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Hello everyone, With the weather we are experiencing at present it seems a little strange to be thinking about 2007.
With no permit increase sine 2004 charges had to rise but they have not increased as much as inflation and permit prices remain very competitive with most other trout fisheries. As you will see we have decided to allow pike fishing again this coming spring. For more details please ring the Lodge or to book write to Woodford Lodge to arrive before 1st January 2007.
Thank you all for your support this season.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Bob Handford
CHEW VALLEY, BLAGDON, BARROWS AND LITTON.
DATES AND PRICES FOR 2007
Bristol Water are pleased to announce the dates and prices for next season, 2007
With no increases since 2004 there has been a small rise in the charges with most day permits increasing by £1.00. Next year will also see the return of spring pike trials in February. And there are some new incentives including prizes for tagged fish, monthly awards for the biggest fish from each lake and discounts for anglers holidaying in the area.
Chew Valley and Barrows will open in 2007 on Thursday 15th March with Blagdon following a week later on 22nd. As previously there will be special days for season permit holders on the preceding Tuesdays. Fishing will finish on the usual date of 30th November.
As well as the normal pike fishing dates in October and November, there will be two seven day sessions in February for boat and bank – Saturday 3rd to 9th and 17th to 23rd.
Permit prices will increase by around 5%, well below inflation over the three-year period since the last rise. Most of the permit prices remain very competitive with the other major fisheries.
Details of 2007 permit prices:
BOAT FISHING: Blagdon Chew Valley Litton
Day £24.50 £30.50 £55.00
Afternoon £20.50 £25.00 N/A
Evening £17.00 £19.00 N/A
Winter £20.50 £25.00 £40.00
BANK FISHING: All Waters Chew/Barrows Barrows
Day £16.50 £14.50 £12.00
Afternoon £12.50 £11.50 £9.50
SEASON PERMITS: All Waters Chew/Barrows Barrows
Full £590.00 £485.00 £370.00
5 Day £450.00 £375.00 £290.00
Concession £385.00 £325.00 £250.00
PIKE FISHING: (Chew Valley only)
Boat £25.00
Bank £11.50
All the permits are per person per day with concessions available to Senior Citizens, Registered Disabled and Juniors under 18.
This year will also see tagged fish stocked into all the lakes with prizes for their captors. Each month we will give a £50.00 prize for the biggest authenticated trout from each lake (not including Litton). There will be discounts offered for anglers taking fishing holidays when booking three or more boats in a week at either lake. Offers from previous years will also continue.
Juniors fish free from the bank if accompanied by a paying adult.
Mid-week boats (full day) at Chew and Blagdon in April £3.50 off per rod.
Breakfast discounts vouchers for boats paid in advance.
Generous discounts on boats for all season permit holders.
To book trout and pike boats for 2007 season please send letters to arrive before 1st January. All received before this date will enter the draw for places. Telephone bookings will not be taken until all letter bookings have been completed.
For full details of all prices and offers please contact Woodford Lodge, 01275 332339
FRIDAY 23rd NOVEMBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 35,834
WEATHER: As expected for November things have been very changeable with some heavy rain, strong winds and occasionally calm, bright days. A few early morning frosts but often very warm and mild.
WATER: Levels at Chew have fallen slightly but at Blagdon they have risen a little. With the steady rain all lakes should soon start to re-fill. Clarity is generally good but some discolouration due to strong winds.
SEASON EXTENSION:
After consultation with Natural England (formerly English Nature), we have been given permission to extend the present bank fishing season at all the lakes up to and including January 1st 2007. This gives anglers the opportunity to fish for the huge residue of fish remaining in the lakes this year. Over 85,000 fish have been stocked into the lakes and only just over 35,000 fish have been caught. Weather permitting good rainbow fishing should be enjoyed right through to the New Year at all venues. There will be some restrictions as to which banks can be fished and maps will be placed in the permit kiosks to show the No Go areas.
Fishing at all the lakes has been good with some excellent catches and big fish. Best reported was a 6.08 fish taken from Nunnery Point by DENNIS CURTIS. This tagged fish took a small marabou lure on a floating line. Fish have been caught from most areas but Wick Green, Nunnery and Woodford have seen the best sport. Although small lures are popular small Black Buzzers and Diawl Bachs are still accounting for many fish.
At Blagdon anglers have enjoyed excellent autumn fishing from all banks. Dependant on wind direction, Green Lawn, Rainbow, Pegs, Ash Trees, Orchard Bay and North Bank have all been attracting plenty of fishermen and producing fish. Often the best sport is during the middle part of the day – early morning and late evening being too cold for insect activity and trout feeding. Flies similar to Chew.
Tank 3 still seems to be the favourite of the Barrow regulars. Most places seem to hold fish at present though the pipe is always popular. Small nymphs, lures and minkies have all caught well.
Litton is seldom fished at this time of year but normally fishes very well. From December 1st the cost per person drops to just £35.00 per day. Well worth a visit over the holiday period.
PIKE TRIALS, CHEW VALLEY: With just one bank fishing session left, starting 25th , the pike fishing has not been easy. So far 6 fish over 30lbs have been reported with the biggest, 34.07, remaining the heaviest taken anywhere in the country this autumn. There are still some bank places left on mid-week days. Ring Woodford to book.
2007
Details of dates and prices for trout and pike fishing in 2007 will be published during the second week in December. They will be available on our web sites, in the local press and by phoning Woodford Lodge. To book any fishing for next year we require a letter giving details of the booking to be received before Monday January 1st. Any letters received after that date will not be entered into the draw.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 31
FRIDAY 3rd NOVEMBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 34,893
WEATHER: A big change over the past week with the very mild weather becoming cold and frosty. Overnight temperatures falling to –5 and daytime often only reaching 7. Most days are now very bright and sunny with very light north and east winds. Dry.
WATER: Levels have remained steady at all the lakes and all are now clear. The water temperature at 1 metre has fallen to 8°C (47°F).
PIKE TRIALS: Tomorrow (Saturday) sees the start of the third boat & bank session for pike. So far things have been fairly slow – plenty of fish around but mostly small. The fish have been well spread around the lake and often feeding in shallow areas and mid-water. One angler described the spread of fish to ‘currants in a cake’. Even so plenty of good fish have been found including the biggest fish from both boat and bank this year.  BOB WATTS of Yatton, tempted a huge 34.07 fish from the Hollow Brook area on a dead bait. This is Bobs best ever and was caught in just a few feet of water. From the bank at Walley Bank, PAUL YEO (Bridgwater) captured a fish of 31.14, one of the biggest fish ever taken from the shore. This fish fell to a popped up sardine bait. Another 30 taken this session was a fish of 31lbs taken from the boat by JAMES DANIEL bringing the total number of 30s so far this autumn to 5. With the dramatic change in the air and water temperature during the week we expect more fish to move into the usual deeper water areas and static dead baits should become more effective. Although all the boats are already reserved there are still bank places available most days. To reserve a permit ring Woodford Lodge. They are not available on the day without prior booking.
BLAGDON: Anglers fishing the bank continue to find plenty of fish from most areas. Larger patterns now seem to be the order of the day with Zonkers, Boobies and Marabou lures being most popular. In the annual BRFFA bank competition MARTIN BURGESS was one of three anglers who took limit bags of six fish. His bag weighed in at 11.11 beating DEV STICKLEY and GERRY ROWE into second and third place respectively. 28 anglers enjoyed a friendly competition with buffet after the event.
Boats have now finished at Blagdon but bank fishing continues until the last day of November.
CHEW VALLEY: Although there have been plenty of moving fish of late, the colder conditions have now slowed the fishing for boats and bank. There is still some fly hatching during the warmest times of the day (around 12 – 3) and often fish will still come to the surface to take them. But if the wind is moderate the fish will stay down. Intermediate lines with Sparkler Boobies or Mini Lures Chew are then worth trying. RON MORGAN caught the biggest rainbow recorded this week, a fish of 8.08.
BARROW: Barrow 3 is fishing well and small flies continue to tempt fish here. There are few fish taking early morning or evening at this time of the year but moving fish can be found around mid-day.
LITTON: Both lakes are still fishing well on the better days. Few moving fish except in the very best conditions. It’s worth trying a deeper sinking line now especially on the top lake.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 30
23rd OCTOBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 34,019
WEATHER: Mainly warm with light east winds though some very heavy rain at times.
WATER: Levels steady at all the lakes. Chew Valley has now cleared. The water temperature at 1 metre is around 13°C (55°F), very warm for October.
BLAGDON: The bank fishing at Blagdon is still going well with good catches reported from most areas. Depending on wind direction Rugmoor, Pegs and Ash trees are all worth a try while Polish Water, Green Lawn and Rainbow are the favourite when the wind is south and west. Nymphs seem to be best though some success has come to small lures and occasionally it’s worth trying small dries. Boat anglers are still catching mainly from the deeps or the Top End.
CHEW VALLEY: With the lake now fairly clear boat fishermen have been finding fish from many areas. Villice Bay continues to fish well but good reports also from Wick and Herriotts, North Shore and the point of the Island. On the better days there have been good hatches of fly and dries and emerger patterns have caught well. Any small brown, orange, claret or black dry is worth trying. If fish are seen moving cover the fish allowing a few feet for the fish to move to the fly. Otherwise leave the fly static for about 10-15 seconds when fish often take out of the blue. If no response try a slow figure of eight which often induces a fish to take. The last days of the brown trout season saw ROB HNAKINS catch a wonderful brown of 13.04. The fish, taken from a boat on a small brown dry, is the biggest ever recorded from Chew or Blagdon in season. Rob, from Malvern, has given the fish to Bristol Water to have set up.
BARROW: Barrow 3 is well worth a try at present. Few moving fish showing but small nymphs and buzzers or goldheads fished sub surface are taking fish.
