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Season 2020
Season 2019
Monday 27h August
Dear members, volunteers are requested to help in the gathering of seatrout for our hatchery programme.
If any mebers are willing to participate, please contact Joseph at the Ugie Salmon Smoke House for more information.
Monday 27th August
Chairmans letter (short version)
Dear members.
It is with a heavy herat that i have decided to resign as Chairman of the UAA.
My job and other business interests have left me with very little or no time to take care of interests in and around our wonderful river.
I would like to thank everybody who helped make the job both fullfilling and rewarding, but now i think its time to step back to allow someone else to bring the association to the next level.
There are exciting times ahead for the association and our river, and "thankfully" we have an owner who is equally dedicated to the job in hand.
So, i wish you all tighlines for the remainder of the seaon, and hopefully, see you on the banks next season.
Tight Lines.
Geo.
Dear members
Bob Davidson, our water baliff has decided to hang up the binoculars.
It was announced during the last UDSFB meeting that Bob deceided spend more time on the banks fishing and not acting as baliff.
Bobs successor is David Will, who will start his new position as Ugie Baliff on June 1st.
The UAA and the UDSFB would like to take this opportunity to thank Bob for all of his efforts over the years.
Bob has seen a lot of changes in his time on the banks, but now he feels that its time to hand the responsibility over to someone else.
Rest assured, you will still see Bob on the banks, but instead, it will be with the fishing rod. "We wish you well Bob."
Can all members kindly introduce themselves if and when you come to meet our new Baliff (David Will)
Im sure David will do a grand job. Welcome onboard David.
Dear members and fellow anglers. The season is now well underway. Our proprietors have been (as usual) very active on the banks of the Ugie, carrying out repairs and improvements. Just a few things to let you all know:
We are now in a position to provide swap tickets for the River Ythan.
We all know that the Ythan is a fantastic sea trout river, and we are proud to be able to provide our members the opportunity to try a day on the Ythan.
Of course, you have to be a paid "River Ugie Season Ticket Holder" to experience this fantastic oppurtunity.
And dont forget the River Ness!
We also have daily swap tickets for the River Ness!
I used the swap ticket opportunity on the Ness two seasons ago, and its members made me feel very welcome indeed.
In return, we look forward to having fellow members of the River Ness Angling Association and the River Ythan Fishery to our small but very productive Ugie.
We will do our very best to accomadate you all.
Please remember, that if you are visiting any of the two rivers on a daily swap ticket, you are representing the River Ugie.
Please be in your best behaviour, abide by their rules and leave no litter on the banks.
For more information please visit the Samon Smoke House, Golf Road, Peterhead.
Before i go, just to let you know, the fish are in.
The finnock have been coming in and out with the tide, but the sea trout have been seen in the lower reaches (Narrows, Cruivves and Pot) last weekend.
Give it a go, and tight lines to everyone for the forthcoming season.
UAA AGM
The 2017 AGM will take place in the meeting rooms upstairs at the Palace Hotel, Peterhead, at 7pm Thursday 7th December.
Tea and coffee will be served before the meeting.
Can all members please attend.
We look forward to seeing you all on the evening.
Returns 3rd November 2017
Will all members of the UAA please have their returns for the "full season" submitted no later than 15th November please?
Even if a member has "zero" catch for the season, the "return" must be submitted.
It is also important to state all finnock (if any) caught throughout the season.
The information that most members have submitted throughout the season, (collectively with the end of season returns and the information we have gathered from the fish counter) will all be submitted to Marine Scotland.
Returns can be handed into the Ugie Salmon Smokehouse, Golf Road, Peterhead or Lunar Fishing Company Limited, East Quay, Peterhead.
Or if you wish to send my email: george@scanmar.co.uk
AGM
The date and time for the AGM will be announced in due course, and we expect this to be held in December as normal.
Date and time will follow.
MAY 2017
The commitee of the River Ugie Angling Association would like to wish Bill Bruce a speedy recovery, and "not to long a gap" before seeing him up at Buthlaw again.
Get well soon Bill and im sure Powis James will keep your corner occupied until you get back. All the best Bill.
MAY 2017
Dear fellow members. Im sure we can all agree, that the main priority for us as a club, is to try and "bring back" CATEGORY 2 STATUS to the river Ugie.
I can assure all members, that the committee of the UAA and the rightful owners are working very hard behind the scenes to try and bring back the CAT 2 status.
