(Latest items at top of page. The date is the date of posting)
Page last updated: Saturday, August 21, 2010 12:43
21/8/10 - Congratulations to Luke and Rebecca who yesterday became the proud parents of a baby boy! We will watch his fishing career with interest.
2/8/10 - Members should note that the Marine and Coastal Access Act has removed the authority for anglers to require another angler to show his or her licence and give a name and address. Failure to produce a licence or give a valid address was an offence. This was a very useful tool for angling clubs and fisheries, in particular for fishery and club bailiffs or water-keepers. Apparently the reason is to do with "data protection", the ubiquitous reason now given to avoid giving any information to anyone. There is nothing to stop one asking to to see a licence but there is no longer any compulsion to respond. If you have good reason to believe that someone is fishing without a valid EA licence then you should report it to the EA. Anyone suspected poaching should be reported to the police.
29/6/10 - With the river having been so low there seems to have been little to report in the previous couple of months. The fungal infection, which was affecting many of the sea trout running the river earlier on and was probably exacerbated by the cold start to the season, seems now to have subsided and good numbers of clean school peel have been sighted upstream as well as running the fish ladder at TWP.
When the river is so low and water temperatures rather high the level of oxygenation of the water must be very low. With this in mind it would seem sensible at the moment not to fish on after catching one's bag limit of two per night (or one if only intending to keep one). Fish caught and released will not recover well in these conditions.
We have had no word of any salmon being caught so far. Obviously a fair amount of rain will be required to encourage a run.
Negotiations with MannPower, the developers of the proposed hydro scheme at Totnes Weir involving the DAA and DFA and the EA have been going well. We are very grateful for the help and advice we have received from Roger Furniss and Alan Butterworth of the Angling Trust and John Montague of the Salmon and Trout Association. Roger and John have also been present as some of the meetings. To date, MannPower have been able to accede to all the conditions we have asked for regarding the design of the scheme, provision of fish counters and access to the weir by our members and all parties seem happy with the results so far. Many thanks are due to Julian Sharpe who chairs the DAA sub-committee which oversees our interest in the scheme.
On another subject involving the Angling Trust nationally, the following press release has been received from Fish Legal, the former ACA now part of the Trust:
Polluters to talk to anglers before deal is done under new Civil Sanctions regime
After a long campaign, Fish Legal has welcomed the Environment Agency's announcement that anglers will be involved before deals are done with polluters.
Fish Legal believes that "Enforcement Undertakings" (EUs) - one of a raft of measures introduced under the Environmental Civil Sanctions Order 2010 - could lead to secretive agreements with polluters without angler involvement where rivers have been damaged by pollution.
"Civil Sanctions" provide an alternative to prosecution. Instead of paying a fine to the Treasury, polluters can put right the damage which they have caused - for instance - by restocking.
Most anglers would be supportive of such measures if they were drafted properly in the legislation by DEFRA and implemented fairly. However, Fish Legal has argued that the way EUs are described in the legislation could lead to agreements between polluters and regulators reached behind closed doors - without full angler involvement or publicity.
The Environment Agency announced at the United Kingdom Environmental Law Association conference on 27th June 2010 that it had now taken on-board the concerns of Fish Legal .
It has been confirmed that the Agency will require evidence from the polluter that it has consulted third parties affected by pollution, including angling clubs, before signing-off an undertaking by issuing a Certificate of Completion. It will also be made clear to polluters that the sanctions are not an alternative to civil claims made by those affected by environmental damage. Importantly, the content of all EUs will be actively published and the sanction will be subject to the Freedom of Information legislation.
"After over a year of letters and consultations, we felt as though we were up against a relentless DEFRA legislative steam-train." said Justin Neal, Head Solicitor at Fish Legal.
"However, the Agency now appears to have understood our well-founded objections at the way in which Enforcement Undertakings might be implemented."
"At first, DEFRA completely ignored our warnings and pushed on without making some very simple amendments to the Environmental Civil Sanctions Order. We then pressed the Agency to produce guidance on implementation to recognise our concerns. It appears that the Agency now agrees with us in confirming that it will require full participation of third parties which have been affected by pollutions - including affected angling interests.
This is not just a positive outcome for angling but also for the members of the public who want to keep all deals with polluters out in the open and available for scrutiny."
14/4/10 - It is intended on Friday 29th April to continue with work on our Woolston stream project. This will involve pinning down 'large woody debris' in the stream bed in strategic places in order to scour and grade gravel to improve spawning opportunity. Andy Thomas of the Wild Trout Trust will be in attendance at this 'practical visit' and will require our help. Would anyone who is available on that date and would like to help and learn more about the process please contact me.
24/3/10 - Thanks very much to those who turned out early on Sunday morning at Kilbury. This enabled the offending tree to be removed with the minimum of disruption.
18/3/10 - The bank maintenance party will be doing something slightly different this Sunday. There is a dead tree at Kilbury that Devon Highways require us to fell and remove. In order to avoid problems on the road work will commence at 6am. Help would be appreciated. If you intend to come along it would be a help if you let Hon Sec know. However, if you arrive unannounced you will still be welcome.
11/3/10 - A reminder that the Dart Fisheries Association AGM will be held tomorrow (12th March) at the Dartmoor Lodge Hotel, Ashburton at 6pm. All DAA members are welcome to attend. The first item will be a presentation by Pete Kibel of Kibel Consulting on the subject of the proposed hydro scheme at Totnes weir, a project that will affect the whole river.
A news item from the BBC web site: Sea trout subject of £1.8m study
8/3/10 - The following press release on the subject of hydro power was issued by the Angling Trust yesterday. It should be noted that the position set out here may not apply to the development we are facing at Totnes weir pool as it is hoped that in this case fish passage may well be improved. The Association is in the process of taking advice from the Trust and others as to how the proposed scheme might affect fish passage and/or or fishing in the weir pool, in the light of which we will take a view as to where we stand.
Anglers Fume as Regulator Bows to Hydropower
The Angling Trust has reacted angrily to the Environment Agency’s massive over-exaggeration of the amount of electricity that could be harnessed from English and Welsh Rivers and its failure to act to prevent hydropower developments damaging fragile fish stocks. The Trust is calling on its members to object to planning applications for new hydropower installations on the rivers they fish and has provided a guide to making an objection here.
The Agency recently commissioned a survey to map opportunities where run-of-river hydropower could be developed. This identified nearly 26,000 possibilities which their Consultants estimated had a “realistic” total potential of 580 MW, which is just 0.5% of the current demand for electricity. However, the Agency has chosen to promote in recent press statements the absolute maximum figure of three times this amount. Achievement of this amount would depend on using all the possible water flow at every possible site.
This is obviously both unattainable and unsustainable, and is yet another example of the Agency actively promoting an activity which will make no difference to our energy needs or to global warming, yet has the potential to result in irreparable damage to the Nation's fish stocks, including threatened species such as salmon, sea trout and eels.
The Angling Trust has also learnt that the Environment Agency is allegedly considering issuing “gagging orders” on its staff in the Fisheries Department to stop them giving their expert advice to local councils about how to mitigate the impact of hydro-electric plants on fish and objecting when these are not acceptable. Anglers were astounded to hear that the fisheries staff paid for with rod licence fees might be told not to do their job. The Agency is a statutory consultee on planning matters.
Furthermore, in a paper to the recent Regional Fisheries, Ecology and Recreational Advisory Committees (RFERACs), the Environment Agency implied that there may be schemes that will be approved that have ‘acceptable’ impacts on fish stocks. The Angling Trust believes that allowing these to be developed would be in contravention of the Environment Agency’s statutory duty of maintaining and improving fish populations and complying with the EU’s Water Framework Directive, which makes any deterioration of ecological status (including fish stocks) illegal.
The Angling Trust will be e-mailing all its members and encouraging them to object to any hydropower development on their rivers on the grounds of insufficient information being available and that they cause danger of unsustainable damage to fish populations. This applies to at least 95% of the planned developments the Angling Trust’s technical advisers have looked at. A list of developments is available on the Agency's website here.
The Angling Trust’s legal arm in England, Fish Legal, is investigating whether legal actions might be brought against the Environment Agency on behalf of its member riparian owners and clubs whose property rights are damaged by hydropower developments approved by the regulator.
Angling Trust Chief Executive Mark Lloyd said:
“The Environment Agency is not only overstating the value of run-of-river hydropower it is also apparently stopping its own staff advising developers and planners how to reduce the impact of these developments on fish. The Angling Trust is exasperated with the Agency’s flagrant promotion of this damaging industry which is being developed at the expense of sustainable fisheries. We call on the nation’s anglers to stand up and be counted to defend their fish and their fishing by objecting to any schemes near where they fish today. Details of how to do this are on the Angling Trust’s web site.”