LITTON: Some excellent sport enjoyed from both waters. Small goldheads and mini lures fished just under the surface have been best.
Trout fishing continues at all the waters until the end of November at winter prices. Boats are available on both Chew & Blagdon until the end of October.
PIKE FISHING: The first session of pike fishing found plenty of feeding fish, but few of the expected large specimens with just one over 30 and about a dozen over 20 recorded. Most anglers caught well on lures but these fish were mainly small jacks. The warm water and conditions has meant that the fish have stayed in shallow water and are quite active. Baits fished for the bigger fish in deeper water have not produced the usual results so far. Cooler conditions should help. STEVE WHITEHEAD took the largest so far, a beautiful fish tipping the scales at 31lb. Although all the boats are booked there are plenty of bank spaces available.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
12th October 2006
Quick update to mention that the largest Brown Trout ever captured from the fisheries during the brown trout season has been captured by Rob Hankins weighing 13lb 4oz. The fish was caught from a boat fishing off Nunnery on a size 12 fiery brown emerger
WEEK 29
9th OCTOBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 32,841
WEATHER: Another very unsettled week with more strong southerly winds. Very warm for October but also very wet!
WATER: Levels steady at main lakes but still falling at Barrow 3. Chew Valley still has an algal bloom but Blagdon is clear except where the strong winds have stirred up the silt. The water temperature at 1 metre remains at 14°C (57°F).
NEW WHEELEY BOAT FOR CHEW VALLEY
This week saw the launching of a special boat available for use by disabled anglers. Chew Valley is the first water in England to have the new Mk3 version of the wheeley boat, a boat specially designed to allow fishermen in wheelchairs access to boat fishing on the lake. Alan Parsons, Managing Director of Bristol Water, launched the boat which was purchased by Bristol Water. Blagdon Lake has long had a similar Wheeley Boat which sees plenty of use throughout the fishing season. Anglers can book either boat by phoning Woodford Lodge.
BLAGDON: With most bank areas now fishable anglers have found fish all around the lake but especially at Rugmoor, Pegs, Ash Trees, Wood Bay, Rainbow & Green Lawn. Depending on wind direction and strength all produced good bags of trout, but also lots of very small pike which can be a nuisance. Nymphs and buzzers fished on floating lines has been the favourite method though larger sparklers and flashy lures have also produced. Many of the fish taken have been feeding heavily on corixa with a few fry feeders appearing in some deeper places.
CHEW VALLEY: Chew is now beginning to clear after a small algal bloom and, when conditions allow, the fishing on the surface has been very good. The fish are seldom less than a couple of feet deep and floating or slow intermediate lines are all that are required at present. There have been quite good fly hatches and this has allowed anglers to fish hoppers and emergers to good effect. Bank fishing has not been easy as the strong winds have made many of the banks unfishable. Favourite places are Villice bay, The Island to the North Shore, The Sailing Club and the mouth of Herons Bay. Two 6.00 rainbows caught this week by K FINLAYSON and B MURPHY, both from boats.
BARROW: Both Barrows have fished well this week. Not too many moving fish seen but smaller patterns fished up in the water seem to be doing best
LITTON: Top Litton has fished well again this week. Some excellent brown trout now showing on both. Few moving fish except in the very best conditions.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 28
MONDAY 2nd OCTOBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 32,066
WEATHER: A stormy week with fresh & strong south & east winds and some very heavy rain. Still warm for the time of year.
WATER: Chew Valley remains very high but at Blagdon the level is falling quickly. Barrow 3 is also falling. The water temperature at 1 metre is now 14°C (57°F).
BLAGDON: The lake level at Blagdon continues to fall quickly allowing access to many previously unfishable areas and, as expected, the bank fishing has been very good and continues to get better. Depending on wind direction Rugmoor, Pegs, Ash Trees, Wood bay, Rainbow and Green Lawn have all been producing good bags of fish. Most are falling to small flies and occasionally dries fished on floating lines. Because of the shallower nature of many places it can quickly become coloured in fresh winds and anglers should be very careful of the soft mud when wading. Boat fishermen have been less successful except at the Top end where fishing has been good when the winds have allowed. M. SQUIRE took a rainbow of 6.02 boat fishing off Rugmoor Point. The fish took a red Diawl Bach.
CHEW VALLEY: The water at Chew is now quite coloured both from the strong winds and an algal bloom, and this has made fishing a little more difficult. These same winds have prevented bank anglers from fishing the favourite shores though many season permit holders have had good sport from Wick Green with dries. Boats have also taken plenty of fish on dries this week, but the SE winds leave few sheltered areas where dry fly fishing can be used to good effect. When conditions allow black and red Hoppers and Bits will bring the fish up, as will Daddies. It’s also worth pulling small lures and boobies just below the surface. More big fish this week: ANDY WARN took a rainbow of 6.02 while DICK NESS landed one of 6.00 both fishing from the boat
BARROW: Barrow 3 continues to fish well from all areas. Fish now appear to be feeding well and most methods and patterns have been catching.
LITTON: This week has seen good catches from both lakes but anglers fishing the top lake seem to have fared best. Nymphs and goldheads fished sub-surface on intermediate and slow sink lines seems to be the best method. Few moving fish except in the very best conditions.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 27
MONDAY 25th SEPTEMBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 31,306
WEATHER: A mixed bag of weather this week often with strong south-east winds and many days sunny and bright. Some heavy showers. Still very warm for September.
WATER: Chew Valley remains very high but at Blagdon the level is falling quickly. Barrow 3 is also falling. The water temperature at 1 metre remains around 15°C (59°F).
CHEW VALLEY: This week saw the English National held at Chew. Many anglers had been fishing the lake for the past few weeks enjoying some tremendous sport on or near the surface. But the changing weather this week made fishing more difficult and many resident fish went off the feed making the anglers search different areas with differing methods. On the first official practice day (Thursday) the wind increased from the south-east and the sun shone strongly much of the day. Fishing was very hard and many competitors failed to land a fish. Practice day two saw the wind decrease and cloud cover. Most of those fishing caught well with fish feeding on or near the surface over much of the lake. But on Saturday (competition day) the cloud had gone and the fresh SE wind was back. These conditions are never easy at any fishery and Chew Valley is no exception. Many of the favourite places failed to produce but fish were taken from several areas with the East Shore being the best, much to the surprise of many locals. PHIL DIXON pulled mini lures to take a limit bag of ten fish and to become the England National Champion for 2006. Second was local expert MARK MILES, the only other fisherman to complete his limit. Third was another Chew regular JOHN GOLLOP with seven fish. The biggest fish caught was a superb rainbow tipping the scales at exactly 6.00. ANDREW FLITCROFT was the lucky captor. 300 fish were taken by the 100 competitors giving a very satisfactory rod average of 3 fish per man. Although many went away disappointed that they failed to gain a place in next years England side, all were very complimentary of the fishery, facilities and the staff.
Bank anglers found their favourite banks unfishable for most of this week due to the strong winds, but some fish have been taken from Wick Green and the North Shore. Many fish have fallen to dries when conditions have been calm enough to fish them.
Other good fish taken from Chew this week include a seven pounder captured by EDWARD RIPPIER, while JOHN GOLLOP took one of 6.06 during practice.
BLAGDON: The bank fishing continues to improve as the water levels fall. Most areas are now fishing well with Rugmoor, Pegs Point and Ash Trees on the north bank being the favourite place to fish. When the wind allows Green Lawn and Rainbow have also done well. Boat anglers have found plenty of fish from Rugmoor Bay and from the deep water off the dam. Nymphs and buzzers are still the best flies to use but dries and emergers have caught well when the fish are showing.
DAVE WATSON had a 7.04 rainbow from the boat on a Mallard & Claret while BILL PUGH took one of about 6.00 on a Diawl Bach.
BARROW: Barrow 3 had a good week with fish being taken from all around. Nymphs and smaller flies appear to be the best patterns while at times dries have worked well.
LITTON: Plenty of fish being taken from the lower lake mainly sub-surface on nymphs and goldheads. The top lake has not been fished much and still should produce on intermediate and sinking lines.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 26
MONDAY 18th SEPTEMBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 29,515
WEATHER: A week of light winds and warm days. Some sunshine but often light cloud and little if any rain.
WATER: Chew Valley remains very high with levels falling extremely slowly. Blagdon is now dropping steadily. The weed has mostly disappeared at both main lakes. Chew Valley has a small green algae bloom, else where the lakes are clear. The water temperature at 1 metre is still 15°C (59°F).
CHEW VALLEY: Another excellent week for the boat fishermen but varying reports for the banks anglers. Although there is some colour in the lake the fish are feeding well and the surface sport reported over the last couple of weeks continues with the areas producing expanding as far as Moreton, The Island and North Shore. Many anglers have enjoyed great sport using dries and emergers – red, claret and black bits and hoppers and daddies cast to rising fish. Others have found success pulling traditional wets and the old favourites of Wickhams, Dunkeld, Silver Invicta and Dabblers have all caught well proving that they can still catch as well as the modern patterns. As always Diawl Bachs and Buzzers have worked well but they do need to be retrieved fairly quickly or they may well end up fishing below the fish. Fishing from the bank has slowed slightly but Woodford, Walley, Nunnery and Wick are all worth trying. There have been some very good evening rises off Walley Bank. Watch out for some fry feeding too off Nunnery and Woodford. Best fish of the week was a 6.12 fish taken from the boat by Steve Winstone.
BLAGDON: The improvement in bank fishing continues with some good bags taken from Polish Water, Green lawn, Rainbow Point, Ash Trees and Rugmoor. Boat fishing has improved especially at the Top end of the lake. Blagdon has seen quite a number of moving fish lately and fishing dries for these has brought plenty of success.
