Fish The Tay - Fishing Reports & Prospects

Fishing Report - week ended 15th October 2011

General

The 'final' week on the Tay was a little better than the previous one. However, this year things are a little different, as the 2 week trial season extension now begins (17-31 October) on beats below the Tummel junction. Hopefully weather conditions will be kind, so that a clear and comparable set of results can be analysed.

Water temperature held steady at 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), although it may well drop away this week as air temperatures are due to dive.

After last weeks' total of 270 fish, this week saw 336 salmon and grilse reported on the FishTay website.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 288 fish last week.

Good runs of fresh salmon are still entering the system, and older resident fish are taking up station in some of the lower beats.

Big fish are still around, with a number in the 20lb+ class from various beats. Almondmouth and Dalmarnock reported 26lb fish.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (31), Waulkmill (18), Lower Redgorton (16), Luncarty (8), Upper Redgorton (9), Fishponds (16), Benchil & Pitlochrie (22), Upper Scone (12), Catholes (1), Stobhall (24), Taymount (53), Ballathie (16), Cargill (31), Islamouth (10), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (20).

Middle Tay

The middle river reported 36 for the week. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Little information has been provided these catches, but the beats to report fish were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (4), Meikleour House (3), Kercock (10), Newtyle (10), Dunkeld House (1), Dalmarnock (9).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries reported 9 fish. The poor grilse run has let the upper beats (and the entire river) down this year in terms of catch numbers.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Lower Kinnaird (1), Upper Kinnaird (4), Edradynate (1), Findynate (1) and Farleyer Upper (2).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing over 6500 fish which is great news.

The Earn reported 3 fish; 2 from Upper Aberuthven and 1 from Lower Aberuthven, but very few Earn beats report.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 17th October 2011 (trial season extension)

The trial season extension begins today (17th), on a 100% catch-and-release basis on participating beats from the Tummel junction downstream. The trial is being carefully monitored, with detailed catch returns being completed and, in some cases, scale samples being taken.

Weather

Unfortunately the start of the trial looks like it will be cursed, with a heavy band of rain passing through Scotland today (Monday). The forecast appears to improve during the week, although there is the threat of snow over higher ground.

We can only hope for a dry spell to allow river levels to settle.

Fish

After a disappointing grilse run, thank heavens for a decent back-end run and some top quality salmon.

The sea-trout are here as well, and so a targeted approach for this wonderful fish will pay dividends. Obviously the T.D.S.F.B.'s recommendations are to release sea-trout throughout the entire season in order to protect fragile stocks.

Tackle

Water temperatures are falling, and unfortunately river levels are above average (as they have been for weeks). Ghillies may now advocate a return to larger flies, and in the higher water spinners will pick up their fair share.

Catch and Release

It's worth remembering the T.D.S.F.B.'s recommendations in terms of C&R. These guidelines are in place to help to ensure the conservation of the species, and therefore benefit future generations of anglers.

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

As previously stated, the trial season extension is 100% catch-and-release.

There is still lots of fishing during the trial extension at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 8th October 2011

General

It was another steady week in terms of river levels, but as has been the case recently anglers had to work hard for success. Having said that, 2011 will surely be remembered as a 'big fish' year, as yet more fish in the mid-twenties were landed by Tay anglers.

Water temperature dropped to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).

This week saw 270 salmon and grilse reported on the FishTay website.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 238 fish last week.

Good runs of fresh salmon are still entering the system, and older resident fish are taking up station in some of the lower beats.

Big fish are still around, with a number in the 20lb+ class from various beats. Ballathie reported a 26lber.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (31), Waulkmill (18), Lower Redgorton (30), Luncarty (10), Upper Redgorton (12), Fishponds (6), Benchil & Pitlochrie (8), Upper Scone (14), Catholes (2), Stobhall (28), Taymount (30), Ballathie (22), Cargill (8), Islamouth (15), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (4).

Middle Tay

The middle river reported 21 for the week. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Little information has been provided these catches, but the beats to report fish were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (1), Kercock (9), Newtyle (6), Dunkeld House (3), Dalmarnock (2).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries reported 9 fish. The poor grilse run has let the upper beats (and the entire river) down this year in terms of catch numbers.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Lower Kinnaird (4), Upper Kinnaird (2), Edradynate (2)and Farleyer Upper (1).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing over 6500 fish which is great news.

The Earn reported 1 fish from Lower Aberuthven, but very few Earn beats report.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 10th October 2011

Weather

River levels are at fairly normal heights for the time of year as I write this. The forecast this week suggests a fairly dry few days, and the reports of snow last week amounted to nothing.

Fish

After a disappointing grilse run, thank heavens for a decent back-end run and some top quality salmon.

Tackle

The water temperature is generally warmer and so if conditions are settled, warm and river levels are low, summer tactics will be required. Many ghillies will advocate lighter baits, intermediate-tip lines and smaller flies. Fish will move greater distances to intercept a fly or lure under these conditions, so sizes can usually be reduced. Wake flies such as sunray shadows will definitely catch fish as the grilse move in.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 1st October 2011

General

River levels remained fairly steady last week, although the unseasonably warm weather was tempered a little with some rain almost every day.

Water temperature remained steady at 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius).

This week saw 313 salmon and grilse reported on the FishTay website.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 264 fish last week.

Conditions couldn't be described as perfect, but the lower beats continue to tick away as anglers work hard for their fish. Some salmon have dropped back into lower beats and become resident in these areas, encouraging fresh-run fish to slow their pace upstream.

Big fish are still around, with a number in the 20lb+ class including fish of 28lbs and 26lbs from Upper Redgorton and Stobhall respectively. And Ballathie reported a 30lber.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (37), Waulkmill (37), Lower Redgorton (35), Luncarty (5), Upper Redgorton (15), Fishponds (11), Benchil & Pitlochrie (17), Upper Scone (3), Catholes (2), Stobhall (23), Taymount (33), Ballathie (13), Cargill (26), Islamouth (3), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (4).

Middle Tay

The middle river reported 35 for the week. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Little information has been provided these catches, but the beats to report fish were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (6), Meikleour House (2), Kercock (17), Newtyle (8), Dunkeld House (1), Dalmarnock (1).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries reported 14 fish. The poor grilse run has let the upper beats (and the entire river) down this year.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (5) and Lower Kinnaird (9).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing 6543 fish which is great news.

The Earn reported no fish, but very few Earn beats report.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 3rd October 2011

Weather

River levels are at fairly normal heights for the time of year as I write this. The forecast this week suggests a fairly dry few days, although there are reports of snow hitting the UK at the end of the week!!

Fish

After a disappointing grilse run, thank heavens for a decent back-end run and some top quality salmon.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 17th September 2011

General

The beginning of last week saw the remnants of Hurricane Katia hit Scotland, and the gale force winds that it brought with it made fishing very difficult. Then, as the winds died down, some heavy rain saw river levels rise into the latter part of the week. Despite all of this, some excellent catches were had, including a real Tay whopper. Read on...

Water temperature dropped slightly to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius).

This week saw 271 salmon and grilse reported on the FishTay website. A good number of fish were in the mid to high-teens of pounds, with one fish from Cargill weighing in at 40lbs! We should be very grateful that these larger salmon are here, because from a fishing point of view the lack of grilse this year has been a real concern.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 227 fish last week.

It seems that the lower beats are now seeing some resident fish, which should help fresh-run salmon and grilse to hold in these pools rather than race on upstream.

A number of fish in the 20lb class were landed, but the grilse run just doesn't seem to have really happened this year.

Best fish of the week, the month, the season so far on the Tay and in Scotland as a whole was a resident cock fish estimated at 40lbs from Cargill. The lucky captor was David Rees, and along with ghillie Ali Scott he must be congratulated for the fish of a lifetime. The salmon was measured and returned, and was caught on a floating devon fished from the boat. Well done to all involved.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (15), Waulkmill (15), Lower Redgorton (18), Luncarty (7), Upper Redgorton (20), Fishponds (12), Benchil & Pitlochrie (8), Upper Scone (19), Catholes (4), Stobhall (12), Taymount (44), Ballathie (17), Cargill (18), Islamouth (7), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (11).

Middle Tay

The middle river reported 39 for the week. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Little information has been provided these catches, but the beats to report fish were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (6), Kercock (23), Newtyle (5), Dunkeld House (2), Dalmarnock (3).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries experienced a poor week, reporting 5 fish. Upper beats would expect to have had some great sport with grilse by this time of year, but as previously stated the grilse run has been very poor by last year's standards.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (1), Lower Kinnaird (3) and Farleyer Upper (1).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing over 6400 which is great news.

The Earn reported no fish, but very few Earn beats report.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 19th September 2011

Weather

At the time of writing, river levels remain high but catches are holding up very well under the circumstances.

As the week progresses, it would appear that we may be in for some more settled weather on Tayside, although a heavy spell of rain is predicted for Wednesday.

Fish

Despite some grilse being seen recently, they remain elusive compared to last year's excellent run. Whatever the real story is behind the lack of these bright small fish, there is no doubt that big Summer salmon are with us in numbers.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 10th September 2011

General

A big rise in river levels during the middle part of last week made for difficult fishing conditions as the mighty Tay and its tributaries became even wider and deeper than normal.

Water temperature rose slightly to 58 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius).

This week saw 205 salmon and grilse reported on the FishTay website. A good number of fish were in the mid to high-teens of pounds, with one fish from Ballathie weighing in at 30lbs! We should be very grateful that these larger salmon are here, because from a fishing point of view the lack of grilse this year has been a real concern.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 173 fish last week.

It seems that the lower beats are now seeing some resident fish, which should help fresh-run salmon and grilse to hold in these pools rather than race on upstream.

Having said that, conditions did make for a slower week, with the lower river producing a good number less than the previous week.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (31), Waulkmill (7), Lower Redgorton (14), Luncarty (6), Upper Redgorton (6), Fishponds (8), Benchil & Pitlochrie (6), Upper Scone (6), Stobhall (26), Taymount (22), Ballathie (10), Cargill (14), Islamouth (8), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (9).

Middle Tay

The middle river struggled a little, reporting only 28 for the week. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

The higher water currently being experienced can only help middle beats, as fish are encouraged to run to (and hopefully stop at) these beats.

Little information has been provided on other catches, but the beats to report were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (3), Meikleour House (3), Kercock (13), Newtyle (3), Dunkeld House (3), Dalmarnock (3).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries experienced a poor week, reporting 4 fish. Upper beats would expect to have had some great sport with grilse by this time of year, but as previously stated the grilse run has been very poor by last year's standards.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Lower Kinnaird (2), Farleyer Upper (1) and Loch Faskally (1).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing over 6200 which is great news.

The Earn reported 1 fish from Aberuthven, but not many Earn beats report catches.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 12th September 2011

Weather

At the time of writing, the remnants of Hurricane Katia have produced chaotic weather conditions throughout Scotland. Rivers in Tayside are mostly in high spate (or rising at the very least). Gale force winds are also making life tough for anyone intent on fly fishing.

As the week progresses, it would appear that we may be in for some more settled weather on Tayside, with the chance of some further rain on Friday and into the weekend.

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 27th August 2011

General

Another settled week in terms of river levels meant that the fishing did not disappoint last week. It is still the case that the significant grilse run we would expect isn't really showing itself, but luckily this is being more than made up for by the fantastic runs of Summer salmon.

Water temperature held steady at 56 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius).

After last week's total of 377 salmon, this week saw 322 reported on the FishTay website. A good number of fish were in the mid to high-teens of pounds, with one or two in excess of 20lbs.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 252 fish last week.

Almondmouth has continued to fish very well, with daily catches up to 18 fish. I am reliably informed that the fish caught have been top quality, and large pulses of salmon are seen running through the beat on a daily basis.

