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Fishing report for 2009
2009 CATCHES - MIGRATORY FISH
(a) Salmon and Grilse 96
(b) Sea Trout 17
WATER CONDITIONS & MOVEMENT OF MIGRATORY FISH
The river was at a good level most of the spring and summer. Grilse and Sea Trout were caught from June onwards. Large numbers of fish came up the river following big 'spate' in early September and mid October.
CATCHES
Salmon and Grilse-Although September and October were the most prolific months,several fish were caught in each month from April to August included. The fishing 'effort' in the spring and Summer months was lower than usual, probably due to the recession, and the catch figure reflects the lack of 'effort'.
Our average annual catch over the last 5 season is 101.
Sea Trout -by some way the best catch recorded on the water. A potentially exciting development? The Sea Trout catch should also be considered in the context that most anglers probably are not fishing fot Sea Trout.
Brown Trout - some good fish were taken, especially in April and May.
CONSERVATION
On the Castle Forbes water, 81% of the Salmon and Grilse caught by rods were returned - an improvement over the previous season, and supportive of The Don District Saalmon Fishery Board's Conservation Policy.
IMPROVEMENTS
Much work was undertaken during 2009 to improve acess and ease of fishing. Most of the Beats received attention to over-hanging branches and tree/scrub growing out of or on the river bank. Pools such as the 'Fir Tree' on Beat 2 were significantly opened up. New foot bridges and benches (for the weary or those just wishing to enjoy the magnificent environment of the Castle Forbes fishing!) have been constructed. Access routes down some steep banks have had steps cuts and even railings made available. Seemingly endless wash down litter has been collected and removed from the river banks.
WEDSITES
www.fishdon.co.uk - the Fish Don website enables angles new to the Don to discover the charms of our river, and especially the Castle Forbes Water. Much currant information, and fish catch update are available on it.
DISEASE
Please continue to rigorously observe preventative measures, which are widely publicised, against all diseases threatening freshwater fish stocks, especially such potenially catastophic diseases as Gyrodactylosis from the Gyrodactylus salaris parasite.
LOOKING FORWARD to 2010
Do come and enjoy your fishing with us in 2010. Our aim is always to make your day(s) on Castle Forbes water tranquil and enjoyable as we can. There is more to fishing than catching fish!
Nov : 2009
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