BARROW: A slight improvement at Barrows with some moving fish around late evenings within casting range. Very small black buzzers and emergers are needed to tempt these risers. The levels on Barrow 3 may start to fall over the next few weeks as essential engineering work is carried out.
LITTON: Plenty of fish being taken from the lower lake mainly sub-surface on nymphs and goldheads. The top lake has not been fished much and still should produce on intermediate and sinking lines.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 25
MONDAY 11th SEPTEMBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 27,966
WEATHER: A pleasant week of warm, often sunny days and mainly light winds.
WATER: Chew Valley remains very high with levels falling extremely slowly. Blagdon is now dropping steadily. The weed has mostly disappeared at both main lakes. There is some colour in Chew but this has not adversely affected the fishing. The water temperature at 1 metre is still 15°C (59°F).
CHEW VALLEY: A very good week for Chew boat anglers with plenty of feeding fish just on or under the surface all the way from Villice Bay through to the Dam. Anglers are taking fish on all methods providing they keep their flies well up in the water. In cloud plenty of fish have been tempted to take a dry or an emerger. During the brighter conditions it’s best to try a floater or intermediate line. This can be fished with nymphs, traditional wets or mini lure. Keep your flies moving as the fish are near the surface and it’s easy to let your flies fish too deep beneath the fish. There should be no need for a sinking line but boobies and blobs pulled back quickly can be worth a try. Favourite patterns are Diawl Bach, Black Buzzer, Silver Invicta, Dunkeld, Dabbler, Sparkler Booby & Pearly Cormorant. Bank anglers have also been finding fish especially from Woodford and Walley Banks. The best fishing has been early morning as the fish tend to move into deeper water by mid-morning when the sun shines. Nymphs and small lures are the best methods.
In the Assocation Of Major Clubs League this weekend 30 anglers took 213 fish with 18 limits brought to the scales. The local BRFFA team came second just behind Hanningfield FF. Mark Withyman was top rod.
There have been several big fish taken this week and three had tags their captors all win a free boat at Chew Valley. Well done Tony Gourlay, John Lemon & Wayne Cox. The biggest fish this week was a 6.12 rainbow caught by P. Weaving from a boat.
BLAGDON: The improvement in bank fishing continues slowly with better catches from in front of the Lodge, Green lawn and Rainbow Point. Boat fishing has been difficult though some boats are still taking fish from the deep water areas. Most fish are falling to nymphs but there seem to be more fish inclined to take a dry fly when the weather permits.
BARROW: A slight improvement at barrows with some moving fish around late evenings within casting range. Very small black buzzers and emergers are needed to tempt these risers. The levels on Barrow 3 may start to fall over the next few weeks as essential engineering work is carried out.
LITTON: Plenty of fish being taken from the lower lake mainly sub-surface on nymphs and goldheads. The top lake has not been fished much and still should produce on intermediate and sinking lines.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 24
MONDAY 4th SEPTEMBER 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 26,237
WEATHER: The week started with good fishing weather – cloudy and warm with light winds, but finished with extreme conditions- fresh to strong winds with heavy rain.
WATER: The levels remain high. Chew has hardly moved but Blagdon did fall steadily before the rain. The weed is now disappearing quickly from most areas and the clarity at all the waters is generally good although there is some algae present at Chew. The water temperature at 1 metre has fallen slightly to 15°C (59°F).
CHEW VALLEY: Another good week for the boat anglers and some better catches from the shore. Anglers fishing in Villice Bay, off Woodford, in front of the Sailing Club, Walley Bank and the False Island have found taking fish on or near the surface. Good catches have been taken on nymphs, traditional wets, mini lures and occasionally dries. Most anglers have used floating lines and retrieved their flies, sometimes fairly fast. In the strong winds a sinking line has helped but but care has to be taken or your flies fish below the fish. Bank anglers have mainly stayed on Woodford, Nunnery or Walley where the sheltered water has made fishing easier, but Wick Green has fished quite well when the wind has allowed. On at least two evening this week there have been very good evening rises. Walley seems to be the best area for moving fish.
Two tagged fish have been caught this week and both captors have won a free day afloat for two fishermen. Well done CHRIS HOMEYARD and CHARLIE HAMILTON.
BLAGDON: The improvement in bank fishing continues slowly with better catches from in front of the Lodge, Green lawn and Rainbow Point. The boats are still taking fish from the deep water areas. Most fish are falling to nymphs but there seem to be more fish inclined to take a dry fly when the weather permits.
BARROW: Although fish have been recently stocked into the Barrows the fishing is still fairly hard. Few moving fish seen at any time. Small nymphs fished deep have accounted for a few better bags. The levels on Barrow 3 may start to fall over the next few weeks as essential engineering work is carried out.
LITTON: September is usually a good month at Litton and bookings there for the next few weeks are good. The weed on the lower lake has all but disappeared and this will help the fishing there. The upper lake is still fishing well with nymphs and gold heads fished sub surface proving the best method.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 23
28th August 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 23,629
WEATHER: The cooler weather continued this week with some fresh westerly breezes. Some heavy showers too but also some very sunny spells.
WATER: The levels remain very high for the time of year but are still falling slowly despite the heavy showers. The weed is now disappearing quickly from most areas and the clarity at all the waters is very good. The water temperature at 1 metre remains at 16°C (61°F).
GENERAL: The cooler water and fresher conditions have helped all the lakes this week. Boat anglers have been finding fish in many areas and at last the banks seem to be improving at Chew and Blagdon.
CHEW VALLEY: A much better week for all at Chew with some excellent catches from the boats and much better results for the bank fishermen. Villice Bay, Woodford, The Sailing Club and Walley bank have been the best areas to try when afloat. Nymphs are still the favourite pattern but these now need to be moved steadily through the water. In cloudy conditions floating lines will suffice, but in brighter sunny spell intermediate and sinking lines are best. It is always worth trying fishing the washing line too as the addition of a booby on the point often helps move the nymphs more attractively. Bank fishermen have found that fish have been more obliging recently at Woodford and Wick Green. Occasionally they can be tempted with dries but Diawl Bachs, PTNs, Stick Lies and Montanas have been best.
Best fish of the week was a 7.03 rainbow which fell to a Diawl Bach fished from the boat by CHARLIE HAMILTON.
BLAGDON: Another good week for the boats and a big improvement for those fishing from the shore. Fish now appear to be coming from many areas although many anglers have opted for the shelter near the Dam and Butcombe. Bank anglers have caught from Polish Water, Green Lawn, Rainbow and Butcombe this week and it seems that as the lake continues to fall and the weed dies back, the fish are beginning to come within reach in many places. Nymph fishing has seen most success though dries and emergers have worked well when conditions have allowed. Two good rainbows reported this week; a 6.03 fish was taken from the boat by A. STRATON and one of 6.02 was captured by DAVID MARSH also from the boat.
BARROW: With more fish stocked this week at both lakes the fishing has improved slowly. Small flies seem to be the best bet and on the calmer evenings there has been a small number of moving fish.
LITTON: September is usually a good month at Litton and bookings there for the next few weeks are good. The weed on the lower lake is thinning and this will help the fishing there, but the upper lake is still the best with nymphs and gold heads fished sub surface proving the best method.
Tagged fish have been planted into Chew as part of our Golden Anniversary celebrations. If you lucky enough to catch one bring the tag and details of the catch to Woodford where you will be able to claim your prize. It could be worth a bank permit, a boat for two or a season permit for 2007.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 22
MONDAY 21stAugust 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 23,629
WEATHER: Another mainly cool week with light showers and fresh westerly breezes.
WATER: Levels are still falling steadily but the lakes are still high for the time of year. The weed growth at Chew and Blagdon in shallow areas and in the bays is dying back and leaving more areas for the bank fishermen. The water level at Barrow 3 is still low and the weed is near the surface making some areas difficult to fish. The water temperature at 1 metre is 16°C (61°F).
GENERAL: The boat fishing, particularly at Blagdon, has improved vastly, with good catches reported mainly to nymphs on sinking and intermediate lines from the deeper water off the dam. At Chew Valley last week’s exceptionally good spell in the boats has eased off a little, but fairly good catches are still coming to nymphs and dries fished on floating lines from areas such as Villice, off Woodford, and over the False Island and the Roman Shallows.
Blagdon Fly Fishers’ annual competition on Blagdon produced excellent sport, with 106 trout caught by 12 anglers. Top rod was Gareth Jones whose bag with time bonus weighed 32lb 2oz, closely followed by Steve Winstone with 31lb 14oz and Tony Baldwin with 28lb 9oz. Most successful tactics on the day were blobs, boobies and nymphs fished ‘washing line’ style on a Di3 or fast glass line, but floating lines with nymphs or dries also worked very well.
Bank fishing on Chew has shown a slight improvement for those prepared to rise early and go home late, but has continued to be very slow indeed on Blagdon and the Barrows. The cooler weather and falling levels that we are at last experiencing should ensure better sport in the coming weeks.
AUGUST 2 for 1 BANK FISHING OFFER:
When you buy any bank fishing permit during August you are entitled to another Free of Charge.
(Details available at the permit kiosks).
Tagged fish have been planted into Chew as part of our Golden Anniversary celebrations. If you lucky enough to catch one bring the tag and details of the catch to Woodford where you will be able to claim your prize. It could be worth a bank permit, a boat for two or a season permit for 2007.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 21
14th August 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 22,762
WEATHER: A much cooler week with some light showers and fresher northerly winds.
WATER: Levels are still falling steadily but the lakes are still very high for the time of year. The algal bloom at Chew is still present but is mainly on the surface. The weed growth at Chew and Blagdon in shallow areas and in the bays is starting to die back leaving more areas for the bank fishermen. The water level at Barrow 3 is still low and the weed is near the surface making many areas difficult to fish. The water temperature has fallen to 16°C (61°F).