All lower Tay beats have been picking up fish on a regular basis. Benchil & Pitlochrie reported 19 for the week, and Jim Ferrie had a successful day on Monday with a 14lber on a spinner and then a 13lber on the fly from the boat. And then at the end of the week Billy Matthews from Montrose had success with fly and spinner.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (59), Waulkmill (8), Lower Redgorton (19), Luncarty (4), Upper Redgorton (13), Fishponds (15), Benchil & Pitlochrie (19), Upper Scone (18), Stobhall (17), Taymount (34), Ballathie (16), Cargill (22), Islamouth (5), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (4).

Middle Tay

It's nice to report a significant increase in salmon from middle Tay beats. Last week's total of 35 fish was eclipsed as 55 were reported. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Newtyle regular Allan Rennie landed his 12th fish of the year on the fly.

Little information has been provided on other catches, but the beats to report were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (11), Kercock (24), Newtyle (6), Dunkeld House (10), Dalmarnock (4).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries had a slightly poorer week, reporting 15 fish.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (2), Lower Kinnaird (12), Upper Kinnaird (2), Edradynate (1) and Farleyer Upper (2).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing over 6000 which is great news.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 29th August 2011

Weather

Many Tay beats are experiencing water at a perfect height currently, and so hopefully the rain will stay away and the lower water will encourage fish to build up in pools. There is some heavier rain forecast towards the end of the week, but hopefully not in sufficient amounts to really affect water heights.

Fish

Despite some grilse being seen recently, it appears that talk of a good grilse run has either been premature, or indeed many fish have raced on upstream in the high water of recent weeks. Whatever the real story is, there is no doubt that big Summer salmon are with us in numbers.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams. It's also time to get stuck into the grilse, and as anyone who has experienced big runs of these fish knows, the sport can be fantastic.

Fishing Report - week ended 20th August 2011

General

Settled conditions combined with a very good run of salmon saw an excellent week on the Tay and tributaries, with the highest reported weekly catch of the season so far.

Water temperature held steady at 56 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius).

Despite the midweek deluge, anglers made the most of the good conditions earlier in the week. After last week's total of 141 salmon, this week saw 377 reported on the FishTay website. The interesting thing about the catches is that Summer salmon still predominate, and the grilse run doesn't appear to be at its height quite yet (unless the grilse have passed through in recent high water). Indeed, some sizeable fish were landed last week, with a number around the 20lb mark.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 321 fish last week.

Almondmouth has continued to fish very well, with daily catches up to 26 fish. Reports suggest that many of these fish were in the mid to late-teens of pounds, and the quality of the fish has been excellent.

Luncarty and Taymount also reported some double figure days during the week. Neil Barcock's party from Cumbria had great success at Catholes and Luncarty, including 14 fish from Luncarty on Tuesday.

Beats that reported fish were as follows: Almondmouth (91), Waulkmill (11), Lower Redgorton (16), Luncarty (21), Upper Redgorton (16), Fishponds (8), Benchil & Pitlochrie (14), Upper Scone (21), Catholes (7), Burnmouth (2), Stobhall (27), Taymount (37), Ballathie (24) and Cargill (14), Islamouth (4), and Lower & Upper Islamouth (8).

Middle Tay

35 fish were reported from the middle beats. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (12), Meikleour House (7), Kercock (4), Newtyle (3), Dunkeld House (1), Dalmarnock (8).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries saw an improvement last week, reporting 21 fish.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (4), Lower Kinnaird (3), Upper Kinnaird (9), and Farleyer Upper (1).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing 5812 (as at 19/08/11), and 3 fish were reported from Loch Faskally.

Lower Aberuthven on the Earn reported 1 fish.

The Isla reported no fish, although again this will not be representative of actual catches.

Prospects - week commencing 22nd August 2011

Weather

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 13th August 2011

General

Conditions at the start of last week looked promising, but as has happened many times this Summer the heavens opened in the middle of the week and the ensuing spate ended all hope of fishing across the district.

Water temperature dropped to 56 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius).

Despite the midweek deluge, anglers made the most of the good conditions earlier in the week. After last week's total of 109 salmon, this week saw 141 reported on the FishTay website. Grilse are now starting to be caught.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 113 fish last week, until it became dangerously un-fishable.

Almondmouth again had a very good week in view of the conditions, reporting 23 fish. Some other beats had good results early in the week. Upper Redgorton reported 8 fish, Benchil & Pitlochrie had 7 for the week, Upper Scone and Stobhall managed 11 salmon each, and Taymount did very well with 18 fish.

On Benchil & Pitlochrie, Katie Fitzpatrick and Colin Hinchcliffe had good fish, as did Andrew Clements. Indeed, Katie's 13lber was her first ever salmon.

Lower & Upper Islamouth had a quiet week by their standards, with a total of just 8 fish. However, a large rise in the Isla will always create poor conditions for this beat, and so they will have been hit first by the spate.

Other beats that reported fish were as follows: Waulkmill (5), Lower Redgorton (4), Luncarty (3), Fishponds (3), Ballathie (6) and Cargill (6).

Middle Tay

Just 12 fish were reported from the middle beats. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (2), Meikleour House (1), Kercock (3), Newtyle (3), and Dalmarnock (3).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries struggled again last week, which is unfortunate bearing in mind the numbers of fish that are being seen in the area. Last week's total of 7 was improved upon slightly, with 16 for this week. After the rise in water we've seen, grilse will soon be appearing in these beats.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (3), Lower Kinnaird (5), Upper Kinnaird (2), and Farleyer Upper (6).

The counter at Pitlochry fish ladder is showing 5623 (as at 14/08/11), and 1 fish was reported from Portnacraig.

Lower Aberuthven on the Earn reported 3 fish.

The Isla reported no fish.

Prospects - week commencing 15th August 2011

Weather

The rivers are beginning to fine down again after the big spate of last week. Further rain is forecast, but some of it may only be light. Here's hoping the Tay and tributaries get a chance to drop to good heights for fishing.

Fish

The grilse have now arrived in numbers, but conditions need to improve if anglers are to make the most of the run.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 6th August 2011

General

Another reasonable week on the Tay could not hide the fact that this Summer's high water has left anglers struggling to catch the good runs of fish they are seeing. This is becoming even more apparent with the arrival of the grilse.

Water temperature remained at 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius).

After last week's total of 130 salmon, this week saw 109 reported on the FishTay website. In the last week, reports of big runs of grilse have started to come in.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 91 fish last week.

Water height fluctuated throughout the week, and if things had remained more settled more fish would have been landed for sure.

Almondmouth again had a very good week in view of the conditions, reporting 16 fish. Just upstream, Lower Redgorton reported 7, while Ballathie had 10, and Lower Islamouth beats reported 20 between them.

Other beats that reported fish were as follows: Waulkmill (2), Luncarty (1), Upper Redgorton (2), Fishponds (2), Benchil & Pitlochrie (6), Upper Scone (7), and Catholes (1), Stobhall (6), Taymount (7) and Cargill (7).

Middle Tay

Just 11 fish were reported from the middle beats. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website, and there is no doubt that the reported figure is not a representative one.

Dr. Sandip Datta caught and released a 4lb grilse from Dalmarnock, and his fiance Samantha then landed a sea-liced 10lber from just above the Clackentaggert Pool, which was also released.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (3), Kercock (3), Newtyle (1), Dunkeld House (1) and Dalmarnock (3).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries struggled again last week, which is unfortunate bearing in mind the numbers of fish that are being seen in the area. Last week's total of 13 was followed up with 7 for this week. After the rise in water we've seen, grilse will soon be appearing in these beats.

Dr. Sandip Datta caught and released a sea-liced 16lber from the Island at Dalguise to go with his Dalmarnock fish (above).

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (2), Lower Kinnaird (1), Upper Kinnaird (2), Edradynate (1), Farleyer Upper (1), and Loch Faskally (1).

The count at Pitlochry fish ladder is approaching 5,500, although no fish were reported from the Tummel.

The Isla reported no fish.

Prospects - week commencing 8th August 2011

Weather

At the time of writing, parts of the Tay are unfishable due to a big spate. It seems these high river levels are never-ending this Summer. Further rain is forecast on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and so unfortunately prospects look very poor this week. There's no doubt the fish will be there, but intercepting them will be a totally different matter..

Fish

The grilse have now arrived in numbers, but conditions need to improve if anglers are to make the most of the run.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 30th July 2011

General

It's great to be able to write a report that reflects a good Summer week on Tayside. It was another relatively dry week, enabling levels to settle and fish to be caught.

Water temperature rose to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius).

After last week's total of 109 salmon, this week saw 130 reported on the FishTay website. Reports of grilse are slowly starting now, although not in really significant numbers. The main catch continues to be Summer salmon.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 104 fish last week.

As the water drops away, the lower beats are now beginning to pick up fish, and should conditions remain as they have been over past week, the grilse run (when it arrives) should see excellent sport throughout these beats.

Almondmouth had a good week, reporting 19 fish. In low water, salmon and grilse will hold in this beat prior to running the Almond, and anglers will benefit.

Above Almondmouth, catches were more sporadic as fish begin to spread out, but then as the fish reach Taymount (10 for the week), Stobhall (11), Cargill (8) and Ballathie (10), anglers once again had some excellent fishing.

As always, the Islamouth beats picked up fish, with the combined total of these beats reaching 23.

Other beats that reported fish were as follows: Waulkmill (1), Upper Redgorton (5), Luncarty (2), Upper Redgorton (4), Fishponds (2), Benchil & Pitlochrie (3), Upper Scone (6), and Catholes (1).

Middle Tay

Just 12 fish were reported from the middle beats. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Kercock (1), Newtyle (3), Dunkeld House (5) and Dalmarnock (3).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries struggled again last week, which is unfortunate bearing in mind the numbers of fish that are being seen in the area. Last week's total of 7 was followed up with 13 for this week.

Again, little information on specific catches has been forthcoming, but beats to report fish were Dalguise (2), Lower Kinnaird (6), Farleyer Upper (1), Portnacraig on the Tummel (3) and Ruan Ruarie on the Garry (1).

The count at Pitlochry fish ladder stands at 5168 (30/07/11).

The Isla reported no fish.

Prospects - week commencing 25th July 2011

Weather

Finally we are having a dry spell, and water heights on the Tay are getting towards ideal levels. The forecast is for some rain this evening (Monday), and more later in the week, but hopefully these will be short-lived showers. Unfortunately some sound as if they will be heavy.

Fish

The grilse are definitely beginning to arrive in North coast rivers, and are being seen in amongst larger Summer salmon on the Tay. It would be great to see levels drop on the Tay in conjunction with a big run of grilse. Certain beats would clean up!

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 23rd July 2011

General

The now customary wet start to last week was followed up with.....settled conditions!! And, as expected, catches significantly recovered from the very poor July we have had so far. At the time of writing, we have sunny skies and settled river levels, so hopefully this week will continue in a similar fashion.

Water temperature dropped a little to 57 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius).

After last week's total of 71 salmon, this week saw 109 reported on the FishTay website. Reports of grilse are slowly starting now, although not in really significant numbers. The main catch continues to be Summer salmon.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 82 fish last week.

After struggling with high water, the beats directly above Perth are now getting into fish. Almondmouth had an outstanding week for the time of year, reporting 18 fish. It looks as if Almond fish have reached the Tay, and the beat should begin to see these fish holding in its pools before running the Almond in the coming months. This was also true of the Stormont Angling Club water just below Almondmouth, with Neil Tong and Jason Stratton landing nice fish.

One beat upriver, Lower Redgorton reported 5, with Rupert Monier-Williams landing two lovely fish on Tuesday on a flying-c.

Benchil & Pitlochrie reported 6 fish for the week. 14 year-old Peter Marsh caught his first two salmon on the Pitlochrie Beat, with the largest weighing 13lbs. Then, later in the week Tom Jennings had a lovely 14lber from Benchil on a flying-C.

