Struck Gold... Rainbow or Palomino !!

Graham , struck gold while fishing with guide David King of That Fly Fly Fishing. With a well placed fly Graham made a firm lift to hit gold.... or is that Palomino...!
Fishing Meon Springs, this specimen put up a robust fight before coming to the net and topped the scale at +6lbs..

Sportfish Feb Winner

Thank you to all for the thumbs up.....  Cuban Permit, caught and released, Cayo Cruz/Romano with Go Fishing Worldwide

Try your luck and enter,   at  Sportfish

Permit fishing Cayo Cruz/Romano- Cuba

CUBA- Cayo Cruz/Romano 

Having  just returned from the Cuban north shore of Cayo Cruz/Romano.  I can only say you have to see it to believe it…. 

The pristine flats are a wash with the most perfectly clear waters and with a mix of sand and grassy flat that seem endless, there are more square miles of fishing than you could possibly walk in a lifetime.

Our lodge La Casona De Romano, (run by Avalon , ) is a beautiful building,  maintained to a great standard, clean and very comfortable,  it is hosted by an enthusiastic team that are focused on your every need.  All inclusive meant only a small amount of cash was required for a celebratory drink or two, (Havana Club Mojito’s being the perfect compliment).

Days commence following your wake up call and after breakfast it was into the transport for the journey to the boats, which are moored at Cayo Cruz some 50k away. Along the route you capture a real feeling for Cuban life as the early work force make there way to pick up points for their daily troop to work.  After twenty minutes your passage continues through the check point and along the huge causeway that penetrates its way through Cayo Romano to Cayo Cruz. Flanked by water we would often see, Flamingo, Spoon Bill and a myriad  of other features along the route.

On arrival at the dock, you are warrmly greeted by your guides,  who, following a quick chat will have you in your skiff ready and on your way to your fishing zone. ( Zone = colossal flats that only you and he fish for the day).  

Beautiful Permit one of two during the week

The fishing available at Cayo Cruz / Romano covers one of the most extensive areas anywhere in the Caribbean.  The vast number of flats are protected from the north by a string of Cays, collectively known as Jardines del Rey (Garden of the King).

The Cays, are literally uninhabited and apart from your boat partner and guide you are unlikely to see anyone else while out on the water.  Cayo Cruz / Romano is therefore the perfect habitat for bonefish, tarpon and permit.  Made up a series of mangrove lagoons and flats that run for hundreds of kilometres, most flats, of white sand interspersed with turtle grass and mangrove are ideal for those who want to wade or fish from the skiff.

The flats and Cays are extremely rich in crustacean life, which enable both the bonefish and permit to exceed the sizes found elsewhere around the Caribbean.



Large Bonefish were encountered daily

Deeper channels provide perfect areas for tarpon to feed on the shoals of sardines but when the tides are right these fish will move onto the flats where there will be the opportunity of sight casting to these feisty creatures.

But Cayo Cruz / Romano is best known for its large bonefish, and permit, as well as other species such as jacks and barracuda. Bonefish are commonly found in the range 5 -10 lbs, ( our trip nothing less than 4lb and a magic 10lb for one of the group )  Permit from 10lb to much larger specimens are frequently encounter, and  Tarpon from 20 - 150 lbs. 



Blessed with a 2nd Permit for the week, this one took the famous Avalon fly, presented on RIO's tropical quick shooter

As the fishing day draws to a close your transfer (cold beer at the ready) will be waiting to return you to La Casona for a Mojito or two while you celebrate your day .

Dinner is generally from 7.30pm onwards and includes complimentary wine with dinner, before retiring back to the bar for additional drinks which you can added to your bar tab for the week.

Cayo Cruz/Romano is a must try location for any Saltwater fly enthusiast and frankly ranks as one of the top Permit area in the world.  

Check out :

Avalon

Go Fishing Worldwide 

Or drop me a line/call if you would like to know  more. david@thatfly.co.uk 

WTT 3 Fly Challenge 2014

Meon Springs provided a stunning back drop for the annual " 3 Fly Challenge ".  Lush banks and gin clear waters,  anglers, were in for a real treat.

