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1st February, 2012
IAC reminder about payment of membership fees
Anglers in and around the Highland Capital are reminded that senior subscriptions for Inverness Angling Club should be paid before March 1 to avoid an additional charge for late payment. Membership secretary Alan Scott explained that, with rising costs, early payment of membership fees was now more important than ever. ”We have significant rent and assessment bills to pay every month so it’s crucial for the financial health of the club to get seniors, who form the majority of our members, to take out their permits as soon as possible.” Permits are available from local tackle dealers Graham and Company in Castle Street. The senior fee for 2012 is £150. An additional £10 has to be paid by anglers renewing their membership after February 29. 1st February, 2012
River Ness anglers celebrate season opening
Over 50 members of Inverness Angling Club braved very cold conditions to gather at the Mill Stream Pool of the River Ness on February 1 for the opening of the 2012 salmon fishing season. The river was ‘blessed’ with a dram of a good malt whisky by Neil Soutar, manager of the Holm Mills Shopping Village who sponsor the event, and club president Mike Campbell wished everyone ‘tight lines’ for the year. Club treasurer Billy Mackenzie was the first to make contact with a fish, carefully landing and releasing one of the many healthy-looking kelts which, along with a few fresh fish, are showing regularly throughout the Ness fishings now that the water has dropped from consistently high winter levels. Once opening day traditions had been satisfied, anglers adjourned to Holm Mills’ Ghillie’s Restaurant to enjoy complimentary refreshments and bacon butties efficiently served by the restaurant’s pleasant staff. 19th January, 2012
Top class salmon fishing for £165 a year
Anglers from all parts of the UK are being invited to take up associate membership of Inverness Angling Club. Associate memberships are normally limited to around 30 a year, so it’s a rare opportunity to fish the River Ness, one of the Highlands’ iconic salmon rivers, for £165 a year. The fishings recorded a ten-year average catch of 322 salmon and grilse up to 2011. A range of wide, streamy pools offers superb conditions for fishing the fly, which normally takes most fish. The lower reaches can fish well for sea trout while good brown trout can be found in most pools. The main runs of Ness salmon arrive in the period from July to mid October, when the club expects members to release at least 50 per cent of their catch. All spring fish caught from opening day on February 1 to May 31 must be released. Club president Mike Campbell said: “Current associate members from all over the UK enjoy the challenges of fishing a superb salmon river and the camaraderie of our club. We hope more anglers will take up this invitation to fish our water.” Applications for associate membership will be considered on a first come, first served basis. Application forms, along with detailed information on the club waters, are available from the web site or from the membership secretary, Alan Scott, 24 Merlin Crescent, Inverness IV2 3TE. A brochure with map and pictures of the main pools is also available. 19th January, 2012
“A magical place to be”
Associate members appreciate the opportunities they secure through membership of the club – the quality of the fishing and the hospitality of local members. Brian Poe from Ardross, in Ross-shire, has just finished his first year of associate membership. “The members are friendly and the craic excellent,” said Brian. “It’s lovely fly water, but big and that’s good for your casting – it keeps you on the ball.” Walter Ridley drives 450 miles from Hull to the Ness two or three times a year. He said: “If I fish 14 days it works out about £12 a day to be in the nicest part of the Highlands, on the best river in the UK to Spey cast on. Just to watch some of the best casters around is worth it. The fish don’t come easy but cracking fish when they do. There’s always something going on in Inverness. It’s a great city. I don’t fish anywhere else these days – nice people, great river, fantastic scenery, a magical place to be and always the chance of the fish of a lifetime.” Elliott Robson, of Peterlee, says: “Inverness Angling Club is the best association water in the Scottish Highlands and I have fished many association beats throughout Scotland. It has taken me 25 years to find a hidden gem like this water.” Terry Davis of Mevagissey, Cornwall, is the club’s furthest flung associate member. “Friends from all over ask me why I travel 700 miles to fish salmon in Inverness when there is excellent salmon fishing in Cornwall,” said Terry. “For value for money give me the Inverness Angling Club water any time. It has a magic of its own. At the morning meeting at the Little Isle Pool you can glean all sorts of information from seasoned anglers and get a hot drink before taking on the many pools. The river offers a wonderful combination of water flow and depth and there’s always somewhere to fish uninterrupted.” 16th January, 2012
New signs installed at Mill Stream
Scottish and Southern Energy has erected new signs above and below the electricity cables crossing the Mill Stream, following discussions with Inverness Angling Club. The signs have been fixed to suitable trees and club members are asked to observe the recommendations to carry rods low, and take care in casting, to avoid any danger of shock from the uninsulated cable. 16th January, 2012
Ness anglers prepare to mark season opening
Inverness Angling Club will mark the opening of the 2012 Ness salmon season on Wednesday, February 1, with a ceremony at the Mill Stream at 1030 for 1100 hours. Once again, the event will be sponsored by the Holm Mills Shopping Centre whose manager, Neil Soutar, will ‘bless’ the water with the traditional dram and invite anglers to cast off. Participants will then adjourn to the Ghillie’s Restaurant for the very welcome bacon rolls, hot coffee and tea and a celebratory dram. 13th December, 2011
IAC’s permits for the 2012 season go on sale
Inverness Angling Club’s permits for the 2012 season are available now from tackle dealers Graham and Company in Castle Street, Inverness. New applicants and associate members should continue to contact the membership secretary (ajandkascott@talktalk.net or 01463 235287. Fees for the 2012 season are: Senior £150, lady £75, associate £165, concessionary (at age 65 with 12 consecutive years of senior membership) £45, junior (under 18) £12, junior (under 12) free on application, sea trout £10. An entry fee of £10 is charged for new members and a charge of £10 is made for any member who failed to submit a catch return for the previous season. 1st December, 2011
The tying of flies has a long and honourable history among River Ness anglers. Top exponents range from John Reidpath, the inventor of the first of the modern hair wing flies, the Hairy Mary, to John Cathcart and his Black Shrimp, the top designs and exacting tying of Mike Campbell and Peter Easton, and the current new take on tubes by Lawrence Deans. This writer fondly remembers the enthusiasm and skills stimulated by former Inverness Angling Club president Charlie ‘Scout’ Mackenzie in leading tying and rod building classes as part of the further education syllabus of Inverness High School. So it’s good to know that the tradition is being maintained. John Sinclair, whose NessC has become a particularly popular and successful fly on many salmon rivers, currently leads a Thursday evening tying class in community premises off Torvean Avenue, with the proceeds helping to defray the costs of Christmas and Easter treats for local young people. All tyers, novice or experienced, young and not so young, are welcome and are guaranteed worthwhile tips on the tying of flies for salmon and trout. 29th November, 2011
Club recognises local heroes
Aiden rescued a woman from the Little Isle Pool while Jim pulled a three-year-old boy from the river. Jim could not attend the AGM as he is recovering from an operation.