We now have a fully functional "fishcounter" and of course we have the hatchery in full swing.
Seatrout can be kept(check the rules) but all salmon must be returned to the river.
From a personal point of view, i can say (and this is an honest opinion) that i have never seen so many salmon in one part of the river as i witnessed last year. In fact, for members that know me, i caught quite a few salmon last year, and all from the same area.
One angler, also had 6 salmon: all in the month of JUNE!
By being on the banks often, i know how healthy our river is.
And many anglers who i see on a daily basis, will say the exact same.
Its just a shame that the "powers that be" think otherwise!
AND THE PROBLEM IS THIS!
If we cannot prove "to the powers that be" that we are catching fish on a reqular occurance and on a daily basis, we will remain in CAT3. Its as simple as that.
Its upto us to prove otherwise.
If we collect all the data that we have at our mercy (and even that is more than most river systems) and also add "one" missing ingredient, i believe we may have the oppurtunity of swinging the decision in our favour (back to CAT2)
We believe the way forward is for: ALL MEMBERS TO REPORT CATCHES, BOTH SEA TROUT AND SALMON BACK TO THE UAA ON A DAILY BASIS (WHENEVER A FISH IS CAUGHT, KEPT OR RETURNED)
If we provide catch returns to the government on a daily basis, we feel that this may give us a huge advantage.
This is not going to be easy.
Each member (when he or she catches a fish) will have to report that catch the same day, or even on the river bank.
But with todays technology, that shouldnt be so hard?
Afterall, if you fish any private beat on the Dee, the Deveron the Don etc, when you catch a fish, you have to report the catch, the same day?
Why should the Ugie be so different?
If we all trully love this river for what it is, why should we be so different?
The days of (catching fish and keeping information personal, so not to entice fellow anglers into the same part of the river) is long gone!
We cant and shouldnt be thinking this way, not if we want this river to evolve!
Catches still have to be submitted at the end of the season as normal, but they should also be reported on a daily basis.
How do members report daily catches:
We can submit our catch by looking at the example below:
1. Name of angler
2. Membership number
3. Fish type
4. Weight
5. Kept or returned.
For example: willie walsh,31,grilse,4lb,return
You can submit your catch information:
1. By email
george@scanmar.co.uk
peter@lunarfreezing.co.uk
2. By text
07801678709
2. Or simply call, and/or leave a message:
07801678709
Im sure if we can all start to submit the information required, it could prove detromental in the decision to take the Ugie back to CAT2.
Good luck for the forthcoming season, and as fellow members and friends, and most importantly, for the sake of the Ugie, lets give this a go.
George
Notice to all members: If you are in possession of a River Ugie trophy, can you please hand it back to the salmon smoke house or give me a call, and i will come and collect in person. The trophies are a detrimental part of the rivers history. We will see that all trophies are (once again) "up for grabs." Geo.
Notice: The RUAA would like to thank all those who turned up last friday. The meeting was very constructive, lots of points being made on how to improve on the day to day operations throughout the season.
During the meeting, the following new bearers were elected:
George Youngson (Chairman)
Phil Rennie (Vice Chairman)
Peter Buchan (Treasurer)
Marek Straveski (Committee)
Lewis Ireonside (Committee)
Stuart Aird (Committee)
Matthew Will (Committee)
Throughout the season the newly elected, will meet on a quarterly basis to start the process of making anyones visit to the River Ugie a more enjoyable experience, increase ticket sales, and continue in generating a safer River Ugie.
This season will also see a newly developed website, which will be updated daily with returns.
In the meantime, if all members could log onto our FACEBOOK site, where news feeds, pictures and catch returns are updated regularily.
One final note before signing off: The River Ugie has been placed in the same categories as last season:
Seatrout: Category 2 can keep (as per rules)
Salmon and Grilse: Category 3 (All to be returned to the river)
On behalf of the RUAA, tight lines for 2017.
Season 2016
All members please take note of the new rules for the forth coming season. All salmon to be returned to the river for the duration of the 2016 season. This rule applies for salmon and grilse only.!
The rivers usual rules apply for seatrout.
Tickets for the new 2016 season are available to purchase from the usual outlets.
Please click on the "PERMITS" page for more info.
Tight lines for the forth coming season.
Season 2015
15/6/2015
June, has been a great month so far for the anglers.
With over 60 season tickets sold to date, the catch returns are no reflection on whats actually running the river. Why? Because there are never more than 12 anglers fishing the river in any one evening.
