www.flyfishingcoaching.co.uk

Happy New Year ...from 'That Fly'

2012-01-01T11:31:00.002Z

With the new year now established who knows what 2012 will bring to us fishers...... Whether, just starting out or an experienced fanatic, 'That Fly' are here and ready to serve .

So, if you are suffering the post Christmas blues, then give us a call or drop a line, your next fishing experience could be closer than you think.

Tight lines to all, but more importantly have some fun in 2012.

Happy New Year.

That Fly

Hard work pays off

2011-10-28T12:19:00.000+01:00

After a couple of years hard work, and a failed attempt earlier in the year, yesterday I was delighted and extremely proud to pass my assessment and be awarded membership of AAPGAI (Association of Advanced Professional Game Angling Instructors).
The assessments are held twice a year (March at Cockermouth and October at Caer Beris, Builth Wells). The weather recently has been dreadful and the river Wye was well coloured and flowing well when I took my assessment yesterday. Fortunately the wind subsided and whilst the rain kept coming down it was not enough to damped my spirits.
The assessments last several hours consisting of a practical assessment of your casting skills, ability to be able to explain and demonstrate a series of casts and analyse faults, rivercraft, knowledge of equipment and the mechanics of how it works, this takes at least 2 hours. Then a written exam to test your knowledge of all things game angling, from fish anatomy and science to fly pattern recognition and entomology. Finally an interview with your assessors (at least 2 and usually 3 assessors for each applicant). I started my assessment yesterday at 14:30 and finished at 19:15.
It was a brilliant experience and would recommend it to anyone who really wants to challenge themselves. Don't think just because you've paid your money you'll get through, it's not that sort of association and the standards are extremely high. But with plenty of hard work it's possible.
If you decide to give it a try the whole association is there to help and advice. In the couple of years I've been working to achieve membership I've met loads of the members and they are all without exception really nice and very generous with their time, patience and knowledge.

John
Drawn to water, driven to fish

Clear water big fish

2011-10-24T12:16:00.003+01:00

With Autumn upon us, many waters will clear making this a prime time to be selective over your fish. Stalking experts will be armed and ready for any opportunity as they make a stealthy approach along the banks. Those large trout that have lurked deep and out of sight can now be seen (not that that makes them any simpler to catch).

Stalking is about understand your target fish, observing and waiting, before you make that magic cast. If you would like to know more or experience a day with That Fly do not hesitate to call or mail.

A recent That Fly client is rewarded with a fine 13+ Rainbow

Fly fishing in Snowdonia

2011-10-16T20:34:00.002+01:00

Well that’s it then, another season over, no more wild trout fishing until next year. Where has the season gone?
Looking back I’ve had some great experiences this year, been frustrated, irritated (usually with myself) and excited. I’ve got wet, and very wet, I’ve frozen and fried, I’ve fished in storm force winds and flat calm conditions. Fished new waters and old. Tried carp and coarse fish on the fly. I’ve learnt new skills and met some really nice people along the way.
As I write and reflect I realise what a great season it’s been. I find it all to easy to focus on the disappointments and forget the successes and fun. My new seasons resolution will be to focus on the good stuff and not be so hard on myself.
I’m really looking forward to next season, new challenges and more great fishing. There is so much fishing in North Wales that I could go out every day for years and fish somewhere new. I’ve not had my salt rod out yet this year, but tomorrow the tide is good, but the weather’s bad, so perhaps, just perhaps I’ll have a pop at a mullet or two!
Then of course there’s the grayling, I really must make some time to have a few days on the Dee. So I guess it’s not all bad and there is always the ubiquitous rainbow if I get bored!

Children of Portchester Community School

2011-10-01T13:05:00.009+01:00

Saturday 24 September, could not have been better as 18 children from Portchester Community School descended on Meon Springs Trout Fishery (East Meon). Arrange by members of the John Lewis Partnership Fly Fishing Club and in conjunction with That Fly, the day exceeded all expectations.