28th November, 2011
Club catches lowest for three years
Catches on Inverness Angling Club’s Ness dropped significantly in 2011, totalling 247 salmon and grilse compared with 393 in 201l and 352 in 2009. The club’s AGM heard that 128 rods caught fish during the year, landing 110 salmon and 137 grilse of which 42 per cent were released. The bulk of the fish were caught between August and October – September being the best month with 19 salmon and 27 grilse. 28th November, 2011
Cost increases result in successive deficits
President Mike Campbell and secretary Don MacKay advised Inverness Angling Club’s AGM that the club had incurred successive deficits. These resulted from a doubling of the fishings rent payable to The Highland Council, and a massive increase in the assessment payable to the Ness District Fishery Board as a result of a re-valuation of fisheries by the District Valuer. Rent rose to £15,000 a year. As the valuation also doubled to £15,000, the Ness District Fishery Board applied its usual £1.55 poundage rate to all district fishery valuations, giving an assessment of £23,250 for the club’s fishings for the current five-year period. 28th November, 2011
Members vote on fees for 2012
As costs multiply through increases in rent and assessment, Inverness Angling Club members voted to increase the senior membership fee from £125 to £150 for the 2012 season. Counter proposals for fees to remain the same, or increase to £140, were unsuccessful. Associate members will continue to pay £165. Concessionary fees will rise form £35 to £45, ladies from £62 to £75 and juniors (up to 18) from £10 to £12. Juniors under 12 will continue to get membership free of charge. Visitor tickets were set at £40 per day and £200 per week. Secretary Don MacKay warned that, despite these increases, the club would record a substantial deficit on its operations over the next year, as in the past two years. 28th November, 2011
Membership totals broadly similar to previous years
Inverness Angling Club’s 2011 membership – the club’s only source of income – remained broadly similar to previous years. Senior members totalled 230 while associates rose by two to 39. Junior members dropped from 130 to 119 and lady members remained steady at four. Sea trout permits for the estuary beat, below the Black Bridge, totalled 39. Members continued to welcome visitors although daily permits fell from 197 to 179 and three weekly permits were sold. 28th November, 2011
Members elect new committee
President Mike Campbell will lead the following committee in the 2012 season: Vice-president, Billy Orrock; secretary, Don MacKay; treasurer, Billy Mackenzie; membership secretary, Alan Scott; members – Mick Whitehead, Frank Rabbeth, David Dyce, Neil Porter, Lawrence Deans, Ross Anderson, Tony Quinn and Ally Henderson, plus new faces Eric Craig, Ken Gowans and Alexander Matheson. 25th November, 2011
Council presents new options for river and canal crossing
The citizens of Inverness are being given another chance to comment on The Highland Council’s proposals for the completion of the City Trunk Link Road – the West Link that will cross the river and canal from Dores Road to the A82. The council has undertaken an options appraisal following the first round of public consultations towards the end of 2010, increasing the number of options from five to eight. In another move, the council has established a cross-party working group to oversee the consultation process, consider the options appraisal and take account of public comment in selecting the preferred route. A series of public meetings is being held during November and December as part of the consultation process. They are: Tuesday, November 29 – Daytime exhibition from 11 am to 7 pm in Kinmylies Church, followed by an evening presentation in Inverness Sports Centre, from 7.30 pm. Thursday, December 1 – Daytime exhibition from 11 am to 7 pm in Culduthel Christian Centre, followed by an evening presentation in Inverness Royal Academy, from 7.30 pm. Inverness Angling Club members are encouraged to attend the consultations, and make their views known, as the various options could involve potentially serious consequences for the club fishings and the river environment. The closing date for comments is January 16, 2012. An updated PDF document can be downloaded from the council’s web site through the following link http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/roadsandtransport/newroadschemes/icwl2/default.htm 22nd November, 2011
Calling all members……!
Inverness Angling Club members are reminded that the club’s annual general meeting will be held in the Recreation Hall at Raigmore Hospital this Thursday evening (November 24) at 7.30pm. With the club experiencing substantial rises in rent to The Highland Council and assessment to the Ness District Fishery Board, important decisions will have to be made on the level of fees from the 2012 season. Consequently, the club’s committee is seeking a strong attendance of members so that these issues are fully discussed. 22nd November, 2011
Experimental season extension draws to a close
The third and final year of the experimental extension of the River Ness salmon season closed with the club waters recording a catch of 15 fish. High water conditions over much of the three week period worked against higher catches, although many more fish were contacted but ‘fell off’ before being netted and recorded for the scientists. The results will now be analysed by the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust and the Ness District Fishery Board prior to consultation on whether a permanent extension will be introduced. 31st October, 2011
Experimental season extension enters final week
At the start of the final week (October 31) of the final year of the experimental season extension on the River Ness, the Inverness Angling Club water has produced 14 fish so far. Falling water levels led to increased activity last week and it’s hoped that stable conditions this week will produce more fish. Club members who would like a cast should report to the Little Isle or Mill Stream huts from 9 am. Only debarbed double hooks may be used and all fish caught must be carefully netted, photographed, weighed and measured, and a skin sample taken from the dorsal fin and placed in sample bottles available from the huts. 23rd October, 2011
2011 AGM Thursday 24th November
Members, Prior to the 2010 AGM Members were advised that Committee were to recommend that the cost of all permits be increased by 25% for the 2011 season. These cost increases were required as a result of a known increase to rent costs rising from £8,000 to £15,000 and an unknown increase to assessment costs which Committee had estimated at a 33% increase. The Assessor advised in January 2011 that our fishing valuation was to increase from £7,350 to £15,000 backdated to April 2010. This valuation amount (£15,000) is advised to the District Fishery Board who then apply their poundage rate and issue assessment notices to the various fisheries in the District, the rate prior to our new valuation was £1.55 per £1. The Ness District Salmon Fishery Board decided to maintain this poundage rate in order to increase their annual income and allow a part time Chief Executive to be employed. The resulting increase to Inverness Angling Clubs’ assessment charges is a rise from £11,000 to £23,000, an increase of 110%, considerably higher than the 33% which was included to the increase to permit charges for the 2011 season. The assessment charge of £23,000 was advised to IAC in January 2011 and is backdated to April 2010 resulting in a further £12,000 having to be paid out of Club reserves to cover the increased cost. IAC have appealed the Assessors fishery valuation but this appeal will not be processed until December 2011 / January 2012 due to the volume of appeals that have been made to the Assessor. Present known outgoing costs are Rent at £15,000, Ness District Salmon Fishery Board Assessment at £23,000 and incidental costs of £8,000 ( these costs include accountancy fees, honorariums, printing and stationary etc.) making an overall operating cost of about £46,000. Our average full members and associates total 265No presently paying £125 and £165 providing and income of £34,000, this would mean a shortfall of £12,000. Club Officials continue to have regular meetings with our Landlord to progress the renewal of our lease in 2014 and secure the Clubs’ future. The future financial requirements for the Club to continue are the foremost item on the agenda as we continue to see our income requirements increase. At this years AGM Members shall be asked to decide on permit costs for the 2012 season, there are a number of considerations which may be made when evaluating future permit costs and Committee would highlight some of these as follows :-
Don Mackay 21st October, 2011
River Ness continues to run high
High water and wild weather is making things difficult for anglers fishing the experimental season extension on the club water of the River Ness. The two fresh fish caught, sampled and released on October 17 and 18 were followed on October 19 by a bright eight pounder to the rod of Denny Mackay, fishing the left bank of the Mill Stream. With two weeks to go, the hope is for more clement weather and a drop in the water level. But with more rain forecast, and cold weather increasing demands for power from hydro schemes, lower water would appear unlikely. 18th October, 2011
Experimental extension of season continues
Inverness Angling Club is participating in the third and final year of a trial three-week extension of the salmon fishing season from the normal closing date of October 15.. Up to 10 rods can fish the club waters at any one time each day with any fish caught being photographed, fin clipped to help build records, weighed and measured before being released to continue their spawning runs. To ease management, fishing is generally limited to pools below the weir, including the Mill Stream, MacIntyre and Little Isle. Any club members wishing to fish should report to the Little Isle or Mill Stream huts from 9 am to 5 pm each day. At the time of writing – at the close of the first two days of the trial – the right bank of the Mill Stream reports catches of fresh fish of 11lbs and 14lbs. The Ness District Fishery Board and the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust will consider the results of the three-year experiment to determine whether they will submit a formal application for an extension of the season below Dochfour weir. 18th October, 2011
High water curtail catches on Ness fishings
Rising water did little to improve prospects for anglers on Inverness Angling Club’s Ness fishings in the last few weeks of the 2011 season. While levels curtailed catches, grilse – and a few more substantial fish – did provide some members with their first fish of the year on both sides of the Little Isle, in the Silver Wells, the General’s Well, the MacIntyre and each bank of the Mill Stream. Neil Fraser, following a magnificent but finally unsuccessful tussle with an extremely large fish at the Little Isle, landed a 16lb specimen from the same pool while Phil Enfield took a 19.5lb fish at the MacIntyre. The Mac also provided a 17lb fish for Alva Parkes while Isobel Harkness continued her successful first season fishing for salmon with a 9lb fish from the General’s Well. 26th September, 2011
