Contributed by Richard (21/04/19)
Recent reports of large beetle and black gnat falls, a lack of fishing and too much time spent working had me venturing out yesterday in the blazing sun-less than ideal conditions usually, but when terrestrials are falling it does not matter as their numbers will bring the trout out from under their hidey holes. So it was when I arrived at Kirkby Stephen near midday. With no rainfall in the last 6 weeks, the flow in the upper beats was pitiful which made the choice of venue more straightforward.
I was fortunate enough to spot this stunner ambling about picking flies off the surface as soon as I reached the river. Realising it was a very notable trout and not wanting to mess up, I took an age to get into position, using all sorts of cover as he set off all over the place. It was absolutely intriguing watching him pick stuff off the surface. In this instance the bright sun was my friend as it enabled me to track his movements and to move myself at the best moments. I reckon 20% of his time was spent examining non-edible items, like a feather and bit of twig. Also, he took items both very large and tiny – as long as they packed protein!
After first refusing an APT I tried a foam beetle. Twice I cast spot on, only for him to chase off a smaller (3lb+) trout which had encroached into his territory- talk about nerve racking! Finally I timed my cast correctly and he turned towards the beetle, turned away and then had second thought and I knew he was going to eat.
I could see the fluo post of the beetle in his top lip so I knew his teeth wouldn’t shred the 5x tippet and was able to exert a good bit of pressure. Almost ready for the net…he surged off again but finally I was able to get him in. On removing the beetle and on later examination the hook had been deformed in the fight but luckily all held firm.
At 23.5” and 4lb 12 oz he was a magnificent trout in his prime.
23.5" 4 lb 12 oz