' Chris presents 2011 winner Josh Sparks with the trophy'

Some fine weather and terrific support by all helping ensured the fantastic day for the children. (Below Matthew Andrews, working on his retrieve, and showing the way to the net. Matthew could only fish the morning but made the most of his time with a fine brace of Rainbow trout).

The day is made possible by some super support from both JLP Fly Fishing and incredible involvement from Chris Read (ex Partner) who's charity 'Smile for a Child' donated massively to the event. Not forgetting the Meon Spring team who's help and commitment completes a truly excellent occasion. Finally a huge thanks to all the children , teaching staff , mum's and dad's and JLP volunteers who work so hard making the day the success it is.

Royal Wulff Triangle Taper Nymph

2011-09-18T18:38:00.001+01:00

I was introduced to a Triangle Taper Nymph line earlier this year. Getting hold of them in this country wasn't easy and in desperation I phoned Royal Wulff and had a couple sent from the States.
It was well worth the hassle as they are a stunning line to use with a stiff rod. The head section is heavy and the line zings through the guides. The line is a bright, but not fluorescent, yellow and easily seen on a dull day.
I bought the lines to use, primarily, when spey casting., and it fits the bill perfectly. I've tried several lines but the TTNF (Triangle Taper Nymph Floating) is the best line I've used for this application.
When overhead casting there is a need to be aware of the weight of the head and compensate accordingly if you don't want it crashing to earth behind you.

The lines now come with a welded loop and as I'm not a lover of them (they're to bulky for by liking) I cut them of and attach my tapered leader with a needle knot.

I would recommend this line and wish I'd discovered it sooner.

Fly Fishing Snowdonia

2011-09-04T18:37:00.000+01:00

After a morning up a ladder painting the side of the house I figured a couple of hours R&R on the river was totally justified.

It was a fine mild afternoon with intermittent sunshine and a moderate breeze, but the forecast was for rain later in the afternoon.

I was greeted by a stunning hatch of 2 or three types of up-winged fly and a few sedge. After a downpour yesterday the river was high and fast flowing, the little brownies were having a great time!

I sat on the bank for a few minutes to 'get a feel' for the river and watch the rise forms. I decided on a funnel fly to start the session. Stealthily stepping into the water and positioning myself I dropped my fly a few feet upstream from a top feeding fish, it immediately sucked the fly in and spat it out again in a nanosecond - damn they're fast! The second cast proved fruitless but the third got me a little brownie.

This was followed a few minutes later by another one.

This little beauty had stunning markings and though small fought with the heart of a lion.
My afternoon was brought to an end by a family of swans who decided they didn't want me on their river. Oh well, that's life, time for a beer!

Snowbee waders review (updated)

2011-08-25T14:20:00.000+01:00

A while ago I did a brief review of Snowbee's Prestige chest waders.
Well having used and abused them for several months they are standing up well. I've been using them regularly and on a number of occassions had to fight my way through gorse and bramble to get where I wanted to fish.
They are lightweight, durable, well fitting, but with enough room to add a layer or two underneath, and very comforatable. The belt comes as standard and allows the waders to be worn at waist waders. The 2 chest pockets welded to the outside of the waders have waterproof zips (I can confirm they work too having taken a tumble recently when fishing at Llyn Brenig. I was soaked through but my phone, inside one of the pockets remained dry), they are a little small to hold a fly box but good for keys or a phone. The waders are light and comfortable enough to wear all day and dry very quickly. The hooks on the bottom of the gravel guards refuse to stay attached to the laces on my wading boots and I think the hook should be fixed lower on their tabs. That is really the only problem I have with them and for the price they are good value. All in all a great pair of waders.

The XS-Pro wading boots are equally as impressive, light comforatable and quick drying. They come with a deep treaded rubber sole and hard alloy studs.

Teamed together they make a day in the river, or lake, a real pleasure.

Naples Fl...Last pier snook before the weather changed.

2011-08-12T02:03:00.005+01:00

All good things come to an end ... this week has seen some mixed weather. Driven by the swift change in wind direction moving in from the west of the gulf, at 10-15 knots, it does not take long to churn up the clear water of Naples beach. That said I have certainly have been very fortunate for most of my trip.