Reel return makes Walter a happy laddie
We get many messages of appreciation from anglers who have enjoyed both the fishing and the ‘craic’ on Inverness Angling Club’s waters. But this one from Walter Ridley, an associate member from Hull, was a bit special Walter writes: ”Just a quick e-mail to tell you how much I enjoyed my fishing on your water this year and meeting up with some old pals and making plenty new ones. I’m already planning accommodation, etc, for next year. "On my last day I stupidly left my Evotec reel – £300 worth! – on the river bank and didn’t realise until I got home. Did I feel sick?!! On opening my e-mails later that evening, however, an IAC member had tracked me down and told me he had found my reel and posted it to me by special delivery. (I won’t name him to save his blushes). "What a wonderful gesture from a fellow angler and what a wonderful reflection on IAC. And I caught two fish!! Does it get any better?” Well done anonymous member! Walter – we look forward to your return. 12th September, 2011
Anglers ‘break ducks’ as grilse arrive in numbers
The grilse are here (week beginning September 12)! – and several club anglers on the Ness have, at last, connected with their first fish of the season. Pools from the Braes down to the Silver Wells produced fish ranging from four to eight pounds. Two sea winter salmon were still around, however, with Lawrence Deans taking an 18 lb specimen form the Braes and Alistair MacArthur landing his second 19 lb fish from the MacIntyre Pool. The Mac also produced a 14 pounder for Peter Easton and a 12 pounder for Alva Parkes. Other successful anglers included Alex Elliott, Donnie Urquhart, Duncan Macdonald, Neil Porter and associate member Ian Jennings from Birmingham. Juan Martinez, a young Spaniard spending a year in Inverness to develop his salmon angling skills, released his first Ness salmon in the MacIntyre. Towards the end of the week, Lawrence Deans – fishing the tail of the Mac – hit a run of fish, pulling five and landing the sixth. 4th September, 2011
Red Braes produce prodigious fish
It’s been a frustrating period for most anglers on the club water of the River Ness. While salmon have been in evidence in most of the popular pools, they have not been easy to catch. Many members, even after hours in the water over successive days, are still looking for their first fish of the season. As always, however, there are exceptions. Lawrence Deans continued his impressive catch record with a 25lb fish from the Red Braes while Peter O’Donnell took a 17 pounder from the same pool. Down on the MacIntyre, early risers on Monday morning had a tremendous time hooking, losing or landing salmon right, left and centre. Among the successful anglers were Mike Campbell, Kevin Macdonald, David Dyce, Peter Easton and Ally Henderson. The question that most club members are asking is – “Where is the main grilse run?” Two sea winter fish appear to make up the majority of present runs. Perhaps the next week or so will see a welcome increase in these lively little fish. 23rd August, 2011
Third Winter Trout League launched
By popular demand, the Winter Trout League organised by Inverness Angling Club members Alex Elliott and Alan Scott will return for a third season from October. Entry forms and rules will be available shortly from club huts and Graham and Co, the Inverness tackle dealers. The only major change for 2011/12 is that the organisers have agreed to respond to strong demand by admitting juniors aged 16 and over. The eight sessions, culminating in the May final, will again be held at Achagour Fishery, the popular venue run by Stewart Mackintosh and daughter Cindy. 23rd August, 2011
Don’t just complain about banks and paths….
It takes a lot of time, effort and commitment to run any club and Inverness Angling Club is no different from the thousands of clubs around the county. But should members leave all the work to those elected to the committee? Clearly, any group of officials needs help to complete the many tasks it faces each and every year. As far as IAC is concerned, there are lots of comments from members about the need to clear banks and paths…..but – with certain outstanding exceptions – little commitment to getting stuck into the work involved! If you think a path to your favoured fishing spot needs a bit of TLC, or there’s a branch affecting your cast to a productive salmon lie, then get a hold of a strimmer, lopper or hedge trimmer and get stuck in! The tools are available from president Mike Campbell. Just give him a call and arrange to collect them (see telephone and address details in your permit). 23rd August, 2011
Salmon finally arrive in good numbers
The River Ness salmon season kicked off in the week beginning August 15 with good catches from a variety of pools on the Inverness Angling Club water. Performance of the week went to Hendrik Cornelius who caught two fish in the Palace Pool opposite Inverness Castle. The first weighed six pounds but the second took Hendrik over an hour to land and tipped the scales at 27 lbs. Both fish were released. Other catches ranged from seven to 19 lbs with successful anglers including Murray Richardson, Tony Quinn, Nick Barker, Alistair MacArthur, Ross Anderson, Tom Paterson, Lawrence Deans, Lewis Lisle and Brian McBride.
23rd August, 2011
Biker Bruce forgets to brake….
Chris Bruce has always been known as an enthusiastic young member of Inverness Angling Club. But he seemed to take this enthusiasm a little too far the other day as he sped from Island Bank Road on his trusty push bike, raced across the bank of the lower Ness Island and flew straight into the river! Murray Richardson was on hand to disentangle Chris from bike and rod, and get him and his gear on to dry land. He went home to change and returned to the river at a much more leisurely pace to continue his search for a salmon. 23rd August, 2011
Field Sports Fair attendances best for years
Anglers’ Corner was a busy place as the annual Highland Field Sports Fair, staged at Moy Hall, attracted some of the largest attendances since its inception. Inverness Angling Club members – who manage the popular Anglers’ Corner for the fair organisers – were kept very busy supervising salmon fly distance casting and trout fly accuracy competitions, and trout fly tuition, throughout the two days of the event.
Winners included: Salmon fly distance – Senior – Men – 1st equal - Donald MacPherson, Inverness, and Nick Munro Ferguson, Evanton, 43 yards; Ladies – Ally Bremner, Melrose, 30 yards; Junior boys – 1st Aiden MacDonald, Inverness, 35 yards, 2nd Dannie West, Inverness, 33 yards. Trout fly accuracy – Senior – Men – 1st Donald MacPherson, 105 points, 2nd Martin Nelson, Inverness, 100 points; Ladies – 1st Marion O’Hara, Tore, 35 points, 2nd Ally Bremner, 22 points; Juniors – Boys – 1st Dannie West, 70 points, 2nd Josh Bain, Tomich, 65 points; Girls – 1st Laura Nelson, Inverness, 38 points, 2nd Emma Rabbeth, Inverness, 18 points. 23rd August, 2011
Club members in river rescues
HM Coastguard have formally congratulated a young member of Inverness Angling Club on his courageous rescue of a 28-year-old woman from drowning in the River Ness. Aiden Macdonald (15), one of the club’s most promising young Speycasters, was fishing the Little Isle Pool when the woman fell into the water by the main island and got into difficulties. On hearing her shouts, Aiden stripped off his fishing gear, dived into the water, got a hold of the woman and managed to get her to the opposite bank some 300 yards downstream where two visitors helped her out of the water. Aiden then went home to change and returned to the river to continue fishing. In another river incident, club member Jim MacDowell saved the life of a three-year-old boy who crashed his bike into the fast flowing pool known as The Holey. The youngster had been cycling on the footpath alongside the river near the Bught Park when the accident happened. Jim (50), a security man at Raigmore Hospital, was fishing The Holey 20 feet below the path. He helped the boy’s father get the unconscious boy up the bank. When the boy failed to respond to his father’s efforts to resuscitate him, Jim - a qualified first aider - took over and brought the lad round. Club members are proud of the actions of both Aiden and Jim who showed courage and quick thinking in their successful rescue efforts. 10th July, 2011
Work party tackles invasive species
Invasive and potentially harmful non-native plants growing on the right bank of the River Ness were tackled by volunteers from Inverness Angling Club and Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust last Tuesday (July 5). Working under the guidance of members of the Lower Ness Invasive Plants Project, led by John Parrott of Scottish Native Woods, the team cleared areas of Himalayan Balsam and identified growths of Japanaese Knotweed, Giant Hogweed and Skunk Cabbage. These will be sprayed with herbicide in August/September and monitored over the next few years. As club members can now identify the plants, they will be able to keep Scottish Native Woods advised of any recurrence and directly tackle Himalayan Balsam. 1st July, 2011
Project launched to control invasive species
Anglers are being invited to join a work party next Tuesday (July 5) in a bid to tackle the growing incidence of invasive species on the banks of the River Ness. Inverness Angling Club is joining forces with the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust and Scottish Native Woods (SNW) to control the spread of such plants. Volunteers are asked to gather at the Mill Stream Hut by 2 pm on Tuesday. Waders will be required but tools will be provided. The event is being run as part of the Lower Ness Invasive Plants project – led by John Parrott, SNW Highland Officer – which is working between Glenurquhart and the eastern fringe of Inverness. Plants that cause the most problems are Himalayan balsam, Japanese knotweed, Giant hogweed and White butterbur which mainly occur along watercourses, road verges and on waste ground. Hogweed is potentially dangerous, causing burns if sap gets on the skin and is exposed to sunlight. All of these plants invade natural habitats and suppress native plants. This causes a loss of biodiversity and may also increase bank erosion. With the help and cooperation of landowners, a team of contractors and volunteers will be controlling these plants over the next few summers. Most of the work is undertaken by cutting, but some species require the application of herbicide. 1st July, 2011
Casting Clinics voted a great success
Anglers reeled in on the last of Inverness Angling Club’s series of Casting Clinics on Wednesday (June 29) with participants and spectators voting it the most successful for many years. Over 20 pupils – beginners, juniors and seniors – took part in each of the four clinics run over the month, enjoying world class tuition from world champions Scott Mackenzie and Gordon Armstrong, and angling coaches Frank Durdle and Dave Mateer. Improvements to casting abilities were immediate with adults and juniors alike achieving Speycasting technique, style, distances and confidence that seemed beyond them at the outset.