Stobhall and Taymount added to their totals with 10 and 3 respectively. Ballathie (10) and Cargill (5) also weighed in. Between the Lower and Upper Islamouth beats, 14 were reported.

Other beats that reported fish were as follows: Waulkmill (1), Upper Redgorton (3), Fishponds (3), Upper Scone (3), Catholes (1).

Middle Tay

18 fish were reported from the middle beats - but again high water made life very difficult at times. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Upper Islamouth & Meikleour House (4), Meikleour House (1), Kercock (3), Newtyle (2), Dunkeld House (7) and Dalmarnock (1).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

Stan Pelc, the popular Dalguise ghillie, has been doing his best to maintain numbers on the Upper Tay, reporting 3 last week including an 18lber on a toby salmo from the Bridge Pool on Friday evening.

Other Upper Tay beats to report fish were Lower Kinnaird (1), Upper Kinnaird (1) and Farleyer Upper (2).

Portnacraig on the Tummel reported 2, and the count at Pitlochry fish ladder stands at 4954 (25/07/11). The first grilse has been reported from Pitlochry Angling Club waters.

The Isla reported no fish.

Prospects - week commencing 25th July 2011

Weather

Finally we are having a dry spell, and water heights on the Tay are getting towards ideal levels. And, without wishing to tempt fate, it looks like this week will remain relatively dry. Let's hope so!!

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 16th July 2011

General

After yet another very wet start to the week, things dried up temporarily to allow for better fishing conditions, before another big slug of rain last weekend put rivers out of action once again.

Water temperature remained steady at 59 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 33 salmon, this week saw 71 reported on the FishTay website. A number of these fish were grilse.

7 sea trout were also recorded, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure. I have heard reports of some excellent sea trout from the River Earn.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 40 fish last week.

As with elsewhere, spates are making life very difficult for anglers on the lowest Tay beats. Islamouth continues to be the area for the best chance, but the slight improvement in numbers this week (compared to the terrible weather of two weeks ago) just shows that if the river settles at all, the fishing will spark into life.

On Benchil Tom Jennings had a great Wednesday morning, landing fish of 10lbs and 17lbs. The first fish was caught on a spun rapala from the boat in the Todd Holes, and the larger fish was a real cracker covered in sea lice.

Beats that did report fish were as follows: Almondmouth (5), Waulkmill (2), Lower Redgorton (1), Benchil & Pitlochrie (3), Stobhall (7), Taymount (3), Ballathie (5), Cargill (5), Islamouth beats (9).

Middle Tay

18 fish were reported from the middle beats - but again high water made life very difficult at times. This area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Meikleour House (5), Kercock (5), Newtyle (3), Dunkeld House (3) and Dalmarnock (2).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries struggled again last week, which is unfortunate bearing in mind the numbers of fish that are being seen in the area. Last week's total of 11 was followed up with 13 for this week.

The Tummel anglers are running into grilse as well now, and the count at the Pitlochry fish ladder stands at around 4,639 (18th July). Obviously the Tummel has the benefit of controlled levels as a result of the dam, making fishing a little easier at present.

The Isla reported no fish.

Prospects - week commencing 18th July 2011

Weather

Anglers are praying for the rain to stop and levels to settle. Looking at this week's forecast, the rain never seems far away, and although no real downpours are forecast, I think it would be foolish to expect any prolonged dry spells going by recent experience.

Fish

The grilse are definitely beginning to arrive, and are being seen in amongst larger Summer salmon. It would be great to see levels drop on the Tay in conjunction with a big run of grilse. Certain beats would clean up!

Tackle

The water temperature is generally warmer and so if conditions are settled, warm and river levels are low (yes, it can happen!!), summer tactics will be required. Many ghillies will advocate lighter baits, intermediate-tip lines and smaller flies. Fish will move greater distances to intercept a fly or lure under these conditions, so sizes can usually be reduced. Wake flies such as sunray shadows will definitely catch fish as the grilse move in.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 9th July 2011

General

It's fair to say that Summer on Tayside is proving to be very wet, and the effect has been very difficult fishing conditions, especially on the Tay itself. Whilst it appears that the run this year has been in keeping with last season (which was a good one for recent times), the opportunity to catch salmon on a river the size of the Tay in spate conditions substantially reduces. We can only hope for a dry spell and lower water. Certainly 9 foot spates are very unhelpful.

Water temperature remained steady at 59 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 37 salmon, this week saw just 33 reported on the FishTay website. A number of these fish were grilse.

10 sea trout were also recorded, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure. I have heard reports of some excellent sea trout from the River Earn.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 12 fish last week.

As already stated, high water made for a very difficult week. The odd fish was caught, but in the main rods struggled to locate fish.

Beats that did report fish were as follows: Almondmouth (2), Waulkmill (1), Luncarty (1), Benchil & Pitlochrie (1), Stobhall (1), Islamouth (6).

Middle Tay

Only 9 fish were reported from the middle beats - a small improvement after last week's total of 5, but this area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Meikleour House (1), Kercock (2) and Newtyle (2).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries struggled again last week, which is unfortunate bearing in mind the numbers of fish that are being seen in the area. Last week's total of 9 was followed up with 11 for this week.

Dalguise continues to pick away at fish and on Wednesday Ian Mountford had a good first visit to the beat, landing a sea-liced 10lb salmon on an orange flamethrower from the tail of The Island. Then on Thursday, Lloyd Carnegie had a 6lb grilse in the tail of the Guay Pool. Reports are that a number of salmon and grilse are showing in the pools at Dalguise.

The Tummel anglers are running into grilse as well now, and the count at the Pitlochry fish ladder stands at around 4,100. Obviously the Tummel has the benefit of controlled levels as a result of the dam, making fishing a little easier at present.

At Portnacraig Ronnie Blakely had a 12lber whilst spinning on Friday, and then on Saturday James Lapsley 2 fish at 14lbs and 8lbs.

The Isla reported 1 fish from Coupar Grange.

Prospects - week commencing 11th July 2011

Weather

Anglers are praying for the rain to stop and levels to settle. Looking at this week's forecast, there is a suggestion that we may have some drier spells, but it looks like rain won't be far away, particularly at the end of the week. There's a chance that rivers may fine down to fishable levels during the first part of the week.

Fish

The grilse are definitely arriving, and are being seen in amongst larger Summer salmon. It would be great to see levels drop on the Tay in conjunction with a big run of grilse. Certain beats would clean up! However, there looks to be little chance of that this week with the poor weather forecast.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 2nd July 2011

General

It was a strange week on Tayside as, despite settled water temperatures and fairly steady river levels, anglers struggled to intercept running salmon.

Water temperature increased markedly to 59 degrees Fahrenheit, which will have encouraged fish to run hard.

After last week's total of 54 salmon, this week saw just 37reported on the FishTay website. A number of these fish were grilse, as the run moves into top gear.

9 sea trout were also recorded, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure. I have heard reports of some excellent sea trout from the River Earn.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 23 fish last week.

The lowest Tay beats are slowly beginning to fish now, and of note was Almondmouth's return of 3 fish heralding the start of what should be better fishing immediately above Perth.

After the traditional period of no boats on the lower river, today heralds the re-launching of them, and so the lower beats will be fully operational for the rest of the season.

The Islamouth beats led the way again as they have done consistently. These beats reported 11 fish for the week, and although I have no further detail, it would be a safe bet to assume that the majority of these fish were caught on the fly.

Cargill and Ballathie reported 4 fish each, with one of the fish from Ballathie weighing in at 19lbs.

The other beat to report fish was Lower Redgorton with 1.

Middle Tay

Only 5 fish were reported from the middle beats after last week's total of 11, but this area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website.

Little information has been provided on these catches, but the beats to report were Kercock (1), Newtyle (2) and Dunkeld House (2).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries struggled last week, which is unfortunate bearing in mind the numbers of fish that are being seen in the area. Last week's total of 19 wasn't repeated, with only 9 fish reported this week.

Glenn Baikie from Hertfordshire is a Dalguise regular, and on Thursday he managed to land a fantastic 16lber from the casting platform at the Bridge Pool. Glenn was fishing with a 30g copper Salmo lure, and this is his largest fish to date. The salmon was netted, weighed and measured, and then carefully returned to the river.

Although not reported on FishTay, Peter Backhouse and his party had a great day on Bolfracks on Tuesday. After seeing a number of salmon (possibly destined for the River Lyon), Peter managed to a land fish of 25lb (which looks to be the biggest of the week from all areas), followed by another of 18lbs. Both were fresh-run, and both were caught on the fly. Another angler in the party had a 12lber on the same day, again on the fly. All 3 fish were returned. Well done Peter and friend!!!

Farleyer Upper also reported 4 fish last week.

After the frenetic pace of fishing on the Tummel, last week was a quieter one. There are now around 3,800 fish through the counter at Pitlochry dam.

The lower Tummel reported 1 fish, and Portnacraig had 3. Grilse are being seen and caught on the Upper Tay and Tummel, showing that these fish are moving up the system now.

As far as I know, the Isla blanked last week.

Prospects - week commencing 4th July 2011

Weather

After what must have been the hottest day of the year yesterday, the forecast looks to be rather unsettled this week, which is a great shame as river levels will no doubt fluctuate and create problems for anglers.

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 25th June 2011

General

Some unsettled weather last week saw rivers in the district in spate. In these conditions fishing on the Tay becomes more difficult. Some tributaries will have welcomed a rise in levels.

Water temperature increased by a degree to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 70 salmon, this week saw 54 reported on the FishTay website. A number of these fish were grilse, as the run moves into top gear.

35 sea trout were also recorded, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 21 fish last week. Sea trout again gave good sport on these beats.

Lower beats struggled during the middle of the week as the river rose, but fish were picked up at either end of the week before the spate and again as the river dropped back. There are still a few fish being caught on the lowest beats close to Perth, which is encouraging for these areas which traditionally don't fish too well this early in the year.

Specific catches from lower beats were Luncarty (1), Benchil & Pitlochrie (1), Taymount (1), Stobhall (1), Ballathie (1), Cargill (2), and Islamouth led the way again with 15 fish. Sea Trout were encountered frequently, especially at Redgorton and Luncarty.

Middle Tay

Only 11 fish were reported from the middle beats, but this area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website. The fluctuating river levels didn't help in this area either.

Dunkeld House had 7 fish for the week, which shows the potential of this excellent beat. Willie Cummins had a day to remember on Saturday, landing 4 salmon up to 14lbs on a rapala. Very well done!!

Specific catches reported from other middle Tay beats were Kercock (3) and Newtyle (1).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries again had a quieter week, reporting 19 salmon. This is still encouraging however.

Dalguise reported 2 fish, including a beautiful 18lb sea-licer for Donald Cameron at the tail of the Bridge Pool.

Other beats from the Upper Tay to report fish were Dalmarnock (2) Lower Kinnaird (1), Edradynate (1), and Farleyer Upper (2).

The Tummell's excellent season continues apace. There are now 3,335 fish through the counter at the dam in Pitlochry (as at 26/06/11).

Regular readers will know that Steven Watt's catches are often mentioned here, and the Perth angler was again into fish last week. He has commented that this season on the Tummel is the best he can remember for a number of years.

On the lower Tummel, Gordon Nichol landed a cracking 22lb sea-liced salmon on Tuesday from the Green Bank.

The Isla reported 3 fish, all from Coupar Grange. A low number for this beat, but again the spate will not have helped things.

Prospects - week commencing 27th June 2011

Weather

Other than some scattered showers on Wednesday, the forecast for Tayside looks to be settled this week which is just what the Tay needs and should lead to excellent fishing conditions.

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

Fishing Report - week ended 18th June 2011

General

It was another fairly settled week in terms of conditions.