Angling Trust Technical Director Dr Alan Butterworth, who recently retired after a long career with the Agency, latterly as their national expert on the impacts of hydropower on fisheries, reacted angrily to the Agency's position:
“It is very clear that English and Welsh rivers are simply too small to make any difference to the Country's energy needs. But the Agency continues to encourage this type of ‘run-of-river’ hydropower which can do a massive amount of damage to the ecology of our rivers and block the migration of fish.
“Much of Europe and the United States have learnt this lesson the hard way and are dismantling even much larger schemes in order to save their rivers, yet the Agency continues to spread the red carpet for hydropower developers irrespective of the risk of ruining ours. A small amount of hydropower generation is perfectly possible, but it must only be allowed where it causes no damage to our fragile fish populations.”
2/3/10 - Bank maintenance is continuing at Staverton on Sunday.
27/2/10 - Another proposal for development adjacent to Totnes weirpool. This time on what was the Dairy Crest site. As is the case with the planned hydro project, this is just an early proposal at the moment. A .pdf document setting out the scheme can be found here: Atmos project
23/2/10 - Bank maintenance continues at Staverton on Sunday. Again, a good turnout would be appreciated as there is much to do.
17/2/10 - Bank maintenance will again take place at Staverton this Sunday, upstream of the weir. Volunteers were somewhat thin on the ground last week so please lend a hand if you can. Nigel will be bringing his boat!
12/2/10 - Work is shortly to continue on our Woolston stream improvement project with practical help from the Wild Trout Trust and finance from the EA. This phase of the work involves introducing strategically placed large woody debris (LWD) into the stream. The function of this is to scour and naturally sort gravels thereby providing more spawning opportunities for both resident and migratory fish. The LWD also provides habitat for invertebrates, which of course provide food for the fish. Provisionally, on either the 4th or 5th of March we will be on site selecting and pre-cutting timber for the job. Some help from members would be appreciated. Please contact me if you can spare some time on either of those days.
With the WTT in mind, please have a look at this years auction catalogue from them, with items large and small to interest the angler. If you can support the trust's work ( eg the Woolston Project) by bidding for an item, then so much the better.
9/2/10 - A presentation by the developers of the proposed Totnes hydro scheme has been arranged to give members the opportunity to hear about it and ask questions. This will take place at Victory Hall, Landscove, FRIDAY 26TH FEB 7.30pm. Doors open at 7pm.
5/2/10 - Venue for this Sunday's bank maintenance is Halliwells downstream of the weir.
Plans are afoot for a small hydro-generation scheme at Totnes weir.
Obviously, this has the potential to severely affect our fishing in the weir pool. However, the developers, who installed the scheme at the Dartmoor Country Park, appear keen to consult with us in order to minimise the effects on our fishery. Our access across the weir will be preserved. In fact, there are likely to be positives, such as the inclusion of a fish counter and an improved fish ladder. The developers have supplied us with impressions of their proposal but stress that that they are not yet the final proposal – really just the starting point for consultations with all stakeholders. The pictures are here.
1/2/10 - Best wishes to all Salmon members, whose season starts today. Although our spring run has been pretty poor for a few years now, springers do exist and if we don't try we'll never know...
28/1/10 - This Sunday's bank maintenance venue will be at Kilbury. Meet in the layby. Please try to come along.
18/1/10 - Bank maintenance next Sunday morning will be on the Church Commissioners water between Austin's Bridge and Nursery pool, from 9 am onwards.
7/1/10 - Bank maintenance this Sunday will take place on the Hood Barton stretch of the river (right hand bank). Suggested parking in the lay-by on the Riverford side, just above the bridge. Please mind the traffic if crossing the bridge on foot.
1/1/10 - Firstly, we wish all our members and friends a happy and successful 2010!
The first bank maintenance session is planned for this Sunday (3rd Jan). Please meet at Lower Style pool on the Church Commissioners side (true left bank). For those of you who have not been involved in the work in previous years I can do no better than to repeat the following:
Bank maintenance time is here again and, as always, there is much work to be done, so we need plenty of volunteers. Usually we meet on each Sunday morning for the first few weeks of the year and the work can be more or less physical, depending on the individual. In any case it is a good way of working off some of that Christmas pudding, good fun and, particularly for newer members, a good way of getting to know the river and an perhaps an opportunity to discuss tactics with other members.
Work starts at around 9am and continues for the morning. Please try to make it if you can.
Bank maintenance in progress
6/1/09 - The catch return statistics for the 2009 season are as follows:
SALMON:
13 members report catching salmon. Average weight 7.1lb
Total catch - 33. Of these, 24 were caught on the Church Commissioners Water, 2 in Totnes Weir Pool. All 100% of these fish were reported released. Those who have caught and returned Salmon are again to be congratulated for attaining such a high C&R percentage. Please keep it up for 2010.
(Salmon totals history: 2008 - 64 2007 - 43, 2006 - 39, 2005 - 41, 2004 - 83, 2003 - 29, 2002 - 21, 2001 - 40, 2000 - 53)
Best fish- J Sharpe est 12.5lb. 27/7 CC
First fish- C Glover est 8.5lb 29/4 CC
Highest total- D. Myhill - 18.
Number caught (average weight) per month- April=1 (8.5lb), May=1 (9.5lb), June=3 (9.5lb), July=12 (8.25lb), Aug=6 (5.3lb), Sept=9 (4.3lb), Oct=1 (8lb).
SEA TROUT:
40 members report catching Sea Trout. Average weight- 2.25lb
Total catch - 320. Of these, 145 were caught at Totnes Weir Pool and 66 on the Church Commissioners Water. 116 fish or 36% reported released. 6 fish over 6lb were reported, compared to 4 in 2008.
(Sea trout totals history: 2008 - 160, 2007 - 228, 2006 - 260, 2005 - 302, 2004 - 440, 2003 - 399 2002 - 616, 2000 - 451)
Best fish- D.Grove est 8lb TWP
First fish- A Myall 2lb 14oz 12/4 TWP
Highest total- P Hetherington 53 fish
Number caught March=0, April=35, May=115, June=65, July=34, Aug=33, Sept=35
BROWN TROUT:
Total catch- 83. (2008 - 138, 2007 - 71)
Highest total D.Long - 29
Best fish - D McDonald 1lb 2oz
7/10/09 - We have only just received word that The Duchy have opened salmon fishing until 14th October this year free to all with EA permission to fish the season extension so unfortunately you've missed a week! No need to buy a ticket, just take your EA permission with you and of course send in a return, including blank days.
11/9/09 - There is an evening of fly-fishing films at Exeter, on the 23rd November at the Vue cinema. Full details, including relevant website links are given in the attached press release and film programme.
Film Programme (downloads .doc file)
27/8/09 - The Environment Agency has again given permission for an extension of the salmon season this year. The extension is for two weeks, up to the 14th October. Members intending to fish during this period must obtain a permit in advance from Hon. Sec. Other conditions are as follows:
24/8/09 - A pair of polaroids has been lost somewhere in the wooded section of the Hood Barton stretch between Tylers Run and Stretchford. If anyone happens to come across them please let me know and I will arrange to return them to their owner.
8/8/09 - Sadly it seems that the Angling Trust has run into financial trouble already and has announced a 'restructuring' programme in order to reduce costs. It has been said that their membership targets were overoptimistic, however, the reality of only 1% of anglers joining up is very disappointing. There are benefits of membership, not least of which is the £5m of public liability insurance included in the subscription of less than 40p per week. Above all, whether one likes the way the Trust have set about their task or not it has to be said that with angling under pressure from many sides, a coherent national voice for angling is essential. It would be a great loss to us all if the Trust were to fail. Why not consider becoming a member and have your voice heard? See the Trust's web site for more details.
31/7/09 - Here is the list of DFA work party dates for this year. Last year's turnout was, it must be said, disappointing due not least to the weather. Please try to support this very important work on the areas where fish cut their redds. The work involves clearing weed and cleaning gravel to increase the area available to spawning fish. Why not put these dates in your diary now and join us in this enjoyable pursuit then enjoy a pint and a pasty (or similar) on us at the end of the session. Non-members are welcome to come and join in.
DFA 2009 WORKS PROGRAMME |
|
| TUES AUGUST 18TH | WALLABROOK – PIZWELL BRIDGE |
| SAT AUGUST 29TH | WALLABROOK – RUNAGE BRIDGE |
| WED SEPTEMBER 9TH | CHERRYBROOK – LOWER BRIDGE |
| SAT SEPTEMBER 19TH | CHERRYBROOK – UPPER BRIDGE |
| WED 30TH SEPTEMBER | BLACKABROOK - JUNCTION WITH W. DART (some walking involved) |
| TUES 6TH OCTOBER | W. WEBBURN – TBA |
| 9.30 am START ON ALL DAYS: MORNINGS ONLY | Map of locations |
13/7/09 - Allan Tudor has pointed out what is probably a better set of graphical tide tables for use when fishing TWP. They are to be found on the links page.