Nice Snook before the weather changed;

Looking for some shelter from the wind, last evening before dusk , I made my way to Clam pass just off the US 41 north of Naples this is a little gem of an area. Making the most of my two hours at the water, I managed to locate some fish movement and was quickly rewarded with 2 small snook and a baby tarpon, while the fish were on the bite... so were the bugs.... if going in the evening do pack the bug spray, I did not and only just got away with it. Lesson learnt.

Well it's thank you and good bye to Naples for another year but, it will be hello Beat 12 River Test in the UK on Saturday... thats fishin...

Naples Fl..Stalking Snook

2011-08-06T23:41:00.012+01:00

With highs in the 90's again today, I made an early start. This time I planned to walk south of Naples along the beach edge to Gordon's pass. With some stunning scenery along the way the water was perfect for observing any movement and approaching beach snook. Not the easiest fish to see, but a good pair of Polaroid's will put you right, I was using the tried and tested Bolle coachman.

Armed with my loyal Sage, I had set up a new leader , Rio saltwater taper to 10lb , with a 20lb Rio shock tippet. I know many would insist on at least 30lb but I have found the 20lb IGFA Rio mono to have performed amazingly this trip. It's abrasion resistance is quite incredible , I would certainly have no hesitation recommending it. My final part of the set up was a small white streamer fly, (Checkout Mangrove Outfitters , Capt Tom Shadley range of flies will blow your mind)

With the sun at my back and making my cast into the trough (this is the wave channel running parallel to the beach) the snook would quickly follow to chase down the fly, get it wrong and the fish will simply turn and move away not to return. Pleased to say I did get it right a few times, catching and releasing 3 fish .

If trying this area, do carry some water , with temperatures in the 90's dehydration can set in very quickly and you would not want to miss the end of the day.......with a sunset like this.

Naples Fl...Jack attacks

2011-08-05T00:27:00.006+01:00

Jack Crevalle, the fish not me........

With high pressure stable (at least until the weekend) the fishing gets better by the day. Snook are busy doing their thing and being so smart will often ignore any fly placed right on the nose, however, introduce the daily Jack attacks on the rising tide, and the water simply boils.

These attacks can last just seconds but with the bait balls in such abundance the Jacks will pound the surface some time , today's fly was a new test sample that I tied prior to my departure from the UK. Having only tied two of these flies, one of which was totally destroyed today I will try again tomorrow, before true bragging rights can be established.

Naples Fl..Silver King

2011-08-02T22:48:00.004+01:00

Back on the beach today for some very early action with snook chasing down the fly, but as the tide came in all action turned to hungry Jack Crevalle's, these were not large fish, up to 5lb but pound for pound they run a powerful merry dance all the way to the beach. Great sport and all returned for another day.

But the day's real winner was the strike of the sliver king.....Tarpon, below is a fully scaled beauty some 60lb being safely returned to the ocean. What a fish.

Naples Historic Pier

2011-07-31T13:04:00.005+01:00

Built in 1888 and used to transport freight and passengers, Naples pier stands as a key landmark. Part of the structure including a post office located on the pier was ravaged by fire in 1922.

Rebuilt following hurricanes in 1910,1926 and 1960 the Naples pier stands proud, providing a terrific platform for all anglers and members of the public.

Be sure to use the half way cafe, the friendly team are always ready to serve.

Naples Fl ... Hot weather and hot action

2011-07-30T01:12:00.003+01:00

Fishing Naples (FL) beach early morning can bring some hot action. Poised and ready with a white snooking fly, things got off to a flying start, three fish during the first hour and a bonus of a small Jack .... with the fish slamming the fly, I was soon to realise this was going to be one of those dream days ..... did I tie enough flies for the week!!!! As the morning progressed I moved up onto Naples famous fishing pier, all sorts of fishing going on here, but you do draw comment when roll casting a fly from up there. Mind you who cares when your first hook up is to 15-20lb Snook..... and yes it did break me off..., but tomorrow is another day.....

Be sure to check back soon for more updates.