The predicted showers did arrive towards the end of the week, but didn't affect Tay levels very markedly.

Water temperature remained at 54 degrees Fahrenheit, as it was during the previous week. Again, steady temperatures helped the fishing.

After last week's total of 89 salmon, this week saw 70 reported on the FishTay website. It seems that the grilse run has begun, and reports are coming in of some good sport with these fish.

13 sea trout were also recorded, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 26 fish last week. Sea trout again gave good sport on these beats.

The main catches from this area continue to be from beats above Stanley. It is still a little early for the lowest beats close to Perth, although a few fish are also being picked up here. All beats in this area are hoping for lower water which, if it coincides with a good grilse run should see some excellent sport.

Stobhall (6) and Islamouth (10) were the pick of the lower Tay beats last week.

Specific catches from other beats were Lower Redgorton (1), Luncarty (1), Benchil & Pitlochrie (2), Taymount (2), Ballathie (3) and Cargill (1).

Middle Tay

Only 10 fish were reported from the middle beats, but this area does include some beats that do not report catches on the FishTay website. June can also be a quieter month for catches, so it's hard to be sure of how high the angling pressure has been on these beats.

Specific catches reported from middle Tay beats were Meikleour House (1), Kercock (2), Newtyle (3), Dunkeld House (4).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries again had a good week, reporting 27 salmon. Last week 18 fish were reported, and so the fishing is showing signs of real improvement.

Neill Sproull had a good day on Upper Farleyer, landing a summer salmon of 12lbs, and a grilse of 4lbs. Both fish were sea-liced, and taken on a cascade variant. He said that a good number of fish were seen in the 12-15lb class, with a few grilse amongst them.

Other beats from the Upper Tay to report fish were Lower Kinnaird (5) and Findynate (1).

The Tummell's excellent season continues apace. There are now way over 2,500 fish through the counter at the dam in Pitlochry, with 100 fish running the ladder on Saturday alone. A number of fish were caught, although quite a few are not being reported. Pitlochry Angling Club reported 6 from the lower Tummel, and 13 from Portnacraig, with a good few taken on the fly. Gordon Nichol had a terrific 21lber from the Sawmill Stream on Tuesday. The club's members have now had 181 salmon this season.

The Isla reported 14 fish, all from Coupar Grange.

Prospects - week commencing 20th June 2011

Weather

The forecast for this week is for some unsettled weather with rain spreading in from the West on Tuesday. Unfortunately for the Tay this could mean a rise in water levels, but tributaries may welcome this lift. Air temperature is set to fall slightly to the low-teens Celsius for most of the week.

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 11th June 2011

General

The settled weather continued last week, and this led to optimal fishing conditions for many beats. The larger fish were also back, and a number of trophies were landed including one from Cargill of 33lbs.

Water temperature remained at 54 degrees Fahrenheit, as it was during the previous week. Again, steady temperatures helped the fishing.

After last week's total of 68 salmon, this week saw 89 reported on the FishTay website. 14 sea trout were also recorded, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 39 fish last week. Sea trout again gave good sport on these beats.

Cargill enjoyed a good week in terms of the size of fish landed. On Wednesday Hugo Greer from Lincolnshire landed a huge 33lb salmon. And on the same day, Ray Price from Dumbarton landed a 24lb beauty. It is unfortunate that apparently both of these fish were killed.

The Islamouth beat was back in the action as the river began to drop back. On Meikleour fishings days a regular party had great success, landing 8 fish on Tuesday on the fly. And later in the week, opposite bank owner Alan Parker and his wife had 9 salmon for their 3 days fishing.

Lower Tay beats are beginning to pick up salmon now as well. Specific catches from other beats were Waulkmill (1), Lower Redgorton (1), Fishponds (1), Benchil & Pitlochrie (1), Catholes (1), Taymount (6), and Stobhall (6).

Middle Tay

As expected, dropping water heights resulted in a better week for middle beats, with 20 salmon reported.

Dunkeld House had a great start to the week, with 4 salmon on Monday to 26lbs. Among the successful anglers were Dave Hockenull and Peter McGowan. The beat finished with 7 for the week.

Another Tay monster was caught last week, but this time it was Newtyle that had the success. Bill Carrol was the very happy angler with a 32lber. The beat had 5 fish for the week.

Meikleour Home beat had a great day on Friday, landing 6 fish and losing another 5. Their total for the week was 7.

The other beat reporting fish was Kercock (1).

As always with the middle beats, some do not report fish, and so there's no doubt that more salmon will have been caught from this area.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries again had a good week, reporting 18 salmon. These fish have made the most of the recent high water to travel right up to the upper reaches of the district, and then as levels drop they become easier for fishers to cover.

Beats from the Upper Tay to report fish were Lower Kinnaird (6), Edradynate (2) and Farleyer Upper (2).

The Tummel continues to fish well. There are now way over 2,000 fish through the counter at the dam in Pitlochry. A number of fish were reported from the river, although quite a few are not being reported. The Lower Tummel is productive, with 2 salmon landed by Paul Carter on Tuesday, the biggest of which was 20lbs. The Sawmill stream is also yielding fish, and Gordon Nichol continued his recent success with a 14lber from this stretch. And Jim Fisher had a lovely evening's fishing, catching and releasing fish of 10 and 15lbs on the fly.

The Isla reported 12 fish, all from Coupar Grange.

It's great to be able to report that the river Lyon has been providing superb sport. At South Chesthill, 14 fish were caught last week.

Prospects - week commencing 13th June 2011

Weather

The forecast for this week is for a calm spell, but later in the week we could see some heavy spells of rain. Unfortunately for the Tay this could mean a rise in water levels, but tributaries may welcome this lift. Air temperature is set to remain steady in the mid to high-teens Celsius.

Fish

We await the grilse run, but we are maybe a little bit too early still for these fish. When they do arrive, they will provide fantastic sport. There are still plenty of big fish around, as can be seen from the report above.

Tackle

The water temperature is generally warmer and so if conditions are settled, warm and river levels are low, summer tactics will be required. Many ghillies will advocate a change to lighter baits, intermediate-tip lines and slightly smaller flies. Fish will move greater distances to intercept a fly or lure under these conditions, so sizes can usually be reduced. Wake flies such as sunray shadows will definitely catch fish as the grilse move in.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 4th June 2011

General

Better weather last week led to much more settled river levels, and the horrendous wind of the week before died away to ease casting.

Water temperature increased back up to 54 degrees Fahrenheit, and held steady for the week.

After last week's total of 57 springers, this week saw 68 salmon reported on the FishTay website. 16 sea trout were also reported, although this species is usually very poorly reported, and so many more have been caught for sure.

Lower Tay

The lower river contributed 22 fish last week. Sea trout were also giving good sport in these beats. If conditions remain settled, hopefully the grilse will arrive in the coming weeks and the lower beats will see some good sport.

Specific catches were Benchil & Pitlochrie (1), Burnmouth (1), Taymount (3), Ballathie (2), Cargill (2) and Islamouth (3).

Middle Tay

Conditions are very good for middle Tay beats at present, but just 9 fish were reported. This is bound to improve as water heights drop further.

Newtyle had 3 for the week, including a cracking 23lber for Mrs Maureen Carle. And on Dalmarnock, Matt Kelly had a fresh run fish on a flying-c on Thursday.

Other beats reporting fish were Meikleour (1), Dunkeld House (1) and Kercock (3).

As always with the middle beats, some do not report fish, and so there's no doubt that more salmon will have been caught from this area.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river and tributaries again had a great week, reporting 23 salmon. These fish have made the most of the recent high water to travel right up to the upper reaches of the district.

On Tuesday, John Christison had a lovely sea-liced 11lbs salmon from the casting platform on his first visit to the beat. And then on Thursday Colin Henderson lost a fish in the morning, but made up for it in the afternoon with a sea-liced 14lb cock salmon from The Boils in the tail of the Guay Pool.

Other Upper Tay beats reporting fish were Lower Kinnaird (3) and Edradyante (1).

The Tummel continues to fish well. There are now 2,166 fish through the counter at the dam in Pitlochry. A number of fish were reported from the river, with notable catches being Tony Brown's 23lber from Portnacraig, and a 16lber for club President Jimmy Ross in the Sawmill Stream. Gordon Nichols caught his first salmon of 9lbs, which he was delighted with. And on Friday, Perth angler Alun Williams had three fish from below the dam. What a day!!

The Isla reported 14 fish, all from Coupar Grange.

Prospects - week commencing 6th June 2011

Weather

The forecast for this week is for a little rain, but nothing that should upset river levels too much. Temperature is set to remain steady in the mid-teens Celsius.

Fish

We await the grilse run, but we are maybe a little bit too early still for these fish. When they do arrive, they will provide fantastic sport.

It is very interesting to note that Stormont Angling Club reported two fish yesterday (6th June) from their stretch just upstream of the tidal limit above Perth. It's very early for this area to be catching fish, and so hopefully this bodes well for the lower river.

Tackle

The water temperature is generally warmer and so if conditions are settled, warm and river levels are low, summer tactics will be required. Many ghillies will advocate a change to lighter baits, intermediate lines and slightly smaller flies. Fish will move greater distances to intercept a fly or lure under these conditions, so sizes can usually be reduced. Wake flies such as sunray shadows will definitely catch fish as the grilse move in.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 28th May 2011

General

The end of May heralds the end of fishing for 'springers' in most people's minds, as the Summer runs enter the system. It was therefore disappointing that the final week of spring fishing was curtailed to a great extent by high river levels. Very strong winds also made fishing extremely difficult.

Water temperature dropped by 4 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 97 springers, this week saw just 57salmon reported on the FishTay website. It should be noted that 18 sea trout were also reported, heralding their return to the system from sea.

Lower Tay

The roles reversed a little last week, with the lower river struggling somewhat in the big water. The lower Tay contributed just 11 springers.

On Catholes, ghillie Jimmy Chim had a great Wednesday morning, landing an 11lbs springer and 4 seat trout to 3lbs, all on a flying-C.

Tony Wood had a 9lb salmon on Friday from Benchil on a Rapala, following on from another springer caught by his party the day before on Loch Faskally.

Even the reliable Islamouth beats struggled with the river conditions, although Neil Tong had 2 fish in 2 days on the beat, including a 10lber on a devon.

Other beats to report fish were Stobhall (2) and Ballathie (2).

Middle Tay

13 fish were reported from the middle beats.

Newtyle celebrated their 60th fish of the season on Saturday, and their 5 fish for the week were joined by an 8lb sea trout caught by Allan Rennie. On Tuesday John Phillips had a 13lber harling.

Meikleour (1), Dunkeld House (4) and Dalmarnock (1) also reported fish.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The Upper beats led the way last week with 33 fish reported. Upper Kinnaird also reported the biggest fish of the week, a 23lber. Lower and Upper Kinnaird reported a combined total of 5 fish.

John Cranston caught and released a 10lb springer on Dalguise by the Rowan Tree in the Otterstone pool on a black and gold devon.

The Tummel and Garry continue to fish well. Pitlochry AC reported 12 fish from below the dam in Pitlochry, and another 5 from the Ruan Ruarie beat of the Garry. The club's total so far this season is 100, which is excellent news.

The club water on the River Garry is starting to fish well. Scott Henderson had a 10lbs fish on a Red Flying C. Scott had another fish of around 8lbs on a Black Flying C. Wendy Halliwell managed a fresh fish of 10lbs on Wednesday. Damian Fison landed a 12lbs fish on fly and Nick Webster had two excellent fish both of 12lbs on a Flying C on Thursday.

At the Dam Perth Angler Steven Watt continued to have success landing 6 salmon in 3 days up to 14lbs.

Prospects - week commencing 30th May 2011

Weather

Luckily conditions are set to remain far more settled this week, and high pressure towards the end of the week will herald warm weather and dropping river levels. This should all add up to some excellent sport this week, making up for the difficult conditions of last week.