12 anglers spread out over 6 miles of good fly water, doesnt do the stats any justice. But thats fine.
If you have a ticket, you should give it a go.
This month there have been a lot of fish caught, and if ive missed you out, apologies.
To Date: Derek McKenzie has had 8 fish, Stan Youngson has had 2 fish, Marrik has had 4 fish, Lewis Ironside has had 1 fish, Ally Ironside has had 2 fish, one at almost 5 lb.
Sandy Watt has had 3 fish including one at 6lb, Ian Buchan has had 3 fish, Ian Hepburn has had 2 fish, Baxter has had 2 fish, Alex Ritchie has had 2 fish, Douggie Wallace has had 1 fish, Jimmy Keys has had 4 fish, Caley Ian has had 2 fish, Eric the teacher has had 3 fish.
There has been a lot of fish lost on the fly.
The quality of the seatrout landed at the moment on the Ugie, is quite amazing, with an average weight to 3.5lb.
Eric Richardosn had a 9lb Salmon and Geo Youngson had a 8lb Salmon.
If the above totals are not correct, again apologies.
The banks are being maintained by Simon, Douggie, Geo and William.
Cruivves, Pot are all cut.
The meetins down to Whinn Pool are all cut.
And this week, with the help of Lewis Ironside, Phil Rennie, Mathew Will and Marrik, we expect to have cut from Whinn Pool all the way down to Artlaw which will open up a vast amount of river for the the remainder of the season.
We are having a minor issue with the banks at Caly Hole. We are trying to fix this as soon as we can, however, we need to allow the clay to dry out a little so we can complete the job.
The banks have been cleared, flattened, and seeded now from Stone Mill all the way upto Artlaw Burn which is a fantastic achievement and a pleasure to fish in the evening. Most of the fish thats been taken have came from the reaches that have been re done.
We expect to carry out some weed clearing during the next two weeks at Pot Sunken, Steen Mill, Meetins and Cruivves.
PLEASE NOTE!!!! Please, if you do not wish to retain a fish, please place the fish in the boxes located throughout the river and call me on 07801678709, i will see that the fish is collected and retained for the hatchery.
We never received any fish last season which was quite sad, but hopefully so when the fish start to take a colour we will receive a few for Douggie to strip for the hatchery.
We have a new Ghillie who will assist Bob Davidson. John Chalmers (if you havent already met him) has been busy introducing himself to all anglers on the river. John is very active and spends a lot of time watching! Good to see :)
Tight lines.
21/5/2015
May is almost gone and most of the time, anglers are now thinking about venturing onto the banks to find the elusive troot.
Well this year has started with a bang. The Seatrout are big and fat, and although some might say "running early" i dont think they are.
I think that they start to enter the river at the start of May most seasons.
Its just that no one fishes the river until at least the end of the month.
As i said, the fish are fat! they are extremely well fed during their time at sea.
Most fish are around the 3-4lb mark and are in pristine condition.
Most have been caught with the spinner both before and after the small spate we just witnessed.
Derek McKenzie has had four fish to date and all very good looking fish (see Ugie Gallery).
Stan Youngson had a fantastic 4lb fish this week again in very good condition (see Ugie Gallery) with lice attached.
Eric Richardson had a fish that doesnt take the bait to often. He found himself battling a 6lb fresh fish on the upper reaches. We wait on the picture of this fantastic fish.
Well done all, and if theres anymore updates, please let me know.
Pictures of your catches are most welcome.
Updates on the Fishcounter.
If you click on the "Hatchery" link, you will see the monthly counts for fish both running the system and of course coming down after spawining. This is very interesting stuff indeed and will give us an true indication of how "under estimated" our Ugie really is.
Tight lines
returned to the river.
Tight lines for the coming season.
October 2014
There are a lot of Sea trout being taken (upto 4lbs) throughout the system. Please return them to the river with due care.
There are a lot of large brown trout in the river as well. There are reports that many have been caught with the worm and the rapala. Again, please return them to the river.
If you catch a Sea trout, coloured grilse or salmon, if you can, please place them in the keep boxes (if there is one in sight) and call the baliff on the number on your members ticket. These fish will be used for the hatchery.
Reports are that the fish are quite spread out through the system at the moment, with the best places to be at the moment are : Meetins, Pot Sunken and Buthlaw.
Water was rising all day Saturday (18th October) making good for the lucky anglers that are venturing out on Monday.