This years event attracted 34 anglers with the objective to catch 4 fish using a fly with a points value.  

Seasoned Meon angler and ex Meon boss Keith Poulton , provided each angler with three superb flies, dry kites, a buzzer and nymph.   Anglers could use any one fly to tempt fish with points being awarded,  weight of the fish x the value of the fly.  

With lots drawn, delicious bacon buttes consumed,  a quick briefing soon saw angler to the water. 

The morning proved very productive, with some good fish coming to the scale and making for an exciting event.  Lunch time provided a very welcome break , our hosts "Team Meon" providing a terrific BBQ lunch followed by our sponsors fund raising raffle.



An immaculate Meon Springs

Back to the water anglers could now roam freely,  but with a hot sun now high in the bright blue sky, fish became tough to tempt to any fly.  The ringing of the bell marked the end of the afternoon session and our return to the lodge for the final tally . 

WWT   Director Shaun Leonard joined the group , providing us all with a wonderful insight into the vitally important projects and work that WWT carry out on a daily basis.  Shaun also reflected on the importance of today, the fund raised in memory of Pasco James continue to make a direct impact in the Meon Valley  ( add Meon work) .


Shaun Leonard, Director WTT

Final thanks went to Neil Mundy (event organiser and competitor ) this his fifth year and raising and record breaking £3,800 + for the charity. Neil's past and present work having secured over £21,000.  Very well done Neil. 




Neil Mundy, becomes an Honouree member of WWT

Results,

1st and retaining the trophy for a second year ; - David King
(David's fished,  a Sage  Z-axis 4wt, Ambush reel,  by Cheeky Fly Fishing , loaded with a Snowbee xs-plus hi- float line to a dry Kites Imperial.)

2nd and first ever ladies winner; - Andrea Smith.
Largest fish ; -  Greg Hughes, 7Ib + Rainbow trout.

Winners presentation.

If you wish to enter the 3 Fly or would like to know more about the Wild Trout Trust click on the link , membership ensures our rivers, native trout  and environment continues to thrive under the stewardship of WTT. 

WTT Three Fly comp 2014

www.wildtrout.org

This years Wild Trout three fly competition takes place 21 of June 2014 at Meon Springs Trout Fishery..   Three flies to tempt and catch a trout for points, this competition will provide a true test of your skills.  An important fund raiser and enjoyable day in memory of  Pasco James.

I am proud to have experienced and have been fortunate enough to have won the 2013 event.  If you would like to enter or simply know more,  then please follow the link to  :

 http://www.wildtrout.org/news/3-fly-challenge-meon-springs-2162014

Get Cheeky... get reel...

Most have possibly noticed the steady and impressive rise of the Cheeky Team, who hit the fly fishing market with some impressive reels a couple of years back.  There is no escaping their steady climb up the slippy slope continues the move forward.  Strike, Ambush, Mojo, Thrash and Dozer certainly captivate the spirit of fly fishing, with 5 of the Cheekiest reels currently out their. 

The modern contemporary styling complete a terrific fresh approach in a market which is booming with product.  But if the designs are not to your particular taste then consider any of the range in striking silver which will match any outfit and occasion.



MOJO 425

One key feature on the reel is its impressive drag system, this is a completely sealed unit that requires zero maintenance , so always ready for the next blistering run. Super smooth and able to apply some slick pressure just when you need it.  Light weight, the reels compliment the latest  rods out there, so wither stalking the flats or climbing a mountain stream, these reels will provide you with a balanced outfit that you could carry all day.

But don't just take my word for it,  take a look at www.cheekyfishing.com/reels/features  - while there take a peek at the neat Cheeky swag too..... 
Or you could come and try one with me .. david@thatfly.co.uk Team Cheeky Endorsed Guide

Good fishing....