4/7/09 - Please note that he start time for Dangling Day '09 has been changed from 1000 to 1100.
The picture below shows EA man Mike Maslin trying out a new method of frightening fish. This one uses a bright yellow pole with powerful LEDs on the end, rather than the normal rod and line method most of us use. Seriously though, these are members of the EA and the DFA evaluating a new sub-surface video camera for possible use in estimating fish stocks. Unfortunately the test was inconclusive and further trials will be undertaken.
Camera test
10/6/09 - There is a new newsletter in the offing so if you would like to receive it by email, please send an e-mail to mailinglist@dartaa.org.uk with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject box and your name and postcode in the main body.Please be assured that it is the intention to keep your e-mail address private and to keep the content to material relevant to the Association. If in future you should wish to remove your name from the list then you would simply send a similar e-mail but with UNSUBSCRIBE as the subject.
1/6/09 - Google placemarks relating to our fishing have been updated. You will find them on the Maps page. These are still somewhat provisional but being refined all the time. It would be appreciated if any misplaced markers could be reported and suggestions for other locations made.
The fly box mentioned below has now been found.
24/5/09 - Has anyone found the cream coloured C&F fly box with contents that was left at TWP on friday evening? Probably it would have been either on or near the bench on the Totnes side. If you have it, please let me know and I will reunite it with its owner.
20/05/09 (Revised 4/7/09)- The Association is holding its second annual Open Day ('Dangling Day') on Saturday July 11 from 1100 hrs to 1600 hrs at Staverton. It is designed in part to encourage young people and anyone else who wants to know more about fly fishing to come along and have a go.
But this year is going to be very different from last year. For a start the weather is going to be absolutely wonderful. Secondly we think it is a great idea to suggest that all Association members, friends and family come along and make it a gossipy fun day out.
There will be a barbecue on which food that visitors bring with them will be cooked and plastic beakers in which to serve their drink. Please be sure and come along with chairs, rugs tables, plates and eating irons.
We are using the fishing along the field across the railway line at Staverton by kind permission of Mike Berrow and the Watson family.
The site needs to be manned by at least ten people: - instructors, cooks, parking and railway crossing marshals and general glad-handers. We still need some more names for all or part of the day. Do please think of putting yourself forward. It is promises to be the same friendly event as last year, with more free scrumpy for the help.
Please contact Nigel Ash on 07831 408526 or email him at nash@members.shines.net.
There is a map of the Dangling Day location here or for those of you who are Google Earth savvy, here is a placemark for the location of the event: Entrance to Dangling Day
15/5/09 - New tackle review posted. The item reviewed is a tube fly vice by Gray's of Kilsyth. Looks very useful.
13/5/09 - Added to the links page under the heading 'Weather and river conditions' you will find a new link to the BBC weather site's tide tables, which give times and heights for Totnes. These can be very useful as a fairly accurate idea of when one may start and would have to finish fishing may be deduced. More details by the link.
7/4/09 - The set of placemarks for Google Earth has been updated to show, among others, a revised upper boundary to the Dartington water with tracks showing foot access from parking areas. Please note that some of the markers are still provisional and although positioned and shown in good faith, there could be inaccuracies. Please report any mistakes and or make suggestions for inclusion. The file is here: Dart placemarks 4/09 If you have the previous set already in your Google Earth 'Places' you should delete them first otherwise you will have two of each marker, which would be rather confusing.
There are reports of possible poaching of sea trout by spinning below TWP. Please keep a lookout and if anything suspicious is seen please call the police or the EA hotline (number on reverse of EA licence.)
29/3/09 - Please note that the cost of the DFA AGM buffet is now £10 and not the £13 originally announced.
24/3/09 - Notice is given that this year’s Dart Fisheries Association AGM will be held at the Royal Seven Stars Hotel, Totnes at 6.30pm on Friday April 17th. There will then be talks by Toby Russell on the work carried out for us by the Westcountry Rivers Trust in 2008 and the work the Trust intend to carry out this year and Roger Furniss on the activities of the South West Rivers Association and the recently formed Anglers Trust of which he is a Director. The election of the Association's committee and officers will also take place.
After the meeting there will be a hot buffet supper and an “Auction of Fishing”, full details of all lots at the meeting, similar to last years with fishing kindly donated by riparian owners and proceeds going towards in-river works. The price of the buffet supper will be £10 per head. Please send your cheque, payable to the Dart Fisheries Association, to Nick Holding at Court Farm, Coombe, Buckfastleigh, Devon TQ 11 0HT before April 11th. Please note guests of members and non-members are welcome to come to the meeting and stay on for supper and the auction. Full details and agenda in .pdf form here.
2/3/09 - Just a reminder of our trout/sea trout evening taking place this Friday at Staverton Courthouse (the village hall) at 7pm. Subjects covered will include the management of our trout habitat, issues concerned with stocking and possible reasons for declining numbers of sea trout. The speakers will be Andy Thomas of the Wild Trout Trust and probably the leading expert on sea trout, Dr. Graeme Harris. Subject to constraint of time there will be a chaired Q&A session following the presentations. This promises to be an interesting and lively debate which, although centred on the Dart, should be relevant to most rivers and indeed anyone with a fisheries interest is welcome to come along and join in.
1/3/09 - Under the new Environment Agency bylaws that came into force on 31st Jan, it is now illegal to sell rod caught salmon or sea trout. The carcasses of all net caught salmon and sea trout must now be individually tagged and the details of the fish caught recorded in an annual logbook. Therefore any salmon or sea trout offered for sale without a tag is illegal. The bylaw requiring the release of all salmon caught before 16th June and that only artificial fly or artificial lure be used before that date is renewed for a further 10 years.
The intention is that the new measures will make it more difficult for poachers to sell their catch and reduce the number of fish taken by a minority of licensed anglers who may have been tempted to sell theirs.
25/2/09 - This year's WTT on-line auction.
Most members will know that the Wild Trout Trust since it began almost a dozen years ago (with Mike Weaver as one of its founders), has devoted itself to the practical business of habitat restoration - fixing degraded rivers for the benefit of all fauna and flora, including brown trout and sea trout and of course salmon.
Indeed the DAA itself has benefited from a WTT advisory visit on the Woolston Stream running into the Dart by Staverton Mill. Part of the recommended work there has been done and already thanks to a second electro-fishing exercise by the EA, it is clear that the stream's spawning potential has been boosted.
In recent years, the WTT has established an on-line auction of lots great and small, which has become an important source of its funding. Here is the catalogue for this year's auction. Please have a look at it and see if there is anything you fancy. Times may be tight but this also means that you could pick up some bargain lots. The WTT is a great cause and your support will be hugely appreciated.
10/2/09 - Wednesday bank maintenance will be at Fogdens again this week. Meet 10am.
Here is a Salmon tube fly offer that might be of interest to members:
7/2/09 - Bank maintenance on Sunday will be taking place at the upper end of Fogdens. Help required please. Meet 9am.
2/2/09 - The Wednesday bank maintenance party will not now be working at Horsehill. We will be at Rookery Pool and possibly, if there is enough time / personpower, at Kilbury wear, meeting at Caddaford layby at 10am.
30/1/09 - Best wishes to all our members for the imminent Salmon season.
Bank maintenance - Robin will be back in charge of the work party on Sunday, meeting at Caddaford layby at 9 am. Numbers have been down a little so please try to make it if you can.
Paul Bright of Reel Value has informed us of the offers in the following PDF document that might be of interest to our members
Paul works locally repairing and servicing reels as well as being an agent for Okuma and others. His web site is www.reelvalue.co.uk
The WTT speaker at the Trout Seminar in March will be Andy Thomas who is one of the conservation officers from the Wild Trout Trust and will speak on brown trout conservation and good management practices
27/1/09 - Due to inclement weather forecast tomorrow and the height of the river, the Wednesday bank maintenance session is cancelled. All being well we shall meet at the same time and place next Wednesday.
24/1/09 - Bank maintenance RV's:
Sunday 9.30, Fogdens. (Rain should have stopped by then.) Luke C-M to lead.
Wednesday 10.00 Horsehill, bottom end, near Queen of the Dart. Luke to lead.
24/1/09 - The Association will be holding a seminar on Sea Trout at Staverton Court House on Friday 6th March. The speakers will be Dr. Graeme Harris, renowned expert on the species, and a representative of the Wild Trout Trust. All welcome.
20/1/09 - The mid-week bank maintenance party will RV at Fogdens tomorrow (wednesday) at 10 am.