Mathew Will landed a fresh looking 16lb salmon from the Sill on a rapala.
Alec (Bright) had another two (10lb each) from the Moneruey beat.
Akie Titch had a 8lb fish at the Pot and another fish at the pool above the Castle stream.
Caley Ian had a grilse fae Artlaw, a fresh fish.
Gavin had a fresh run grilse from Artlaw but lost a big fish at the Clay Hole.
Ally Ironside lost a big fish at the Rora Pool.
Tight lines
October 2014
Eric has had two fish on the fly.
Akie Titch had two fish both returned.
Bill Bruce had a fish.
Ian Buchan had a fish.
Alec (bright) had two fish from the Monyruey beat.
Sep 2014
Not a lot to report this month.
There are still a lot of sea trout spread throughout the system, and a lot of them are coloured.
If caught, please return them safely to the river.
There have been a good spread of Salmon and grilse seen also, but most of the salmon seen, have been coloured.
There was a few grilse taken this month.
Marek landed a bar of silver from Buthlaw
Caley Ian also landed a sea liced fish straight off the tide.
Sandy Buchan had a grilse on the fly from the Cruives.
There may be others that have been caught, but not reported.
The spreadsheet containing info on the amount of fish that has run the river during the month of August can now be seen on the "Hatchery" page
Tight lines.
Aug 2014
With the rain came and went, a lot of anglers ventured onto the banks.
All the reports i have received are mostly confirmed. However, i have had to rely on word of mouth based on the fact that i havent actually had time to wet the lines myself.
Over the last few weeks, a lot of seatrout have been caught.
In fact its fair to say that the river has been stuffed with sea trout.
Reports that there was 10 seatrout taken in one evening by one angler.
Ally Ironside had 3 seatrout and one grilse for an hours venture.
Stan Youngson had two seatrout and lost a grilse during a saturday stroll.
Mareck had a sea trout at Buthlaw.
Lewis Ironside landed a 10lb salmon.
Caley Ian has had a few at the Artlaw reaches.
Sandy Watt has had a lot of seatrout on the fly.
James Ritchie has returned to the river tghis season and was rewarded with a fish last week.
There is a few "new" members this season and i would like to welcome you all.
Thats all the news that i have heard about during the last few weeks.
The commitee, as you know, have installed a new fishcountetr down at the pumphouse.
The commitee have been generous to supply a monthly report on the fish running the river so far this season.
You can view the charts by clicking on the "Hatchery" button.
A new "Hatchery" link will be updated in the next two weeks.
Tight lines
The season so far: We need rain, and lots of it. A day here and there will not be enough. This is probably the lowest i have seen the river. Because of the mild winters we have endured over the last two years, experienced anglers tell me that this does us no favours whatsoever when it comes to weed growth in the river.
The Ugie has lots of the stuff, and it will take a big spate to get rid of it all.
The river banks have been cut by Simon and William Stephen, Caley Ian and Duggie Wallace.
The usual places Cruivves, Meadows, Pot etc have been cut by William and Simon. The Pumphouse down to Brigg pool by Duggie Wallace and the Artlaw area by Caley Ian.
The Ugie improvement project has levelled banks and re turffed all the way to the Horseshoe bend, which is a great achievement.
The Meetins and the Buthlaw area have not been cut to the delight of a fellow angler. You have got your wish.
Dangerous although it is, so be it.
The Ugie has recenlty installed a fish counter at the pumphouse. The logging of fish running the river is a terrific boost for all members. The results can be seen on "HATCHERY" link. What will be very interesting is: to see how quickly and how much fish actually make it back to sea after spawing.
The data being presented bears a large reflection on how far the owners have came in such a short period of time. The river is slowly coming back to where we as members want it to be, and when you look at the results so far (click on hatchery link) you will see it all for yorself.
On the catching front, i have hardly ventured onto the banks myself due to work commitments. But i have been kep upto date on the odd occasion.
As far as im am aware, Sandy Watt has had 15 fish so far this season, Derek McKenzie has had 3 fish, Caley Ian has had 3 fish, Gary Law has had a couple, Ian Buchan has had a couple. If i have missed you out, apologies.
Tight lines
Season 2013
October 30th
Right, here we go:
Bill Wylie and James Strachan had fish at balmoor.
Powis James had a fish on Monday (8lb) and one on Tuesday (6lb), one on the spinner at Whinn Pool and one on the worm at Powis Corner (lol)
Ian Buchan had a 6lb bar of silver on Monday at lower Buthlaw on the spinner.
