There is a saying in these parts "oak before ash, we are in for a splash: ash before oak and we are in for a soak". Well the local wisdom suggests that there will be only light rain over the summer: Let us hope this does not mean drought !.
With the help of my daughters the gentrification of the toilet next to the Rodroom is now complete. I used to advise fishers that the toilet existed, but was not the place to do the Times crossword; I suppose now that this is a more attractive possibility !!.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 15 May 2005, 18:05:04
Water ht: 1ft. 3in.
Water temp: 49° farenheit
Wind: NW minimal
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 7 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 55 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
The power of the ladies !. Yes, again, it was the lady who landed the fish; the second time this year that she nas shown the men how to do it !!. As a man I am delighted to find wives and sweethearts who enjoy fishing and are successful: It gives a sort of blessing to what is an otherwise rather selfish (forgive the pun) occupation.
The river started a little high, and cool for the time of year; as the week progressed the level dropped steadily, and the very bright and hot sun warmed the water. Having said that, there was a slight ground frost on almost every night. There were new fish in the river, some sealiced, others going through in batches; we did not see as many fish as we might have expected. There are reports of good catches on several beats along the Dee.
The swift has arrived; Raymond at U Blackhall has seen the arctic tern, and the osprey again; so all accounted for, and the last of my comments on the migration of feathered friends.
Availability:- see fishdee.co.uk
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 8 May 2005, 18:32:09
Water ht: 1ft. 10in.
Water temp: 46° farenheit
Wind: NW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 5 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 48 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
Lovely to see the younger generation in action, but it was the 'oldies' who did most damage; excepting a young man who failed to cope with a horrid NW wind and caught himself. No laughing matter; we hope he recovers without more than a slight dent to pride. We want him to be back next year.
The water levels were up and down; the water temperature rose to 50f, and floating lines; only to drop on Saturdsy to 46f, sinktips: Throughout the week the winds were pretty strong, even very strong, from the Northwest. There were fish going through but not in the numbers that we saw last year.
Did I report that 1 fish landed in April showed signs of disease; while a seriously diseased fish was seen in Russel in March ?. It is sad to see these fish, but it does not mean ther is a return of the dreaded UDN. Water temperature is crucial; the disease is apparent in cold water and mysteriously diminishes as the water warms. Every year some fish are seen to be carriers; only very few fish are found dead from such ailment. When we find a fish dead in strange circumstances, the carcass is sent via the bailiffs to the marine biology unit in Aberdeen for analysis.
Availability:- w/c 1 Aug mostly 2 rods of 2 at £30= rod/day
15 Sept 3 rods of 3 at £40= rod/day
26/27 Sept 2 rods of 3 at £40= rod/day
28/29 Sept 1 rod of 3 at £40= rod/day
30 Sept 2 rods of 3 at £40= rod/day
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 1 May 2005, 11:46:08
Water ht: 2ft. 5in.
Water temp: 47° farenheit
Wind: S minimal
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 3 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 43 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
13 fish for April is a most dasappointing record; with 1, and possibility 2, exceptions most beats have suffered from a shortage of fish. We just have not seen the same numbers, going through, as in the last 2 years. The exceptions are Lower Crathes, who landed 53 fish in a recent week, perhaps Park; and now I think of it, Middle Blackhall. Though ther were 3 good rises in water levels, it went down quickly; this suited M.B. who were pulling fish out of Malt Steep and Rockheads. We cannot wade to Rockheads unless the water level goes below 2ft or so; and it did not !!.
I talked swallows last week: Well they came back on 27 April; fully 3 weeks since they were first seen: Strange !!.
Availability: I will give you the odd dates in September next week: Meanwhile:
w/c 1 Aug 2 rods of 2 for most of the weeek at £30= rod/day
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 24 April 2005, 17:44:20
Water ht: 1ft. 10in.
Water temp: 44° farenheit
Wind: SE light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 4 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 40 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
Oh !, salmon will test the patience of an archangel. Agood rise on Monday in filthy weather; ( I dont think I have seen the Feuch shigh ); followed by increasingly good conditions; a sea-liced 20lbr on Tuesday in highish water; then 2 days with little more than a touch or two. Friday brought 3 fish ans we thought there would be a bonanza on the Saturday...........NO ! The water is still pretty cold for late April.