GENERAL: Fresher weather this week has cooled the water and had a dramatic effect at Chew Valley but a lesser one at Blagdon and the Barrows so far.
On Chew the final round of the Evening boat league was won by John Gumbleton with four fish: in second place, also with four was Mark Withyman; this result meant that Mark’s cumulative points score of 97 across the whole series put him in the top spot for the third year running, a worthy champion! just pipping Martin Burgess into second place with 96. Mark’s fish were taken in the last hour on dries.
Another friendly competition, the Yew Tree Challenge, was also fished on Chew, and 24 rods caught 83 trout, mostly on nymphs or dries, with the best bag coming to Tony Baldwin with 8 fish for 16lb for which he was awarded the Stan Chandler Memorial Cup. Best fish of the event was Chris Homeyard’s 4lb 12oz rainbow, which was also a tagged fish, winning Chris a free permit.
Most of the fish have been taken in the deeper water off Woodford and the Dam areas. Floating lines with dries or nymphs fished near the surface accounted for the majority of the fish although on brighter days intermediate lines with washing line tactics worked well. Over last weekend Andy Campbell, Neil Ford and Lance Jeanes and their friends deserted their beloved Blagdon for a couple of days on Chew: all reported excellent sport on nymphs and dries: Andy and his friends from London taking 62 fine rainbows to 8 rods, but it was Neil’s boat partner, Douglas Taylor of Berwick on Tweed, whose Diawl Bach, fished on a floating line down near the Dam took the fish of the week, a spanking fin- perfect rainbow of 7lb 14oz
Bank anglers have struggled, particularly on Blagdon and the Barrows, but there are signs of the fishing beginning to pick up, especially for early risers; continued cooler weather and falling levels are what’s needed!
AUGUST 2 for 1 BANK FISHING OFFER:
When you buy any bank fishing permit during August you are entitled to another Free of Charge. (Details available at the permit kiosks).
Tagged fish have been planted into Chew as part of our Golden Anniversary celebrations. If you are lucky enough to catch one bring the tag and details of the catch to Woodford where you will be able to claim your prize. It could be worth a bank permit, a boat for two or a season permit for 2007.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 20
7thAugust 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 22,054
 WEATHER: A cooler week with some light rain and fresher winds. Air temperatures still over 20°C but feeling more comfortable.
WATER: Levels are still falling steadily but the lakes are still very high for the time of year. The algal bloom at Chew is still present but is mainly on the surface. The weed growth at Chew and Blagdon is still present in most shallow areas and in the bays but should start to die back leaving more areas for the bank fishermen. The water level at Barrow 3 is still low making some areas difficult to fish as the weed is now near the surface. The water temperature at 1 metre has fallen to 19°C (66°f).
GENERAL: The fresher conditions this week have started to cool the water and this has had a dramatic effect at Chew Valley but lesser effect at Blagdon and the Barrows so far. In the Bristol Water Teams Challenge fished from the boats at Chew on Sunday the 54 competitors had a great days fishing catching 320 fish, a rod average of just under 6 per person. This competition is run for local and regular anglers as a thank you for their custom during the season. Nine teams fished and only two blanks were recorded as the fish fed well for most of the day even though it was mainly bright and at times quite breezy. At the weigh-in the top three teams were very close. BRFFA Itchy Feet Retail Park came third with 46 fish for 96lb 11oz. Second were last years winners Tightlines with 47 fish, 99lb10oz. But winners for the second time were Blagdon Flyfishers. Their 46 fish totalled 103lb 7oz. They also had the top bag in their team, TONY BALDWIN whose eight fish weighed in at 19lb 6oz. Most of the fish were taken in the deeper water off Woodford and the Dam areas. Floating lines with nymphs fished near the surface accounted for many of the fish. In the afternoon when the clouds cleared the fish went down and intermediate lines with washing line tactics worked well. After the contest all anglers enjoyed a pint and buffet with the compliments of Bristol Water.
Best fish of the week was a 6.02 rainbow taken from the boat at Blagdon by RICHERD BLAKE.
PROSPECTS: The cooler weather is forecast to continue for the week. The improvement in the fishing should continue and spread to the other lakes as the water temperatures fall. Watch for better bank fishing too as the water levels allow fishing from new areas. Tagged fish have been planted into Chew as part of our Golden Anniversary celebrations. If you lucky enough to catch one bring the tag and details of the catch to Woodford where you will be able to claim your prize. It could be worth a bank permit, a boat for two or a season permit for 2007.
AUGUST 2 for 1 BANK FISHING OFFER:
When you buy any bank fishing permit during August you are entitled to another Free of Charge. (Details available at the permit kiosks).
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
Update: 2nd August
Available to download by clicking HERE are the stocking figures so far for this season. As you can see there are plenty of fish waiting to be caught at all the lakes. We have also started to stock some tagged fish into Chew Valley. These fish have either a red, blue or gold tag attached to the base of their dorsal fin. If you cath one of these fish bring the tag to Woodford and you will win a free bank permit (red), boat for two (blue) or a season permit for Chew Valley for 2007 (yellow)
WEEK 19
MONDAY 31st July 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 20,983
WEATHER: The very hot weather continued for the beginning of the week but fresher conditions towards the weeks end has cooled the air temperature and produced some rain.
WATER: Levels are falling steadily but the lakes are still very high for the time of year. The bright sun has produced a slight algal bloom in places but it is not sufficient to affect the fish. The heavy weed growth at Chew and Blagdon has made many shallow areas un-fishable for bank anglers. The water level at Barrow 3 has fallen quickly this week making some areas difficult to fish as the weed is now near the surface. The water temperature at 1 metre remains above 20°C (68°f).
General: After the coldest, wettest May on record and the hottest ever June, July followed suit with the second warmest recorded for the Bristol area. These extreme conditions have made the 2006 fishing season one of the most difficult in recent years. The high water levels have meant many of the most popular areas are un-reachable for the bank fishermen. The continuous, very bright sunshine over the past eight weeks has encouraged the trout to stay well off-shore in the deeper water. Boat fishermen have fared better, but even here the fishing has been indifferent at times as the fish have either not fed or have only been active during the darkness or very early morning.
With the forecast for the next few days for cooler and windier weather, the water should freshen and the temperature should fall which will result in more activity from the trout.
Stocking has continued during this hot weather though few fish have been taken. The numbers in the lakes are now well above our normal stocking levels and sport should be very good once the fish start feeding properly. Although deep-water tactics have been the order of the day, expect better surface sport from boat and bank when the surface cools down. Fly hatches should improve and the prolific corixa present should bring fish very close to the shores.
AUGUST 2 for 1 BANK FISHING OFFER: When you buy any bank fishing permit during August you are entitled to another Free of Charge
(Details available at the permit kiosks).
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 18
24th July 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 20,644
WEATHER: A very sunny, hot week. Temperatures rose to more than 30°C on several occasions and there has been only light variable winds most days. The expected thunderstorms managed to miss us completely so little fresh water has entered the lakes.
WATER: Levels are now falling steadily but the lakes remain very high for the time of year. There is still some green algae present but it is not sufficient to affect the fishing. The heavy weed growth at Chew and Blagdon has made many shallow areas un-fishable for bank anglers. Barrow 3 has some weed but there is still plenty of free water available. The water temperature at 1 metre is 22°C (72°f).
CHEW VALLEY: The fish in Hollow Brook have now moved into deeper areas making anglers search for alternate ‘hot-spots’. The Picnic Areas, Sailing Club and Villice Bay have all started to produce fish but sinking lines have replaced the floaters and mini lures and boobies have proved the best patterns. Bank fishing is limited to the deepest water at Woodford, Walley, Nunnery and North Shore and here the most successful anglers are those prepared to rise early and fish at first light. Blagdon Fly Fishers held their Chew Competition on Sunday and sixteen anglers went afloat. The light cloud soon disappeared giving rise another very hot day. At the weigh-in 61 fish had been taken and everyone succeeded in catching at least one fish. Winner was LEE SENINGTON, the only angler who took the limit of eight. Second was ANDREW HEDGER with seven, closely followed by STEVE WINSTONE and TONY BALDWIN with six fish each.
BLAGDON: A difficult week at Blagdon for all fishermen. Boats fishing in the deepest water off from the Dam have taken fish on sinking lines but elsewhere most have struggled for odd fish. Mini lures and goldheads have been the most successful patterns, fished slowly and on the hang. Few rising fish at any time.
BARROW: Barrow has suffered as much as the main lakes with fewer moving fish especially late on. The weed around much of the lakes has prevented effective fishing with the mouse or sinking lines. Those who have fished floaters with nymphs and dries have had some success but many anglers have gone home empty handed.
LITTON: The lower lake is now very clear and the fishing there has improved but the upper lake is still fishing the better of the two. Small mini lures or damsels fished sub surface are as good as any but always keep on a Diawl Bach.
PROSPECTS: With the fish less inclined to feed during the daytime anglers must change their tactics if they wish to catch fish. Put away the floating lines and nymphs and bring out the fast sinking Di lines. Fish these with a couple of small boobies or marabou mini lures and constantly vary the speed of retrieve. Cooler weather is forecast for the end of this week and this should freshen up all the lakes and encourage the fish to start feeding again. To make room for the smaller fish to grow on we have to continue stocking the larger fish to the lakes. Most of these will head for deeper water until conditions change for the better.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 17
17th July 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 20,277
WEATHER: After a cooler, fresher start to the week the temperatures have started to climb again with daytimes reaching over 30°C. Winds have mainly been light and from NE.
WATER: Levels have fallen slightly at the main lakes but not enough yet to make many new areas available for the bank anglers. The bright sun has caused some green algae to show near the surface but at the moment it presents no problems. The heavy weed growth at Chew and Blagdon has made many shallow areas unfishable for bank anglers. Barrow 3 has some weed but it is mainly below the surface. The water temperature at 1 metre is 22°C (72°f).
