The days are growing longer again as winter begins to lose her grip on Ireland. I took a drive around North Mayo today for a look around. The weather was cool but bright and (most importantly) dry. Water levels are up due to the heavy rain the west has endured lately. That is good, the high water will allow the kelts to move quickly down river and exit the systems. It should also attract in a sprinkling of fresh salmon too. The Moy was high and coloured as it powered through the Cathedral Beat in Ballina.
Springers have been in short supply across the country so far with only a couple of fish off the Drowes and ones and twos of the other early rivers. It is early days though and there is plenty of time the runs to strengthen.
The afternoon has brought increased cloud cover and the threat of more rain. Time to tie some flies and drink endless mugs of strong, aromatic coffee. I need to top up a few patterns before we get the rods out for the 2018 season. Firstly, I want to tie up some Fl. cascades with hackles from the capes I bought last year.
My endless love for muddler headed salmon flies shows no signs of abating, so I intend tying up some more this weekend.
Early season nymphing is always one of the highlights of my season and I am planning on trying out some hot head versions this March/April
Murroughs – I am short of Murroughs too!
And Balloon Caddis dry flys. They are so useful in the summer months and I only have a couple left in the box right now.
OK, time to get going. I will post again soon.
Claretbumbler 