Fish

Good numbers of running fish are being reported, but last week with such high water they were very hard to target. As levels fine down this week, things should get a little easier. There are quite a few reports of small salmon which may well be early grilse. It would be wonderful if a really good grilse run moved up the river this Summer, and it would provide some great sport.

Tackle

The water temperature is generally warmer and so if conditions are settled, warm and river levels are low, a slight change to early summer tactics may be required. Many ghillies will advocate a change to lighter baits, intermediate lines and slightly smaller flies. Fish will move greater distances to intercept a fly or lure under these conditions, so sizes can usually be reduced.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 21st May 2011

General

A far more settled week in terms of river levels resulted in a much more encouraging tally than the previous one. Water temperature held steady at 54 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 45 springers, this week saw 97 fish reported on the FishTay website. This reflects the improved fishing conditions we experienced.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 30 fish to the total last week.

Islamouth reported 23 fish for the week, but also advised that large pods of fish are racing through the beat, and proving hard to catch. Judging by Coupar Grange's results last week (see further down this report), a number of these fish are heading up the Isla.

Sea trout are also appearing the Tay now. Benchil reported 10 for the week.

Other beats reporting salmon were Benchil & Pitlochrie (1), Stobhall (1), Taymount (3) and Cargill (2).

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 22 fish, which is a welcome total after the previous week's tally of 4.

Newtyle reported 9 fish, and regular angler Allan Rennie once again was in the thick of the action. Allan landed three fish on Monday, losing a further two. He had a 20lber on the fly, a 15lber on a toby, and a 14lber harling.

Dalmarnock reported 2 fish, one of which was an 18lb beauty caught on the fly by Tom Westacott.

Dunkeld House had a very good week, reporting 7 fish to 15lbs. All 7 were taken on the fly.

Other middle river beats to report fish were Meikleour (2) and Kercock (2).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The upper river catches continue to be encouraging. 23 fish came from these beats.

Dalguise reported 1 fish, but what a fish! Beat regular Brian Joseph managed to land a 21lb cock salmon in the tail of the Bridge Pool. The fish was caught on a black and gold floating devon, weighed and carefully returned.

Lower Kinnaird also reported 3 fish, and Upper Farleyer reported 2.

On the Tummel the Pitlochry AC stretch at the dam continues to produce good numbers of fish, with over 2000 now through the fish ladder. Davie Stewart had a day to remember on Monday, catching 1 fish from Pitlochry Bank and 2 more from Portnacriag. They weighed 14, 9 and 8lbs respectively. Also on Monday, visiting angler Gary Westhead had a 13lber from Pitlochry Bank in the afternoon.

Then on Tuesday, 7 fish were reported, with more lost. The successful anglers included Steven Watt, George Renwick, and Gary Westhead again.

As the week continued, the sport reduced a little although fish were caught every day. Alun Williams had a 10lber on Friday from Portnacriag.

The Isla reported 22 fish, with all but 1 coming from Coupar Grange. The Isla will now have a very good run of fish passing through it, borne out by these excellent numbers.

Prospects - week commencing 23rd May 2011

Weather

As I write this, Perthshire is being lashed with rain and high winds. The wind is expected to drop, but river levels will be on the rise after the rainfall.

The forecast suggests unsettled conditions for the rest of the week, which may mean the rivers don't get much of a chance to settle. However......

Fish

........there is no doubt that the main runs of late spring and early Summer fish are here, with some reports of early grilse in the system. So, despite the weather forecast, things might be better than expected.

Tackle

The water temperature is rising and so if conditions are settled, warm and river levels are low, a slight change to early summer tactics may be required. Many ghillies will advocate a change to lighter baits, intermediate lines and slightly smaller flies.

However, it looks like river levels may not be low right now!!

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 14th May 2011

General

Some heavy rain last week led to fluctuating river levels and therefore a tricky week for anglers. Water temperature increased to 54 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 93 springers, this week saw only 45 fish reported on the FishTay website.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 16 fish to the total last week.

The unsettled water levels really made for tough going on the lower river, with fish pushing on through in the bigger water. A few beats reported fish, and yet again the pick of them was Islamouth, although their 11 fish was a poor total in comparison to previous weeks.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 4 fish, and the reduction from last week's total of 14 shows just how difficult conditions have been. No more information is currently available for this area, although Meikleour, Kercock and Dunkeld House all had a fish or two.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

A total of 13 fish came from the upper river, showing that fish are now well spread throughout this area, and possibly more easily covered higher up the system.

Lower Kinnaird reported 3 fish for the week. Dalmarnock had 1.

At Dalguise, Stewart Dingwall caught a 12 pounds salmon fly fishing in the Guay pool on a size 6 Ghillie fly and Kenny Tragham caught his first Salmon at Dalguise on a red and gold Floating Devon in the Bridge pool.

Over 1000 fish are through the counter at Pitlochry Dam, and fish are being caught further up above it now. The Garry is seeing fish. At Ruan Ruarie near Killicrankie, There were 2 firsts for anglers Stuart Norris and Stuart McArthur. Stuart Norris fishing Ruan Ruarie caught his first ever springer of 13 pounds and later in the day another of 8 pounds. Both fish were caught on a yellow flying c, one in the station pool and the other just below the viaduct. Ross Gardiner also had an 8lber at Ruan Ruarie on the fly.

At the Pitlochry dam fishings on the Pitlochry bank Stuart McArthur caught his first ever fish on fly, which was about 8 pounds. On Tuesday a fish was caught on Pitlochry bank in the morning, and one in the afternoon on Portnacraig bank. This was only half a story as four fish were also lost during the day. Successful angler that day was Jim Fisher with two about 10 and 12 pounds.

Fish are running the Isla in numbers after the extra water we've had. Coupar Grange reported 10.

Prospects - week commencing 16th May 2011

Weather

Some intermittent rain over the weekend has led to rising levels in a number of tributaries, and some relatively heavy colouration in the main stem. Conditions look like they may be less than settled this week, which could lead to more challenging fishing than was on offer last week.

Fish

Salmon are well-spread throughout the district now. Water temperature will encourage them to be much more active, and they will run faster and higher in the water column. More fish should be seen now as they enter pools.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 7th May 2011

General

The Tay remained settled and low once again throughout the week, and these conditions proved ideal for fishing. Tributaries struggled somewhat due to the low water. Water temperature remained at 52 degrees Fahrenheit.

After last week's total of 57 springers, this week saw 93 fish reported on the FishTay website. Biggest fish was a 24lber from Dalmarnock.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 58 fish to the total last week.

Islamouth was again the place to be on the lower river, as would be expected at this time of year with low river levels. 35 springers were caught on the beat, all on the fly. Fantastic sport was had by a number of anglers, including Steven Watt from Perth, who landed several fish on small shrimp flies. Gary McErlain, John McElroy and Neil Tong all had fish later in the week, and on Friday Donald Rastick landed a 12lber - one of a number landed by his party.

Cargill fished well, with Sanjay Chataroo landing two fish on the fly over his 2 days. Brian McLeod and Stewart Jennet also had fish up to 22lbs during a week of 6 for the beat.

Stuart Lean decided to have an evening cast at Lower Redgorton, and landed a fresh-run fish at 7pm in the Bleachings on a sparsely-dressed cascade. He also had 2 sea-trout, indicating that these delightful fish are now running the river.

Other beats to report fish were Stobhall (7), Taymount (5) and Ballathie (4).

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 18 fish, which is a bit better than last week's 14. As ever, more fish will have been caught and not reported from this area.

Dalmarnock fished steadily, reporting 6 for the week. But this beat continues to provide big fish this season. Sandip Datta fished with his fiance Samantha Gallacher, and Sandip landed a cracking 24lb springer on a 1-inch copper cascade tube fly from the Clackern Taggart pool. Samantha lost a fish in the same pool, but later in the day was delighted to land a 10lb sea-licer, again the the same pool.

Newtyle reported 5, with John Watson and Steven Hogg taking fish on the fly.

Meikleour (3), Dunkeld House (1) and Kercock (3) all reported fish, and prospects look good for the middle river.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

A total of 15 fish came from the upper river, which is great news. Lower Kinnaird (2), Edradynate (3), Farleyer (2) and Findynate (1) all had success.

Pitlochry AC are having continued success on the Tummel, and the fish counter at the dam now shows over 1000 fish through. Warmer water temperatures compared to last year are encouraging an earlier run of these fish through the dam. Graeme Lightbody landed the 65th fish caught this year on Pitlochry AC water with a sea-liced 9lber.Neil McLellan had 2 fish to 13lbs from the Pitlochry Bank, and Colin Bateman had a 10lber in a week which saw 5 fish reported from the stretch.

Loch Faskally also reported a fish.

The Isla reported two fish, both from Coupar Grange.

I haven't heard any news of catches on the Earn, but I know that the last couple of weeks have been fairly desperate due to the low water. However, at the time of writing the river is up, and so this should encourage a fresh run into the Earn.

Prospects - week commencing 9th May 2011

Weather

Fish

Tackle

The days of fast-sinking lines and huge tube flies should be over now. The water temperature is rising and so if conditions do remain settled, warm and river levels are low, a slight change to early summer tactics may be required. Many ghillies will advocate a change to lighter baits, intermediate lines and slightly smaller flies, although fish still won't come a long way for anything unless it is big enough to really grab their attention.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 30th April 2011

General

The Tay remained settled once again throughout the week, and as a result river levels were low across the district. This may have curtailed catches in some areas. Water temperature increased slightly to 11 degrees Celsius.

After last week's total of 80 springers, this week saw 57 fish reported on the FishTay website. However, the story of the week was undoubtedly the huge 38lb (estimated) cock fish caught and safely released by novice salmon angler Andrew McAdam on Glendelvine. More on this below.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 25 fish to the total last week. It seems that fish are running very hard through the lowest beats, but above Stanley fish rested up enough to give some good sport.

Once again, Islamouth was the place to be, with 13 fish reported for the week. John McElroy's party had 8 fish towards the end of the week. Ian Mitchell, Neil Tong and Alun Williams were all successful.

Taymount reported 1 fish. Barry Ward had a 9lb fish on a Rapalla in the Alderns on Friday. Ballathie reported a 19lb salmon, caught by Donny Gow from Crieff. Michael Kirkpatrick had a 10lb fish from Luncarty on a flying C.

Stobhall, Cargill and Almondmouth also reported fish. but there is no doubt that for the lower beats, more water would be a good thing.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 14 fish, which is a bit of a reduction on last week's 30. More fish will have been caught and not reported from this area.

On Gelndelvine, Andrew McAdam had a salmon fishing debut to remember. after catching and releasing his first ever salmon of 14lbs, he then hooked into something far bigger on a red floating devon only 2 casts later. Ghillie Steve McIrvine raced to advise and assist, and as soon as the fish was seen Steve knew it was huge. 40 minutes later Steve netted Mr McAdam's huge fish. After quickly being measured, the fish was released to continue its journey and pass its genes on to future generations. The fish measured 117cm long and had a girth of 62.5cm, giving it an estimated weight of 38lbs. Massive congratulations to Mr McAdam. This salmon has put a smile on the faces of anyone associated with the Tay.

Fish were also reported from Meikleour (2), Kercock(2), Newtyle (3) and Dunkeld House (3).

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The Upper Tay reported 15 fish, but as far as the Tay is concerned it is here where lower water has the greatest effect. Fish were caught at Lower Kinnaird (3), Findynate(1), Edradynate (1)and Farleyer (4).

The Tummel continues to produce, with the Pitlochry Angling Club stretch below the dam still giving good sport. As of last weekend, over 700 fish had passed through the counter, which is an improvement on this time last year. John Veith and Ian Horne had fish from the Pitlochry Bank of 9lbs and 6lbs respectively. The club water reported 7 for the week.