Kingdom of the Grand Slam



Gateway to the Grand Slam

Seasons come and seasons go, fishing comes and fishing goes, but add Saltwater Fly Fishing into the equation and you’ll be talking about it forever. Don’t get me wrong I truly love all my fishing but I must say the latter delivers such a thrill, you’ll be hooked forever…

Our world continues to shrink as our ability to travel freely grows and with new fishing opportunity appearing to open around every corner, the only limitation appears to be you, or that all important budget. But destination Fly Fishing does not have to break the bank, many thrilling locations offer some great value packages and the promise of some amazing fly fishing that will suit all budgets and more importantly your abilities.
Our trip, as I am sure most, started as a casual chat over beer, where would we go? , for how long?, what’s it like , what would we need?… so on and so on…… I have always loved to hear the stories of other anglers as they reflect on prizes caught and the ever teasing one,that was so close ..., and remains so far. But it is by listening and talking to as wide an array of anglers and agents you will start to build a picture of what good may look like... no guarantees, remember this is fishing.!!
This year we had a mixed group of both novice and improving anglers,  so the right location would be key…. But where ? After a few Internet searches the odd DVD and more importantly a chat with Mat McHugh- of Fly Odyssey we settled on the excellent value and location of Mexico’s Ascension Bay.

Punta Allen is located a short hop off the north shores of Ascension Bay. A part of the Sian Ka`an Biosphere Reserve,  the location is a protected ecology absolutely steeped in wild life and where you can encounter, snook, bonefish, tarpon and permit from a myriad of locations. Punta Allen’s peninsular spearheads the access to a wide expanse of tarpon stuffed lagoons, open water channels and beautiful post card flats which teem with bonefish, jacks, barracuda and of course the revered permit. You have just entered the Kingdom of the Grand Slam....  But, if that’s not enough you can throw in a number of seasonal off shore options.



Wade Fishing

Next it was kit, and the old adage of less is more will serve you well. I armed myself with three rods, 8#, 9w# and a10w#, with all reels loaded with 200yrd of backing. In reality two rods would have been fine but three did offer another dimension - as this could be rigged for a possible trophy shot - 40lb Barracuda are not uncommon


                       








One area not to scrimp on… is lines, do spend some time selecting the right lines and leaders, after all you do want to see your fish of a lifetime…! Talk to experienced anglers and make the most of your local tackle dealers, there are quite often specific items and flies for the areas you may be travelling to. For example Ascension bay have some fantastic skinny water flats where the lightest of bonefish flies are vital for a stealthy presentation. Get it right and your reel will be screaming all day.
Other items are personal preference but do take good polarising sun glasses, amber and copper being ideal and pack plenty sun protection.

We flew direct London to Cancun arriving late PM. Upon arrival you are quickly met by your transfer host, and it’s off to Punta Allen, via Tulum. On arrival at Punta Allen you are welcomed by Manuel Chac and his team and quickly introduced to your rooms for some well earned rest. Manuel’s lodge “Casa Viejo Chac” is perfectly located and very comfortable, the team are so helpful and nothing is too much trouble. Food was excellent and presented to a high standard.

Manuel is a wealth of information, passionate, enthusiastic and highly skilled, our group were hungry to learn. The guides at Casa Viejo Chac are all highly experienced and very knowledgeable and with good English our anglers were quickly at ease and learning from the whole experience.

Fishing proved very good, even with some unseasonal weather to contend with, fortunately for us most appeared to circumnavigate the bay leaving us to enjoy prolonged tropical sunshine and explosive action. Our group caught countless bonefish on a daily basis, added to the mix were tarpon, snook, barracuda, jacks and even a couple of small permit. With the huge array of flats, channels and lagoons the opportunities were endless, our guides located fish on a daily basis ensuring us shots at every species while introducing us to an amazing diversity of wild life, such as eagles, flamingos, herons and crocodiles to name but a few..

Punta Allen went way beyond expectation, it boasts a multitude of species in a beautiful and diverse location and with simple direct access I would regard it as an idea destination for both first time and experienced anglers.

If you are seeking the thrill of saltwater fly fishing or just want to know more then please contact me at;  “That Fly”
        david@thatfly.co.uk
        07564 266 539
2014 bookings now available.