I reported that the first swallow was seen on 5 April; he has not been seen since, and has possibly given up Deeside as a bad place in which to make his home. Your reporter has decided to move south at the end of the season; not because it is warmer, and has more fly-life, rather to be closer to our growing young family south of the smoke of London. Our house is now on the market, and already 6 people have been to visit using only the internet data. It amazes me that people have the 'hours' to spend searching even their favourite sites.
Availability:- most of w/c 1 Aug 2 rods at £30= rod/day.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 17 April 2005, 11:13:05
Water ht: 2ft. 1in.
Water temp: 40° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 4 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 36 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
Water was good, if a little high on Monday and Tuesday; but we are still suffering from low temperatures for the time of year. There were fish about in the Malt Steep/Rockhead area, but little activity in the top beat.
We were delighted to welcome 2 teenagers, who were starting to explore the delights and the disappointments of salmon fishing: Regrettably neither given the feel, yet alone the play, of a fish.
I failed to report the arrival of our migrating sandpipers and swallows. I did not ask as they dont usually arrive until well into April. The fact that sandpiper was seen on 31 March; like the martins this is probably the first time they have been recorded in March: The swallow was seen on 5 April, which is 2 weeks earlier than normal. All these friends have had to cope with cold winds and a dearth of fly-life. Over the weekend the wind has gone into the S/W, the sun has come out, and I imagine the snow that fell on Ballater on Friday has melted. Let us hope that is winter's last surprise !!
Availability 2 rods w/c 1 August at £360=
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 10 April 2005, 19:10:41
Water ht: 2ft. 0in.
Water temp: 37° farenheit
Wind: W light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 2 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 32 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
A typical Dee week; you expect the start of spring and get the end of winter...perhaps.. . The birds have arrived early; the daffodils are in full bloom; the crocuses have died off: Scottish weather will ever amaze us, as will the despair of our royal favourites. Cairnton hopes that the marriage of Charles and Camilla will bring warmth and humanism to the royal family.
Yes, starting at a 'normal' sprimg level, the water stayed at 1ft 5'', or so, rose a little on friday, but the temperature dropped to 37f on saturday after two awful days; blizzards of snow; saturday was much kinder. Truly an awful timr to be fishing !!.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk.
Sunday, 3 April 2005, 11:56:20
Water ht: 1ft. 9in.
Water temp: 43° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 3 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 30 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
I say this so often; a promising river should have produced more fish throughout the Dee. In fact the water level dropped all week, and in cold misty weather the water temperature also dropped; Saturday was a quite beaut005, 11:56:20
Water ht: 1ft. 9in.
Water temp: 43° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 3 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 30 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
I say this so often; a promising river should have produced more fish throughout the Dee. In fact the water level dropped all week, and in cold misty weather the water temperature also dropped; Saturday was a quite beautiful day; alas nothing to show for it apart from an on/off or two. We were seeing relatively few fish for the time of year; some clearly running; others kelts, 3 were landed. Sadly, 1 fisher hooked and landed a fish on his third cast in Garden Run; only to find it was a kelt: So CRUEL.
The only bright, and totally unexpected, event was the arrival of the martins, sand and house. We have never before, over some 40 years, seen the birds arrive in March. This occured after 10 days of warm winds, but at the start of nasty cold: DC tells me there was quite enough fly-life in spite of the cold.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk.
Sunday, 27 March 2005, 12:01:56
Water ht: 2ft. 5in.
Water temp: 46° farenheit
Wind: S light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 6 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 27 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
A week of almost perfect water, and the temperature was consistantly in the mid 40fs. The weather was a mix of sunshine and haar. We were not seeing many fish except in the Malt Steep/Garden area, except also on Thursday. Reports of fish caught and going through in some numbers throught the week and from Park to Cambus O'May.
The fish landed on Monday had long-tailed sealice; this shows they were moving pretty fast once into the system. Uncle Willie would have been using a full floating line at these temperatures; for the most part a sinking tip, or intermediate line was attractive. Several fish were lost after some time on the end: This is expected, but so irritating !!