Coupar Grange on the Isla reported 3 fish.

Prospects - week commencing 2nd May 2011

Weather

It seems as if the weather may be about to break, with light rain forecast for the second half of the week, and then more sustained downpours forecast for Saturday. This could bode very well for the fishing across the district, as a freshening of rivers should lead to strong runs entering the system.

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 23rd April 2011

General

The Tay remained settled throughout the week, making for excellent fishing conditions in all but the uppermost reaches. The weather was so settled that some Tay tributaries actually ran too low, and therefore struggled a little. Water temperature rose markedly to 10 degrees Celsius.

After last week's total of 70 springers, this week saw 80 fish reported on the FishTay website. Best reported fish of the week came from Dalmarnock, and weighed 30lbs. It's great to see middle and upper beats getting in amongst the big fish.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 35 fish to the total last week. A number of beats reported fish, including Islamouth, Cargill, Ballathie, Stobhall and Taymount.

Islamouth headed the catches with 15 fish, and all were caught on the fly. John McElroy's party accounted for 9 of these, including a 19lber caught by Roger Moore on Saturday.

Cargill had 8 for the week, with Keith Schofield landing a lovely 15 pounds salmon. Bruce Campbell and Philip Wright both had fish around 10 pounds, and all three of these fish were caught on the fly.

Taymount reported 3 fish, starting with Phil Cambers' 10lber from Finford Head on Monday. In the middle of the week Jess James added 2 to the total; both fly-caught springers were taken from the bank at Tam's Corner and the Holly Bush.

Stobhall had 5 for the week. George Rae had a 9lb springer from the boat at the Alderns, and Alexis Ward had two springers from the boat. Shaun Betham also had a cracking 13lb fish from the Holy Bush on a Toby on Saturday.

Bob Hunter had his first salmon for 2 years at Stanley in front of the Mills, and was delighted with it as you would expect.

Upper Redgorton's ghillie Jock Tait took his wife out harling, and she managed to land her very first salmon!! Well done! On Lower Redgorton, Jason Stratton had two springers and lost two.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 30 fish, which is a great increase on last week's 13. More fish will have been caught and not reported.

The trophy fish of the week was a 30lb spanker caught by Neil McGowan at Dalmarnock on the fly. A true fish of a lifetime, and one befitting such a famous big fish beat of seasons past. The fish was caught in the Dalmarnock Bank pool, and was one of 9 for the beat last week. Terrific news.

Newtyle reported 11 fish for the week, including fish to 20lbs. A great day was had on Thursday, with 7 landed (all on the fly).

Meikleour (1), Kercock (3) and Dunkeld House (4) also all reported fish.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The Upper Tay reported 11 fish, with lower water making life a little tougher. Sea-liced fish are being caught on upper beats, showing that the fish are running hard as water temperature increases.

Best fish from the upper river was a 22lber caught at the Chinese Bridge Pool on Taymouth Castle beat by Rob Booth. Jack Boyle had a 12lber from Upper Farleyer on Friday. And Fen Howieson had a fresh-run 9lb springer at Dalguise. Alistair Nellis also had success at Dalguise, landing a 7lb sea-liced cock fish.

After weeks of nothing running the fish ladder at Pitlochry Dam, all of a sudden the water temperature reaches the magic figure and we stand at around 260 fish!! And the fishing on the Tummel is reflecting this. Jimmy Ross had an 18lb springer at the Sawmill, and Bob White marked his 55th birthday with a 13lber from the Town Bank.

On the Isla, Coupar Grange reported 3 fish, and Islabank had 1.

Prospects - week commencing 25th April 2011

Weather

It looks as if the settled weather will continue this week. While this isn't really an issue for water levels in the Tay, some tributaries may continue to be a little low (such as the Earn). Water temperatures will either hold or climb a little as the warm weather continues.

Fish

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting the fish of your dreams.

Fishing Report - week ended 16th April 2011

General

A period of settled conditions throughout the week really made for some excellent fishing conditions throughout Tayside this week. Water temperature remained at 7 degrees Celsius throughout the week.

After last week's total of 51 springers, this week saw 70 fish reported on the FishTay website. Best reported fish of the week came from Ballathie, and weighed 30lbs. However a fish was caught on the fly at Lower Murthly (and unfortunately not reported) which I understand weighed 32lbs.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 30 fish to the total last week, and as stated above a 30lber was caught at Ballathie on Wednesday. The lucky angler was 14 year-old Louise Brown, and the fresh-run springer was her first ever salmon!! Under the guidance of ghillie George McInnes, Louise successfully landed the big fish after it had been hooked whilst harling. The beat added 2 more salmon for the week, but there's no doubt that Louise's fish was easily the highlight.

Catholes reported 4 fish for the week. John Lessels caught a 10lb fish on Monday, and then on Wednesday John Cook had two springers in the space of half an hour on a Toby Salmo. And then at the end of the week, young Peter Gifford once again showed the older anglers how to do it with a 7lb beauty.

Upper Scone reported 1 fish for the week, caught by Neil Gordon at Neil's Head on Monday.

Stobhall and Taymount weighed in again, reporting 4 and 6 springers respectively. A 17lber was landed at Upper Eels Brig on Stobhall by John Morris, and the Kilmou produced an 18lber for Bill Samuel. On Taymount, Betty Jarvis landed a lovely 9lb springer while harling at the Red Rocks.

Islamouth produced 6 fish towards the end of the week for Patrick Gordon's party, with Patrick himself landing a 9lb fish on the fly and John Garnett catching a 12lber on his first cast of the day on the fly.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 13 fish, although it is clear that a number of fish are not reported from these beats. Kercock, Newtyle and Dunkeld House all did report fish (Kercock had 4), but the big news around the river was a 32lb springer caught by Peter Phillips on the fly in the Boat Pool at Lower Murthly. No other information on this fish is available at present.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The Upper Tay reported 21 fish, which is a great improvement after the previous week's 7 fish. Findynate, Farleyer and Edradynate all reported fish. It's great that the Upper Tay beats are now getting in amongst the fish, and it's a sure sign that fish are becoming well spread across the catchment.

Another sure sign of this is the fantastic fishing reported by anglers at Portnacraig on the Tummel. 14 fish were reported from this beat, including springers of 16lb and 20lb for Davy Stewart, and Steven Watt had 3 fish all on the fly on Friday. Angling club members also had a few fish from the Lower Tummel, with Robert Parry and Donald Noble both landing fish from the Rock Pool.

And the Sawmill Stream yielded a 28lber to Ally Gowans, and a 25lber to Jim Kennedy.

On the Isla, Coupar Grange reported 6 fish for the week.

Prospects - week commencing 18th April 2011

Weather

It looks as if the settled weather will continue this week. While this isn't really an issue for water levels in the Tay, some tributaries may begin to get a little low (such as the Earn). Water temperatures will either hold or climb a little as the warm weather continues.

Fish

Salmon are well-spread throughout the district now. Up until Sunday 17th April, only a few fish had passed through the fish counter at Pitlochry. I'm told that as of 20th, this figure has risen into the early hundreds. There are also some really big fish in the system now, with plenty of stories of fish hooked and lost being told.

Tackle

As always at this time of year, fishing large flies and lures deep and slow will be the way to entice spring fish. However, the water temperature is rising and so if conditions do remain settled, warm and river levels are low, a slight change to early summer tactics may be required. Fast-sinking fly lines, very large flies and 30g toby's may not be required in some areas to the extent that they have been so far this year.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting that angler's dream, the Tay springer.

Fishing Report - week ended 9th April 2011

General

After a settled start to the week, heavy rain saw high water levels throughout most of the week, although by Saturday fishing conditions were back to their best. Water temperature certainly climbed during the week, and by Saturday it stood at 7 degrees Celsius.

After last week's total of 49 springers, this week saw 51 fish reported on the FishTay website. Best fish of the week came from Coupar Grange on the Isla, and weighed 20lbs.

As always a good few more will have been caught and not reported, unfortunately ensuring that this report can never be deemed 'complete'.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 19 fish to the total last week, with the best fish from this area being an 18lber caught by Ian Mitchell while harling the top beat at Stobhall.

Upper Scone started well on Monday. Gillian Dokin had an 8lb springer while harling Pitlochrie Pool, and then Ted Edgar caught his first ever salmon while spinning from the bank at the same pool. The party managed two further fish before the week was out.

Toby Ryley was another angler lucky enough to catch his first salmon, this time harling a rapala on Islamouth. The fish weighed 12.5lbs.

Taymount reported 4 fish for the week, with Walter Norton landing springers of 10lb and 12lb whilst spinning from the bank on the top beat. And then on Saturday, Simon Brook had a 13lber on a devon at the Green Bank in the Linn Pool. On the same day, Derek Ferguson had a 9lb fish on the fly from the Red Rocks.

Burnmouth reported 1 fish for the week, and Ballathie had 2.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 10 fish. Newtyle reported 5, with 4 fish caught on Wednesday. Beat regular Allan Rennie had springers of 12lbs and 14lbs while harling. Alistair Ferguson then caught his first ever Tay springer (a 13lb sea-liced cracker), before catching his second a little later.

Kercock reported 3 fish for the week, Meikleour House had 1 and Dunkeld House also had 1.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The Upper Tay reported 7 fish. Levels at Portnacraig on the Tummel finally steadied at the end of the week, resulting in fly-caught fish of 9lbs for Davy Stewart, and 2 fish (and 1 lost) for Saul Mackay, with the biggest being 10lbs. Innes Smith also had a 10lb springer to break the Sawmill beat's duck for 2011.

Anglers at Dalguise have been encountering fish, with a number lost. However, Neil Dyson landed two 12lb springers from the Guay Pool within an hour of each other, and these were the first springers he had ever caught. A great day for Neil.

On the Isla, Coupar Grange reported 13 springers, and Islabank had 1. The action at Coupar Grange came thick and fast, with the biggest fish in the district of 20lb being caught by Andy Nealson on fly (one of three fish he had on Friday).

Peter Crabb and John Muller had a fish each on Monday on the fly, and on Wednesday Malcolm Porteous and John Smith were successful. John Muller had another springer on Friday to go along with Andy Nealson's three, and then on Saturday John Muller had his 3rd fish of the week, and John Black had one on a toby.

Prospects - week commencing 11th April 2011

Weather

Despite the very warm temperatures and dry weather we had this weekend, it doesn't look like the high pressure will last this week. The forecast suggests that there will be a mix of showers and heavier rain this week, so let's hope it isn't as heavy as they suggest.

Water temperature climbed up to 7 degrees Celsius last week, and the fish will begin to react accordingly.

Fish

A good number of fish are being seen and caught in the Upper Tay and tributaries such as the Isla and Tummel. This shows that fish are running the rivers in numbers, and as the water temperature rises they are spreading out throughout the system. Many more beats than just those expected to catch at this time of year will come into play, creating wider choice for anglers.

Tackle

As always at this time of year, fishing large flies and lures deep and slow will be the way to entice spring fish. The water temperature is rising, but will still keep these fish in a relatively low energy state in comparison to their summer-running relatives, and so something that they really can't ignore passing right by their noses is the best method. Depending on water height, some pools will run very deep and demand sinking fly lines or plenty of weight to get down to the lies.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting that angler's dream, the Tay springer.

Fishing Report - week ended 2nd April 2011

General

Although the total number of reported fish was slightly less than the previous week, the final week of March was notable for the sheer quality of the fish that were caught. And the Tay leads the way for the biggest fish so far in 2011 (in the entire UK, I believe), with the springer of a lifetime caught and released (see below).

After last week's total of 52 springers, this week saw 49 fish reported on the FishTay website. As always a good few more will have been caught and not reported, unfortunately ensuring that this report can never be deemed 'complete'.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 24 fish to the total last week, with the best fish from being a 35lb springer from Benchil & Pitlochrie. What an awesome fish this was, caught and released by ghillie Bob White. Bob caught the fish while harling in the Tarr Tank pool.