Sonik SK4 XTR Fly Rod

On a recent blog I commented on the fantastic new XTR reel, well here is a view of the new Sonik SK4XTR fly rod.  As with all Sonik's, the rod arrived in the robust cordura zip top tube which is clearly marked with the discription, size and rod rating.  Inside a neatly sectioned cloth sleeve ensures sound protection for the rod within.
First views of the sections imediately lift the spirt, a well finished blank of olive gloss set off some very fine gold highlighting to the whips.  Rod connections are very neat with the now standard "dot to dot" alignment system , a great aide for a swift set up. I had the 9ft 5/6 rod which for a middle to tip action has a surprisingly fast action that delivered some very tight loops,  yet it remained forgiving enough to recover the odd waver or miscast .  The rod delivered well at both short and medium range, but, it simply sung with absolute ease when delivering a long line. I was using Snowbee's XS plus. 
The rod which comes in 4 sections, is a great all round stillwater rod, and well worth considering if your looking for a step up to a faster action. A powerful blank with sensitivity, its a perfect transition rod for advancing and experienced anglers.

Sonik XKR 5/6/7

Sonik have certainly hit the spot with their new range XKR Reels - Large arbor with a V shape spool, (to ensure an even line lay) the reel is produce from bar stock aluminium.  A tone of gunmetal and gold highlights add the most perfectly balanced style to a beautiful piece of engineering.
The spool change is a quick affair by unscrewing the central nut , give a firm pull and bingo... push back and the spool beds in without any movement around the housing.



Sonik XKR, loaded with the XS plus from Snowbee

A fully adjustable drag is pretty well protected from the elements and it delivers the most taming smooth application of pressure, controlled by a large knob which enables easy instant adjustment during your fight should you require.
The reel was delivered for left hand wind but changing to right is achieved swiftly and without the need of any tools- excellent if coaching or providing clients with equipment to use.
Supplied in a neoprene case and with size options the reel offers excellent value and looks and feels a million dollars,  a great buy for the price.
Follow the link from the blog or www.soniksports.com

'Nano Tech' by Snowbee

Nano , Nano!   no,  not a re-run of Mork and Mindy.... !!!
This nano is the new GEO 'Nano Technology' from Snowbee, if you have not tried one,  then I suggest you do at the next opportunity.
While fishing a group of beginners, I had the chance to try the rod during a lunch break. The first thing that stood out was the effortless ability to deliver a straight precise line. So light and balanced it is a rod that you could simply cast and cast with.  Next is the quality of the rod, finished to a very high standard the beautiful gunmetal grey and matching whips are finely presented and when the 4 sections connect (with the aid of dot to dot) you have a fantastic casting tool.
Snowbee suggest the blank to be as close to 'unbreakable' in normal use as possible and frankly with the feel of this rod I believe them.  So impressive, I bought the 6wt the very next day. (The rod you won't want to put down) !!!

Early Specimen Brown



Exceptional quality Brown tipped the scales at 10 lb.8oz
stunningly marked and fully finned.

Early season stalking session on the coldest of March mornings produces a 'specimen brown'...  This terrific fish fell to a small black, gold ribbed PT.  
On arrival at Lechlade Trout lakes it was off to the lodge to get signed in and have chat with the owner, then it was tackle up and off to the lakes with big fish in mind.   With a few anglers already whipping water, my fishing buddy and I decided to take a long walk around the lakes before making any casts. 
I left Chris on the larger of the two lakes while I continued round to the second.   Water clarity was pretty good and with some early sunshine beaming down it looked encouraging for stalking opportunities. Spotting a few movements and shadows, I stopped in what looked to be a interesting area.  With plenty bank side cover I was positioned well to intercept anything moving from left or right and I was particularly encourage with a few bow wave appearing slightly further out.   Getting myself positioned and the rod ready for action there was a sudden explosion as a large looking brown trout jumped clear of the water like an Exocet missile.. , crashing back into the water, I very quickly made a cast straight into the splash zone, allowing the fly to sink a few feet my retrieve was quickly hit and all went tight.  The fish took off quickly and immediately going deep it continued with some dogged thumps ...... you just know it has the feel of a good fish.  After a great battle the fish final came to the surface showing the most beautifully marked and coloured flank.  Fully finned and in prime condition the fish tipped the scale at 10.8 lb...  what a start to the season. 
Finally both Chris and I took further good fish but this fantastic brown stole the day.  Thank you Lechlade