For those of you who have not yet paid your subscriptions, please be reminded that they are due by the end of the month.
17/1/09 - By popular request, we are now able to deliver your newsletter etc. by e-mail. Please be assured that it is the intention to keep your e-mail address private and to keep the content to material relevant to the Association. If you are a member or on the official waiting list and would like to save the Association a few stamps, then please send an e-mail to mailinglist@dartaa.org.uk with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject box and your name and postcode in the main body. If in future you should wish to remove your name from the list then you would simply send a similar e-mail but with UNSUBSCRIBE as the subject.
16/1/09 - As Robin Thorn is unable to lead the bank maintenance party on Sunday (18th) Luke has kindly offered to take his place. Meet at Fogden's (right bank, opposite Caddaford) at 0900, to work in Rookery pool. If there are any problems due to the weather it will be posted here if notice is received in time.
7/1/09 - This Sunday's bank maintenance party will again meet at Caddadford lay-by at 9am. If the river remains low it is the intention to remove the fallen tree that has lodged itself just upstream of Caddaford. Boots would be helpful.
6/1/09 - The fishing return statistics for the 2008 season are as follows:
SALMON:
18 members report catching salmon.
Total catch - 64. Of these, 24 were caught on the Church Commissioners Water, 1 in Totnes Weir Pool. 60 or 94% of these fish were reported released. Those who have caught and returned Salmon are to be congratulated for attaining such a high C&R percentage. Please keep it up for 2009.
(Salmon totals history: 2007 - 43, 2006 - 39, 2005 - 41, 2004 - 83, 2003 - 29, 2002 - 21, 2001 - 40, 2000 - 53)
Best fish- Mr A Davis est 15+lb.
First fish- N. Gipson est 9lb 15/5/08.
Highest total- D. Myhill - 11.
Number caught (average weight) per month- May=3 (9.5lb), June=4 (8.5lb), July=13 (8.25lb), Aug=21 (5.7lb), Sept=17 (6.8lb), Oct=6 (10.5lb).
SEA TROUT:
40 members report catching Sea Trout
Total catch - 160. Of these, 74 were caught at Totnes Weir Pool and 33 on the Church Commissioners Water. 43 fish or 26.9% reported released. Only 4 fish over 6lb were reported, compared to 14 in 2007.
(Sea trout totals history: 2007 - 228, 2006 - 260, 2005 - 302, 2004 - 440, 2003 - 399 2002 - 616, 2000 - 451)
Best fish- D.Grove est 8lb
First fish- E. Malleson 1/4/08
Average weight- 2lb
Highest total- R. Thorn and A. Myall, both with 24 fish.
Number caught (average weight) per month- March=0 (0), April=20 (2.5lb), May=61 (3lb), June=18 (2.5lb), July=41 (1.5lb), Aug=16 (2lb), Sept=3 (1lb)
The much reduced Sea Trout total for the 2008 season was not helped by very wet conditions which were against night-time fishing and led to a much lower level of fishing effort.
BROWN TROUT:
Total catch- 138. (2007 - 71)
Highest total D.Lockett - 36
5/1/09 - First, all of the staff here at the DAA's busy IT centre would like to wish you all a very happy and successful 2009.
The mid-week bank maintenance session will be kicking off this week on wednesday. This week we meet at the Caddaford lay-by at 10.30. We are planning to continue where Sunday's work party left off. Please check this page on Mondays for further times, dates and locations.
30/12/08 - Bank maintenance time is here again and, as always, there is much work to be done, so we need plenty of volunteers. Usually we meet on each Sunday morning for the first few weeks of the year and the work can be more or less physical, depending on the individual. In any case it is a good way of working off some of that Christmas pudding, good fun and, particularly for newer members, a good way of getting to know the river and an perhaps an opportunity to discuss tactics with other members.
The first session is on Sunday 4th January, meeting at Caddaford lay-by at 9pm. The main purpose for this Sunday will be to clear some vegetation at Abbot's Mead and below at Colston, not over doing things too much. Robin Thorn, who is again in charge of operations this year will not be available for this first meeting and Andy Myall has kindly volunteered to fill the breach.
This year we are also trying to organise a mid-week session (probably wednesday) under the leadership of Luke Chester-Master. It would be useful if anyone wishing to help with either the Sunday or mid-week session would e-mail to register their interest so that they may be kept up to date with locations etc. Also if there is any work you feel needs doing please let us know and we can try to fit it into the schedule.
8/12/07 As usual, our prize draw was held following the AGM, at the annual dinner. It was skillfully organised by Rob Dart and Robin Thorn who, on behalf of the DAA, would like to thank the following individuals and firms who donated prizes. The draw is an important means of fundraising for the Association and it is to be hoped that members, where possible, will show reciprocal support to the firms listed below.
DONATED BY |
PRIZE |
| N.Thomas | Carbotec ten ft 7 weight TROUT ROD. |
| Snowbee | LANDING NET |
| Snowbee | FLY LINE. |
| Exeter Angling Centre | FISHING WAISTCOAT |
| Swift Tackle | FISHING BAG |
| Swift Tackle | FISHING BAG |
| Torbay Angling Centre | £ 20 GIFT VOUCHER |
| Dartmouth Smoke House | SIDE OF SMOKED SALMON |
| J.Sanderson | 2 TICKETS FOR ALBERT HALL. |
| J.Sanderson | 2 TICKETS FOR ALBERT HALL. |
| C. McAbe | £ 10 MEAT VOUCHER |
| M. Davis, Hatchlands Trout Farm | £ 20 VOUCHER |
| Dr P Edwards | PAINTING |
| B.Leaman | PAINTING |
| Sea Trout Inn | DINNER FOR TWO |
28/10\08 - Members may be aware of the proposed combination of the various bodies representing anglers into one entity, to be called The Angling Trust. Such a body would provide a united and more powerful organisation lobbying for the interests of all anglers. The following link points to a PDF document with details of the AT. Your browser should open it but if you have trouble viewing it you may need to download Adobe Reader from here.
23/9/08 - Disappointingly, there has not yet been any response to the item I posted a while ago regarding a fly swap with Gwent AS. I repeat the posting below. If you feel you would like to give it a go and help to foster ties with a similar club to ours in Wales, now would be the time to get in touch. The swap would get under way at the end of October.
Mark Evans of Gwent Angling Society http://www.gwentanglingsociety.co.uk/ has contacted me suggesting a fly swap between our members. This would take place during the winter months. For those of you who are not familiar with fly swaps, Mark explains:
"It basically works like so. A swap master is selected to over see the swap. Two swap minors are selected, one in daa, and one in gas, to collate each clubs contribution and post to the other swap minor. The swap master selects a species, or style. I would suggest maybe salmon or sewin(sea trout). Depending on the size of fly swap(say 10 people), each member of the fly swap ties 10 of his/her favourite salmon or sewin fly, providing the details of how to tie the fly and how to fish with it."
Would any member interested in participating please get in touch with me to register their interest. If you know of any other member who is a keen fly tier but might not be in the habit of visiting this web site, please pass on this request.
The next habitat work party is this Saturday on the East Webburn. Meet at the Old Inn car park in Widecombe at 0930.
1/9/08 - Unfortunately, with 2 inches of rain forecast for the moor for next 36 hours, the Blackabrook working party for tomorrow (Tues 2nd) has had to be cancelled.
29/8/08 - Here is the amended schedule for habitat work on the moor. Please note that the Pizwell session which was postponed has now been rescheduled for Monday 22nd Sept.
DATE LOCATION MEETING POINT
Tues 2nd Sept Upper Blackabrook Lay – by on B3357 1mile west of Two Bridges
Wed 10th Sept Lower Blackabrook Entrance to Prince Hall Hotel, 1 mile east of Two Bridges
Thurs 18th Sept Stannonbrook Postbridge car park
Mon 22nd Sept Pizwell on Wallabrook Pizwell
Sat 27th Sept East Webburn Old Inn, Widecombe
27/8/08 - Would any member wishing to fish during the Salmon season extension please register with Hon. Sec. by the 6th of September at the latest so that a permit can be issued in good time. Members must register in order to fish.
There is a habitat improvement session on the Upper Blackabrook on Tuesday morning next (2nd Sept). (See list of other sessions below) Now that the rain seems to have abated it looks like it will go ahead. If you are available then please try to attend and lend a hand. Anglers were a little thin on the ground for last year's programme. Habitat improvement work is probably the most important thing we can do ourselves towards restoring numbers of fish to the river. It is probably a good idea to check with Toby on 01566 771810 before turning up.
19/8/08 - A reminder that the fishing platform at Admiral's Walk is UNSAFE. Further damage has been done by recent spates. Please keep off the structure. A plan to repair it is in hand but may take some time to realise.