The fish has/will be featured in a number of newspapers and fishing magazines, and put a smile on the faces of many people as it brought back memories of a bygone era when spring fish of this size didn't get a second glance, such was their abundance.

Ian Watson also landed an 8lber from Stanley while harling Horsey.

Stobhall and Taymount continued to produce fish, reporting 6 and 3 for the week respectively. Keith Greenwell had a nice 11lb fish harling on Stobhall, and Graham Brooks had a 12lber on the fly at Finford Head, Taymount. Stobhall also hosted some Swedish fishermen, and Jochen Fritz had fish of 7lbs and 18lbs on the fly.

Catholes reported a 12lb springer caught by Jimmy Chim in the Woodside pool.

Almondmouth, Burnmouth, Upper Scone, Ballathie and Cargill each reported 1 or 2 fish during the week, and Islamouth reported 4 on Thursday, with 3 of them caught by John McElroy including one on fly.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 10 fish. Dalmarnock led the way with 5 fish, which is great news for ghillie Colin McFadden. He was delighted to report a 24lb springer on Friday, caught and released by Gordy Milliken. The beat also reported an 18lber on Saturday to end off a fine week.

Kercock reported 3 fish, Dunkeld House 2 and Newtyle 1 for the week.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

The Upper Tay reported 7 fish. Findynate and Lower Kinnaird both broke their 2011 ducks, reporting a springer each.

Saturday saw Dalguise's Otterstone Pool fishing well. Bob Barclay had an 18lb beauty in the morning on a flying bucktail. And then later in the day George Inglis capped off a fine first visit to the beat with a 7lb fish on a bucktail from the same pool.

Portnacraig Pitlochry on the Tummel reported 3 fish for the week, but I have no further details.

The Isla continues to fish, with Coupar Grange reporting 6 and Islabank 1.

Prospects - week commencing 4th April 2011

Weather

The weather forecast would suggest relatively settled conditions at either end of the week, although Wednesday looks set to be a very wet day.

Water temperature climbed up to 6 degrees celsius last week, which is the first time it has been above 4 degrees this year.

Fish

There are some very large fish in the system, and Bob White's 35lber is a prime example. The number of fish in the late teens and early twenties is very encouraging, so make sure that tackle is appropriate for landing one of these powerful fish.

Tackle

As always at this time of year, fishing large flies and lures deep and slow will be the way to entice spring fish. The water temperature is rising, but will still keep these fish in a relatively low energy state in comparison to their summer-running relatives, and so a lure that they really can't ignore passing right by their noses is the best method. Depending on water height, some pools will run very deep and demand sinking fly lines or plenty of weight to get down to the lies.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting that angler's dream, the Tay springer.

Fishing Report - week ended 26th March 2011

General

As expected, rising temperatures at the start of the week did lead to snowmelt and therefore high water levels. But, as the snowmelt slowed during the week, conditions became ideal and success was had by many.

After last week's total of 35 springers, this week saw 52 fish reported on the FishTay website, marking the best week on the river so far this season. As always, a good few more will have been caught and not reported.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 22 fish to the total last week, with the best fish from this area being an 25lb springer from Islamouth.

Monday was ladies day at Taymount, but the rising river led to blanks all round. On Thursday Barry Phillips had a 12lb beauty on a devon, and the beat reported a 21lb springer on Friday, caught by Bob Hughes whilst harling in the Linn Head.

Islamouth's ghillies kept numbers ticking over during unlet days. And then on Friday Iain Mitchell had a real red-letter day on this beat. Firstly he hooked and landed a cracking 17.5lb salmon whilst fly fishing from the boat. Then he spent some time harling, and ended up with a wonderful 25lb classic big Tay springer. Some day!!

On Thursday Ray Gardiner had a 14lb fish from Lower Redgorton on a harled tomic. And then on Saturday the Pitlochrie beat picked up fish, with Danny Fulton landing two fish and Ian Kettles getting one from the Pitlochrie Pool.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 13 fish.

Meikleour, Kercock and Dunkeld House all reported spring fish, and Allan Rennie continued his recent success at Newtyle with a 10lb fish on Tuesday.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

A total of 5 fish were reported from the Upper river this week, and two more beats broke their 2011 duck. Upper Kinnaird reported their first fish of the season, and Upper Farleyer had their first and second fish for the year.

The Tummel at Pitlochry also continues to report fish, and the last I heard there was only one fish through the salmon ladder at the dam so far. There must be fish held up below the dam in this beat.

The Isla reported 12 fish, all but one coming from Coupar Grange (Islabank reported the other fish). Amongst the Coupar Grange fish was one of 16lbs.

Reports are that the Earn continues to see a run of fish.

Prospects - week commencing 28th March 2011

Weather

The week is starting much as it finished - excellent river levels and conditions. Heavy rain is forecast for the middle of the week, but other than that let's hope that conditions remain as settled as possible.

Water temperature crept up a degree to 4 degrees celsius last week.

Fish

Last week was the highest reported catch so far, and so this bodes well for the end of March and beginning of April. There are some big fish in the system, with a number of fish in the 20lb+ bracket already encountered. Indeed, the Tay heads the list of big fish in the UK so far this season with Newtyle's 28lb cracker in March.

Tackle

As always at this time of year, fishing large flies and lures deep and slow will be the way to entice spring fish. The water temperature will keep these fish in a relatively low energy state in comparison to their summer-running relatives, and so a lure that they really can't ignore passing right by their noses is the best method. Depending on water height, some pools will run very deep and demand sinking fly lines or plenty of weight to get down to the lies.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting that angler's dream, the Tay springer.

Fishing Report - week ended 19th March 2011

General

Conditions were tricky for a significant part of the week, with the river unfishable at times below the Linn Pool due to height and colour. After last week's total of 39 springers, this week saw 35 fish reported on the FishTay website, and as always a good few more will have been caught and not reported.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 22 fish to the total last week, with the best fish from this area being an 18lb springer from Upper Scone. As already stated, a number of these beats lost fishing days due to heavily coloured water.

Upper Scone did well on Friday, with Arnott McWhinnie and Alan McCaig landing fish of 11lb respectively. And then Arnott was delighted to hook into an 18lb fish right at the end of the day. These fish were all caught from the boat on the Pitlochrie beat, as was James McKay's 14lber from Stanley Mills on Saturday.

Of the other beats, Taymount, Stobhall, Islamouth, Cargill and Ballathie produced fish. Brian Stobie had a 15lb springer from Taymount's Linn Pool on a Toby. Ewan Cameron caught a 9lb fish from Ballathie, while David Wilmot had a cracking 15lb fish from Cargill on the fly. Freddie Sutherland landed an 11lber on a devon at Catholes.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats reported 7 fish, but some catches were not reported including fish of 20lb and 25lb from Delvine.

Meikleour, Kercock and Newtyle all reported spring fish, and Dalmarnock were able to report their first fish of the season as Ian Marshall landed a 12lb fish on a copper salmo in the Ram's Horn pool

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

Just 4 fish were reported from the Upper river this week, with 3 of these coming from Portnacraig on the Tummel. Innes Smith did himself proud with a 21lb fish from the Pitlochry Angling Club water on the fly. Then on Saturday Neil Tong and Russel Boyd had fish of 14lb and 13lb respectively from Portnacraig.

Major Mike Stanners also had a 7lb fish from the casting platform on Dalguise's Bridge Pool.

The Isla reported 2 fish from Coupar Grange, the largest being 16lbs.

Although not reported, it is clear that the Earn saw a good run of fish towards the end of the week. I have it on good authority that a 21lb springer was caught and released at Findo Gask, and Kinkell Bridge are also encountering fish.

Prospects - week commencing 21st March 2011

Weather

Although weather reports suggest mild and settled weather this week, the beginning of the week looks like it may again yield high coloured water as the increase in temperatures has led to snow-melt. However, hopefully as the weather does remain settled through the week, we will see much better conditions later. The snow-melt will no doubt keep water temperatures low.

Fish

There are a number of reports coming in now of significant numbers of fish running throughout the system. It's clear that the expected March run has arrived. It's good to see the tributaries such as the Tummel, Isla and Earn seeing fish, and if conditions settle we should see some excellent spring fishing this week.

Tackle

Having said that, I had a report last week of a fish taken on a Sunray Shadow fished on a floating line, so as always the fish like to blow theories out of the water occasionally.

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting that angler's dream, the Tay springer.

Fishing Report - week ended 12th March 2011

General

A slightly slower week still saw some very promising fish caught. Weather conditions varied, with rain, high winds and snow hitting Tayside at various times during the week. After last week's total of 58 springers, this week saw 39 fish reported on the FishTay website, and as always a good few more will have been caught and not reported.

Lower Tay

The lower Tay contributed 24 fish to the total last week,

with fish being caught right into the end of the week despite the bad weather. Catches were split across most lower beats.

The biggest salmon to be caught on the lower beats was a 19lb fish on Almondmouth. Stobhall continues to figure in the catches, with both Gordon Howe and Norman Laing landing 12lb and 10lb fish respectively.

Freddie Sutherland had a nice fresh springer from Catholes on Friday.

As Winter returned on Saturday the Pitlochrie beat did well, returning two fish of 12lb and 9lb. Danny Fulton's 12lber led him a merry dance as it shot out of Horsey and down through the Skellies, but he did well to get the fish under control eventually. And Eddie Slaven's 9lb fish was caught on a devon from the boat in the Wash House.

Cargill also had a fine end to the week, landing 4 springers.

Middle Tay

The Middle beats contributed 5 fish. However, things couldn't have been more exciting at Newtyle, as a fantastic 28lb spring fish was caught and carefully released by beat regular, Allan Rennie. The fish was hooked while harling in the Cotter Pool, and was eventually landed some distance downstream in The Boil. As can be seen by the photo on the right, the fish was an outstanding example of a Tay spring salmon. Well done Mr. Rennie.

Miekleour, Dunkeld House and Kercock all reported fish, and no doubt others were caught on middle beats and not reported.

Upper Tay & Tributaries (Earn, Isla, Tummel etc.)

There were 7 fish reported from further up the system, mainly from Portnacraig on the Tummel. Rab Brown had a 14lb fish on a gold toby, and Innes Smith had plenty to smile about as he landed a 20lb cracker on a monkey fly.

Upper Kinnaird also reported one fish for the week.

Loch Tay

Saturday was a red-letter day for the loch, with 8 fish caught, and 2 boats accounting for 3 each. These were lovely clean spring fish with the largest weighing 18lbs. Grant Tigwell had an 11lb fish on Wednesday.

Prospects - week commencing 14th March 2011

Weather

Hopefully river levels will remain steady this week, although weather reports are suggesting a less than settled week. Rain and hill snow are due in to the district on Tuesday and Wednesday, but just how much they affect levels will depend on the severity of the downpours. Temperatures are set to remain fairly mild, possibly leading to some snow melt and the rivers may well carry some colour.

Fish

Water temperatures dropped back to 3 degrees celsius last week, but fish will still be moving steadily and at depth. It's clear that we are now into a proper Spring run of fish, and many ghillies have been reporting some very large fish being sighted or even lost. So hopefully the catches of last week will be built on throughout March.

Tackle

Catch and Release

Full details of the C&R code, and a guide on safely releasing fish can be found by clicking here.