'King's Chimera' fly

2011-07-25T18:19:00.007+01:00

Due to hit the beaches of Naples (Florida). With bags packed and flies at the ready, summer should see some great beach snooking... Of course with spanish mac's and some jacks around who knows what to expect. .............

When Spanish Mac's hit be sure to have back up flies, (last years before and after a Mac attack)

Above, 'King's Chimera' fly continued to catch as it was mauled by razor sharp teeth

A change from the wild brownies

2011-07-24T10:12:00.000+01:00

I love fishing for wild brown trout (on lakes or rivers), the fact I have some terrific fishing in stunning settings right on my door step helps.

Occasionally clients want to fish for rainbow trout, and that's good too. On such days when the clients have gone, the clearing away completed and I want a bit of time to reflect I tend to do a little fishing into the late afternoon and evening.

On just such a day recently I had some great sport. I'd cast and retrieved a damsel nymph. On my second cast I could feel a few tugs on the fly but no firm take, Just as I was lifting into another cast a fish crashed my fly and charged off across the lake stripping my line down to the backing, and took much of that too. With only a 4lb tippet I was nervous to bully whatever had taken my fly. several minutes later and the start of an aching arm I managed to get this beauty to the net.

I'd love to have put her back but unfortunately she'd swallowed the fly to deeply to recover.

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-07-22T18:46:00.004+01:00

The fishing in North Wales can be challenging, the weather plays no small part in this.
Less that 48 hours after I'd taken the pictures on the post below the river had risen over 500mm and burst it's banks. However the fishing was still superb with fabulous wild browns happy to rise to a delicately presented dry fly.

A stunning wild brownie

A very happy client

Perfect solitude

There was a fine hatch of Pale Watery and the Fulling Mill dry fly of the same name (size 18) proved indispensible. The fish pictured fell to this classic pattern. Several more were tempted but managed to elude this intrepid angler

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-07-13T21:15:00.000+01:00

The weather is fantastic, very warm and sunny but a good breeze to keep things comfortable (but ensure a quick tan) and a ripple on the water.
The rivers have dropped over the last couple of days but they are in good condition and crystal clear.
There are still good hatches of midges and all manner of terrestrials.
If you are visiting the area insect repellent is a good idea!

The Seiont is holding some lovely wild browns, even the little'un below has a lovely caudal fin for the size of the fish.
I love these little wild browns, they are so spirited and beautifully coloured (sorry the photo isn't good, forgot the camera and had to use the Blackberry). This one took a small black gnat intended for the larger fish I was stalking!

Rain & wind.....then the sun came out

2011-07-10T07:57:00.016+01:00

The morning looked grim, with a strong gusty wind and the rain tipping down, but this is fishing and while the group tucked into bacon rolls we all looked forward to a productive day.
With the plan discussed and casting demos over , it was time to get serious (well as much as we could) with a great bunch who were out to enjoy the day.

The morning proved tough, with only Billy really connecting, even this proved elusive as the fish slipped off just as quickly as it took that fly.

Bob leading the way to the scales.....

Still in the grip of some challenging conditions, the group continued to build in confidence, learning new skills in rain and wind can be tricky. The rest of the morning saw a few tugs and tweaks, but not much more, so we looked to focus on some good tuition up until lunch , where we would then re-group and review our plans. As the BBQ raged the sun broke through bring with it some great anticipation for the afternoon session. With the group fed, re-energised and some warm rays, it was back to the water to put those new skills to the test.

It was not long before the things took hold........ both Bob and Billy were soon rewarded and with Dave hot on their heels, he suddenly connected to a lovely 8lb 8oz Rainbow.

Not to be out played, Daniel continued to master his cast and even with family pressure (and a dropped fish) now heavy on his shoulders, his calm steady approach was justly rewarded with the final fish of the day. Well done, you were a reals pleasure to be with. Great fishing and all caught on That Fly.