16th June, 2011
Casting Clinic attracts angling’s leading names
Leading names in the world of angling attended the second of Inverness Angling Club’s series of Casting Clinics at the Little Isle Pool on the River Ness on Wednesday (June 15). Members were particularly pleased to welcome Don Milne from Aberdeen, who donated Trout and Salmon publicity income to the club for youth training. The publicity followed the massive salmon Don caught and released on the Dochfour beat of the Ness two years ago. This, together with a legacy from the estate of long-term club member ‘Boysie’ Fotheringham, formed the fund through which the club has purchased equipment to assist the Casting Clinics and extend its youth training activities. World Speycasting champion Gordon Armstrong, who led the team of instructors that evening, was accompanied by another VIP – Donna O’Sullivan, the world ladies Speycasting champion. Also in the gathering was leading angling coach Ally Gowans, inventor of the famed Ally’s Shrimp and Cascade salmon flies who was visiting brother Ken in the city. Instructors Dave Mateer and Frank Durdle completed the coaching team, ensuring that some 20 anglers – young and not-so-young – benefited from their advice. 28th May, 2011
IAC target Speycasting champions of the future
Two of the world’s top exponents of Speycasting will offer free tuition on the River Ness during June in Casting Clinics organised byh Inverness Angling Club. Former world champions and record holders Gordon Armstrong and Scott Mackenzie will lead tuition at the Little Isle Pool, next to the Bught Park, each Wednesday evening in June (June 8, 15, 22 and 29). The club is making a particular effort to attract young anglers to the clinics this year, says club president Mike Campbell. “We have a very healthy junior section, numbering around 150 each year, and we want to help them develop the commitment and skills that will ensure the future of the club,” said Mike. “They are the next generation of Speycasters and, potentially, tomorrow’s world champions and record breakers. “Any young people interested in joining the club, adults new to salmon angling, and anglers who want to improve their technique, will also be welcome. All will get the benefit of one-to-one tuition from Gordon and Scott, assisted by expert club members.” Scott Mackenzie was ghillie at Ness Side on the River Ness until setting up his rod and line production business, Mackenzie Fly Fishing. He was the first to break the Speycasting distance record set in 1895 by Alexander Grant, the Inverness businessman who invented the famed Grant Vibration Rod. In a competition held on the General’s Well Pool by the Ness Islands, Grant cast 65 yards. Scott – three times world Speycasting champion – broke the record in 2005, with a cast of 68 yards. Gordon Armstrong, ghillie on the neighbouring beat of Ness Castle, has also taken the world championship on three occasions. He first took the championship from Scott in 2006, setting a world Speycasting record of 73.5 yards. He is the current holder of the record for the 15ft rod, casting 62 yards. 24th May, 2011
Exchange tickets available for top north river
Inverness Angling Club and Helmsdale Angling Association have agreed an exchange ticket scheme which will give members of the clubs free access to the highly rated club waters of the Rivers Ness and Helmsdale. Each club will hold two exchange tickets. Those for the Helmsdale will be held in Grahams Tackle Shop (01463 233178). Members will have to check that they are available for their chosen day or days then call the Helmsdale Tackle Shop to book the rod or rods (Ron Sutherland on 01431 821372). Fishing for visitors is from 8 am to midnight. In view of the distance involved, members can consider staying over in the area to use the tickets on consecutive days. They need not be returned to Grahams on the same day but should go back to be available for use by other club members as soon as possible. This arrangement also applies to the existing exchange tickets for the Wick River. 15th May, 2011
Hard final for IAC trout league
Inverness Angling Club’s Winter Trout League for 2010-11 concluded last Saturday (May 14) with the final at Achagour Fishery, near Nairn. Fishing proved fairly hard with cold, blustery winds and rain keeping the fish well down but the 15 competitors fished well to take some useful bags. The heaviest fish, at 2lbs 10oz, was taken by Stewart Dickie who won the IAC Trophy and a Prestige rod and line sponsored by international tackle manufacturers Snowbee. Runner-up was Peter Easton, also with a fish of 2lbs 10oz, winning a £60 voucher donated by Neil Fraser of Bellfield Enterprises and a Snowbee fly line.
