October has come and gone: and time rapidly moves on, and we enter the back end of Autumn. So sudden, before we lurch towards the onset of winter.
As the splendid autumnal colours of yellows, russet-reds and orange leaves finally leave their branches and pile up beneath the trunks, they have the trees to standing dormant and tall: their dark bark and branches contrasting against the bright blue sky. The air is cold and moisture laden and time to wrap up warm and enjoy the winter chill; a good time too, and have a stroll in the woods - and also be around water. Especially trout waters
The Chlorophyll within the leaves which in turn create those beautiful colours, once gone form the branches, allow the trees to start retaining the energy spent on the growth period, whilst they wait for the warmer spring weather. Death and rebirth.
My “home “ water Bewl should start to come on song - I know for a fact how many fish are there: and believe me, the stocking is very generous. Whilst it has been a little disappointing fishing through the summer - especially the hotter months - July and August when the water temperature was far to high, which in turn, lead to the trout d not to feed; and I can understand the frustration of many trout anglers when not catching anything, but this is the South East, and we seem to be the new riviera of Britain. I believe climate change is to blame; however, you may not agree. But they’re seems to be a great divide between us and the midland trout waters and further north: waters that appear to enjoy much cooler and wetter weather through out their summer period. But not only Bewl suffers: most of the smaller fisheries do, as well: with some, wisely closing during this period.
Enough whinging.
Hopefully, the recent rains have come and replenished the lakes and rivers - especially Bewl. And It will respond well ( there are stacks of fish in there for you to catch), as with all waters around: please support them.
The reported increase of EA rod licence sales has risen significantly, with more and more young and old trying the sport for the first time - and many returning fishers - which is really good news; this possibly due to an increased amount of time on their hands due to this dreadful virus - for our own well-being we have to get out; which in turn is great for angling in general, but also for trout fishing - especially at this time of year when it can be so productive. I have been busy with Tuition since coming out of lock down: and what better way to keep social distance and enjoy the fishing.
The pictured a fly is a pattern called an Appetiser, a fly of a bygone time, but still as deadly today as it was in 1973 when it was created: somehow it has been left to gather cobwebs for many seasons, but please use it. Originally Devised and constructed by that late and great angler: Bob Church. the single Appetiser is a great roach imitation and is responsible for many a notable catch, but do try the tandem Appetiser - where it is “legal” to use two hooks: check first!- this has pattern has caught me many fish - including some really large trout, possible because it is a big mouthful - and at this time of the year, Rainbows or Brown trout will be fattening up on small fish, especially, to carry them over the colder winter months.
This fly holds lots of movement, and there is it’s great appeal.
Fishing the fly couldn’t be easer. Find the weed beds (if still in evidence), or “structure” - around piers and pontoons, anywhere that might offer refuge for small cause fish, come to that. But please “up” your leader strength and don’t go below 10Ibs breaking strain or you will risk the chance of being smashed. Don’t forget these trout will be super charged, the take will be explosive !! I warned you.
Also wrap up warm: neoprene boots keep the “tootsies” warm, a windproof and cosy hat and of course glasses! I usually take a flask of hot chocolate - but any hot drink will help.
Apart from Bewl other waters to try are:
Springhill Trouwaters near Pembury, Tenterden trout waters
Brick farm ,Windmill hill, Hurstmonceux East sussex
And don’t forget Lakedown
These are just a few to try, so go and explore.
Please don’t forget, I’m happy to discuss any issues within these pages or other articles.
I can be contacted via my email: robert.4trout@gmail.com or you can contact Barry Reid at the Freshwater informer for further information.
That’s all for now,: keep warm, safe but have fun.
Bob G.