Recently, a salmon was caught on our water which showed signs of probable nematode worm infection. The visible symptom of an infected fish is a reddened, swollen and possibly bleeding vent. This is often referred to as Red Vent Syndrome (RVS). It does not appear that this is a particularly serious condition and it is perfectly OK to release such fish. However, if one is taken for the pot, it should be cooked thoroughly as the worm can infect humans. As parasites may be present undetected in any wild fish, the Food Standards Agency gives the following advice regarding the preparation of fish to be eaten raw:
"If wild salmon is to be eaten raw or almost raw it should be frozen in all parts for at least 24 hours, at a temperature of –20oC or colder. This will ensure that any non-visible parasites or undetectable larvae of nematodes are destroyed."
There is a good article with more information on RVS on the 'Fish and Fly' web site and also a PDF document here, from Fisheries Research Services (Scotland). Please report any such fish caught so that we may monitor the situation.
15/8/08 - As expected, the habitat work at Pizwell tomorrow (Saturday) is postponed. Watch this space for rescheduling.
13/8/08 - The following released yesterday by the National Press Office:
A new strategy through to 2021 to help protect the iconic salmon and sea trout from the complex environmental challenges they face was launched today (Tuesday) by the new Environment Agency Chairman Lord Chris Smith.
Officially opening the Blachford Fish Pass in Devon, Lord Smith, said: “The dramatic sight of a salmon or sea trout leaping from the water is one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
“These special fish are very valuable as they bring social, economic and environmental benefits to local communities. Their sensitivity and need for a good quality environment means we need to work together with our partners to address the complex factors affecting them.”
Work to protect these fish, which attract tourism and act as indicators of a healthy environment, has already improved stocks in some rivers and has helped increase salmon numbers in England and Wales by 40,000 in the last ten years. The new work programme, ‘Better sea trout and salmon fisheries strategy’, which the Environment Agency consulted widely on now includes goals to protect sea trout as well as salmon.
Lord Smith continued: “The Better sea trout and salmon fisheries strategy will help us focus our work over the next decade to be more efficient and effective. It’s not just about us – we need everyone with an interest in our rivers to work in partnership, to help bring more sea trout and salmon into more rivers, bringing more benefit.
“It is a privilege to open the Blachford Fish Pass to mark the launch of this strategy as the project encompasses much of what our strategy is calling for. The pass will help salmon and trout reach their spawning ground safely, and could not have happened without the hard work and partnership of the Yealm River Association, Action for Wildlife, Westcountry Rivers Trust, and the Environment Agency.”
The strategy sets out a number of key aims the Environment Agency wants to see achieved by 2021, which includes:
§ improving the quality and increase the availability of good quality habitats,
§ promoting and realising better land management practices,
§ working with partners to remove or reduce impacts of barriers affecting fish migration,
§ reducing the exploitation of at-risk stocks,
§ making the most effective use of resources by working to the strength of our partners,
§ establishing sea trout and salmon as widely recognised environmental icons.
Paul Knight, Director of the Salmon and Trout Association, said: "The Salmon and Trout Association very much welcomes the Environment Agency's new strategy, especially the inclusion of sea trout. We have been consulted at all stages during the evolution of the strategy, which is an excellent example of the Environment Agency involving partners in a major project.“It is fitting that another partnership, the Blachford Fish Pass on the River Yealm, should be chosen for Lord Smith to launch the strategy. Opening up new spawning and juvenile areas to migratory fish is an essential part of managing and conserving fish stocks. The Environment Agency has joined forces with local fisheries and environmental interests to make this happen, helping improve the river's salmon and trout populations.”
The work at Blachford, carried out by the Environment Agency’s workforce, involved removing the existing 7m long stone upper weir and replacing it with a ‘pool and traverse’ fish pass for fish to swim up. At least 15km of spawning grounds has been opened up by the new fish pass and as many as 50 sea trout and salmon were seen to ascend in the first day it was used.
The ‘Better sea trout and salmon fisheries strategy’ is available for download from the Environment Agency publications catalogue.
12/8/08 - We have again secured a salmon season extension for a duration of two weeks. All methods permissible will apply as during the rest of the season but the extension will be entirely catch and release with single barbless hooks. Those members intending to fish must register with Hon Sec in order for permission to be issued. Any catches should be reported to Hon Sec by telephone or email as soon as possible after the event to allow inclusion in the season's statistics.
Due to unusually high water levels the habitat management work on the Lower Cherrybrook has had to be postponed. Unfortunately the Pizwell session on Saturday is looking doubtful as well. Those wishing to help should contact Toby on the number below for up to date information.
6/8/08 - The first of the habitat management sessions is tomorrow. Please lend a hand if you have the time. This is important work to help improve spawning habitat higher in the catchment. The timetable for this year's work is below. Meeting at 9.30am on all days. Please bring wet weather gear and wellies / sturdy footwear. For further info and to book a place on the river walk and redd counting days please call Toby Russell at the Westcountry Rivers Trust on 01566 771810. Those wishing to participate may register with Toby to be informed of any last minute changes due to weather etc.
Date |
Event |
Location |
Meeting Point |
Thurs 7th Aug |
Habitat management |
Upper Cherrybrook |
Upper Cherrybrook Br., 2 miles west of Postbridge |
Wed 13th Aug |
Habitat management |
Lower Cherrybrook |
Lower Cherrybrook Br., between Dartmeet and Two Bridges |
Sat 16th Aug |
Habitat management |
Wallabrook at Pizwell |
Pizwell Br., 1 mile south of Bellever Forest |
Thurs 21st Aug |
** River walk ** |
Wallabrook at Runnage |
Runnage Br., 2 miles south of Postbridge |
Wed 27th Aug |
Habitat management |
Wallabrook at Runnage |
Runnage Br., 2 miles south of Postbridge |
|
|||
Tues 2nd Sept |
Habitat management |
Upper Blackbrook |
The lay-by on the B3357 1m west of Two Bridges (on the western side of the Blackbrook) |
Wed 10th Sept |
Habitat management |
Lower Blackbrook |
Entrance to Prince Hall Hotel, 1 mile from Two Bridges on road to Dartmeet |
Thurs 18th Sept |
Habitat management |
Stannon Stream |
Postbridge car park |
Sat 27th Sept |
Habitat management |
East Webburn |
The Old Inn car park, Widecombe in the Moor |
|
|||
Fri 19th Dec |
** Redd counting ** |
|
Bellever car park |
Mon 22nd Dec |
** Redd counting ** |
|
Bellever car park |
29/7/08 - Just a reminder that our fly fishing taster day is going ahead on Saturday the 9th of August. One of the qualified casting instructors we had lined up has had to pull out due to business commitments so if there is another instructor out there who would be willing to donate a little time on the day and possibly drum up some future clients I would be grateful if they were to contact me. Also we could do with the loan of some kind of tentage to provide some cover from the sun and/or rain at the event. Something with walk-in headroom would be ideal, perhaps a frame tent or even one of those folding canvass gazebos. Please let me know if you can help.
19/7/08 - Mark Evans of Gwent Angling Society http://www.gwentanglingsociety.co.uk/ has contacted me suggesting a fly swap between our members. This would take place during the winter months. For those of you who are not familiar with fly swaps, Mark explains:
"It basically works like so. A swap master is selected to over see the swap. Two swap minors are selected, one in daa, and one in gas, to collate each clubs contribution and post to the other swap minor. The swap master selects a species, or style. I would suggest maybe salmon or sewin(sea trout). Depending on the size of fly swap(say 10 people), each member of the fly swap ties 10 of his/her favourite salmon or sewin fly, providing the details of how to tie the fly and how to fish with it."
Would any member interested in participating please get in touch with me to register their interest. If you know of any other member who is a keen fly tier but might not be in the habit of visiting this web site, please pass on this request.
17/7/08 - One of our members has mislaid a gye net on the river, possibly at Kilbury. If you have found such a net, please let me know and I will reunite it with its owner.
The Westcountry Rivers Trust has provided a timetable for habitat improvement work this year. It can be downloaded here: Dart REDDS dates. Each year, the work involves conservation volunteers and anglers alike, although last year it must be said that anglers were a little thin on the ground. That having been said, this is not just limited to members. Anyone interested in conservation work is welcome to join in. Please try to find time to help with this work, which is vital to the future of our river.
With their copy of the newsletter, members will have received a copy of the flyer advertising the beginners / junior day on the 9th August. Please try to display this in a prominent place if you can. The event is free of charge and it may help to add the word FREE in felt-tip to the flyer.
10/7/08 - Lots of water over the last few days, especially yesterday. Andy Myall has sent in these pictures taken at Dartbridge last evening.