Congratulating all the competitors, IAC vice-president Billy Orrock said the league had been a great innovation for the club, bringing members together in friendly competition over the close season. On behalf of the club, he thanked Achagour Fishery operators Stewart Mackintosh and his daughter Cindy for their help and hospitality. 26th April, 2011
Willie lands first fresh fish of the club’s season
Things appear to be happening on the club water of the River Ness. The first fresh fish of the season was caught and returned by club member Willie Stirling on Friday afternoon (April 22) from the tail of the Weir Pool. The six pounder, which was covered in sea lice, took a size 8 Elliott Ness, a fly developed by club member Alex Elliott which is particularly successful early in the season. Water levels dropped alarmingly overnight on Sunday, restricting fishing to the last section of the Weir’s second beat. Nevertheless, Willie’s success was followed up on Monday evening by John Macintosh who took and released a 10lb fish when spinning in the Trenches. A tool fisher working in the oil industry, John was out for his first cast on returning from a spell in Romania. 2nd February, 2011
STV appearance for Wolverhampton visitor
Ian Jennings, an associate member of Inverness Angling Club, is a popular visitor to the Ness as he makes his regular trips to fish the club water. On his first trip to the opening day on February 1, Ian was interviewed by STV reporter Erik Spence as he put together a positive piece on the club ceremony. Asked where he was from and why he came to the Ness, Ian said: "I'm from Wolverhampton and I've been coming up to Inverness since 1984, for the quality of the fishing and the area, the people you fish with, and the hospitality, and it's all in the Highlands." Many thanks, Ian. We appreciate the quality of our associate members and their loyalty to the club, and look forward to welcoming you back when the salmon are running. 1st February, 2011
Salmon season opens on the River Ness
Members of Inverness Angling Club braved low temperatures and wintry showers to gather at the Mill Stream on the River Ness on Tuesday, February 1, to mark the opening of the 2011 salmon fishing season. The event, sponsored once again by the Holm Mills Shopping Village, saw president Mike Campbell welcome some 30 members, including associate member Ian Jennings who made a special trip from Wolverhampton. The traditional opening ceremony, involving the ‘gift’ of a rather large dram to the river, was carried out by the club’s honorary president, Jack Fraser, who then led members in a toast to a successful season. Media coverage of the event included representatives from Scottish Television, Moray Firth Radio, Press and Journal, Inverness Courier and Highland News. While many members took the opportunity to cast their first line of the year, there were no reports of fresh fish or kelt catches by the end of the day. Members are, however, looking forward to a season which will be at least as good as 2010 when 393 salmon and grilse were caught. Of these, 43.5 per cent were released to continue their spawning runs, in the second of a five-year voluntary catch and release agreement with the Ness District Fishery Board. 10th January, 2011
Opening day ceremony for River Ness club water
Members and friends of Inverness Angling Club are invited to celebrate the opening of the 2011 salmon fishing season at a ceremony to be staged at the Mill Stream Pool at 10.30 for 11 am on Tuesday, February 1. Once again, the event is being sponsored by the owners of Holm Mills who, through manager Neil Soutar, are enthusiastic supporters of the club. Please park vehicles in the Anglers’ Car Park, between the Holm Mills buildings and the river, then gather in the main car park. At 11 am Ken Watson, Pipe Major of the Northern Constabulary Pipe Band, will lead the gathering to the river for the opening ceremony and the first cast of the season. At the close of the ceremony, complimentary bacon butties, tea and coffee will be served in the Ghillie’s Restaurant in the main building of Holm Mills. Anglers are reminded that if they intend to fish on opening day, they must have 2011 permits in their possession. While the club is facing challenges of increased costs which have forced it to raise membership fees, it is looking forward to a successful year in which both membership and catches mirror those of the last few years. Under an agreement reached between the club and the Ness District Fishery Board, all salmon and grilse caught between opening day and June 1 must be returned to the river. Thereafter, the club is encouraging members and visitors to release at least 50 per cent of their catch up to the end of the season on October 15. 6th January, 2011
Tight lines for 2011
A happy and successful 2011 to all our members and readers. If, like me, you’re already thinking of opening day (Tuesday, February 1 on the River Ness) or booking days on other spring fisheries, take a look at a new way to tie tube flies developed by our own Lawrence Deans. You can find all the information on the Forum by clicking Forum then Fly Tying Tutorials and reading Lawrence’s piece on “Tubular Appendages”. My first view of this innovative approach to tubes and cone heads was during the experimental extension on the club water last season, when I fished the MacIntyre with Lawrence. His ‘tubular appendages’ attracted fish after fish and made a significant contribution to the club’s extension total of 22 salmon and grilse, 18 of which were fresh from the sea. So read Lawrence’s well-illustrated article, and get out the vice! 6th January, 2011
New look for IAC web site
Regular visitors to invernessanglingclub.co.uk will have noticed the design changes made to the web site over the past couple of months. The design was developed by our friend Dougie Gibson of It’s All Good Graphic Design and applied by Lawrence Deans who has hosted and managed the club’s web site since its inception. A big thank-you to both of them for all their work. We hope you like the new design which we believe brings a fresh and consistent new look to the site. Let us know what you think by posting a message to the General Discussions section of the Forum. If you haven’t already joined the Forum, it’s easy to register and more members will increase site activity. 4th December, 2010
Club makes three honorary appointments
With the deaths during the past year of honorary vice president George Cameron and honorary member Norman MacKenzie, Inverness Angling Club has made three new honorary appointments. Current honorary member Jock MacLeod becomes honorary vice president while Andy Massari and Willie Armstrong join Donnie Fraser as honorary members. All have given committed service to the club. Andy was elected to the position after over 20 years as a club member, serving 15 of these on the club committee from which he has just retired. Willie, proprietor of Grahams Tackle Shop until his recent retiral, was nominated as an honorary member in recognition of his unfailing support for the club over his 32-year involvement with Grahams. 28th November, 2010
Appeal to the few as release rate rises
A well-attended annual general meeting of Inverness Angling Club on November 25 heard president Mike Campbell appeal to a minority of members who are not supporting the club’s creditable record in catch and release. While the club achieved a release rate of 43.5 per cent on a total catch of 393 salmon and grilse in 2010, Mike revealed that the rate could easily exceed 50 per cent if a small number of members taking six to over 20 fish a year released a proportion of their catch. A small increase would have a considerable impact on the overall release rate, he said. “We know who these members are,” said Mike, “but we don’t necessarily want to name and shame. We would rather encourage them to contribute to conservation efforts.” 28th November, 2010
Overall catch totals 393 for the season
The overall catch of salmon and grilse from Inverness Angling Club’s fishings totalled 393 in 2010, an increase of 41 on the previous year. Of these, 43.5 per cent were released to continue their run to the spawning redds, confirming the club’s consistent commitment to catch and release. In the 2009 season, 42 per cent of 352 were released; 44 per cent of 252 fish were returned in 2008; and 36 per cent of 428 fish in 2007. 28th November, 2010
Rising costs force club to increase fees
Inverness Angling Club’s membership and visitor fees are to rise to meet escalating costs. The club’s annual general meeting accepted committee proposals that the fee for senior members should rise from £100 to £125, associates from £140 to £165, ladies from £50 to £62, concessions from £28 to £35 and juniors (12 to under 18) from £5 to £10. Under 12s remain free of charge. Visitor permits rise from £32 to £35 per day and £160 to £175 per week. The club believes that these fees continue to represent good value for money given the quality of the Ness fishings. The increases follow a revaluation and a decision by The Highland Council to raise the fishery rent from £10,000 to £15,000, plus VAT – the first increase imposed by the council since 1994. The club is also making an allowance for an increase in fishery board assessment, which will not be known until some time in 2011. 28th November, 2010
Club posts a deficit for the year
While Inverness Angling Club finances took a hit from increased rent, treasurer Billy Mackenzie reported that they are in a reasonably healthy state. Income from members’ subscriptions increased by over £1,000 to £31,099 for the year while visitors’ fees rose by almost £2,200 to £5,546. But the club posted a deficit of over £9,000 for the year as a result of making a one-off payment to clear arrears accumulated during an ultimately unsuccessful appeal to delay the rent increase. Total direct costs were £38,260 against £23,116 in 2009. 28th November, 2010
Club membership holds steady
Club membership remained steady with 290 senior, lady, concessionary and honorary permits being issued, while the future of the club seems assured by the strength of its junior section, standing at 130. Day permits issued to visitors rose from 126 to 197. 28th November, 2010
President leads strong team
President Mike Campbell, in the second of his three year term, will again lead a strong team which will manage Inverness Angling Club’s affairs over the next year. Vice-president Billy Orrock, secretary Donnie Mackay and treasurer Billy Mackenzie were all re-elected unanimously. They will be supported by committee members Alan Scott (who will also act as membership secretary), Lawrence Deans, Ross Anderson, Neil Porter, David Dyce, Tony Quinn, Mick Whitehead, Lee Mackenzie, Frank Rabbeth, Martin Nelson, Gary Macdonald and Ally Henderson. 23rd November, 2010
CALLING ALL CLUB MEMBERS!
