We have just come through one of the most challenging early April weeks we have seen in years. Instead of some of the usual conditions associated with early spring fishing in the north such as gales and wintery showers we experienced summer-like weather with cloudless skies, light winds and temperatures into the teens most days.

While these overheads made things tough for our anglers there was hope. Throughout the week there were numerous sightings of fish up and down the river and a few close encounters on Thursday, the only day that offered some cloud cover, suggesting there are definitely fish in the spread around the beats. Hopefully we will see more rod bending action when the overheads become more favourable.

We have also seen the first signs of the smolt run this week which will continue to increase towards the end of the month and into early May.

Tight lines next week.