There is still lots of fishing at really competitive prices available on the FishTay website, so have a look and grab a day hunting that angler's dream, the Tay springer.

tay salmon

Francis & Tom Jennings with Francis' lovely Autumn fish caught on a devon from the Long Shot pool of Benchil.

tay salmon

James McKay with a fly-caught beauty from Horsey on Pitlochrie beat.

tay salmon

Sandip Datta with a lovely fish taken on the fly at Stanley.

tay salmon

Peter Varney returning a cracking sea-liced 21lbs salmon from Horsey Pool on Pitlochrie beat.

tay salmon

Alan McCaig shows his 20lb resident fish caught on the fly in the Black Stones Pool at Catholes.

tay salmon

David Rees holds his huge 40lb salmon, with help from Cargill ghillie Ali Scott.

tay salmon

Graham May with a 12lber caught from the boat at Pitlochrie Pool, Stanley.

tay salmon

Darel Marshall with a lovely 15lb salmon, again from Pitlochrie Pool.

Tay salmon

Mark Pickles celebrates his birthday with this lovely 10lber from the Boat Hole on Benchil. Ghillie Bob White assists.

tay salmon

Jim Ferrie with a 13lber on the fly from the Long Shot, Benchil.

tay salmon

Billy Matthews and ghillie Bob White with a 10lber from the Long Shot, Benchil.

tay salmon

Allan Rennie with yet another fish from his regular haunt, Newtyle.

tay salmon

Neil Barcock with a nice Luncarty fish.

tay salmon

Neil with a 5lb grilse from the Black Stones on Catholes.

tay salmon

Raymond Stagg with a 14lber from the Black Stones on Catholes.

tay salmon

Clive Castell with a nice grilse from Dalguise.

tay salmon

Raymond Stagg again, this time with an 8lber from the boat on Catholes.

tay salmon

Kenny Johnston and ghillie Bob White with a 13lber caught on a devon from Horsey on the Pitlochrie beat.

tay salmon

Katie Fitzpatrick proudly shows her 13lb debut salmon before releasing it.

tay salmon

Colin Hinchcliffe with his 10lber, with ghillie Bob White ready to help release it.

tay salmon

Andrew Clements with his fish from Benchil & Pitlochrie.

tay salmon

Andy Hindhoff with an 8lber from the Meikleour Islamouth beat caught on the fly in the Little Head pool.

tay salmon

James Boomer with his first ever salmon from Pitlochrie beat at Stanley.

tay salmon

Stanley beat owner Francis Jennings and ghillie Bob White with a lovely fish from Horsey pool on the fly.

tay salmon

Peter Marsh with his debut salmon of 13lbs from Pitlochrie beat, accompanied by ghillie Bob White and Peter's father Simon.

tay salmon

Bob and Peter with his second fish of the day.

tay salmon

Jason Stratton with a cracking fish from Sormont A.C. water

tay salmon

Neil Tong with another Stormont fish.

tay salmon

Tom Jennings with a 14lb sea-licer from Benchil.

Tay salmon

Ghillie Stuart Lean holds Rupert Monier-Williams' 13lb sea-liced salmon, caught on a flying -c at Lower Redgorton.

tay salmon

John Bennet with a sea-liced 11lber taken on a cascade fly at Woodside on Piltochrie beat.

tay salmon

Tom Jennings with his first fish of 10lbs from Benchil beat.

tay salmon

Tom followed up his first success with this 17lb belter.

tay salmon

Glenn Baikie with his 16lber from Dalguise.

Tay salmon

Willie Cummins with one of his 4 fish from Dunkeld House. A fine day!!

Tay salmon

Donald Cameron returning his 18lb sea-liced beauty from Dalguise.

tay salmon

Neill Sproull with a 12lber from Upper Farleyer.

Tummel salmon

Steven Watt with a 16lb fish from Portnacraig on the Tummel.

tay salmon

Jim Fisher with a cracking late evening Tummel fish of 15lbs.

tay salmon

Peter McGowan proudly displays his 26lb salmon from the Mousetrap at Dunkeld House.

tay salmon

Newtyle ghillie Martin Ritchie with Bill Carrol's 32lber.

tay springer

Matt Kelly with a fine salmon from Dalmarnock.

tay salmon

Alun Williams with his third fish of the day from the Green Bank on the Tummel.

tay salmon

Steven Watt with yet another fish from below the footbridge on the Tummel.

tay springer

John Phillips with a 13lber from Newtyle, caught harling.

tay springer

Graham Nicols with a lovely 12lber from Portnacraig on the Tummel....

tay springer

...and again with a second fish.

tay springer

Steven Watt with a 12.5lber from the Pitlochry dam on the fly.

Tay salmon

Allan Rennie with a bar of silver from Newtyle.

Tay salmon

Steven Watt with one of his fish from Portnacraig on the Tummel.

Tay salmon

Harry Boyle with a 12lb fly-caught salmon from Coupar Grange on the Isla.

Tay salmon

Mike McIntyre with an 18lber from the lower Tummel.

Tay Springer

Sandip Datta and fiance Samantha with Sandip's 24lber from Dalmarnock.

Tay springer

Samantha proudly shows off her 10lber.

Tay Springer

Stewart Jennet with his 22lber from the Cradle on Cargill.

Tay springer

Sanjay Chataroo with a 9lber from Clocksden on Cargill.

Tay springer

Perth angler Steven Watt with two lovely Islamouth fish (above and below).

Tay springer

Stuart Lean with his fresh-run evening fish from the Bleachings on Lower Redgorton.

Tay springer

Gary McErlain with a lovely bright fish from Islamouth.

Tay springer

Brian McLeod with a 14lb sea-licer from Cargill, caught on the fly.

Tay springer

Donald Rastrick with a 12lber from Islamouth.

Tay springer

Ghillie Steve McIrvine holds Andrew McAdam's 38lb beauty just prior to its release.

Tay sp[ringer

Andrew McAdam with his first fish of the day (14lbs). What a day to remember for this lucky man.

Tay springer

Ian Mitchell with a lovely 9lber from the Cutty on Islamouth.

Tay springer

Donny Gow wth a 19lb cracker from Ballathie.

Tay springer

Alun Williams and ghillie Billy Campbell with an 11lb sea-licer from Islamouth.

Tay springer

Barry Ward with his 9lber from the Alderns on Taymount.

Tay Springer

Neil McGowan proudly displays his fish of a lifetime, a 30lb springer from Dalmarnock.

Tay Springer

Neil with his fish from another angle.

Tay springer

Rob Booth with a 22lber from the Chinese Bridge Pool at Taymouth.

Tay springer

Roger Moore with his 19lb springer from Islamouth.

Tay Springer

Phil Cambers, happy with his lovely 10lb fish from lower Taymount.

Tay springer

George Portis with a 15lb sea-licer from Newtyle.

Tay springer

Jason Stratton with a lovely fly-caught fish from Lower Redgorton.

Tay springer

Taymount ghillie Cohn O'Dae holds Jess James' 10lber, caught on the fly at tam's Corner.

Tay springer

Jack Boyle with a 12lb fish from Upper Farleyer.

Tay springer

Tam Burt with a solid 11lber from Cargill.

Tay springer

Alexis Ward with a fine fish from Stobhall.

Tay springer

Keith Schofield with his lovely 15lber from Cargill.

tay springer

Ghillie George McInnes holds Louise Brown's 30lb springer at Ballathie.

tay springer

John Morris looks delighted with his 17lber from Stobhall.

tay springer

Steven Watt from Perth with a cracking springer from the Tummel.....

tay springer

....and another, during a day in which he actually had 3 fish from the bank!!

Tay springer

John Lessels with his 10lber from Catholes.

Tay springer

Ian Mitchell with his 18lb springer from Stobhall

Tay springer

Allan Rennie with a 14lber from Newtyle.....

Tay springer

.....and a 16lber from the same beat.

Tay springer

Neil Dyson about to return a Dalguise 12lb springer - his second of the day.

Tay springer

Walter Norton returning his 12lb Taymount springer.

Tay springer

Simon Brook and his nephew, delighted with a 12lber from Taymount.

Tay springer

Toby Ryley with his first ever springer. The 12.5 lb fish was carefully returned.

Tay springer

Alistair Ferguson with a 15lb springer....

Tay springer

..and a 13lber, both from Newtyle.

Tay springer

Bob White with his outstanding 35lb sea-liced Tay springer.

Tay springer

Bob about to return the big fish.

Tay springer

Gordy Milliken shows off a lovely 24lber from Dalmarnock.

Tay springer

Jochen Fritz is delighted with his 18lber, caught on the fly at Stobhall.

Tay springer

John McElroy with one of his three fish from Islamouth.

Tay springer

Bob White holds Ian Watson's 8lb springer.

Tay Springer

Ian Mitchell with his first fish, a 17.5lb beauty from Islamouth...........

Tay Springer

.......which he then followed up with this 25lb springer, seen here being carefully returned.

Tay Springer

Allan Rennie with yet more success from Newtyle with this 10lber.

Tay Springer

Ray Gardiner with his 14lb fish from Lower Redgorton.

Tay Springer

Ian Kettles ready to return his sea-liced 9lber from the Pitlochrie Pool.

Tay Springer

Barry Phillips is delighted with his first ever salmon; a 12lber caught on a devon in the Stankend pool at Taymount.

Tay Springer

Peter Duncan with a lovely 11lb springer from Catholes.

Tay Springer

Arnott McWhinne shows off his 18lb fish from the Pitlochrie beat.

Tay Springer

Arnott's 11lb fish caught earlier on the same day.

Tay Springer

Alan McCaig with a great 11lb fish from Pitlochrie beat, Upper Scone.

Tay Springer

Brian Stobie with a beautiful 15lber from the Linn Pool, Taymount.

Tay Springer

Craig Forrest braved the snow to catch this 16lb beauty on a kynoch at Cargill.

Tay springer

Freddie Sutherland with his 11lber from Catholes.

Tay springer

Ballathie ghillie George McInnes with a nice 13lb fish caught whilst harling.

Tay springer

James McKay ready to return his 14lber from Stanley Mills.

Tay springer

Neil Tong prepares to release his lovely 14lb Portnacraig fish.

Tay springer

David Wilmot with his 15lb fly-caught springer from the Bridge Pool at Cargill.

28lb Tay Springer

Allan Rennie's magnificent 28lb springer from Newtyle. A terrific fish.

Tay Springer

Freddie Sutherland with his 9lb fish from Catholes.

Tay Springer

Eddie Slaven about to return his 9lber from the Wash House pool on Pitlochrie beat.

Tay Springer

Danny Fulton carefully returns his 12lb fish at Horsey on Pitlochrie beat.

Tay Springer

Cargill ghillie David Godfrey with one of 4 springers caught towards the end of the week.

Tay Springer

Dave Chamberlain with a 10lb springer from Catholes

Tay Springer

Kenneth Johnston, delighted with his first ever springer from Benchil

Tay Springer

Kenneth Gardiner hooked up with this 14lb fish while harling at Stobhall

Tay Springer

George McInnes holds a fine 10lb fish that he landed from the boat at Ballathie with fellow ghillie Garry McErlain

Tay Springer

Brian Joseph with his 16lber from Dunkeld House - soon to be tagged and sent on its way

Tay Springer

Benchil ghillie Bob White with a fine 12lb fish from the Long Shot

Tay springer being returned

Harry Morrison carefully returns his fish from Islamouth

Tay Springer

Steven Watt looks pleased with this bright springer of 15lb from Taymount

Tay Springer

Angela Summerville with her first ever Tay springer from Taymount.

Tay Springer

Campbell Durie shows a lovely 9lb fish from the Linn Pool.

Tay Springer

Jimmy Gibson with a 10lber from the Linn Pool.

Tay springer

Johnny Stevenson with a bright 7lb fish from Taymount.

Steve Kettlewell with his 11lbs Springer from Taymount

Steve Kettlewell with his

11lbs springer from Taymount

David Godfrey with a 13lber from Cargill

David Godfrey's second fish of the day

Jimmy Ross with his fantastic 15lb springer from the Portnacraig beat on the Tummel

Jimmy Ross clearly delighted with his 15lb springer from Portnacraig beat on the Tummel