Things are looking pretty bad up the Doon end of the lake, as we are now down to a low 30%, which is reflected in the very few fishing reports that have come in from the top end.

The locals are a bit flat to say the least – the vast contrasts between years and water levels are incredible. Let’s hope like hell we get some substantial water flow to bring it back to where it has been for the last five or six years.

The water temperatures are dropping nicely, which is great news for the trout anglers as the fish start to come back in good numbers, and I think it could be a reasonable trout season with the current reports of trout that have been in great condition. When the water level starts to rise (whenever that may be) it will certainly turn things around, which wouldn’t be hard considering how lean the fishing has been, I guess it has to change eventually.

My last three or four sessions have been ridiculously tough, and I’ve tried all the tricks in the book, with very little result but I don’t think I’m on my own there. I had one alright session where I landed a nice 2.5lb brown and a little Murray cod. The trout was taken on a Cultiva chartreuse and orange minnow and the cod was caught on a black and gold t-tail soft plastic on 6lb braid and 4lb leader. It was great fun!

Still not a murmur on the redfin, which is frustrating many anglers going from tree to tree to tree for virtually no success. At least you are out in the fresh air, and even if you are not catching anything you will always learn something! Stay safe and always prepare for the unexpected coming into the colder months, we don’t want anymore terrible accidents to occur.