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..

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. 

Fishing for Forces - Reading

Farlows & Sportfish Reading hosted Fishing for Forces with a great day of fly fishing. A challenging day all round with trout proving very elusive.   However , 35 anglers battled it out for a highly enjoyable day. 

Local instructors and guides including a great group from GAIA travelled from far and wide, providing welcome support and guidance throughout the day. 

Lunch, an impressive hog roast, was a welcome sight following a tough morning of fishing but spirits were soon raised as Chris Tarrant joined the group and presentations.  

Another excellent day organised by Bill Howell. 

If you feel that you would like to support or can help please do get in touch with Bill at Fishing for Forces.org  

Beginners to the Water

Some twenty seven new fly anglers had a great day at the waters edge fly fishing for brown and rainbow trout .  Blessed with fine weather all angler struck lucky with some super fish coming to the bank.  With mentors allocated and rods assembled it was off to the water for some fishing and instruction.  The group fished the morning hard, meeting back at the lodge for some very welcome food and refreshments.  

All set for the aftenoon session and with a cooler feel to the breeze our angler continued to learn and experience the thrill of flyfishing.   Top catch for the day went to Roma 

Roma and prizes

Reflecting on the ones that got away

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....

BVK Reel - Temple Fork Outfitters

Saltwater fish demand a certain respect and will often test your equipment to the extreme.  On a recent trip I had armed one of my rods with TFO's superb BVK  ( Bernard Victor Kreh ) fly reel.  Beautifully machined,  the reel is a striking piece of equipment that looks so cool.  The large arbor is superlight and the spool nests perfectly into its housing allowing no movement to allow debris to interfere with the silky smooth running of the spool.

Able to tame the most explosive of fish the fully sealed drag applies tons of prefectly timmed pressure via a large yet sleek adjuster that even the largest of hands can locate in an instant. Not to mention the retrieval, the massive arbor makes light work when taming any searing runs or turns, putting you in control in an instant.
Well balanced and expertly proportioned this beautiful reel should be on your list of ones to own.
Enjoy your fishing and the experience.    

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.

Children of Porchester School 2013

How quickly these event return each year...  but none is more enjoyable than that of the students from Porchester Community School.    This year saw the return to the now established venue of Meon Springs Trout Fishery.

Harry and the spoils of a Champion.



Cleo and the girls hatching a plan..!

This years event would follow that of the passed, offering the angler who catches the biggest fish to claim the spoils. Always a competitive event, this years winner Harry Adams, took a fish of 5lbs 8oz to secure the title, chasing off close competition from  Regan Laing and previous enthusiastic champion angler Joshua Sparks. 
Twelve anglers, took part in the event, supported by mentors from the Partnership Fly Fishing club and the brilliant staff of Meon Springs .   Fishing proved top notch , beautiful Rainbow trout lead a merry dance throughout the day .  Well done Harry and thank you all involved, special thanks to Chris Read who's vital charity,  A Smile for a Child supported the day.

Fishing for Forces 2013

Fishing for Forces, take to the water once again,  with a great bunch of troops.   This clip  captures some fantastic angles  while reinforcing the real message...    Well done FFF.

https://vimeo.com/74498695

Fly Fishing Florida USA





As anglers fish, pelicans catch..!!!  Bait fish are bombarded all day around Naples Pier Florida.

  

Youngsters enjoy an action packed day....of fly fishing

1st Prize, Ben collects a complete outfit from the club chairman.

As the youngsters take on their parents it was fish all round. 

Fishing action was hot as temperatures soared in the Meon Valley, (Saturday 20 July)....  Fishing took place a Meon Springs, this being our the first event following Keith Poulton's departure for a well deserved retirement, (all the best Keith). The new team did him proud as they catered and assisted though out the day.  Following an introduction and safety briefing Dads and children set off with their mentors for the day.

Rebecca showing the girls have what it takes

With the youngsters setting the pace, it was not long before the first fish came to the bank.  Dad's did try to keep up but the order of the day saw some great fish to 4lb being landed.  Top spots went to Ben Sizer  15, for the boys with Rebecca Bland 10, showing girl power..  

Finally Dad of the day and first time fly fisher, Basil Sheppard, took the adult honours with as super rainbow in prime condition.

Finally a huge thank you goes to all the supporters who made the day possible.

Basil receives his prize

Three Fly Challenge- raise money for the Wild Trout Trust

Partnership Fly Fishing Club raise £2,400 in aid of the Wild Trout Trust

Saturday 22 June saw the fourth annual 'Three Fly Challenge' held at Meon Springs, organised by Neil Mundy and in aid of the 'Wild Trout Trust' .   25 anglers fished to score points using three different flies to catch four trout each.  David King (above) won the competition with 28 points catching all of his four trout on a dry fly, he won a brand new Sage Fly Rod and an engraved tankard, Tim Kennard (far right) came second with 26 points.  Neil Mundy and Shaun Leonard (left, Director of the WTT) presented the prize.
Shaun gave an informative and interesting over view of the WTT and its important function adding that the funds raise from today would be used for further projects on the River Meon in memory of Pasco James.

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) !!!

Children of Porchester Community School 2012

Meon Springs 2012.

Blue skies and early autumn sunshine welcomed the students and teachers of Porchester Community School to Meon Springs on Saturday.  The day,  run in conjunction with the John Lewis Partnership Fly Fishing club and a smile for a child charity is a popular annual event which enables the students, teachers and parents some relaxation and enjoyment on the tranquil bank of Meon Springs trout fishery.



Following an orientation and safety briefing, students and mentors made their way to the waters edge, the aim to catch the biggest fish..... but more importantly to simply have a fantastic day.  Fuelled on the excitement of fly fishing for trout the ever competitive students could be constantly heard checking on who was catching what.  Calls of 'what fly did you catch that on' , 'how big was that one'  and of course the pained groans of Oh no... I've lost it...!!!

2012 Champion Joshua Melvin



After a quite start the water was warming and fish were soon being won and lost.  Rod bending action appeared all round the lake and some fine fish were secured before breaking for lunch.   Lunch always a great affair at Meon once again did not disappoint. With the scent of a late summer BBQ drifting down the lake side, those tummy alarms soon has the group making their way back to the main lodge. 


Very welcome lunchtime refreshments



All fed and watered it was soon back to the job in hand, but with no run away leader so far it was all still to fish for.  During the afternoon  session the water was not giving up its fish easily... changing from this fly to 'that fly' was the order of the afternoon but in the  last few casts our winner was to emerge.  Joshua Melvin landing cracking fully finned rainbow trout saw him crowned the 2012 Champion.

Defending Champion Josh Sparks

                               

A really great day was had by all and our thank go out to all involved.  Special thanks to Chris Read, of    ( a smile for a child ) who's incredible support made the day possible and of course our very special guests Porchester Community School.