28/6/08 - Another reminder for the need for vigilance was given when two suspected poachers were seen leaving the river near Austin's Bridge. The member who observed them wisely did not approach them but called both the Police and the EA and representatives of both attended. The individuals concerned were tracked to Buckfastleigh, where the trail went cold. Members seeing any suspicious goings on should call the EA hotline on 0800 807060 and/or 999.
20/6/08 - The Brown Trout stocking has now been completed for this season. Some of them are seen being released below. More pictures of the operation are available via the Photo Gallery page
19/6/08 - The Association will be holding a fly casting 'taster day' on the Dart near Staverton on Saturday 9th August. There is no charge and the fun starts at 11am. Qualified instructors will be on hand to teach the basics. Juniors are particularly welcome (accompanied by an adult). We are indebted to Mike Burrows and to Riverford Organic Farm for supplying the venue. Please contact Hon. Sec. Phil Prowse on 01626 872434 for details.
9/6/08 - We are indebted to Allan & Carol Tudor and members of Totnes Sub-aqua Club who provided assistance with the removal of the tree from Halliwells yesterday. Eight members of the TSAC volunteered to help. Our thanks to them and especially the five who were able to turn out at short notice on the day. Thanks also to those of our own members who were involved, including regulars Steve Burt, John Harris, Andy Myall, Phil Prowse, and of course Robin Thorn who does such sterling work organising our bank maintenance.
Steve Burt was kind enough to send the following photos of the work in progress.
7/6/08 - Please note that the work party for Halliwells (see below) is ON for tomorrow.
6/6/08 - I have just had a look up at Halliwells and it did not appear that the strop has been fixed to the tree (see below). Please check here before turning up on Sunday.
5/6/08 - There is a large tree in the river at Halliwells. We are going to attempt to remove it on Sunday morning (8th), starting at 0830 and will need as many people as possible to get the job done. By Sunday, a chain strop should have been attached to the trunk, making it easier to drag the tree to the bank where it can be de-limbed and removed. Please come and help if you can.
30/5/08 - Recently there have been two sightings (on the same day) of an individual swimming in Totnes Weir pool in a wet-suit and carrying a spear-gun. On at least the first occasion, at lunchtime on the day in question, he was accompanied by two other men with pushchairs and two small children. Would all members please be alert to such goings-on and if anything suspicious is seen please call the EA hotline 0800 807060 (put it in your mobile phone now) and/or the police on 999.
26/3/08 - The Maps page now has a link which should download a folder of Google Earth placemarks showing various relevant sites on the river Dart. These should help members and visiting anglers to orientate themselves with our fishing, find parking spots etc. Please note that the placemarks are provisional at the moment and reports of mistakes and suggestions for corrections and additions would be gratefully received. There is also a link on the page to where you can download Google Earth for free if you do not already have it.
15/3/08 - A little more information on the DFA AGM. After the meeting there will be an auction of fishing. There will be 17 lots donated by riparian owners in the Dart catchment as well as a casting lesson with fishing at Kennick. Also after the meeting there will be a hot buffet supper, price £12 per head. (Please send cheques to Nick Holding, payable to Dart Fisheries Association)
The Fishing Regulations page should now be fully up to date. Apologies for the delay.
14/3/08 - A date for your diary. The Dart Fisheries Association AGM is on Saturday 12th April at 1830. There is a new venue this year i.e. The Seven Stars Hotel in Totnes. All members are invited to attend to learn more about the work of the DFA and the new Dart Partnership, involving the DFA, EA and Westcountry Rivers Trust.
Good luck, everyone, for the new Trout season, which of course starts tomorrow.
5/3/08 - First fish of the season caught. See 'Catch Reports'
3/3/08 - Many thanks to those who turned up to work on removal of the tree in TWP on Sunday morning. There was a good turnout and the Island is now clear for the start of the Sea Trout season.
1/3/08 - ...and you thought we had problems with a seal in the weir pool... http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7268805.stm
25/2/08 - Members (and others) might be interested in the following post regarding Orri Vigfusson's letters to the Norwegian government re their record on Salmon Conservation. http://www.flyfishingforum.com/flytalk4/showthread.php?t=26577
Some of you may have seen that there is a tree stuck on the island in Totnes Weir Pool (see photo). It needs to be shifted before the start of the season so a work party is arranged for this Sunday 2nd March. This will involve an early start at 7am due to the tide. Again, many hands are needed. Please attend if possible. Waders essential.
Tree in Totnes Weir Pool
22/2/08 Bank Maintenance this weekend: Please meet at Halliwells, 9am onwards.
23/1/08 (2) - Robin Thorn, who, for those of you who don't know, organises bank maintenance, has confirmed that he needs as many bods as possible this Sunday. Rather than the usual RV at Kilbury he suggests meeting at Stretchford. The work is taking place at the head of Quarry Pool (left bank), so alternatively helpers could make their way there.
23/1/08 - Members should by now have received their copy of the January newsletter. Highlights are as follows:
The only change in the fishing regulations for the coming season is that an extra day ticket per month will be available to Trout and Sea Trout members, potentially doubling their Salmon fishing on the river. This ticket will be for Salmon only, strictly on a catch and release basis. Conditions placed on the existing ticket will remain the same. (ie not catch and release only, but subject to our regulations and to national bylaws.)
In order to meet the 90% C&R target requested by the Environment Agency the committee urges that catch and release is exercised on an increasing basis. Obviously, a 90% target means that only one in every ten Salmon may be retained.
The committee seeks the views of members on increasing the number of anglers in a Salmon category. This is still very much in the early stages of discussion but if implemented would probably not include an increase in members authorised to fish Totnes weir pool and would likely necessitate more C&R.
Would anglers fishing the Colston (Wilson's) water please note that the field directly in front of Colston House is no longer included in our fishing. This effectively divides the water in two. Members can still cross this area to access the other half of the fishing but must keep close to the river bank and be mindful of any members of the Colston household who may be around. Access to the lower half is also possible on foot through John Thorn's campsite.
There is still much work to be done with regard to bank maintenance. We seem to have more fallen trees than usual and plenty of manpower (or womanpower) is needed to clear them. Pease attend if you can. The RV is at Kilbury lay-by at 9am on Sundays for the next few weeks unless otherwise stated.
7/1/08 - As this is the first posting of the year, we would like to wish all members and friends a happy and successful New Year.
At the first meeting of the 2008 Committee, Chris Glover was elected Chairman and Robin Thorn Deputy Chairman. Some changes to the fishing regulations were made and these will be circulated to members soon.
The following received from the internet Sea Trout Fishing Forum:
You may of seen in the Trout and Salmon a article about the Tees Barrage, and the fact that migratory fish can't get passed this obstacle.
This has gone on for 12 years and is set to go on for a minimum of another 3 years while more tests are carried out.
The A.C.A are running a petition on their web site, it only takes 1 minute to put your name to this petition, I would be grateful for any members or friends of members who would take a minute out of your time to view the petition and consider putting your name to it.
Even if you don't fish the Tees - the effects of such schemes are far reaching.
ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS- go to http://www.a-c-a.org/barrage-petition.html website and click on the link for Tees Barrage and put your name down.
Thank you Hoppy
If you feel this is an important issue, no doubt you will wish to add your name to the petition.
20/12/07 - Rob Dart and the Dart Angling Association would like to thank all those who most kindly and generously donated prizes to the DDA raffle, held at the annual dinner, which again was a great success. I list below donators and prizes.
Nigel Thomas |
Carbotec Fly Rod. |
| Robin Armstrong | Charcoal Sketch and Book |
| Snowbee | Landing Net and Fly Line |
| Exeter Angling Centre | 2 Fly Lines. |
| Swift Tackle | 3 Fishing Bags and 3 Fly Boxes |
| Torbay Angling Centre | £20 Gift Voucher |
| Dartmouth Smoke House | Side of Smoked Salmon |
| Chris Mc Cabe | £10 Meat Voucher |
| Hatchlands Trout Farm | £20 Voucher |
| Dr Peter Edwards | Watercolour Picture |
| Brian Leaman | Picture |
| Simon Mc Lucus | Hair Care Products |
| John Hutchinson | Bottle of Whisky |
| John Sanderson | 4 Tickets to the Albert Hall and a Riverford Veg Box |
| Sea Trout Inn | Dinner for Two £40 |
| Paul Bright | Fly Rod |
| David Long | 10 Pictures of Flies |
| Dereck Lockett | Fishing Book |
| Tim Hassel | Dinner for two, Cream Tea, both at Ilsington Country Club and a Bottle of Wine |
| Keith Sykes | Photographic Picture |
The raffle made a grand total of £1070 on the night plus pre sales tickets towards much needed funds.
I would also like to offer my sincere apologies to anyone I have forgotten..
Please support the businesses represented above with your custom.