CHEW VALLEY: Considering the very warm weather Chew has had a very good week. Boat and bank anglers have done well at Wick, North Shore and Woodford. Boats have also done well off Herons, Moreton Hollow Brook and Herriotts. Most of the fish seem to feeding on corixa during the day and buzzers early morning. As the days are so hot at present there is little, if any, evening rise.
BLAGDON: The bright conditions seem to have affected Blagdon much more than Chew with few fish being caught. Although more fish have been stocked during the week they haven’t shown or been caught in great numbers. Anglers fishing at daybreak have enjoyed the best of the sport, but when the sun comes out the fish disappear and cease feeding. Very little happening during the evenings.
BARROW: Barrow has suffered as much as the main lakes with fewer moving fish especially late on. The weed around much of the lakes has prevented effective fishing with the mouse or sinking lines. Those who have fished floaters with nymphs and dries have had some success but many anglers have gone home empty handed.
LITTON: The lower lake is now very clear and the fishing there has improved but the upper lake is still fishing the better of the two. Small mini lures or damsels fished sub surface are as good as any but always keep on a Diawl Bach.
PROSPECTS: This weeks forecast is for temperatures to rise up to 36°C with bright sunshine continuing. While these conditions last the fishing will remain difficult. Any winds or showers will help but several days of cooler weather will be needed to bring down the water temperatures. Fishing the deepest areas and around the aerators may tempt some fish and very early morning trips will see fish nearer the shores in shallower water for a short time. More fish are going into Barrows this week which may help.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 16
MONDAY 10th July 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 19,529
WEATHER: The very hot weather continued until Thursday when things began to freshen with fresh southerly winds and some heavy showers.
WATER: The lake levels remain near top water. The weed growth in the shallower areas of Chew is now very near the surface although at Blagdon it doesn’t seem as bad as in recent years. Barrow 3 has significant weed but it is mainly below the surface. The water temperature at 1 metre is 19°C (66°f).
CHEW VALLEY: After a very slow start to the week things improved quickly at the end as the fish began to feed well. Bank anglers fishing at Wick Green, Nunnery and Woodford all enjoyed success especially early morning. The boats continue to find their fish close to the shores around most of the lake. Wick to Herriotts, Hollow Brook to the Dam, Woodford and Moreton are all worth trying, close to weed beds with nymphs and corixa patterns.
The BRFFA Hidden Teams competition, sponsored by Bristol Water, took place on Sunday. 48 anglers took 149 fish and, unusually, the bank anglers outfished the boats by a considerable margin. Top rod was Chris Cavill whose limit with time bonus weighing 30lb 6oz was taken from the bank at Wick Green on nymphs. Other good bank bags came to Colin Oram 8 for 19lb 6oz, Tony Torrington 8 for 16lb 9oz and Dev Stickley 8 for 16lb 5oz. Best boat rod was Rob Honour with 8 for 19lb 4oz, followed by Nigel Powell with 8 for 18lb 5oz. Best fish was a 5lb 9oz rainbow taken from a boat by Glyn Holmes. The ‘Hidden Teams’ principle meant that the top team of 4 rods, chosen by lot during the event, won a Greys GTX reel each, the second team had Greys Fly Vests and so on down to the last team, who got the ‘Booby’ prize of a set of Boobies each.
BLAGDON: A good start to the week when the recent stcok fish fed well, but things became tougher toward the weekend again. Fish are now being taken from most areas of the lake when they are feeding. Nymphs and mini lures fished on floating or intermediate lines have done best in the shallower areas while deep-fished nymphs are still best down at the dam and Butcombe.
BARROW: Weed around much of the lakes has prevented effective fishing with the mouse or sinking lines. Those who have fished floaters with nymphs and dries have enjoyed some good sport especially early and late. Several season permit holders have been fishing flies as small as 16s & 18s and having plenty of takes.
LITTON: The algal bloom on the lower lake has diminished but even with the cooler duller weather results have been slow to pick up. The upper lake is still fishing the better of the two.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 15
3rd July 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 18,692
WEATHER: A very hot, sunny week with mainly light winds and just a few light showers.
WATER: Although little rain has fallen the lakes levels remain near top water. The sunshine has increased the green algae at all the waters but this does not prevent fish feeding and often only extends a foot or two beneath the surface. The weed growth in the shallower areas of Chew is now very prolific although at Blagdon it doesn’t seem as bad as in recent years. Barrow 3 has significant weed but it is mainly below the surface. The water temperature at 1 metre is 19°C (66°f).
CHEW VALLEY: A difficult week at Chew despite over 7,500 fish being stocked into the lake. These were well spread around the lake; Wick Green, North Shore, Sailing Club, Nunnery and Moreton but to date there has been little sign of them. Hopes were that these fish would also stir up the resident fish but it seems the very warm temperatures and bright sun have made fish very reluctant to feed during daytime. There has been some success for the bank fishermen especially early morning. Wick green, Woodford, Nunnery and North shore have all seen good catches. The boats continue to find their fish close to the shores around most of the lake. Wick to Herriotts, Hollow Brook to the Dam, Woodford and Moreton are all worth trying, close to the weed with nymphs and corixa patterns. The Golden Competition, celebrating Chew’s 50th birthday saw a real golden day with continuous sunshine and the highest temperatures recorded this year over 30°C! 63 anglers fished from the boats but only 61 fish were taken. Winner was ANDY LEWIS who took 6 fish for 14.00. MIKE OKOPSKI was second with 5 fish and TIM BALDING third with 4. Several large fish have been taken this week; M CORPS on a visit from Ireland took a 7.08 rainbow. GEORGE BRAITHWAITE caught another of 6.02 while JOHN BEESE had a beautiful 5.06 brown.
BLAGDON: A much better week at Blagdon where the recent stockfish (3,500) fed well giving really good sport for boat and bank anglers. Fish are now being taken from most areas of the lake. Nymphs and mini lures fished on floating or intermediate lines have done well in the shallower areas while deep-fished nymphs are still best in the main basin.
BARROW: Weed around much of the lakes has prevented effective fishing with the mouse or sinking lines. Those who have fished floaters with nymphs and dries have enjoyed some good sport especially early and late. Several season permit holders have been fishing flies as small as 16s & 18s and having plenty of takes.
LITTON: Litton saw the biggest rainbow of the season taken this week by N. Cole from Sidmouth. The fish weighing 6.08, fell to a small green gold-head fished in the top lake. The lower lake is quite green with algae but still can be fished in the deeper spots with slow sink lines or midge tips.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 14
26th June 2006
 TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 17,392
WEATHER: A week of mixed weather – hot, sunny and flat calm some days, bright and windy on others. The week ended with cloud and heavy rain.
WATER: High levels at all the lakes. The bright sunshine has given a small green algae bloom on Chew and increased the weed growth at all waters. In places the weed growth combined with high water has made bank fishing very difficult. The water temperature at 1 metre is now 19°C (66°f).
There are two main stories this week – the capture of some very large fish and the finals of the Lexus European Team Championships.
Chew Valley saw the seasons biggest rainbow so far caught from the boats. ANDREW SCOTT was practicing for the Lexus competition when he hooked and landed a beautiful 5.08 brown from Villice Bay. Half an hour later and he was even more surprised when a 9.09 rainbow took his gold ribbed hares ear nymph giving him a fantastic brace of fish. Just a couple of hours later and fishing in the same area CHRIS GUTHRIE boated a huge trout. This magnificent cock brownie took a small sparkler booby fished on the hang. He boated the fish within seconds of hooking it and after a quick photo the fish was returned to the water. The fish was estimated at 12 - 15lbs and could have been a record for the water. (Picture Below).
The week’s fishing has been dominated by the three final days of the Lexus European Team Championships. Each competition day was preceded by a practice day for the competitors. Throughout the week the weather and the fishing changed daily. On day one it was mainly bright with light winds and most fishermen found fish in Villice Bay and the East Shore. GRAHAM PEARSON of ACA Masterline was the only angler to complete his limit in the trying conditions. He caught on nymphs fished in the very shallow water off Spring Bay. The recent stock fish failed to show and many superb browns were taken in the 179 fish total. The average weight per fish caught was 2-06. Four of the nine teams qualified for the final; TIGHTLINES, ACA MASTERLINE, AIRFLO CORMORANTS and OSPREYS TEAM HARDY. Day two saw a complete change in the weather with fresh winds and bright sunshine, the very worst conditions for Chew. This time the best catches came from Wick Green to Herriotts, along the rushes and weeds where the resident fish fed well. Catches were lower with 105 fish caught, but at the very good weight of 2.06 again. Winner today was MICK HILL. LONDON FLY DRESSERS GUILD, BRFFA TEAM ORVIS, MASTERLINE STOCKS and BRFFA ITCHY FEET PARK LEISURE all go through to the final. Day 3 and conditions had altered again with flat calm and sunshine, conditions usually favoured by our locals. But the day proved the hardest yet with only 88 fish being caught, this time at a superb average of 2.08. Most anglers struggled to get takes, but local expert TONY BALDWIN fished magnificently to take his limit bag from Moreton.  His ten fish weighed 29.10 before his time bonus was added. His catch helped BLAGDON FLY FISHERS to first place and through to the Rutland final. Also through are FRIENDLY FISHERMEN, ORVIS TEAM RUTLAND and MERIDIAN FLYFISHERS.
Competition Organiser, John Horsey, said after the event that this was how competitions should be; Fishing for fish that have become acclimatised to the water and have to be fished for, not catching limit bags of stockies in just a couple of hours fishing. Everyone complimented Bristol Water on the quality and size of the fish taken and on the free buffet supplied after the event.