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-07-01T20:32:00.000+01:00

Perfect fishing conditions in Snowdonia this weekend. Warm and sunny, but not too hot, little wind, reasonable river level, they're not in spate, and good tides (if you fancy a bit of salt).
I was out this evening on Llyn Nantlle doing some casting practice and was really cross with myself for not having any flies with me (big lesson learnt). The hatches of damsel, sedge and midges were amazing and the lake was covered with ring forms. I for one will be out this weekend. But what to choose; river, lake or sea?
The quality of the water at the moment is amazing, crystal clear and so full of life.

The pictures below are not great as I took them with my Blackberry but the damsels were so prolific they were landing on my fly line to mate.

Here's one I made earlier

2011-06-23T20:15:00.000+01:00

Many of us make our own tippet degreaser to our own recipe (I mix crushed plasterboard into mine!), but how to dispense it easily on the riverbank is often a problem.
After trying a number of different containers I finally found one I'm happy with, the That Fly Mud Dispenser (aka a used toothpaste tube) it’s perfect:

1. Simply snip off the bottom, open the tube up and wash it out.

2. Put the lid back on, spoon your mix into the tube (the texture needs to be of a consistency that is easily squeezed) and tamp it down.

3. Wipe clean the cut end, fold a few times and superglue to seal it.

4. Drill a hole in the folded end if you want to hang it from your vest.

5. Very important – don’t leave it in the bathroom!

Degreasing made easy with the That Fly solution

Meon Valley

2011-06-19T22:22:00.008+01:00

We have indeed been very fortunate with a continued spell of fine weather. Not as hot as some days we have witnessed, but take time to study the banks as you stalk your next trout and like me you may well find an hour or two of enjoyment simply looking at life around the waters edge.

Blue damsel left, Common or Azure can you tell which?

Below, and a more recent arrival in Britain, which ladybird is this one, clue, it arrived around 2004.

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-06-17T21:56:00.000+01:00

The weather this week has been mixed. The great news is that there are improving flows in the rivers, some stunning hatches of aquatics and terrestrials and the weather with weekend is forecast to be warm and sunny with little wind, perfect for a day on the river. High tides to 5m at around 11:00 and 23:00hrs could also make for some great saltwater action.
What to choose- it's always a problem when fishing in and around Snowdonia.

Immature male beautiful demoiselle

Mature male beautiful demoiselle

Female scorpion fly

Fathers Day, treat him.......

2011-06-15T18:10:00.006+01:00

With Fathers day just around the corner, why not treat Dad to an experience on the water. That Fly can be sure to provide a real day to remember...... go on treat him , get in touch with us.

With so much of the season still to come, we can be sure to get the right day for you.

Call or mail David and John

3 Fly Meon Springs with the Wild trout trust.

2011-06-11T21:51:00.015+01:00

With the fear of rains and poor weather, all was at ease as the sun brought smiles during the 2011, 3 fly , held at Meon Springs, West Meon. Sponsored buy the JLP Fly Fishing Club in conjunction with the Wild Trout Trust and supported by That Fly, the day provided some 19 fishers with a challenge which would test the most skillful of anglers

With just three flies for the day and water as clear as gin, this was always going to be a tricky day that would require thought and planning for success.
Defending Champion Graham Brown of Ross on Wye, put up a late challenge , but it was Steve Robinson from the JLP Fly Fishing club who's final fish secured the prize and title for 2011.

Steve (centre) receives his prize from Shaun Leonard (Director Wild Trout Trust ) supported by Neil Mundy (JLP Fly Fishing Club) Well done Steve.

For more information on the 3 fly and details of the good work carried out by the wild trout trust, follow the link below
www.wildtrout.org

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-06-10T20:43:00.000+01:00

It's the weekend again, and some great weather, tides and river levels forecast for fishing in and around Snowdonia. The summer really has arrived here again. Warm days, little wind and massive hatches of terrestrials, midges and olives.
The days are long and balmy and the sunsets are to die for. Why would you want to be anywhere else?

Pictures of sunset over the Menai Straits and
Caernarfon Bay

Good things come........

2011-06-08T22:48:00.009+01:00

When seeking Mayfly action, one may have to wait a while for the rise. The result however, can be outstanding. Some client action, not bad for your first fish....... well done guys. Rainbow gold.