Members of Inverness Angling Club will be faced with important decisions at the club’s annual general meeting being held in the Recreation Hall, Raigmore Hospital, on Thursday (November 25), starting at 7.30 pm. A massive rise in the rent payable to The Highland Council has led the club’s committee to recommend substantial rises in membership fees – seniors from £100 to £125 a year, associates from £140 to £165, ladies from £50 to £65, concessionary from £28 to £35, juniors (under 18) £5 to £10 (under 12s remain free), day permits from £32 to £35 and weekly permits from £160 to £175. The increases will help to ensure that income is sufficient to meet rising costs. Even at higher permit prices, the committee feels they continue to represent very good value for money, given the quality of the Ness fishings. All club members are asked to try to attend the AGM at which the president, secretary and treasurer will present detailed reports on the club’s progress over the year. It is also a good opportunity for members to express their views on club affairs. 18th October, 2010
Inaccurate reporting threatens club reputation
A report by a contributor to a leading game fishing magazine, although not naming Inverness Angling Club, appears to imply that club members are not playing their part in salmon conservation measures. This contributor’s sources seem to be very poorly informed. One source could have been a highly inaccurate report in the Press and Journal that 62 fish were caught on the club water in one week in August, which the contributor appears to have made no attempt to verify. In fact, the number was just over 30, which included a number of released fish not specified in the report. Inaccurate reports such as this threaten the reputation of the club and its members. The full picture will not be known until the mandatory annual returns are finalised and published. In the meantime, reports confirm the important contribution club members are making to conservation. September saw at least 30 fish being released and October at least 17. Individual contributions over that period included Alex Elliott (14 fish caught and 10 released) and Denny Mackay (six fish caught and five released, including one fish of 18lb). Releases by Lawrence Deans included a 21lb specimen from the MacIntyre, Garry Macdonald returned an 18lb fish at the Mill Stream and Peter O’Donnell released four fish at the Braes. 17th October, 2010
NOTICE TO ALL CLUB MEMBERS
Permits for Inverness Angling Club’s fishings will require an increase of approximately 25 per cent for 2011, the club‘s committee has concluded. The increase stems from a rent review by The Highland Council and the District Valuer’s 2010 revaluation which determines the value of the fishings and assessment charges payable to the Ness District Fishery Board (NDFB). Club officials had advised recent AGMs that such increases were imminent. Over the last 10 years the club has enjoyed unchanged rent while the previous revaluation for assessment – covering 1998-2002 when three years returned less than 80 fish per annum – resulted in a considerable reduction. The Highland Council rejected an appeal by the club against a rent increase of over £6,000 from September 2009. Permit increases applied from 2009 (senior permits rose by £10) were an initial step towards covering rising costs. But further increases are necessary fully to meet the rent now payable. A considerable deficit will be advised to members at this year’s AGM as the committee approved the settlement of outstanding rent arrears in a single payment. Although unknown at present, there will be an increase to the NDFB assessment from 2011. The 2010 revaluation covered the five years from 2003-2007 when club catch returns were 300-500 fish per season and other Ness beats did not do so well. The committee has budgeted for a 33 per cent increase in the club assessment. But the actual increase, which will not be known until January of 2011, may be more. The club will seek members’ approval for a series of permit increases at its AGM on November 25. These are essential if the club is to meet rent and assessment charges, which should remain constant until 2014. The recommended increases are: Senior member, £125; Concessionary, £35; Day permit, £35; Weekly permit, £175; Junior, £10 (under 12s free of charge); Associates, £165; Ladies, £65. 11th October, 2010
Season extension to proceed
The Scottish Government has approved the continuation of the experimental salmon season extension on the River Ness, which will run from October 16 to November 6 inclusive. Inverness Angling Club will begin the extension, fishing up to 10 rods per day, from the morning of Monday, October 18. All fish caught – using barbless double hooks – will be measured and photographed, as well as fin clipped to provide samples for the developing genetic picture of the Ness system. Club members who would like to fish the extension should add their names to sheets being placed in the Little Isle, MacIntyre and Mill Stream huts. 2nd October, 2010
Anglers to celebrate end of 2010 season
Inverness Angling Club’s annual close-of-season BBQ will be held at the MacIntyre Pool a little earlier than usual this year – on Saturday, October 9, from 12 noon. All members and friends are welcome. Good food and refreshments will be provided through the good offices of organisers and helpers David Dyce, Peter Easton, Donnie MacKay, Gary Macdonald, Neil Porter and Mike Campbell. 2nd October, 2010
Club awaits extension confirmation
Inverness Angling Club expects to receive information soon about the experimental three-week extension to the salmon season which began last year as a three-year trial. Members who would like to fish the extension, which is expected to be limited to 10 rods fishing at any one time each day, should keep in touch with the Little Isle and Mill Stream huts where information will be posted as soon as it comes in. Apart from anglers, there is a need for volunteers who can act as ‘ghillies’ to net, photograph, measure and fin clip fish caught. They can leave their names at the huts. 2nd October, 2010
An alternative to replacing leaking waders
Most anglers experience wader leaks and often find their repair efforts don’t sort the problem. The only way to stay dry might be to splash out on a new pair, facing rising prices and the particularly high cost of replacing breathable versions. But there is an alternative. One of our members speaks very highly of a wader repair service he secured from Aberdeen-based ‘Diver’ Dave Gordon, a former professional diver and salmon angler who has applied diving gear repair experience to waders – with considerable success. Dave can be contacted through his web site – www.wader-repair.co.uk, where all is explained about his pressure testing and repair procedure, or email dave@wader-repair.co.uk. With the end of another season almost here, it’s an appropriate time to consider seeking Dave’s help. It will cost you a lot less than a new pair of waders! 2nd October, 2010
Trout league casts off
The 2010/11 Winter Trout League officially began on October 1 although it is unlikely that any of the 32 competitors would have faced forecast gale force winds and heavy rain to fish their October session. Any who did would be the hardiest of characters! The league has again secured valuable sponsorship from Graham and Company, our local tackle dealers; Snowbee, the international tackle manufacturers; Achagour Trout Fishery, where top quality fish has contributed to the league’s success; and Bellfield Enterprises, run by local club member Neil Fraser. Other prizes are already coming in from members like Graham Mackenzie, who is taking part in the league for the first time. 7th September, 2010
Members prepare for 2010/11 Winter Trout League
The final entry date for the winter trout league is fast approaching – Monday, September 20. No entries will be accepted after this date. Senior and associate members who would like to participate in what has proved to be a most enjoyable club event, but have not yet completed an entry form, should do so as soon as possible. Entry forms and rules are available from the Little Isle and Mill Stream huts, and from Graham and Co in Castle Street. Alternatively, you can e-mail Alan Scott (ajandkascott@talktalk.net) and he will e-mail the forms by return. 5th August, 2010
Mill Stream success for young Ness angler
Perseverance paid off early in August for 11-year-old Ness angler Danny Henderson. A regular at the Mill Stream, often beating seasoned anglers to the river around 7 am, Danny has been putting in the hours in a bid to repeat his feat of last season when he landed his first ever salmon. On Thursday (August 5) he saw a fish jump in the bay at the bottom of beat one. He grabbed his spinning rod – equipped with a small brown and gold devon – and ran up to the top of the pool where he cast over the top block and hooked a fresh fish. No-one was close enough to help but he managed to beach the 5lb grilse on his own. 2nd August, 2010
Salmon arrive early on the River Ness
But it wasn’t just the numbers of fish that surprised anglers. Among the many grilse were a significant number of big fish in the 15 to 20 pound class. The greatest surprise came on the second last day of the month. Iain Fortey, taking a last cast with the fly rod in the Weir Pool before heading for work, hooked a very large fish which he finally landed, with the help of Archie Campbell, about 300 yards downstream adjacent to the Mill Stream hut. The large cock fish was 44 inches long and weighed 30 pounds. 20th July, 2010
Angling club loses its honorary vice-president
Inverness Angling Club has lost its much respected honorary vice-president. George Cameron, one of the Highlands’ top anglers who had given a lifetime of service to the club, died suddenly in Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on July 14 at the age of 79. He had been looking forward to fishing the rivers Ness and Nairn at the peak of this season and repeating his enjoyment of the club’s winter trout league when it re-starts in October. George was particularly supportive of young people. There are many who owe their casting skills to his tutoring. He also made sure they had the right flies or lures, knew where and when to fish and took special pleasure in seeing them land their first salmon. Kevin Macdonald, one of the club’s most successful anglers, recalls: “George helped me land my first salmon from the Provan’s Pool when I was 14 years old. I’d hooked it off the top island and hadn’t a clue what to do. George saw my predicament and came all the way round from Charlie’s Seat on the MacIntyre to gaff the fish.” Jack Fraser, honorary president of the club, said: “We were mates for some 70 years. George was always ready to help and he was a key figure in helping found the club’s activities at the Highland Field Sports Fair. He will be sorely missed by his many friends.” George is survived by his wife Connie, son George and daughters June, Connie and Maggie to whom the committee and members of Inverness Angling Club send their sincere condolences. His funeral service will be held at St Ninian’s Church, Culduthel Road, Inverness on Thursday, July 22, at 10 am. 11th July, 2010
Lost and found!