Prospects: Now that the main competitions are over there will be large stockings at all the lakes. Chew Valley will be having over 7000 fish stocked, Blagdon 3500, Barrows 1000 and Litton 300. This should improve sport at all the lakes and will encourage even more of the residents to feed.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 13
19th June 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 16,151
WEATHER: A very warm week with lots of sunshine and mainly light winds. A few light showers but not enough to ‘freshen’ the lake.
WATER: The levels at Chew and Blagdon remain near top water. The bright sunshine has increased the weed growth at all the lakes and it is close to the surface in many inshore areas. All the lakes remain clear and the water temperature at 1 metre is now 18.5°C (65°f).
CHEW VALLEY: Considering the very bright conditions the fishing has been good especially during the daytimes. The fish have fed quite well even in the sunshine but the buzzer hatches in the evenings have been poor with few fish moving. On occasions there have been moving fish to be found across the middle of the lake feeding on hatches of small greens and these can be taken on nymphs and dries. But the best catching method has remained static nymphs and buzzers fished on floating lines. Fishing these around the margins has produced fish from most areas. And on a couple of cloudier days there have been fish taken pulling lures on sinking lines too. This week saw another 2000 stocked and these have stirred up the more resident fish in several areas. For the first time this season Herons Green Bay is starting to fish well as is the area in front of the Sailing Club. Among the stockies are many big rainbows and fish of 4 and 5 pounds are not unusual. In the SW National Eliminator 42 anglers went afloat in warm, cloudy conditions. Fish were taken throughout the day from several areas but at no time did they feed heavily and most anglers scratched for takes and fish. Black Buzzers and Diawl Bachs took well but some anglers caught pulling Cormorants and Black Boobies. 151 fish were caught, a rod average of 3.6 per person. Winner was COLIN ANDERSON who took a limit bag from North Shore. BEN KEEDWELL was the only other angler to take his 8. He had his fish from Herons on pulled lures. Congratulations to the other qualifiers who will fish the National on Chew in September; KEITH GOLLOP, NIGEL POWELL, RICHARD COBBLEDICK, DEREK STENNER, MARTIN FAULKNER, JOHN GOLLOP, MARK MILES, ROB HONOUR and JEFF LOUD. Biggest fish of the week was a brown over 8lbs taken and returned by Martin Faulkner. Andy Cottam had a 5.8 rainbow and John Humphry a 5.0 rainbow. All fish came from the boats.
Bank fishing has improved this week with fish coming from Walley, Woodford, Nunnery and North Shore.
BLAGDON: Boats at Blagdon continue to find fish in the very deep water off of the Dam and in the shallower spots around Wood Bay across to Ash Trees. The bank fishermen are still having a very tough time with fish staying well off-shore most of the time. R. HIBBERT took a lovely brown of 5.07 from a boat. The fish took a Cats Whisker.
BARROW: Similar story to the main lakes but still some fish activity early mornings and late evenings. Fishing very small flies, even down to 16s and 18s has often been necessary to induce these moving fish to take.
LITTON: Both lakes continue to fish quite well even in the hot sun. There is green algal bloom evident on the lower lake and also quite heavy weed growth around the margins so floating lines with washing line tactics are worth trying here. On the top lake a bright goldhead teamed with small nymphs is favourite.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 12
12th June 2006
TOTAL FISH TAKEN FOR SEASON 15,119
WEATHER: Summer has arrived with a week of very hot, sunny weather. The wind has been variable in direction and strength, at times fresh from the SE. Little rain except the occasional thundery shower.
WATER: The levels at Chew and Blagdon remain near top water. The bright sunshine has increased the weed growth at all the lakes and it is close to the surface in many inshore areas. All the lakes remain clear and the water temperature at 1 metre is now 18.5°C (65°f).
CHEW VALLEY: The week started well but got increasingly difficult as the water warmed. A stocking of 2,500 stirred up the residents and gave some super sport in Villice Bay and off from Woodford Bank while North Shore and Wick Green also continued to produce fish. But later in the week fish became much harder to tempt especially during the middle part of the day in the clear sunny skies. Evenings have been better but disappointing fly hatches have meant fairly poor rises. Corixa are increasing in many areas and there are huge clouds of daphnia in much of the lake. The BRFFA held their annual Orvis Floating Line Competition at Chew on Sunday. 60 anglers fished the boats with 13 trying their luck from the shore. Only 7 fish were captured by the bank men and DAVE DODDS took top spot with two fish for 5.11. Boat fishermen fared slightly better with 78 fish coming to the scales. TONY CHIPMAN was the only person to capture a limit bag. His eight fish fell to a Diawl Bach fished on a long leader off shore from the Picnic Areas. Best fish taken was a rainbow of 4.10 by ROD MARCH. Biggest fish of the week was a 5.11 brown caught by RUPERT KING from the bank. Yet another fish caught on a Diawl Bach.
BLAGDON: Blagdon has suffered as Chew Valley with the hot, sunny weather. Bells Bush, Wood Bay, Rugmoor and Pegs had seen some very good sport for the boat fishermen, but as things warmed up the fish retreated into deeper water and catches fell. M. HILLARY did take the biggest fish of the year so far from Blagdon. The 7.00 brown fell to a small nymph fished from a boat.
BARROW: Similar story to the main lakes but still some fish activity early mornings and late evenings. Fishing very small flies, even down to 16s and 18s has often been necessary to induce these moving fish to take. A 5.12 brown was taken at No3 by C. WARD. This is the biggest fish from Barrows this year.
LITTON: Both lakes continue to fish quite well even in the hot sun. There is now more weed growing around the margins of the lower lake so floating lines with washing line tactics are worth trying here. On the top lake a bright goldhead teamed with small nymphs is favourite.
PROSPECTS: Fishing will improve quickly with some cooler weather and rain which is forecast over the next week. With the heavy stockings of last week there should be plenty of fish around but they will remain difficult to take from the shore in the shallower areas. Try the deeper water at Nunnery, Woodford, Walley, Butcombe, Cheddar Water and North Shore during the day and watch for better fly hatches early morning and late evening when the fish will creep closer inshore near Wick, Herons, Villice, Rainbow, Pegs and Ash Trees. As always small Diawl Bachs on long leaders fished static or buzzers and dries when fish are moving will be the favoured tactics.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 11
5th June 2006
WEATHER: A much more settled week of light winds and some bright sunny days. Mainly dry.
WATER: The levels at Chew and Blagdon are now near top water, something very seldom seen in June. All the lakes are clear and the water temperature at 1 metre is now 14°C (57°f).
CHEW VALLEY: A good week for most fishing at Chew. Bank anglers have found feeding fish at Nunnery, Woodford, Walley and North Shore. During the brighter days the fish move off-shore but they return in the evenings and there have been some good rises. Boat fishermen have enjoyed some excellent fishing mainly in the area from the Dam to the back of Denny Island. Fish have been taking nymphs even during the sunny days and there have been rising fish on some evenings which can be tempted on a well presented dry. Best patterns are red Holo Diawl Bach, Montana, Damsel Fly, Black Buzzers and Bits Emergers. There is plenty of daphnia in the middle of the lake and corixa are now showing around the margins. Some good fish taken this week: GREG BATE took a 6.08 rainbow from the boat. JOHN BEESE landed another of 5.11 also from a boat.
BLAGDON: An improvement for the bank anglers at Blagdon this week with fish taken from Rainbow, Orchard Bay, Ash Trees and Wood Bay. The boats have also found plenty of fish off-shore of these same areas as well as the Dam and Butcombe. Most of these fish are coming to nymphs and buzzers fished slow and deep. The weed is now starting to grow at many areas of the lake and the long grass is making casting difficult in some places due to the very high water levels.
BARROW: Another very good week with fish showing and taking very small dries mornings and evenings. During the daytime the fish tend to be deeper but nymphs have worked well and there has been less reason to use the mouse at either lake.
LITTON: Both lakes are fishing well with plenty of fish showing at times. Any bright mini lure or goldhead will enduce a take fished slowly sub-surface while dries, emergers and buzzers have caught well in the evenings.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 10
29th May 2006
WEATHER: Another very stormy week with near gale force winds and heavy rain at times.
WATER: The levels at Chew and Blagdon have risen quickly this week with the very heavy rainfall bringing both lakes to within a couple of inches of top level. All waters remain clear except from the silt deposited where the rivers enter the lakes and Lower Litton which has a small algal bloom. The water temperature at 1 metre is around 12°C (53°f).
CHEW VALLEY: On two occasions again this week we have had to cancel boats or recall them due to the near gale force winds. Despite this the fishing has generally been better with some excellent catches from the boats and improving catches from many shores. Nunnery, Woodford and North Shore have seen anglers taking some good bags of fish, mainly to nymphs fished on floating lines. Boat fishermen have taken fish on most methods, including dries when the conditions have allowed and the area around the Roman Shallows have seen plenty of big fish activity again. The Island and North Shore have also been favoured with plenty of the recent stock fish showing. The best fish caught this week was a brown of 5.07 caught by M. ANSTEY from the shore. A 5.04 rainbow was taken in the Major Clubs competition fished at Chew on Saturday. The day started well but by mid afternoon the wind had increased to strong and the fish stopped feeding. Even so the 30 anglers brought 123 fish to the scales.
BLAGDON: Although slightly sheltered from the strong winds, Blagdon has been affected as Chew Valley and many fishermen have found the fishing difficult at times. But many more fish have been taken this week from boat and bank. The usual places have produced fish for boatmen – Butcombe , Rainbow and Wood Bay - whilst the bank fishers have seen an increase in catches from Green Lawn, Rainbow and Butcombe.
BARROW: Another good week for Barrow fishermen with plenty of fish coming to nymphs and a few rising and taking dries on the better evenings. No 3 still is the popular lake with fish coming from all areas depending on the wind direction.