Johnny Bruce had a 5lb bar of silver on a rapala again at lower Buthlaw.
Ally Ironside had a 8-9lb fish (today) at Stonemill.
Apologies to Ian Hepburn for not mentioning his catch correctly, his fish was actually taken at Stone Mill.
Stan Youngson landed a first ever fish on the fly at lower Buthlaw.
He was in "right place at the right time" to beach a crackin 9lb bar of silver.
Ian McLeod had a 11lb salmon on the fly last thursday. Another monster for the inverugie local.
I think Ians family should invest on a landing net for his xmas!!
If i havent posted your listing, apologies. If i have listed your catch wrong, apologies, if the listing is bigger than the actual fish you caught, thats angling!!
Apologies, but i wont be on the banks the remainder of the season, or during the extension.
I would like to wish you all tight lines for the extension and see you all at the AGM.
October 22nd
The weeks started well with the water droppin back after the rain at the weekend.
Monday went off to a flyer.
Ian McLeod landed what everyone thought to be a fish straight in off the tide weighing 18lb. In actual fact the fish was 24lb.
There was a 4lb grilse taken at the cruivves.
Alec "bight" had a 5lb grilse on the worm and Geo Youngson had a 5lb grilse on the worm.
Powis James had a 11lb fish on the worm at buthlaw.
Tuesday, no reports so far, other than Ian losing a fish at buthlaw on the spinner.
With the overnight rain, the river continued to rise steadily most of the day.
There was a few sea trout taken today, and of course, all returned.
Geo Youngson had a sea trout just below the clay pot. Caley Ian had a few including a 3lb bar of silver.
Powis James also had one at buthlaw.
The river should be in good fettle for tomorrow (Wednesday)
October 20th
The river rose to almost 1 metre overnight on the friday.
On the Saturday, many anglers ventured out to try and latch onto something, but throughout the day, the task was made more diffucult due to the water continuing to rise. The debris thats been evident from the South water will have cleared by now, meaning a great chance for the anglers favouring the fly.
Fish will have been pushing up throught the weekend no doubt, and heres hoping theres some excitment for the anglers hitting the banks tomorrow.
Ian Hepburn was fortunate to land a 7lb salmon at the stream below Inverugie bridge, and Derek McKenzie landed a 3lb grisle at the Castle stream.
Thats it for this week.
October 14th
There has been a lot of complaints about weeds coming down from the South Ugie water.
Many anglers who prefer to fish the fly, are extremely frustrated because of this.
If any member decides to clear a preferred part of the water of weeds, it would be advisable to take the weeds out of the water entirely rather than "HOPE" that the next spate washes them away.
As you all know, that "next spate" hasnt happened and we are now left with an abundance of weeds flowing ever so slowly down the river.
If you like fly fishing "as many Ugie anglers do" your wasting your time.
There is so much weed flowing down, its virtually impossible to achieve one clean cast never mind two.
Perhaps the fellow members who have decided to clear the weeds from the South water should take this into consideration in the seasons ahead and think about the consequences of their actions.
I myself, lost a fish last friday at the bottom of the lang shot after it decided to get into the thick of the weeds.
But! we all make mistakes.
October 5th
Stan Youngson landed a fresh grisle weighing 5.5lb on the worm from the Pot.
During a two hour stint, 15 fish were seen running through the pot.
There was also a lot of finnock seen throughout the system which must be good for the years ahead.
October 3rd
Stan Youngson landed a fresh 4lb grilse at Buthlaw today on the worm.
October 1st
Geo Youngson had another salmon on the worm today at the castle stream. The fish weighed just under 8lb.
September 29th
The action has arrived. Geo Youngson had a fresh run frish weighing just over 8lb on the worm at the meetins.
The fish was carrying tailed lice.
Although the water is not only running low, its also running very very clear. You can see the bottom of a lot of pools throughout the system.
However this isnt stopping the fish from running.
There has been a few fish seen spread throughout the catchment, but again, we cannot have a true reflection simply based on the fact that there arent much anglers giving it a go!!
September 24th
It is with deep regret that i announce the passing away of Alex Aiken on Sunday 22nd September.
I knew Alex from a very young age fishing on the river banks of the Ugie.
Alex was a true gentleman, a true sportsman, and also a man that all the young anglers used to look upto with great admiration while fishing down at the Scotts pool.