As catches on Inverness Angling Club’s water rose to four or five a day last week, there was further proof that salmon will take a fly after being lost, and with ironmongery already in their mouths. Ross Anderson was among the successful anglers on the pool early on the morning of Saturday (July 12), taking a magnificent salmon of around 12lbs. Hanging from its mouth was a length of nylon attached to a Cascade-style fly lodged in the throat of the fish. Having heard that a sizeable fish had broken Kevin Macdonald in the Mill Stream the previous day, Ross showed the fly to Kevin who was fishing nearby. He confirmed it was his, cleaned it up and tied it to his line. A short time later Kevin went down to the Macintyre Pool where he had been successful earlier in the week. Within a few casts his version of the Cascade again proved its worth as he hooked and landed a fresh grilse. Now that’s an event unlikely to be repeated but a story that will be re-told often in local angling circles! 2nd June, 2010
Highland Council acts to resolve parking problem
A long standing problem of caravans and motor homes parking overnight in the Little Isle car park should be alleviated with the erection by The Highland Council of a 'No Overnight Parking' sign. The installation follows representations by Inverness Angling Club whose members have experienced difficulty parking their vehicles when out for an early morning cast. 1st June, 2010
Few salmon from club fishings as low water prevails
With just two fish accounted for in April – both double figure specimens taken from the Weir Pool by Martin Nelson and Alva Parks – May saw a poor return for anglers on Inverness Angling Club’s Ness fishings. Just three fish were landed – compared with 14 last May. Willie Stirling landed two spinning at the Weir on the 19th and Nick Barker used a Cascade to entice a fresh fish from the Little Isle stream on the 27th. All were sea liced and returned. Willie’s fish were estimated at 7 and 8 lbs while Nick’s fish, carefully weighed prior to release, was 11.5 lbs. Nick’s fish came virtually a year to the day since he caught his last fish off the club water. Low water prevailed throughout the month. Such conditions normally favour the club fishings, holding fish back in pools like the Little Isle and Weir, but there is some debate about whether this caused the low catches or it was down to a number of members choosing not to fish during the period of mandatory release. With that period ending on May 31, more anglers should be evident on the water from Tuesday (June 1). The club continues to encourage a release rate of at least 50 per cent. 17th May, 2010
Inaugural trout league voted a success
Phillip Enfield achieved the heaviest overall bag with a total catch of 38lbs 7ozs, wining the IAC Trophy and a rod, reel and line sponsored by Inverness tackle dealers Graham and Company. Lee Mackenzie landed the heaviest fish, a rainbow of 7lbs 9ozs, to win the IAC trophy and a rod and line sponsored by international tackle manufacturers Snowbee. The runners-up for the heaviest bag were Billy Orrock (31lbs 4.5ozs), winning a £60 tackle voucher donated by club member Neil Fraser, and George Skinner (30lbs 8ozs), who received a fishing suit donated by Highland Industrial Supplies. Entry forms are now available for the 2010/11 league which will run from October to a final session on May 14, 2011. Copies will be placed in the Little Isle and Mill Stream huts or you can call Alan Scott (see permit for telephone number) who can email you a copy. 15th April, 2010
Major manufacturers support Winter Trout League
Snowbee, whose products are a popular choice by Highland salmon and trout anglers, is the latest international tackle manufacturer to make a substantial contribution to Inverness Angling Club’s inaugural Winter Trout League. The company has donated a valuable rod and fishing lines as leading prizes for the competition, joining local tackle dealers Graham and Company which has given a rod, reel and line in association with Daiwa. League organisers Alex Elliott and Alan Scott paid tribute to the generosity of the companies – and to a range of local contributors including Neil Fraser (£130 in tackle vouchers plus three bottles of whisky) and Highland Industrial Supplies (two fishing suits). “Donations are sufficient to ensure that every competitor receives recognition for his efforts in the league which has proved an immensely enjoyable competition. We are all looking forward to the final on May 15 and are already planning a repeat for 2010/11, running from October to May.” 13th April, 2010
Join the cap set!
Club members who have not yet purchased a club baseball cap can do so by contacting Louis Lisle (usually at the Little Isle hut around 11 am each day) or Alan Scott (contact telephone number on permit). The caps are available in green and navy and priced at £7. 12th April, 2010
Mill Stream hut opens for season
Anglers on the right bank of Inverness Angling Club’s Ness fishings will be pleased to know that the Mill Stream hut is now open for the season. Tough industrial vinyl has been laid to protect the floor from assault by water and studded boots. For this we are indebted to David Macleod, a flooring specialist before he joined the staff of Grahams tackle shop. The hut’s cooker and furniture were re-installed, along with some new additions, on Monday (April 12) – so tea and coffee can now be prepared and served! Two keys are required to gain access to the hut. Members can obtain them from president Mike Campbell at a charge of £5 per set. 31st March, 2010
Council aims to alleviate Little Isle parking problem
The Highland Council has confirmed that plans are in place for the installation of a ‘No Overnight Parking’ sign at the Little Isle car park where recent years have seen growing problems caused by the parking of caravans and motor homes. The announcement follows representations by Inverness Angling Club members who fish the Little Isle Pool. The club committee passed these to the council’s local ward manager Stewart Wardlaw whose help in resolving the matter is greatly appreciated by all concerned. 31st March, 2010
Trust secures cash for study of Whin Park lade
Dr Keith Williams reports that the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust has secured grant money to assess the feasibility of improving the Whin Park lade – the old ‘Electric Burn’ – for potential use in fishery enhancement. Keith revealed: “The money will enable us to get contractors to have a look at the pipe work going through the old turbine house and assess if the fish can get through, and also employ a specialist company to assess the habitat and design any improvements needed.” The news will be welcomed by Ness anglers who believe that a stocking initiative is needed to increase the numbers of salmon migrating from and returning to the river. 16th March, 2010
Winter Trout League final re-arranged for May 15
Some sessions of Inverness Angling Club’s inaugural Winter Trout League were casualties of the big freeze as Achagour Fishery was hit by thick ice and deep snow. The last session to be fished by a couple of competitors was around December 15, and those who did not anticipate wintry conditions lost out on adding to their total bag. January and February sessions were impossible as the fishery remained ice-bound, and most thought the March session would suffer the same fate. The weather finally relented, however, and higher temperatures and fresh winds resulted in the fishery being declared open in the week beginning March 15, enabling competitors to fish their first session of 2010. The planned six monthly sessions of the league have been restored as the organisers have postponed the final to Saturday, May 15. While the league arrangements allow anglers to fish their sessions at a time of their choosing each month, all participants must fish the final session together. This is designed to deliver a competitive and enjoyable final event, with a bit of a party atmosphere and a prize for everyone. Anglers will gather at the fishery by 0930 on May 15, the competition will start at 1000, there will be a break for a snack lunch at 1230, fishing will re-start at 1315 and the competition will close at 1545. The prizegiving will take place at 1630. Car owners willing to act as nominated drivers for the event, and those needing lifts, are invited to contact Alan Scott (telephone number on club permit). 20th February, 2010
Canoe slalom course installed on Electric Burn
Members have been concerned about the sudden appearance of a canoe slalom course on the lower part of the Electric Burn, below the Whin Park shop. While the club was not consulted on this development, it is understood the course is intended as a training aid for young or inexperienced canoeists. There should be no question of water flow being increased with potential impact on the river between the Weir and the General’s Well Pool. The Fishery Trust is keeping a close eye on the situation, especially as the area holds stocks of lampreys. 20th February, 2010
Fisheries Trust to look at juvenile production potential of Ness lades