Carp on fly

2011-06-05T18:03:00.002+01:00

A white deer hair bread fly was supped from the surface and after a 10 minute tussle the ghost carp (a touch over 10lb) was finally led into the net.
The 6wt Sage rod was put through it's paces and gave a good account of itself.
This client was grinning from ear to ear whilst steering this beauty around the lake and will certainly be fishing for carp with That Fly again.
Interested, call That Fly.

The mayfly made the day fly!

2011-05-29T16:19:00.002+01:00

This quality fish decided to do a couple of laps of
the lake before being encourage into the net

This full finned rainbow is typical of the quality of the fish on offer

This cracking brown fell to a damsel before the
mayfly hatch

The day started a little slow. It was cool and grey with a gusty wind. The fishing wasn't easy for these intrepid novices but after a breakfast of bacon rolls and plenty of hot drinks they were undaunted.

After a barbecue lunch and plenty of refreshments the day warmed, the wind dropped and the mayfly started coming off the water in their courtship dance. The feeding frenzy started and some great dry fly sport was had.
The day ended up with some fine fish including a couple of nice browns, a double figure rainbow and several more all over 3lb.

The guys had come to That Fly, for the second time, to arrange their team day out and were not disappointed.

More details and photos will be posted very soon.

May draws to a close with a bang...and one I had to share.

2011-05-26T13:58:00.010+01:00

We have been very fortunate here in the south , both April and May producing some amazing weather, this too was certainly supported with many fish catches from around the country.

As for myself, I managed a trip out last week planning only to fish a few PM hours and promising myself only to cast to fish that I could see.

With the water at a local private lake being a little coloured, I remained determined to stick to my self imposed rule. During the session , my final fish fell to a natural damsel nymph, having pursued the fish for a few hours and trying a few "glitzy" offerings along the way, it was clear that I was going to have to work on this fish.

Following a number of rejections I did not want to scare or irritate the fish , so, resting the area I walked away or simply observed the movements of the fish as it moved up, down and around a very well protected area. The fish could be seen randomly inhaling subsurface nymphs, with a scattering of Mayfly coming off the surface too, I felt sure a natural imitation would be fly to try, but two good casts the fish simply looked and moved off. Not deterred I sat back a while reviewing the fly box, knowing the fish was interested and appeared to be feeding, tying on a very slim natural damsel I did feel an air of confidence in that this could do the trick, one cast later we were connected and straight into some soaring runs well into the backing. After a 20 minute battle and what I thought was a large fish....., turned out to be this huge 13lb 8oz monster.

Moral of this capture... be patient and take your time. Tight lines.

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-05-21T15:06:00.000+01:00

Saturday 21 May:
The rain is lashing down, the wind is gale force and at 3 oclock in the afternoon it's really gloomy.
Still I had a good morning out on Cwellyn with a couple of nice little beautifully marked brownies.

The sea is warming and the bass and mackerel are starting to appear. It won't be long before I get my salt rod out and take myself off to some of my favourite marks around the coast.
Check out the weather and tide times from the links above.

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-05-19T18:48:00.000+01:00

The weather for the weekend is forcast to be light rain on Saturday and heavy showers on Sunday with wind up to 50mph. Mmmm, methinks the rod will be staying in the in the car! Links to important forecasts above.
At llyn Cwellyn today it was bright, occasionally, but with quite a chill breeze that was constantly changing direction. There were plenty of small brownies taking from the top but no sign of bigger fish. A small hatch of March Browns, a few sedge and masses of tadpoles for the fish to pick off kept them busy.
The photo of the lake gives an idea of it's size, it's big, very big. The setting though is stunning with the Welsh Highland Railway following, in part, its contour.

Fishing Snowdonia

2011-05-14T21:01:00.001+01:00

Looking back at my notes from last year the weather is much the same. A cracking April and wet May, odd really as April is supposed to be the month of showers.
This weekend is wet, cold and windy. Except that is for the evenings which are fine and still, the wind drops and the rain stops - weird but I'm sure there is a meteorological explanation.

