Small streams for wild browns
Recommended equipment:
- 6-7ft, 2-3wt fly rod and accompanying fly reel,
double-taper floating fly line - Various river dry flies, wets and nymph patterns – 2-3lb leader (co-polymer)
- Small net, waders (preferably chest) and a lightweight, waterproof jacket.
Techniques covered:
- Reading the water, river craft and basic entomology
- Upstream dry fly, nymphing and downstream and across wet fly
- Various fly casts, including roll, side and the bow and arrow.
They say size isn’t everything, and it’s certainly true when it comes to this very rewarding form of fly-fishing.
Over the years, I’ve become addicted to the charms of catching pretty wild brownies, admiring their butter coloured bellies and bright red spots. Most fish weigh-in under the half pound mark, but on occasions you’ll winkle out a much larger specimen from a deep hole. Sport tends to be off the surface, which proves very exciting and it certainly keeps your responses in check. In my opinion, this is a very underrated style of fly-fishing; which is highly addictive.
We’ll travel light to cover as much water as possible; waving a wand-like 7-8ft rod among overgrown trees and backside vegetation. Around every corner there’s a new challenge and an opportunity to try and accurately flick a fly to ever willing wild fish – they certainly keep you busy! This will test the skills of the most experienced angler, and I’ll guarantee that you’ll want more. There’s something special about outwitting a truly wild creature among such beautiful surroundings.
With some steep, slippery banks and difficult access points, you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the session.
Seasons: 3rd March to 30th September.
Rivers: Lliw, Llan, Gwilli and Morlais (all near Swansea).
Guiding on small streams
Terms and Conditions.