Various lades connected to the River Ness – including those at Island Bank Road, the Electric Burn, Holm Mills and Ness Castle – are to be investigated by the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust to determine whether they can be developed to assist natural production of young salmon. A small hatchery has long been on the wish list of Ness anglers, although it is recognised that the River Garry and upper parts of the Ness system must take priority as natural recruitment is reputed to be at a dangerously low level. Stocks of fry and parr in the Ness are said to be high but club anglers argue that stocks of mature returning fish have declined and cite hatchery stocking experience on other rivers, like the Dee, as the way to go. Let us know what you think by posting your thoughts to the IAC forum on this site. 20th February, 2010
Flood prevention scheme to begin
Now that the much discussed Inverness flood prevention scheme has received formal approval, work will begin this summer on the Holm Burn and the area where it enters the River Ness at Ness Side. The committee of Inverness Angling Club was briefed on the project by Keith Williams, biologist to the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust. The works, which will take some two months to complete, are likely to receive permission to commence ahead of the Ness District Fishery Board’s usual period constraint of August/September, so that any over-run does not threaten the spawning season. As the Holm Burn holds deposits of clay, the works could cause significant colouration of the river, especially on the right bank. 19th February, 2010
Roy collects Angler of the Year Award
9th February, 2010
Club members thanked by visiting piscator
A big ‘Thank you’ to members of Inverness Angling Club comes from summer visitor John O’Brien, of Wandle Piscators Angling Club, who won a week’s permit donated by the club to the Wild Trout Trust’s annual auction. Says John: “I chose to come at the very end of August and first week of September. A 12 hour overnight coach journey from London delivered me to the riverside around 1.00pm on Sunday afternoon. Don MacKay’s words from our telephone conversation were still fresh in my mind – ‘You’ll nay be fishing on the Sabbath’. I made my way along the river and up to the Park Guest House where Hendry Robertson made me comfortable for my stay – and gave me hearty breakfasts every morning for the rest of the week. “Determined to be ready to go the next morning, I walked the river bank all the way up to the weir on Sunday afternoon. What lovely stretches of water I saw, and crystal clear. On Monday morning I set off for the Little Isle hut to find Louis Lisle and get my permit to fish for the week. He told me that the river was running over a foot higher than normal as a result of dam draining further up the system. He said the fishing would be tough, and he was right. “After a few days the rain started and it poured down. The river rose a further three feet and was roaring through. I still can't believe I fished a river, risen over four feet in flood, and still running crystal clear. Many areas were unfishable but the happy gang at the Little Isle hut continued to encourage me and give me advice on how and where to fish. Bill, a regular visitor from Fife, was a particularly good source of information and help. “Just how good was all that advice? I fished hard for six days and caught nothing! However, I did get a lot of casting practice – which was needed, as I’m new to salmon fishing. I also fished four days on the River Usk in Wales this season with no joy there either. “Thanks once again for supporting the Wild Trout Trust and for all the friendship and advice offered by the regulars at the Little Isle Hut. It was much appreciated and mostly remembered. You are so lucky to have such a wonderful stretch of river at your doorstep. I envy you.” We appreciate your comments, John, Don’t be a stranger - Editor 5th February, 2010
Thought for the Week
A fisherman is one who can’t wait ten seconds for a woman but can wait all day for a fish. Anonymous 4th February, 2010
Another threat to salmon survival?
As salmon anglers, we all want to help the fish that enter our rivers to maximise the results of the spawning season. Let’s face it, we all know that the King of Fish faces enormous threats to its survival in the journey from the redds to the sea and back again. So at a time when ova are secure in the redds, and some alevins could well be emerging, take care not to destroy these valuable additions to our stock by deep wading. And in the present low water conditions on the Ness, even shallow wading could prove harmful in pools with good depths of gravel close to the banks. So watch your wading – and save our stocks! 3rd February, 2010
Opening day sees first fresh fish of the season
The event was sponsored once again by the Holm Mills Shopping Village whose manager, Neil Soutar, declared the season open. President Mike Campbell paid tribute to Neil’s unstinting support for the club throughout the last few seasons. As members took to the river, word came through that John Kaka had caught and released a fresh 8lb fish at his favourite sport in the Weir Pool. Other members connected with strong and lively kelts, including Neil Fraser with three from the Weir; Billy Mackenzie, two from the Mill Stream; and Frank Rabbeth and Lee Mackenzie stretched their lines on the MacIntyre Pool. Evening TV news coverage included reports and interviews on Scottish Television and BBC Alba. Next day’s Highland edition of the Press and Journal carried a story and front page picture which featured members Graham Mackenzie, David Dyce and Paul Wareing. 3rd February, 2010
Mousey setback for new club member
New club member Alan Graham was keenly anticipating opening day on the River Ness so that he could continue developing his Speycasting and fish-catching abilities. But he got a nasty shock when putting all his gear together the night before. Mice had attacked his breathable waders, leaving a series of holes which no patch could fix! It’s a warning to all other anglers that the garage is not the best place to over-winter your gear – or even over-night in the kind of weather conditions we have been experiencing of late, and which are forecast to continue – unless you place them well out of reach of vermin. They will be seeking shelter from the cold, so set a couple of traps to give them a warm welcome! Alan still enjoyed opening day, using a pair of older waders. His persistence paid off when, after patiently fishing right down the Mill Stream, he got a bit of action with a big brown trout. 28th January, 2010
Bright little bundle for Michelle and Ken
Inverness Angling Club’s future lady membership has just increased with the arrival on Burn’s Day of Breagha Gowans, daugher of Michelle and Ken Gowans. Ken tells us that the midwives have a little bit of a competition at guessing the weight of newborns, and both were close to Breagha’s weight of 6lbs 8ozs. Asked if he would like to have a guess, Ken replied that he’d probably get closer if Breagha was a salmon! All club members send Michelle and Ken – and Breagha – their very best wishes. For those of you not familiar with Gaelic, Breagha means beautiful or bright. 28th January, 2010
Date set for trout league final
Saturday, March 20 will see the final of Inverness Angling Club’s winter trout league at Achagour Fishery. The league, the first of its kind for the club, has brought some 20 members together over the close season, creating a platform for friendly competition and some superb crack, and reflecting the developing bonhomie of the riverside over the last few seasons. The final session will start at 10 am, break at 12.30 for lunch kindly provided by fishery owners Stewart and Cindy Mackintosh, restart at 1.30 and end at 3.30 pm. The prize giving will be held at approximately 4 pm, reward winners and runners-up for the heaviest bag overall and the heaviest fish overall. 22nd January, 2010
Ness opening day arrangements confirmed
Final arrangements have been confirmed for Inverness Angling Club’s River Ness opening day celebrations on Monday, February 1. All anglers – members, visitors and their guests – will be given a warm welcome to the Mill Stream Pool at 10.30 for 11 am on the day. Please use the Anglers’ Car Park nearest the river (follow the signs) and then gather in the main car park from which piper Ken Watson of the Northern Constabulary Pipe Band will lead the gathering to the river. After a welcome from club president Mike Campbell, Holm Mills manager Neil Soutar, who is kindly sponsoring the event, will declare the season open in the traditional manner – a dram for the river followed by drams for those present! Free bacon butties, tea and coffee will then be provided in the Ghillie’s Restaurant in the main building of Holm Mills. The club is looking forward to another successful season, at least matching the 2009 catch of over 350 salmon and grilse. All salmon and grilse must be returned prior to June 1. Thereafter, the club is again encouraging members and visitors to release at least 50 per cent of their catch up to the end of the season on October 15. 30th December, 2009
New Year wishes
The committee of Inverness Angling Club send their warmest wishes to all members and friends for a happy, healthy and successful 2010. Tight lines! 30th December, 2009
Opening Day 2010
Inverness anglers will celebrate the opening of the 2010 salmon season with a special ceremony being arranged by Inverness Angling Club at the Mill Stream Pool at 11 am on Monday, February 1. Once again the opening ceremony is being sponsored by the Holm Mills Shopping Village under the management of Neil Soutar, who has kindly arranged for food and refreshments to be laid on following the ceremony. More details will follow shortly. |
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