May 2021

Here we are, finally back to a near-normal in the way of fishing.  With travel restrictions now lifted some of our regulars who travel a little further have been able to visit us rather than simply seeing the photos on social media of those who live closer to us with their great catches.  Also the return of club competitions has shown groups including Eastbourne & District Fly Fishers Club and Sussex Police Fly Fishers return for their greatly missed friendly competitions.  The kitchen is once again open, albeit for outdoor dining only, but that does mean that our ever popular bacon & egg baps are back on the menu!  Since my last report fishing has been great with some really lovely and hard-fighting fish being caught.  Successful flies include the usual Blue Flash Damsels, Cat’s Whiskers if we have a little rain and some wind, black & green and black & orange.  Don’t be afraid to use buzzers, particularly with droppers, as this really is providing some fantastic sport with fantastic results at the moment.  With the evenings a little longer we are beginning to see some rises, particularly on Stag Lake so some good dry fly fishing can be had in the right conditions. 

Most notable catches of recent are 15yr old Benjamin Gipsom who landed a gorgeous 9.12lb rainbow, and Tim Tyrrell with a lovely 9.7lb rainbow.  Fish over 5lb go in the lakes every week so there is always a chance you could claim the top spot.  This report’s leader board spans a longer than usual timeframe but we will be getting back to normal again with weekly or bi-weekly reports resuming: 

Benjamin Gipsom 9.12lb
Tim Tyrrell 9.7lb
Mr Franks 9.6lb
Peter Clarke 9.2lb
Peter Sandgrove 9lb
Des Watson 8.13lb
Brian 8.11lb
Mr Walker 8.6lb
Peter Buss 8.5lb
Chris 8.4lb + 6lb
Dean Burgess 8.4lb
Nerijus 8.2lb + 7.10lb + 6lb
Caroline Cutmore 8lb
Patrick Bowles 7.12lb + 7.12lb
Brian Wood 6.12lb
Peter Finnis 6.4lb
Mr Bennet 6lb