I remember when i was a youngster fishing the Scotts Pool for the first time ever with my father and my younger brother.
I was lucky enough to catch a grilse that day and after the excitment and the jubillation dispersed, i watched this small figure of a man fishing the top corner of the pool.
He covered every inch of that corner with the fly and was a delight to watch.
After watching him and his tactics for half an hour or so, i turned my concentration back to my own rod and reel, only to see everyone else looking up at Alex fishing the corner, including the adults.
The respect that everyone had for Alex that day, for me, was confirmed.
It wasnt until later in life, that i realised that Alex liked to fish where nobody else did!
If there was a spate on, every angler would be out with the torch at night for the worms.
Not Alex, he made it quite clear to everyone: " A big flee with a sinking line!"
And thats what seperated Alex from the rest of us.
One other memory thats remains, is that Alex always told you where to fish, he never kept anything to himself. If you were a young kid growing up into angling, Alex always passed on his experience. He wanted us all to catch that memorable moment that lives with us for the rest of our lives.
Alex Aiken was "simply the best."
Rest in peace Alex, you will be sorely missed but never forgotten.
August 30th
Well its been well over a month since i lasted reported on the updates from the banks.
The only thing to report is that most of the banks are cut with the exception of Ednnie Upper and below the bridge at Buthlaw.
That really is it!! There has been no fish caught at all.
This season so far has been really poor in terms of returns.
The Seatrout caught this season, must be at most 15 fish!!
This is never heard of, and why? we simply do not know.
According to the scientists, our river has a very healthy and well populated stock of fry, parr and smolts.
So where are the fish? The river beds are now collecting algae which can only be cleared by means of a spate, and the weeds? Well they have virtually taken over the river.
But, we live in hope, and maybe we will start to see a run of grilse or even salmon when the rains eventually arrive.
We might not have many fish to count for this season, but at least the banks are manicured :) Tight lines.
July 28th
The sea trout are finally starting to make an appearance throughout the system, but angler appearance seams to be very few and far between.
The lads that have turned out last week, did manage to hook onto fish.
As expected, fish have been congregating at the mouth of the river for a long time now due to the lack of water in the system.
At the time of writing there has been rain, which should see more fish entering the Ugie.
Last week Derek McKenzie had two sea trout at the start of the week: one on the spinner and one on the worm, but both fish were coloured.
Caley Ian had a fish on the spinner at Artlaw, this one a was a very nice clean fish.
Andy had a fish from the opposite bank to the meetins which was also a clean fish and finally Andra Sim is back on the banks for his seasonal visit.
Andra had two "coloured" sea trout on the worm at the cruives.
Thats all the news from the banks.
July 8th
Sorry to report, but nothin caught at all in the last few days, river is runnin really low. Besides that, there are still anglers taking time out in the evening to try and nip one with the fly.
Think its best to get the rest of the banks cut in preperation for what we hope will be a decent grilse run. Oh we live in hope!.
July 4th
Sandy Watt had a sea trout, and Derek McKenzie had a sea trout (2.5lb) at the Castle. Eric the teacher had a 2lb fish at the meetings.
River is back to "low."
REMEMBER !!! ALL OF THE RETIRED ANGLERS! GO GET A PAIR OF WELLIES FROM JOSEPH AT THE UGIE SMOKE HOUSE. PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED.
June 30th
The past week was a good week for high tides. There were fish in the system, but hardly any angers ventured out to try and bank one. Geo Youngson had a fish weighing 3lb from Artlaw. Jim Lindsay had a 2.5lb hen fish at the cruives that was placed in the box for brood stock, and Andy had a 2.5lb fish on the rapala.
Geo and Stan Youngson spent all of Sunday at the meetings cutting back the jungle.
June 23rd
Well another week goes bye, but fish have been taken on the river!!! yes! thats correct, or should i say "one fish" has been taken. It was Derek McKenzie who was the lucky angler. Derek landed a fresh fish weighing 2.5lb on Friday morning.
Apparently Wullie Buchan (woodbine) had a troot and lost another last week,but unconfirmed
I was up at the meetings on Saturday night and saw a fish at plumbers and another at the double hole. So the fish are there, regardless of the water height.
Big tides all next week and with rain on its way tonight (sunday) its could be a good week next week?
Duggie tells me that the Flats, Balmoor, Inverugie, The Pot, Stonemill, Ednie, Artlaw and the Pipeline are now all cut.