I saw the osprey on Monday; one has to be careful not to confuse himwith the buzzards which abound. I convinced myself on the basis that it was a small bird with an enormous wingspan coming to a point: he also had that strange little 'squeak' which is so different to the 'whiney' call of a buzzard !!
Availability:- w/c 1 Aug 2 rods at £360= the week.
some odd days in September.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 19 March 2005, 19:16:25
Water ht: 4ft. 10in.
Water temp: 44° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 8 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 21 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
This was a strange Dee week, but one which is typical of a strange season. The water was 1ft 5" on Monday and Tuesday; cold at 34f; producing 3 fish.
Wednesday saw the sharp rise in temperature and the start of a snow melt...7ft rising to almost 9ft....Thursday saw a slight drop in water levels, say 6ft...Friday was down again, but at 5ft 6", still too high to be confident of fish....Saturday was down again to 4ft 6", and clear of the colour that was present, to a degree during the high water. Our tenants landed 5 fresh fish and a kelt or 2 over the last 2 days.
Looking at the fishdee website, it is clear that there was a lot of movement with the prolonged rise in water levels; and a lot of fish caught in still unusually high water as high as Dinnet. The weather was so kind; no rain, no wind, just high temperature bringing snowmelt: I fear that more than half the February snow has gone; this is disappointing for later months.
The prospects for next week must be promising; I may regret saying this !!.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 12 March 2005, 19:14:17
Water ht: 2ft. 6in.
Water temp: 36° farenheit
Wind: NW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 3 | |
|
| Total for season | 13 | |
|
comment:
I do not wish to say this too often: In very promising conditions, the fish were just not here. Good fishers covered lots of water, in sometimes awful conditions, with only 3 springers and a few kelts to show for the effort. The more frustrating that Middle Blackhall have reported 11 fish; we saw some of them and at least 1 was sealiced.
Snow was still on the banks on Monday; this had cleared in rather warmer temperature by Wednesday. The prospect of thawing snow promised a rise in water; this happened slowly, going to 4ft+ on Friday evening: Perfect for the fresh fish to run. But, NO !.
A rumour has been started that there are dolphins at the harbour in Aberdeen: Are these 'little darlings' stopping a run into fresh water ?. Certainly few fish are reported downstream of Banchory.
The good news is that the grey wagtails have been seen; even as the last snow was melting; tough little birds, who know a good spot at Cairnton ! While called 'grey', they are really more greeny-grey and yellow. The next arrivals will be the osprey.....perhaps.
For availability see earlier reports
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 5 March 2005, 19:05:31
Water ht: 1ft. 4in.
Water temp: 35° farenheit
Wind: NE light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 5 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 10 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
Another Feb/March week; the water was at 1ft3" almost all week and the temperature was 36f at the most. Even so our fishers landed 5 Spring fish with almost 20 kelts. 3 fish on monday promised good things to come; in fact only 2 more and the possibility that 3 fresh fish were lost. These cannot be certain as some of the kelts are so well mended. St... said that he had a fish on for a good 2 minutes, and " it felt very strong and was probably quite big". In fact Crathes repoeted a 30lber+ fish caught on Friday.
the weather was unrelenting; a frost at night, but no grue; daytime cold with showers of snow; it was not until saturday that our immediate banks were clear of snow; fishers preferred to wade than walk the banks in felt-soled boots, and stand several inches taller !!.
See earlier reports for availability
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 26 February 2005, 19:31:30
Water ht: 1ft. 2in.
Water temp: 35° farenheit
Wind: NE light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 1 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 5 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
1 fresh fish, and perhaps 18 kelts, was scant reward for a lot of effort; possible that 2 fresh fish were lost, though it is ever difficult to be sure until the fish is banked.
Kelts are such a disappointment; the heart thumps with a take; some kelts put up quite a fight; it sometimes only on banking the fish that the sickening truth appears. They are particularly well mended this year; the truth lies in 'maggots' in the gills.
