Fishery Report » Ballyvolane House & Blackwater Salmon Fishery
[ September 2009 ]
Justin Green reports that after the huge flood during the first week of September, the Blackwater enjoyed a magnificent Indian Summer with hardly a drop of rain for the remainder of the month. The river dropped and cleared but maintained a decent height for fish to run. The conditions were perfect for fly-fishing during the last two weeks of the month. Fresh fish were seen running as well as plenty of resident fish. Anglers worked hard but found the running fish were reluctant to take. This seems to have been pattern up and down the catchment.
The Cascade Shrimp and Ally’s shrimp flies were the most successful flies this September and a black and gold size 10 FC was the most prolific of the spinners. The grilse caught were an average of 3lbs and the salmon were from 51/2 lbs to 19lbs. Most of the salmon caught were red and all were released.
The positives for the season are that many of the fish entering the system have been very large indeed –17lbs to 20lbs was not uncommon. The negatives are the spring run continues to disappoint and the grilse are still scarce. The heavy rains in June, July and August didn’t help the conditions either.
Next season is significant in that nets will have been off for five seasons and the number of fish returning should increase dramatically. Ballyvolane House will be running a number of salmon fishing courses for all levels of experience for which they are now taking bookings.
For bookings and further information, please visit:
» Ballyvolane House & Blackwater Salmon Fishery member page.