LITTON: The Lower Lake is showing some colour from algae while the Top Lake remains clear except where the river enters. Few fish seen moving so nymphs and mini lures are best patterns. Try an orange goldhead with a team of buzzers and Diawl Bachs.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 9
22nd May 2006
WEATHER: A very unsettled, stormy week with near gale force winds at times and very heavy rain.
WATER: The lake levels remain steady but could rise with the very heavy rainfall experienced over the weekend. The very strong winds have caused some colouration of the lakes but this will clear quickly as the wind dies away. The water temperature at 1 metre remains at 13°C (55°f).
CHEW VALLEY: An extremely difficult week for all anglers in the adverse weather conditions. On many occasions the strong winds have made it near impossible to fish much of the water and on two days the boats have had to be cancelled as conditions were deemed to be too dangerous for boat fishing. Nevertheless, when the boats did manage to get out some good fishing was found. The Lexus Individual heats saw many of our local experts afloat and on both days limit bags were taken. On the Saturday thirty-one anglers took 93 fish, a rod average of three. Included in this catch were three limits taken by KRIS GEYSSONS, PAUL ANGEL & ALEC VAN REJKEL. Kris & Alec had been practicing at Chew with their friends for three days prior to the competition and knew where there were some feeding fish off the Dam. Using sinking lines and small lures they caught well until the increasing wind put the fish off the feed. ARWEL WILLIAMS fished off Wick Green with nymphs and managed to catch the two biggest fish on the day, a rainbow of 6.05 and a brown of 4.14. Conditions started well on day two for the 50 competitors, but soon deteriorated to the stage where the staff had to recall the boats mid afternoon. Even so NIGEL POWELL had sufficient time to capture his limit from the Dam area. This contest was for floating lines only and he took his fish on Diawl Bachs and Buzzers fished static.
Bank fishing seemed to improve a little this week with fish coming from deeper water areas at Nunnery, Woodford and North Shore. Best brown of the week was a fish of 5.02 captured by MARK THOMAS.
BLAGDON: Although slightly sheltered from the strong south and west winds, Blagdon has been affected as Chew Valley and many fishermen have found the fish hard to come by. Fishing close up to the Dam and in Butcombe Bay has been the main area stay for most anglers though there have been fish taken from Green Lawn and Wood Bay area. Bank anglers have also had success fishing these banks. Best fish of the week was a brown of 5.05 taken from a boat by J. DOYLE.
BARROW: With deep water close in and most shelter afforded by the high walls, Barrows have fished well again this week. The poor weather has put paid to the better evening fishing enjoyed last week but there are plenty of fish to be found fishing nymphs on long leaders during the daytime.
LITTON: Although the Top Lake is a little coloured from the heavy rain it still is fishing well, as is the Lower Lake. There have even been a few fish moving on the calmer evenings. Try fishing a small orange goldhead with buzzers and Diawl Bachs for the best results.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 8
15th May 2006
WEATHER: Another settled, warm week with mainly light winds. Mid week saw some huge thunderstorms late in the day, which freshened up the water but very little steady rain. Warmer evenings.
WATER: The small rainfall has not affected the lake levels. Water quality remains very good except and Litton appears to be clearing again. The water temperature at 1 metre is still 13°C (55°f).
CHEW: The boat fishing continues to be very good with excellent catches and some superb fish. This week has seen plenty of moving fish at times and these fish appear to be mainly over-wintered stock of well above average size. Best was a rainbow of 5.13 taken on a dry by MARTIN COTTIS. PETE MCGUCKIAN took a beautiful 5.07 brown and JERRY CLARKE a 5.02 rainbow in the southern eliminator. This contest saw 34 anglers competing for places at the National to be held at Chew in September. 134 fish were caught including four limit bags. MARK WITHYMAN, STUART MARIS, DAVE REYNOLDS, JERRY CLARKE, ANDREW HEDGER, LEE SENINGTON AND PAUL GOLDING will all be taking part in the final. On Saturday Anglian Water held their SW heats at Chew and eight teams of six anglers took part. Winners were TEAM TIGHTLINES with BLAGDON FLY FISHERS, CARBOTEC KINGFISHERS AND TEAM WOODFORD GREYS also qualifying for the English Final. STUART WATKINS took top bag with PHIL COTTON capturing the biggest fish, a brown of 4.10. Seven anglers completed their limit bags. Bank fishing has improved slightly with fish coming from Woodford, Nunnery and North Shore. Most fish are taking small nymphs and buzzers.
BLAGDON: Fishing from the bank continues to be difficult. The weed is growing slowly and there appears to be more insect life in the shallows but the fish continue to feed mainly offshore. Boat anglers are still enjoying good sport in the deeper areas with most fish coming to nymphs and buzzers. Butcombe Bay is still proving very popular but increasing numbers of anglers are finding plenty of fish at the Top End of the lake.
BARROW: A better week for the Barrows with fish coming from both waters. Some very good evening rises now starting. More fish are now being taken on nymphs and dries and the mouse appears to be less successful.
LITTON: The algal bloom is clearing again and fishing has been generally good. Plenty of moving fish seen around the margins during the evenings.
PROSPECTS: Boat anglers should enjoy some of the best sport of the year over the next few weeks with plenty of moving fish on the better days and during the evenings. Bank anglers should also see more fish closer in especially early morning and late evenings. Watch also for a big increase in the number of corixa as these always draw the fish inshore to feed. There will be a small stocking this week, but a large input of fish next week.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 7
8th May 2006
WEATHER: At last some consistent fishing conditions – soft, mild days with mainly light winds, some cloud but often bright & sunny. Still very cold at night.
WATER: With no rain this week the levels have fallen slightly. Water quality remains very good except at Litton where a small green algal bloom has started. The water temperature at 1 metre has risen to 13°C (55°fb).
 CHEW: A great week for boat anglers but still quite difficult for the bank fishermen. For the first time this season fish have been feeding well all over the lake and anglers have been catching on most methods and many differing patterns. The best catches have seemed to fall to nymphs with Diawl Bachs and Black Buzzers taking the bulk of the catches. Where the bank fishermen access deep water, Nunnery & North Shore, they have managed to catch, but fish seem to be avoiding the shallower areas in the clear water. The boats have found fish in most places but the best sport has come from Wick, Nunnery, North Shore and around the Island. Best fish of the week was a 6.08 brown caught by DAVE MINALL from Herons Green on a size 12 Diawl Bach.
The SW heats of the Lexus European Open Teams Competition were fished this week. 12 teams competed for a place in the English final to be fished at Chew later in the year. The 72 competitors managed to take 344 fish, a rod average of 4.8, and a fantastic average weight of 2lb 6oz. Individual winner was the youngest fisherman on the day, KEIRON JENKINS and the captor of the heaviest fish was KEITH TANNER, a fish of 4.11. Top three teams were Kingfishers, BRFFA Orvis and Blagdon FF.
BLAGDON: Fishing from the bank continues to be very hard despite a stocking this week. Suggestions are that the fish are reluctant to come inshore in the very clear water. Boat anglers are still enjoying good sport in the deeper areas with most fish coming to nymphs and buzzers. Butcombe Bay is still proving very popular but increasing numbers of anglers are finding plenty of fish at the Top end of the lake.
BARROW: Fishing has become more difficult at No 3 but No 1 is now fishing much better as the water clears. More fish are being taken on nymphs and dries and the mouse appears to be less successful.
LITTON: Litton has coloured during the past week and this has made fishing more difficult. However, this algal bloom should not last long and fishing should soon improve again.
PROSPECTS: Although the nights remain cold the warmer days will encourage even more fly life at all the lakes. Corixa numbers will increase too Evening and morning fishing should improve for the bank anglers and the boat fishing at both lakes should be at it’s best over the next few weeks.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here
WEEK 6
1st May 2006
WEATHER: Another week of warmer days but very cool nights, variable winds but mainly light, and no rain.
WATER: Levels remain high at all waters and mainly clear though there is some colour appearing with the sunnier conditions. The water temperature at 1 metre is still around 10°C (50°f).
SUMMARY: After a good start to the week the fishing has become more difficult again at the main lakes. On the better days there are plenty of moving fish to be seen and often dries will take these, but with the wind strength and direction varying so often there is little consistency to methods and areas. Barrows is still the best bet for bank fishing and No 1 is now beginning to fish well as the water clears there.
 CHEW: This week has seen fish well spread around the reservoir. Bank anglers have reported catches from Herons Green, Nunnery, Woodford and North Shore. Most are still being taken on smaller patterns during the daytime as there is little evening or morning rise to be found. Boat anglers have enjoyed more success and have found some fish feeding right on the surface at times and these fish can often be tempted to take a red or orange dry even when they are feeding on the prolific black buzzer hatches. Others have caught well pulling lures and boobies sub-surface. Boat anglers have taken fish from most areas of the Lake including Nunnery, Wick, North Shore and across from Nunnery to the Island. This week has seen some much better fish taken with the best being a massive brown trout of 10lbs 6ozs. This fish was taken from a boat by GERALD MURPHY in Villice Bay. It took a small Cats Whisker fished on a floating line.
BLAGDON: Bank fishing continues to be difficult not helped by the continually changing wind directions which seem to push the fish offshore. Boats have found fish in many parts of the lake and some good catches have come from the shallower areas around the Top End. Anchoring off Butcombe shore continues to be popular too. Very few rising fish at any time of day so sinking lines with nymphs and small lures predominating. Biggest fish reported this week was a brown of 6lb 8oz caught from the bank by JACK FARROW.
BARROW: No 3 is still fishing well and No 1 is also improving fast. Although many anglers continue to fish the Mouse, increasing numbers of anglers are finding that nymphs and even dries are working well.
LITTON: A disappointing week at Litton. Few fish showing and best catches falling to deep-fished nymphs and lures.