The water level was lowish and continued to drop; temperature was 33f on Monday and was reluctant to rise to 35f on SaturdayThe combination is not encouraging for fresh fish to run. Even so, the tenants reported several springers on the move; in Rockhead, Garden run, Grey Mare and the Ferrochs. The week saw low daytime temperatures, a lot of snow showers, but little wind: At most there was 12" of lying snow; this is now compacting to 5", and thawing; there is no sign yet of a rising river; maybe Monday will see a good rise, though the forecast is for cold weather to return in midweek.
Thank you Scandinavia !!. At least there was no grue !.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 19 February 2005, 19:36:13
Water ht: 2ft. 6in.
Water temp: 35° farenheit
Wind: NW gusty
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 4 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
A rather typical February week when things go wrong !.Our fishers worked hard in very cold conditions; as norwegians they covered the whole river, but ended up with with no fresh fish and 15, or so, kelts. They were doing the right thing without success.
We saw a few fresh fish and they appeared to be running through: The story along the lower beats was disappointing: the runners are perhaps determined on the upper reaches.
I notice that some bigger fish were taken: The old wives tale is that the bigger fish spell the end of a run; but who knows !!.
Feb is always problematic, but at least no grue. My uncle's best month ever, over 50 years was Feb 83, with 120 fish: Why?. I dont know, but it is a fact. The Dee is an early river, and we can expect a correction in March.....Believe me or not. I look forward to our future tenants, and wish them well.
Availability:-
4/5/6 July 1 rod of 3
W/c 25 July at 2 rods for 360=
w/c 1 Aug at 2 rods for £360=
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Sunday, 13 February 2005, 17:26:45
Water ht: 1ft. 9in.
Water temp: 39° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 0 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 4 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
After 2 fair days at the very start, it is most disappointing to report no fresh fish landed over the next 9 days; this week there has been little response from the kelts, to give interest to our tenants.
The water was steady at 1ft 9" in the first half of the week, rose to on thursday, and has dropped back to a reasonable height: But !! the rise does not seem to have brought in any new fish. The water is cold, and the wind has been worse; these factors do not really affect fish who live below the surface !!
Fishdee rather confirms that catches among reporting beats were very thin. We perhaps lost a fish or 2, though better to say they were never truly on. D.M. tells me that he lost a fish in Mid Ferroch, when it went deep and the line caught on the hooks placed there decades ago when poachers' nets were to be immobilised: Tough luck, for we dont hear of this even once a decade.
Sunday, 6 February 2005, 17:01:44
Water ht: 2ft. 0in.
Water temp: 40° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | 4 | 0 | 0
|
| Total for season | 4 | 0 | 0
|
comment:
2 fresh fish on the 1st and 2nd; nothing since. 25 kelts early in the week, 4 on the saturday and perhaps 31 in total. We cannot explain the falloff in catches, except to note that the water fell steadily after a biggish rise on monday night, with a slow drop in water temperature. The immediate prospects suggest that there will be little change over the next few days.
David does not believe that the fresh fish have moved on nor the kelts cleared off downstream; rather the fish are 'sulking'.
Availability:-
8/9/10/11 Feb 4 rods at £47= rodday
4/5/6 July 1 of 3 rods at £44=
w/c 25 July 2 of 2 rods at £360= the week
w/c 1 Aug 2 of 2 rods at £360= the week
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Tuesday, 1 February 2005, 19:25:37
Water ht: 4ft. 0in.
Water temp: 42° farenheit
Wind: SW light
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
So, Day 1 The weather was quite beautiful for Feb; the river rose from 2' overnight to 4' this morning; the water was clear. A pity to have such a change in height, as it almost always unsettles resident fish.
But we landed 2 fresh fish and 20 kelts among 4 rods: The fresh fish were taken in Upper Ferroch and Grey Mare: The kelts were taken mostly in the Ferrochs; others along the Long Jetty to Malt Steep stretch. Sinking lines and quite big flies. Some of the kelts were very 'skinny', most were well mended: The action was most prolific in the morning. Why we may ask, as a falling water is usually more productive than a rising river.
Gossip suggests that Upper Blackhall landed 2 fresh fish, Crathes 2, Park 2 in the morning, Ballogie 1; but nothing for Sluie, Lower Woodend and Middle Blackhall. My uncle was ever delighted to hear that Derek Foster, at Park, had landed a boatful; it meant that the main runs were still on the way up !! We must hope !