Check the Met Office, tide times and river levels from the links above for more information of fishing conditions in North Wales.

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-05-09T19:20:00.002+01:00

Well the rains have come at last, and with a vengance! The Llyfni is in full flow. The Sewin (sea trout) will be racing through very soon.

Fishing Snowdonia, update for the coming week

2011-05-07T12:05:00.002+01:00

This weekend sees a slight cooling in the weather, but mild none the less, the wind has dropped but there are occassional gusts to around 30mph and a few showers are threatening. We desperately need some water in the rivers so I for one will not be complaining. As I'm writting this it's starting to lash down, brilliant, I'm off to tie a few flies
There are still some good hatches of terrestrials (hawthorn fly and daddies). March browns and damsel are also plentiful.
The male large stonefly, below, is incapable of flight as it's wings are so small. Look at the difference between it and the female shown on last weeks post.

The beautiful demoiselle, pictured above, is about a month early. It'll be interesting to see what hatches we get as the seasons progress.

The next few days are forecast to be mild and dry with gusts. Perfect weather for hitting the high lakes for a few brownies!

Fly fishing Snowdonia

2011-05-02T18:56:00.007+01:00

Weather in Snowdonia is still exceptionally warm and sunny.
Following a severe winter and early, warm spring there is a stunning array of blossom and wild flowers. The same weather has encouraged some spectacular hatches of hawthorn fly, iron blues, march browns, stonefly, and spring daddies to name but a few.

The water levels continue to drop but the fish continue to rise, the warm weather has not made them complacent or slowed them down, they are still as fast and canny as ever!
please refer to the links on the right for weather forecasts, river levels and tide times.

Recommended flies this week
Greenwells Glory
Black Gnat
Grey Duster
Hawthorn Fly
March Brown
Coch-y-Bonddu
Baetis Spinner
GRHE
PTN

Tight lines

Fishing for Forces

2011-04-18T19:52:00.000+01:00

That Fly are proud to be working with Fishing for Forces.

Snowbee Prestige Waders

2011-04-10T18:10:00.000+01:00

My old waders had finally succumbed to a very unpleasant mould growing on the inside. The fact that each foot had several inches of water in them didn't help. (I'd hung them up by the shoulder straps in the barn which subsequently developed a roof leak immediately above my waders).

How waders have come on in the last few years. The Snowbee Prestige has a very good range of sizes and the large fitted me a treat. They are light, very comfortable and fit really well. They are nicely cut with room to move without looking like a deflated Michelin Man. I was able to wear them all day and they were dry within minutes of getting out of the water.

I treated myself to a pair of Snowbee wading boots at the same time, opting for the rubber and studded sole. These too were very comfortableand easy to wear all day and dried far more quickly than my old felt soled ones.

(photo to follow)

Snowbee Prestige Rod 9' #6wt

2011-02-06T10:21:00.005Z

As soon as I picked up the rod tube it was clear that this was going to be a quality item. This was the new 4 section Snowbee Prestige 9' #6, very light with a quality finish. A slick fast action the rod produced supreme lifting power, yet delivers such a delicate cast using very little effort.

From the reel seat (a striking section of maple burl wood) to the tip ring you would be hard pressed to find a better tool. Also available in a 6 section, ideal for travel.

As for value, check it out for yourself by following the link on our web http://www.thatfly.co.uk/ or from the blog.

New website

2011-02-04T21:46:00.004Z

New web site is now up and running... hope you find it useful , let us have your feed back.

http://www.thatfly.co.uk/

http://www.flyfishingcoaching.co.uk/

Snowbee Geo Reel

2011-01-29T12:41:00.007Z

This year saw me sorting out a stack of old kit I never use. Rods, reels, lines and an old vest. It all had to go.

Part of the reason for this early spring clean was a desire to update all my kit and rationalise what I use.

Last year at the BFFI I got my hands on the Snowbee Geo reel, having seen it and handled it I had to own it!

As an early Christmas present to myself, and in the knowledge that I was having a clear out of old kit, I treated myself to a 5/6wt.