Tight lines.
June 11th
Wondering why there isnt any reports? Well quite frankly, there arent any!!
Where has the trout gone? This week last year, everyone that visited the banks latched onto some kind of sea trout.
This is very diss heartening to say the least. I have been up for the last hour with the fly on a number of occassions. I have fished the meetings, down the lang shot, Buthlaw down to the pipeline and Ednie down to Stone Mill. I havent seen or heard a fish.
Reports are that Baxter has disturbed, and latched onto a couple of fresh fish down in the lower reaches (narrows) but this is unconfirmed.
As a river: We are not alone. The seatrout run is a month behind in a lot of systems: The Findhorn, Ythan, Don, Dee and the Deveron.
When i was up at Buthlaw last week, i noticed that the commitee has started to cut back the banks. Thanks a lot guys.
When i get a little spare time, i will be up to cut the usual haunts.
If anyone has updates, please give me a shout on my mobile, or let Duggie or Andra know, and ill get the eagerly awaited news posted. PICS AS WELL IF YOU CAN!!!
May 1st
Lewis Ironside was up the river on Monday night fishing the "Horse Shoe Bends" for sea trout with a small mepp. See what happened, by clicking on the "Ugie Gallery"
Season is almost upon us. Get your tickets from The Smoke House or from Lunar Fishing at East Quay.
Would be fine to inform the members if any pre season work needs carried out on the river banks. Im sure some of the memebers would be willing to lend a hand.
Season 2012
Any season ticket holder who wants to fish on the extended period must first hand in their completed returns for 2012 season to the fish hoose (Golf Road), they will then get issued with a weekly permit to fish, this permit must be filled out and returned each week and a fresh one will be issued as required for week 2 and week 3 of the extension, all fish must be returned (or retained for hatchery).
Normal methods will apply i.e. spinning, worming or fly.
season extension is from 1st november to 1st to november 21st
season extension report
well here are the reports from the season extension so far
21st november wednesday
Well its the final day of the season today, and there was a fish caught as well!!! Daz landed a 14lb hen fish which was retained for brood stock.
Daz also had a salmon on saturday (late afternoon) on the fly at buthlaw, and again the fish was retained for broodstock.
For the duration of the season extension, that brings a total of 18 fish caught and ive lost count how many were lost!! but its clear to see by all, that the ugie definatley comes into its own in the month of november.
I would dare to say that the total could have been double if the anglers were out in force. there was a lot of fish seen running the system during the last few weeks.
Well thats it lads, time to clean the gear down and pack away till the spring.
Its been a pleasure trying to keep you all upto date. on the "returns" and if ive made any mistakes, can all complaints be put in writing to peter? (haha)
it was good to see all the usual faces up the river throughout the season, and look forward to having a chin wag with you all at the agm.
Geo Youngson
13th nov
alec landed a salmon weighing over 20lb on monday on the moneruey beat. andra helped alec land the cock fish and was retianed for broodstock.
maybe alec will persevere wee the worm fae now on!! when yer fishing companion is landing fish by the barrow load and with the worm, its best to change tactics!! at right andy? :) well done alec. keep up the good work mannie.
12th nov
marrick and mike lamont were the lucky anglers on saturday. there were a few anglers out to test the waters in the month of november for the first time. the water was up and carrying a good colour for both the worm and the spinner. but a lot of anglers ventured out to try and get one on the fly. marrick got his first fish of the season. a 10lb salmon was netted at buthlaw and photographed, before being returned. well donr marrick. mike lamont also had a fresh fish to 10lb
no other reports of anglers catching fish on the saturday.
8th Nov
a notice to all anglers: fresh fish are still running the river.
yesterday (wednesday) Sandy watt, andy stephen and sticky james all lost fish.
today, sandy watt returned a 7lb bar of silver.
this is great news so far, and long may it continue into the 3rd week.
we all agree is thinking that clean fish are still running the river well into november. we are on a three trial extension. if we can prove this is the case,. we may be granted the extension long term, but we can only present the evidence if we catch and return the fish, or retain for broodstock.
and we cant catch the fish unless we get on the banks and in numbers!!
so, for all of our sakes, get the rod out and give it a go. visit josepth at the smoke hoose, get your ticket and give it a go.
after hearing the news so far this week, the fish are there.