The Dee is on the way.
Your reporter Bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Saturday, 1 January 2005, 17:59:12
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
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comment:
Well !! To all a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. May your gods be kind and generous; May salmo salar be cooperative. 2004 was so much better over the whole of Scotland than in 10 previous years: We are ever optimists, we fishers; it would be a mistake to be over-confident for 2005 !.
Availability
2 Feb 2 rods at £47=rod/day
3 Feb 2 rods at £47= rod/day
4 Feb 4 rods at £47= rod/day
7/8/9 Feb 2 rods at £47= rod/day
10/11/12 Feb 4 rods at £47= rod/day
4/5/6 July 2 rods(of 3) at £61= rod/day
w/c 25 July 2 rods (of 2) at £360= the week
w/c 1 Aug 2 rods(of 2) at £360= the week.
Please contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Updated on 1 January 2005.
Saturday, 27 November 2004, 13:51:23
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
I hope that we are now communicating with the 'world'. We can at last show you the gaps in our programme; some offers have not yet been confirmed, and who knows ?. I have given Somers, of Aberdeen, first refusal; but you may be interested. So on offer the following.........
2 Feb 2 rods at £47= rodday
3 Feb 2 rods at £47=
4 Feb 4 rods at £47=
7,8,9 Feb 2 rods at £47=
10, 11, 12 Feb 4 rods at £47=
w/c 27 July 1 rod at £61=
6,7,8,9 July 3 rods at £61=
w/c 1 Aug 2 rods at £30=.
It would be pc to go through Somers, but please contact me direct if you wish. There may well be other more attractive dates; I will know by Xmas.
Contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk
Tuesday, 23 November 2004, 18:43:04
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
Dear Listeners, posting a report since 19 Sep has been even more difficult and frustrating than catching a springer. We had trouble with our URL, and when that was corrected, more trouble with a fault '404', whatever that means !! But at last we are in business: And in case you wonder, we had paid our dues !.
The year was such an improvement on the last 10 years; a relatively good spring, when we saw a lot of fish on the move; I hear that the spawning were stuffed with fish. The early summer was a disaster; nobody can explain it. The autumn was encouraging; certainly a lot of red fish, but enough silver fish through to the season's end on 30 Sep to suggest that late weeks can be productive. I offered a bottle of Wine Society champagne for the 100th fish; this came on 11 Sep, but as David Cowie caught it, he was disqualified.
Middle Dee Project has gathered all the stock we want to fill the hatchery and feed the Cattie and Beltie burns with eyed-ova into bankside incubators. Our main effort over the next 4 years is in part-funding habitat improvements on middle Dee tributaries: The funds we provide will be doubled by the EU under the LIFE scheme available to the Dee as a candidate Area of Special Conservation. This covers our stock of fresh-water mussels, otters, and salar the salmon.
Our offers for 2005 are all out; the response has been excellent. There may be gaps, but these will not be confirmed for some weeks. They will be posted by Xmas at the latest. The banks have been mowed/strimmed, bankside holes are being filled; David is on the lookout for saw-billed ducks and mink, as there is a licence to shoot a quota through to April.
As something of an afterthought, it is worth recording that several fish over 30lbs were landed this season; our best was a 26lber from Grey Mare, but there are photos of a 45lb+ cock fish landed on Birse in September. We wonder if this might be the 'monster' that DC saw twice in Lower Ferroch, in March, I think. You had the chance !!.
To you all, apologies for a long abscense. But more importantly, a happy, healthy and prosperous season ahead: Dream of the ones that got away; imagine the ones that may come your way in 2005. Thank you.
contact bobbie@cairnton.co.uk.
Monday, 22 November 2004, 19:52:40
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
Testing, Testing on 22 Nov: Dear God, I hope this is the holy grail
Thursday, 18 November 2004, 15:05:06
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
Testing
Wednesday, 17 November 2004, 16:25:36
Water ht: -ft. -in.
Water temp: -° farenheit
Wind: - -
| | Salmon | Grilse | Sea Trout
|
| last week | | |
|
| Total for season | | |
|
comment:
The cairnton news page has recently had some technical problems - these are all now resolved so new should follow shortly!