PROSPECTS: The forecast for the week is unsettled and still cold for the time of year. There will be fish stocked into Blagdon this week and Chew the week after which should improve catches but warmer weather is needed to really get things going. Watch out for more moving fish in the evenings and for more corixae starting to appear at all lakes.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 5
24th April 2006
WEATHER: Warmer and calmer for the last seven days with some sunshine, but still cold nights. Winds variable but light.
WATER: Levels high at all the lakes, Chew 91%, Blagdon 98% & Barrows 79%. All the lakes are very clear with visibility at over 10 feet much of the time. The water temperature is now 10°C (50°f).
A much better week for all anglers with good catches reported from bank and boat at all our waters. Although the water is warming slowly the nights are still quite cold and there has been little in the way of morning activity, though there has been some rising fish in sheltered areas on some evenings. The clear water at the main lakes has meant the fish are easily spooked by large concentrations of boats so try fishing away from the crowds. Finer leaders and longer casts may also be needed to catch regularly.
CHEW: This week has seen fish coming to the shore from most areas of the lake. Depending on the wind direction North Shore, Woodford, Herons Green and Wick have all been producing fish. Most anglers are now fishing smaller flies and nymphs to good effect. The boats have found fish in several spots with the North Shore to Hollow Brook and Wick Green to Herriotts being the favourite. Patterns for boat and bank are similar; Diawl Bach, Black Buzzer, Damsel Fly, Montana all fished slowly on floating lines with some fishermen resorting to brighter lures and Boobies fished fast on a sinker. Just occasionally there are some rising fish showing and small red or orange Bits Emergers will often tempt these. Best fish this week was a 5.02 rainbow caught by MARTIN BURGESS with MARCO ORSI capturing the biggest brown of 5.00. R. MUSPRATT also took a 5.00 rainbow from the bank.
BLAGDON: Many boat anglers are sticking to the Butcombe area for their day afloat when plenty of fish are being caught in the shallower end of the lake. Try drifting off Pegs, Rugmoor and Bells Bush for some good sport on floating lines and nymphs. Bank anglers have found the fish more difficult to locate though it’s worth trying Rainbow, Pegs and Butcombe. Most of the recommended patterns used at Chew will be successful at Blagdon. Biggest rainbow of the year so far was taken by ROD NEWTON from the boat. The fish weighed 6.04.
BARROW: No 3 is fishing well with some bigger fish now coming to the net. Fishermen trying small nymphs and dries have done well and the mouse men have taken their fair share of fish too.
LITTON: Litton continues to fish well mainly to nymphs and wets. Few moving fish seen but little need to fish sinkers as the fish are close to the surface.
PROSPECTS: The forecast for the week is grey and overcast with some light rain. Temperatures are not expected to be much above average for the time of year. In calmer, brighter conditions there may be some rising fish seen but most will be feeding sub-surface on buzzers and daphnia.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 4
17th April 2006
WEATHER: Much milder weather and gentler winds have made fishing far more comfortable, enjoyable and successful this week.
WATER: The recent heavy rains have filled Chew and Blagdon to top level. Water temperature is rising steadily and has reached 9°C at the time of writing
CHEW: Bank anglers have been reporting success from many different areas of the lake, depending on the wind strength and direction. Good bags have come mainly to nymphs such as Diawl Bachs, Black Buzzers, and Montanas fished slowly on floating lines, albeit often with a goldhead or other weighted fly on the point of a long leader. Some success has also been had with Vivas, Fritz tadpoles and other small lures fished on medium sinking lines, and also with Boobies fished on fast sinkers such as Di7s. Best banks have been Wick Green, North Shore, Woodford and Nunnery. JOHN GREGORY caught a splendid 5lb 3oz brown trout from North Shore on a goldhead Viva. The boats are also doing particularly well, using similar flies and tactics, especially in the area between Spring Bay, Wick Green and Herriotts.
BLAGDON: The banks at Butcombe, Green Lawn and Peg’s Point continue to reward the patient nymph angler with good bags of fish, and some good sport with sinking lines and lures has also come from North Shore. Goldhead Damsels, Superglue Buzzers, Montanas and the usual Diawl Bachs are the best medecine.
The boats have been concentrating on these same areas, but there has recently been a move to explore Top End, and some excellent sport is coming from there too.
BARROWS: Some good bags of fish have come from No3, both to traditional floating line and nymph tactics and to the static ‘Barrow Mouse’ on a fast sinker technique.
LITTON: The two lakes at Litton have been going really well this week. Although fish are not yet showing, many have been caught fishing small nymphs and buzzers just below the surface. R. CURRELL took a 5lb 4oz brown trout.
PROSPECTS: With warmer, less windy conditions forecast for the next week things should continue to improve. Cold clear nights are still possible so early morning fishing is not so likely to be very productive. Try fishing around mid-day with small black goldheads – Viva, Tadpole or Montana, but don’t be tempted to pull too quickly. Boobies are also worth trying fished slowly deep down. In sheltered areas and on calmer days there have been large hatches of black buzzer and the fish are feeding well on these so don’t ignore the small flies. Evening fishing should get better with warmer days.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 3
10th April 2006
WEATHER: The very cold and unsettled weather continues. Night-time frosts and very strong winds have made fishing very uncomfortable and occasionally impossible. The boats at Chew have been cancelled three times due to the gales and at other times many areas have been either too rough to fish or coloured up by sediment.
WATER: The heavy rain has filled Blagdon to top level and brought Chew Valley up to within a foot of full. This influx of water caused some dirty water but now this has cleared giving very clear water at most of the lakes. Water temperature is still low for the time of year at just 7ºC.
CHEW, BLAGDON & BARROWS: Boat anglers often found it difficult to fish at Chew & Blagdon in the very windy conditions. But when they have ventured out some good sport has been enjoyed mainly around Wick Grren at Chew and the Top End and Butcombe at Blagdon. Bank anglers have found the going easier and plenty of fish have come from the more sheltered areas; Woodford, North Shore, Pegs Point, Bells Bush and Butcombe. Barrow 3 has also fished well although No 1 has been more difficult. Most anglers are using sinking lines and small lures but there have been plenty taken on Diawl Bach, Black Buzzer and Montanas.
At Chew this weekend the first domestic competition was held by BRFFA. The Snowbee competition attracted 60 brave anglers and most caught fish in very difficult conditions. Boat winner was NIGEL EVANS who brought 7 fish to the scales. CHRIS CAVILL won the bank section with 3 fish. After the event competitors enjoyed a hot meal at Woodford Lodge.
Best fish this week were two 5 pound fish, a 5.04 brown from Chew taken by STEVE WINSTONE and a rainbow of 5.01 from Barrow 3 caught by B. PETERMAN.
LITTON: The two lakes at Litton are situated in a deep valley and this shelter has allowed fishermen to fish there without the problems associated with the weather at the big waters. Although fish are not yet showing, many have been caught fishing small nymphs and buzzers just below the surface.
PROSPECTS: With less windy conditions forecast for the next week things should improve quickly. Frosty nights are still possible so early morning fishing is not likely to be very productive. Try fishing around mid-day with small black goldheads – Viva, Tadpole or Montana, but don’t be tempted to pull too quickly. Boobies are also worth trying fished slowly deep down. In sheltered areas and on calmer days there have been large hatches of black buzzer and the fish are feeding well on these so don’t ignore the small flies. Evening fishing should get better with warmer days.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
WEEK 1
27th MARCH 2006
After weeks of anticipation the new season opened at Chew and Barrows with the coldest spell of March weather for many, many years. After a couple of weeks of relatively mild weather the temperatures fell to near zero and combined with the strong NE winds, conditions for fishing were some of the most unpleasant that anglers could remember.
Many fishermen saw the weather forecasts and decided to await warmer weather, but those that did come found the fish very difficult to tempt. Many fished for just a few hours during which they became so cold that they packed up and headed for home. Those that did remain were rewarded by a short spell when the fish did feed and some sport was enjoyed.
Blagdon opened a week later to less windy weather. When the whistle blew at 7am anglers found their rod rings were freezing up and it wasn’t until later when the temperature rose that fish began to be caught.
So a disappointing start, that has continued through to the second week with near gale force SW winds and few decent fishable days.
CHEW VALLEY: With many spots on the Lake unfishable most fishermen have sought the sheltered banks at Wick Green, Herons Green and the North Shore. The fish have been lying deep and sinking or intermediate lines have been needed to reach them. Montanas, Vivas and small marabou patterns have fished best. Boat anglers have found fish in the same general areas and have often had to fish at anchor to find the necessary depth. On the better days some fish have been taken on midge tips with buzzer and Diawl Bachs but these occasions have been few. Best fish taken at Chew so far is a 5.11 brown caught by J WILLIAMS form a boat in Villice Bay.
 BLAGDON: As last season it seems many of the fish have headed for the deeper water off the Dam and Butcombe. The boats found fish deep down on small lures while bank fishermen had success at Pegs Point and Butcombe Bay. With the return of the strong SW winds fishing from the North side of the Lake is now nearly impossible so Cheddar water and Pipe Bay is well worth a try. J ENGLISH captured a beautiful 6.08 brown from the boat.
BARROW: No 3 fished quite well for the first few days of the season where anglers could shelter behind the wall and fish the relatively calm water. As always the mouse took plenty of fish though other anglers had success with lures and goldheads. No 1 proved to be less popular but some good bags of brownies were taken there.
LITTON: The two lakes at Litton are situated in a deep valley and this shelter has allowed fishermen to fish there without the problems associated with the weather at the big waters. Although fish are not yet showing, many have been caught fishing small nymphs and buzzers just below the surface.
PROSPECTS: The forecast is for continuing strong winds but much better temperatures over the next week. This should encourage the fish to feed and catches should improve quickly. Find the sheltered places. These will have cleaner water and should make fishing much more comfortable.
For this weeks full fishing results table click here.
The 2005 News Archive is available by clicking HERE
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