18/12/07 - Just a reminder that bank maintenance proper starts on Sunday 6th January. It appears that there is more work than ever to be done, with quite a few trees down so we need plenty of volunteers again.
Usually we meet on each Sunday morning for the first few weeks of the year. The work can be more or less physical, depending on the individual. In any case it is a good way of working off some of that Christmas pudding, good fun and, particularly for newer members, a good way of getting to know the river and an perhaps an opportunity to discuss tactics with other members.
All those wishing to help please rendezvous at Kilbury at 9am.
17/12/07 -
The staff here at web site central would like to offer all members and friends the season's greetings and wish them tight lines for 2008!
The fishing return statistics for the 2007 season are as follows:
SALMON:
13 members report catching salmon.
Total catch - 43. Of these, 22 were caught on the Church Commissioners Water, 8 in Totnes Weir Pool. 35 or 81.4% of these fish were reported released.
(Salmon totals history: 2006 - 39, 2005 - 41, 2004 - 83, 2003 - 29, 2002 - 21, 2001 - 40, 2000 - 53)
Best fish- N.Gipson est 20lbs.
First fish- K.Holloway 20/5/07 est 8lbs.
Average weight- 8.1lbs.
Highest total- N.Gipson 8.
Number caught (average weight) per month- May=4 (12lb), June=2 (8lb), July=13 (10.5lb), Aug=9 (7.5lb), Sept=12 (4.7lb), Oct=3 (6lb).
It should be noted that the catch and return percentage has fallen short of the 90% target agreed with the EA. The October season extension returned a disappointing figure due to low water conditions.
SEA TROUT:
39 members report catching Sea Trout
Total catch - 229. Of these, 149 were caught at Totnes Weir Pool and 36 on the Church Commissioners Water. 68 fish or 30% reported released. 14 fish were over 6lb, 6 of which were over 10lb
(Sea trout totals history: 2006 - 260, 2005 - 302, 2004 - 440, 2003 - 399 2002 - 616, 2000 - 451)
Best fish- E Richards est 17lbs+, R Thorn est 13lbs+.
First fish- A Myall 28/3/07, 2lb
Average weight- 2lb 7oz
Highest total- D Pakes 34
Number caught (average weight) per month- March=1 (2lb), April=44 (2.5lb), May=116 (3.5lb), June=28 (2.5lb), July=10 (1.75lb), Aug=23 (2lb), Sept=7 (1lb)
Congratulations to Ed Richards whose fish of 38" (at least 17lbs) was, for a short while, a record for the river. Subsequently a monster fish was caught by member J Richmond on a neighbouring beat. Measuring 42", it must have rivaled the British record. Ed's fish however remains a record for Association waters.
BROWN TROUT:
Total catch- 71.
Several members have commented on the relative scarcity of Brown Trout this season
30/11/07 - Robin Thorn who, for those of you who do not already know, organises our bank maintenance work parties sends the following:
We shall be carrying out some maintenance works tomorrow morning (1st Dec) starting at around 9.30 am until say 12.30' ish starting off at Kilbury. The plan is to reinstate the steps which have rotten away at Admiral's Walk , and also some bank clearing. The same exercise will need to be carried out at Dart Bridge. It would be great to see as many of you as possible. Please bring along appropriate tools+ clothing.
2/11/07 - Volunteers will soon be required for redd counting on Dartmoor to aid the conservation effort. As soon as details are available they will be posted here.
1/11/07 - Catch returns for the season were due on the 31st October. If for some reason you have not sent in yours to the Hon. Sec. yet, then please do so right away. Remember, your membership could be at stake.
'Dartangler' a new 9.98 Cheetah Catamaran, jointly owned by David Pakes, Rob Dart, Paul Bright and Luke Chester-Master, was successfully launched last week.
Dartangler
David writes: " Should any Members of the Association feel like a change from the river and fancy a day out on the high seas then contact either myself or Rob for an invite. Trip will be entirely free of charge as you fish for the boat but may take fish home if you so want. We provide all terminal tackle for the boat, but it is helpful, but not essential if all of the crew have their own rod /reel". Please form an orderly queue!
4/10/07 - The work programme on spawning areas of the upper catchment is now finished for the year. Many thanks to those who lent a hand. The work was done under the auspices of the Westcountry Rivers Trust and involved conservation volunteers as well as anglers. Unfortunately, on the last work party, the anglers were somewhat outnumbered by other volunteers and the question "Where are all the fishermen then? was asked. The work continues next year in August, so please could members keep an eye open for this and try to give a little time and effort to help when the time comes.
Environment Agency bailiff Mike Barber with volunteers raking gravel on the East Webburn
Speaking of work, there is more than usual to do on bank maintenance this winter. There are several trees down in the river and various steps and walkways need repair. For this reason it is planned to start work next month, rather than in the more usual January. Most of the work will be carried on Sunday mornings but there will also be some activity mid-week. The work can be more or less physical, depending on the individual. For newer members and those on the waiting list this is a good way of getting to know the river and an perhaps an opportunity to discuss tactics with other members.
It is hoped that all members will try to find some time to devote to this important work, which of course benefits us all. Times and dates of work parties will be published here. In the meantime, if you are interested in joining in, please could you supply your contact details by email . They will be passed on to Robin Thorn, who is organising the work.
11/9/07 - New photographs from Andy Mayall in the Galleries section
20/8/07 - A walking/wading stick has been found beside the river. Please contact me if you have lost one and believe this could be yours.
18/8/07 - There is a new newsletter from the Hon Sec here. In it you will find details of the Salmon season extension agreed between the DFA and the EA. Please note that anglers wishing to take advantage of this must register with the Hon Sec.
The dates for work on the redds mentioned in the newsletter are as follows:
RIVER DART PROGRAMME OF MANUAL WORKS FOR 2007
Time for meeting will be 9.30am each day and work should finish by lunch time. Please try to help ensure the future of our fish stocks by lending a hand when you can.
DATE |
LOCATION |
MEETING POINT |
| Sat August 18th | Upper Cherrybrook | Upper Cherrybrook Bridge Two miles west of Postbridge |
| Fri August 31st | Wallabrook at Pizwell | Pizwell Bridge One mile south of Believer Forest |
| Sat September 8th | Wallabrook at Runnage | Runnage Bridge Two miles south of Postbridge |
| Thu September 20th | Lower Cherrybrook | Lower Cherrybrook Bridge Between Dartmeet and Two Bridges |
| Sat September 29th | Blackabrook | Entrance To Prince Hall Hotel One mile from Two Bridges on road to Dartmeet |
| Thu October 4th | East Webburn | Old Inn, Widecombe |
20/7/07 - LOST. Two made-up rods were left at the Stretchford lay by at around 5 pm yesterday (Thurs 19th). They disappeared between then and about 7 pm. If anyone rescued them or has any information regarding them please could you let me know and I will put you in touch with the owner.
The owner of the landing net below contacted me and has now been reunited with it.
9/7/07 - FOUND in the river today, a landing net. If it's yours, let me know.
19/6/07 - I have received the following from Hoppy, who runs 'The Sea Trout Fishing Forum' , which, for those of you unfamilliar with it, is well worth a look.
"The Carmarthenshire Fishermens Federation is starting a buy-out fund for the Tywi nets.
I whole heartidly support this venture, which will be a great investment for the future of fishing on the Tywi and its tributaries. It can only be of benefit to fish - on what is consistenly the best Sea Trout River in Wales.
At present there are auctions running on my forum, with some brilliant lots to be won!!!!! PLEASE PLEASE consider bidding on these items - it is for a great cause and there is the added bonus of getting a brilliant lot if you win!
Or if you would just like to donate then the address for the fund can be found on the forum.
Gethyn's forum at http://seatrout.proboards21.com is also running events to raise money for this great cause.
Please consider contributing to this cause, especially if you fish the Tywi - a success would benefit the area, and in the future would have significant effect on other nets in the country!
Hoppy"
4/6/07 - At a meeting last month with the Environment Agency, Association chairman David Pakes put forward a proposal on the committee's behalf to extend the salmon season on the Dart by one month. The time of main salmon run has apparently shifted to the extent that it now occurs largely after the end of our fishing season, possibly due to our changing climate. The extension, it is proposed, would be for rod and line anglers using barbless/debarbed hooks only and be strictly catch and release. It would bring the Dart more into line with neighbouring rivers, which have seasons extending to the end of November or even into December. An exception to this is the Teign, where a similar application is under way.
Not only would the extension enable Dart anglers to enjoy fishing for salmon when there should be more fish in the river but it would provide valuable management information as to the extent of the run. To this latter end, under these proposals anglers wishing to fish during the extension would be expected to register with the Association Secretary and provide a full account of their fishing effort. For the full text of the proposal, click here. You will need the free Adobe Reader software to open the file.