It really is a thing of beauty, very light, yet with no hint of fragility. A stunning hard anodised large arbour reel.
The spool change button is neat and works well. The click can be adjusted, or removed completely to give silent operation (my preferred option). The multi disc drag will stop a horse but is wonderfully smooth and the drag control knob is large and indented, perfect to use with cold fingers. It also comes with a well padded reel pouch. I can find nothing to fault.

I would recommend this reel and defy anyone to come up with a better piece of kit for the price. I find all Snowbee gear to be exceptionally good value for money and this reel is the evidence.

More views can by found on the gear review page

Stunning Salmon Photos

2011-01-14T20:11:00.003Z

Photos courtesy of Gartside Geoff

Merry Christmas

2010-12-05T15:37:00.001Z

Christmas is rapidly approaching. If you are stuck for that special present why not buy a That Fly voucher. These can be exchanged for any That Fly services: fishing lessons for beginners, a days fishing, casting instruction, or guiding.
If you are interested contact john@thatfly.co.uk or david@thatfly.co.uk

A merry Chrismas to you all

CORPORATE DAYS FOR 2011. NOW BOOKING...

2010-10-24T16:27:00.011+01:00

Following on from 2010 success, we are now taking booking for 2011. Get in touch to avoid disappointment .

That Fly, offer superb corporate events for a lasting memorable experience.

Each day will be built around the needs and requirements of you and your guests. We understand the importance of delivering a great experience so just let us know your aims and we will work with your to help create a day to remember.

Example of a typical package:

09.00 Arrive at venue. Over breakfast rolls guests and guides get acquainted. Guides will provide an overview for the day.

09.30 Tackle up , casting demonstration (if required) Guides/Coaches ready at hand to assist where ever required.

12.30 BBQ lunch with refreshments. (tales of the one that got away)

14.00 Back to the waters edge, or add a twist .. fun competition , casting comp, or simply enjoy a afternoon of fishing.

16.00 Afternoon tea, sponsor presentations.

16.30 Pack up catch and safe journey.

ALL EQUIPMENT CAN BE PROVIDED.

Visit our web site (flyfishingcoaching.co.uk)

Jackpot

2010-10-14T20:49:00.004+01:00

Dave's first day out on the water with a fly rod is rewarded with this magnificent Rainbow that tipped the scales at 7lb 12oz..... Dave tried a half day experience with "That Fly"..

Taken using Sonik's SK3 rod matched to SK4 reel and line, the fish fell to an olive GRHE.

Well done Dave.

That Fly Website

2010-10-10T14:02:00.000+01:00

The That Fly website will be undergoing some major changes over the coming weeks. We want to make the site more interesting and with more pictures.
We welcome ideas and feedback so if there is something you'd like to see on the 'That Fly' site please let us know.

Spring Hill beginners day

2010-10-04T15:04:00.003+01:00

In spite of dreadful weather conditions the guys were able to catch fish.
Many thanks to Lee (fishery owner) and Jane for a fantactic undercover BBQ and all the guys for sticking with it in very wet and windy weather.

Steve commented "Thanks to David and John for their input into the Aylesford Mini Day being a great success, shame about the weather but everyone still want's to do it again. Here's to the next one hope everyone is available to attend".

Steve

Fly Factory

2010-09-28T11:09:00.002+01:00

At That Fly we don't recommend anything without first trying it. We definitely don't recommend anything we don't like. I'm pleased to say I've tried flies from the Fly Factory and I'll be using them again.
The Fly Factory have great flies at very reasonable prices, with free delivery over £30. Why not check it out.

And some cracking river Test rainbow too!

2010-09-27T20:09:00.001+01:00

Fishing the Test is a world famous experience. The fishing is truly superb with wily, hard fighting fish. If you are interested in learning more about fishing this amazing river contact That Fly.

Snowdonia Brownies

2010-09-03T18:47:00.002+01:00

An example of beautiful brownies taken from one of the high lakes in Swondonia

If you are interested in wild brown trout fishing contact me john@thatfly.co.uk