Caption: Autumn salmon fishing at Tweedswood on Scotland’s River Tweed. (Image courtesy FishPal/copyright Tweedswood Fishing)
DUNDEE, Scotland, 2024-Oct-08 — /Travel PR News/ — The rains that succeeded the unusually dry and warm end to September in Scotland won’t have been popular with most people, but they were welcomed by anglers visiting Scotland looking to land a big Tay salmon before the close season.
Scotland’s warm autumnal beginning meant lower water levels than normal and challenging conditions for anglers. However, the recent cooler temperatures and rain mean improved fish activity. A new online guide by angling expert Will Draper, Head of FishPal – the innovative service that enables anglers to book fly fishing permits online – reveals how to make the most of the remaining salmon fishing season.
Says Will: ‘For wily experienced anglers and newcomers alike, autumn can be a memorable time. Sadly, the close season for salmon is already nearing. It’s 15 October for the River Tay and lower beats of the Dee. However, the good news for anglers planning a trip to Scotland is that the season continues on other rivers and until 30 November on the River Tweed.
‘With the new season starting on 15 January, 2025, on the River Tay, keen anglers won’t have long to wait and, of course, there’s always grayling for those who can’t face a month away from the water. Before then, there’s the autumn to enjoy and our latest online guide will help experienced anglers and newcomers to the sport to make the most of the changing conditions.
‘There’s much to learn, even for the most experienced angler. With climate change, migration patterns of salmon may well shift. Some rivers might see earlier runs, while others may experience delayed arrivals. It’s essential for anglers to observe these patterns closely and stay informed about the latest scientific research on salmon behaviour, for both the fishing and our love for these iconic fish.
‘Many experienced anglers find that late morning and early afternoon are prime times for salmon activity during the autumn, and a territorial fish in cold water can be a very aggressive one.
‘When a few resident salmon start to hold in a pool, they inevitably interact with new fish coming into that pool, which slows them down as they meet. Often, a resident fish will splash more regularly when fresh fish move into the pool and sometimes chase territorially. This is an exciting time for anglers because we know our chances have just got significantly better. For those that prefer angling for fresh fish, as opposed to autumn-coloured fish, observe the pool and wait for this moment – it’s the time to get in and cast your line.
‘Heavy flies for autumn, when water levels rise and temperatures drop, are key. Colour plays a strong part in many an angler’s selection process. The deeper the red or purple, often the better, igniting a response of an aggressive nature.
‘Autumn fishing for Atlantic salmon presents a thrilling chapter in your angling journey, whether you are a novice or a seasoned pro. Embrace the challenges, try new approaches and savour the joy of hooking the mighty Atlantic salmon in nature’s symphony of autumn. The good news is that, so far, there are plenty of permits still available through to the end of November on the Tweed.
‘FishPal’s full guide to making the most of autumn salmon fishing is now online at: https://blog.fishpal.com/2024/09/25/autumn-salmon-fishing/