29/5/07 - A photograph gallery has just been added. Initially we have some shots of the Dart in spate supplied by Nigel Ash and some of work in progress on the Woolston Stream Project, showing the sunlight streaming in after the felling of some selected bank side trees.
22/5/07 - More on those pesky seals. One member reports that whilst fishing on the bottom end of the Ridge at 1.30 am on a recent night he was nearly knocked over by one of them. The seal was seemingly intent on leaving the weir pool via Duffers' Alley and in a hurry as the tide fell. The angler describes the incident as "rather alarming"
17/5/07 - I'm told that two seals have been active in Totnes weir pool recently. Apparently one of them was seen tucking into fresh salmon!
8/5/07 - Congratulations To Ed Richards on his Dart record sea trout. See Catch Reports for the details.
Don't forget that the Dart Fisheries Association's AGM is this Friday 11th May at 1830. The venue has changed and this year it will be held at Staverton Court House. (Village Hall)
Anyone who might be inspired by Ed's big fish and is not yet a member may like to note that our waiting list is unusually short at the moment, which gives an excellent opportunity to get a foot on the ladder to full membership. Details can be found on the membership page.
26/4/07 - Any goods purchased through the Sportfish web site, when accessed by clicking the banner at the top of this page will earn a small commission for the Association (subject to a monthly threshold). The same is true of other Sportfish (and Amazon) banners to be found on this web site. Please use them if you are ordering from either of those companies.
16/4/07 - New section 'Catch Reports' introduced. See menu on left.
26/3/07 - The Woolston Stream Project took a step forward this morning as our felling contractor arrived on site after delays due to weather and pressure of urgent work due to storm damage. This scheme is being joint funded by the Environment Agency, The Wild Trout Trust and our Association. The stream is potentially an important area for spawning and the aim is to improve this habitat to increase its productivity. The main part of the work is to let some light in as the canopy is very overgrown. There will also be work done to de-silt the gravels in the stream bed.
Woolston Stream Project - The first tree is felled
23/3/07 - It seems that almost as soon as I posted the item about Vosseler reels Carl had closed his website. As far as I can see, all of his stock is now being released gradually on eBay. Just search for Vosseler in the fly-fishing section. It is possible that there are 'sell now' items available by e-mailing him.
Don't forget to renew your EA licence before the old one runs out at the end of the month. You can do this on-line here or you may prefer to support your local Post Office.
20/3/07 - I just visited the Vosseler Reels website and found that these excellent reels are being sold off at a good discount so if you are looking for a reel at the moment, it's worth a look. I have an S2, which I use for bonefish and I love it. Very smooth and very resistant to salt water so far. The DC4 model looks good for sea trout and I shall be ordering a couple. (Anyone want to buy a pair of Battenkill LA III's?) For specs, click the price-list link on the Vosseler web-site. Not sure how accurate the prices are, but you can contact them by email. I'm told they're "going like hot cakes".
16/3/07 - There are reports of a tree in the water at Totnes weir pool. A work party will attempt to clear the obstruction tomorrow, Sat. 17th March, in a departure from our more usual Sunday gatherings. The tree needs to be dragged out of the water before being cut up. This is likely to take some manpower. If any member is available for an hour or so tomorrow, starting at 0900, their help would be greatly appreciated.
As the trout/sea trout season began yesterday, let me wish everyone a successful one.
Sea trout totals history: 2000 - 451, 2002 - 616, 2003 - 399, 2004 - 440, 2005 - 302, 2006 - 260
6/3/07 - Our membership waiting list is at a fairly low level at the moment. If you are thinking of joining or know someone who is, now would be a good time. Bank clearing did not take place again on Sunday, again due to the height of the river and generally atrocious weather. There is still work that needs to be done so please watch this space for news of further work parties and please help if you can.
5/3/07 - The Wild Trout Trust Auction 2007 begins tomorrow. According to the Trust: "Apart from a wide variety of fishing in the UK, Eire, the US and Chile, you will find fishing tackle, flies and fly boxes, shooting, DVDs, trees, roses, Harry Potter, Ferrari and Red Arrows collectibles, literature and art. Guide prices range from £5 to £4,500 so there's something for everyone." Apparently several lots have been received since the printed catalogue, which some of you will have had sent to you, was published. A .pdf catalogue can be found at www.wildtrout.org in the their News Section. Lots will be released in batches starting tomorrow, 6th March at 1930 until 15th March and appear on the charity pages of eBay
23/2/07 - Please note that there will be no bank clearing party out this weekend, mainly due to the height of the river.
8/2/07 - Bank clearing will be carrying on this Sunday at Fogden's, 9am onwards. Waders may be of some use to those participating. Last week we saw several kelts showing in the river. Good news as far as spawning is concerned!
5/2/07 - The platform at Admiral's Walk is now unsafe, due to its supports being fractured. A solution to this problem is being sought but in the meantime members are advised not to venture onto the walkway. Anyone deciding to ignore this advice does so entirely at their own risk.
There have been reports of salmon being caught by at least one member during the first couple of days of the season. Apparently these were not fresh fish but well-mended kelts.
31/1/07 - Tomorrow sees the opening of the salmon season. Last year saw a slight reduction in fish caught, from 43 in '05 to 39 in '06. 35 or 90% of these were released, a good effort and in line with the target agreed with the EA when regaining the right to take salmon in September. Let's hope that we see some improvement in numbers of fish entering the river this year. With the absence of a fish counter, fishing effort is a valuable way of monitoring fish numbers. Every day on the river, even when blank, helps to tell the story so dust off those rods and 'go fish'! Please report any catches here or to Hon Sec, so that we have an up to date idea of how the season is progressing. Tight lines.
Salmon totals history: 2006 - 39, 2005 - 41, 2004 - 83, 2003 - 29, 2002 - 21, 2001 - 40, 2000 - 53
26/1/07 - From today you will find banner links to Amazon appearing in various places on this site. Any goods purchased after following these links will earn a small commission for the Association so if you are contemplating buying anything from Amazon (not just books and DVDs) please try to enter their web site via ours, by clicking on one of the aforementioned links. Unsurprisingly, you will find one on the 'links' page for instance.
25/1/07 - This week (Sunday 28th) we will be bank clearing in the vicinity of Higher Style pool (Not on the map but I'm told it's a little way upstream from Lower Style pool). Apparently there are three trees down so as many volunteers as possible please! Meet at Stretchford, 9am as usual.
16/1/07 - The January newsletter from Hon Sec is here, with details of updated Fishing Regulations and other topics.
On Sunday the bank clearing party tackled, amongst other items of rogue vegetation, two large trees that had come down in the gales. One was blocking the path just below the Nursery Pool rail bridge on the right bank and the other , a little further down on the same bank, had its upper branches in the river. The river level prevented us from completely clearing the latter but "We'll be back" - Next Sunday in fact. Same meeting place, Caddaford lay by, same time, 9am or as soon thereafter as you can make it! We will probably be working on the opposite (right) bank again. If so one could access the site from the Colston road/Fogden's side.
Clearing the path ©
Ed gets to grips with fallen tree ©
The Prize Draw at December's annual dinner, again expertly organised by Rob Dart, raised over £1000 for Association funds, with one of our EA bailiffs, Mike Barber winning the star prize of a super sea trout rod, donated by Nigel Thomas of Carbotec. Our grateful thanks go to Nigel and the following (in no particular order) for their generous donations of prizes: Dr. Peter Edwards, Keith Sykes, Brian Leeman, Simon McLucas, John Sanderson, The Seatrout Inn, Dr. Richard Greig, Snowbee UK, Exeter Angling Centre, Dartmouth Smokehouse, Christopher McCabe, Hatchlands Trout Farm.
8/1/07- Thanks to those who were bank clearing on Sunday, despite the inclement weather. The RV point for next week is the same as last time (see below).
3/1/07 - Bank clearing time is here and there is much work to be done, so we need plenty of volunteers. Usually we meet on each Sunday morning for the first few weeks of the year and the work can be more or less physical, depending on the individual. In any case it is a good way of working off some of that Christmas pudding, good fun and, particularly for newer members, a good way of getting to know the river and an perhaps an opportunity to discuss tactics with other members.
The first meeting is at Caddaford lay-by at 9am next Sunday, the 7th of January. If you turn up a little late, we can always be found on the bank nearby. Please come if you can.3/1/07 - Welcome to the new Dart Angling Association web site! First of all let me apologise for the site being a little rough around the edges at the moment as it only came on line yesterday. Teething problems are inevitable and some only become apparent when the site is up and running on the server. Also you will find one or two empty pages, which will be populated as the copy arrives.
I should be most grateful for any suggestions regarding content and any contributions, catch reports and particularly photos would be welcome. Similarly, if you spot any mistakes, broken links or omissions, then please contact me.