5th nov
fresh fish and all bars of silver!!!
das eventually gets a fish weighing 10lb
sandy watt catched a fresh 14lb salmon on the single handed fly rod!!
andy fae the monyruey beat lost a big fish the day
and ken strachan had a fish at artlaw.
if we want to prove that fresh fish are running in the months of november, we have to fish the river. the guys that have caught fish are the only anglers fishing the river!!!
give the river a go, these anglers have proved that fresh fish are still running!!!!
END OF SEASON REPORT
WELL LADS ITS THAT TIME OF THE SEASON AGAIN.
SORRY FOR THE LATE REPORT, I WAS OFF TO SUNNIER CLIMATES.
THIS REPORT MAY BE A LITTLE SHADY, BUT i WILL TRY my BEST.
oct 19th
sandy buchan had a 6lb grilse at stonemill
powis lost a double figure fish at strawberry bank. (nae like ye james)
derek mckenzie had a 12lb fish and a grilse on the worm.
oct 20th
caley ian landed a 4lb grilse at artlaw on the rapala
johnny chalmers landed a grilse at ednoe on the rapala.
22nd oct
eric the teacher landed a 8lb fish at the top of the lang shot, a great season he has had.
24th oct
ian buchan landed a grilse on the spinner and went onto catch another fresh fish at 7lb which was returned again on the spinner.
25th oct
ian buchan again with a fish weighing 9lb on the spinner from buthlaw.
alex "bright" also had a fish, (but he never told us !! lol)
i dont know the dates, but alex "bright" fisihng partner, andy, has had a really good two months. ive lost count how much salmon and grilse the man has catched, but i take my hat off to him, and hes a pleasure to have a yarn with while up at the meetins. if there no fish about, at least the craicks good. keep up the good work andy.
sunday 14th october
a week when i though t a lot more fish would have been taken after the river level settling at 0.4metres all of monday through to thursday. the week started off well with andy landing another salmon off the monyruey beat. the fish i heard, was 12lb in weight.
another salmon taken from the ugie this week but on the fly this time, by angler johnny massie.
i dont know how he does it, but john eventually managed to get the fish onto the banks at buthlaw without a net!!!
john was kind enough to let me take a couple of pictures of the fish for the website. the fish was estimated at 12lb, and a cracker to get on teh fly.
i havent heard of any other lucky anglers taking fish?
friday saw a big flood come our way and the river rising to just over a metre in 12 hours. this river was fishable on saturday but only just and in certain areas, but i never heard of anything being taken.
i have to mention an apology to "powis james" for reporting his fish last week.
i reported james fish to be 9lb in weight, when in actual fact it was 14lb in weight. sorry about that james.
you should manage to get two sandwiches out of that one !! :)
water good for tomorrow for the lads that are on holiday and the daily anglers.
tight lines.
sunday 7th october
Well its all been kicking off in the last week!!
To start with, there seems to be a big run of multi winter fish entering the system during the last few days and the recent water rise.
There have been a few fish caught this week, and a few also lost.
Andy from the monyruey beat had a fish weighing 11lb.
he also lost a larger fish which broke him at the hook.
Alec "bright" also had a doulbe figure fish and again a bar of silver.
Powis James landed a 9lb salmon at buthlaw.
Derek McKenzie lost a double figure fish at Buthlaw.
Peter Buchan lost a fish at Pot Sunken,. Thats unlucky! As it would have been the first fish to be registered from the inverugie beats.
Eric the teacher had a 13lb fish and a 10lb fish on the fly and the worm respectively.
graeme buchan landed a grisle from the north water and safelty returned to fight another day.
And last but not least, Johnny Mitchell who i was fortunate to meet at the double hole on Saturday after walking all the way up river from the buthlaw waters.
John has been suffering with his feet of late, and his good wife bought him a fishing permit for the ugie fishings earlier in the year.
Saturday was only the third time he had been up the river this season.
He planned to fish the meetings, but as usual, it was busy with anglers. so off john ventured to the swirler, nae luck there either, full of anglers,. so he settled for the hut at buthlaw.
he cast out the worm, and retrieved, cast out again and wham! something took hold, it was big. After a 15 minute fight, the fish was too strong for john to land by himself.
by now, his arm was aching and needed a little help.
up pops jack and victor (john and davy the bobbies) to help johnny land this beast of a fish.
afterr eventually getting the fish on the bank "thanks to the two bobbies," he then had to walk back to the meetings where he had parked his car.
on his way back is where i met up with the happy angler he was totally knackered. i took a photo of john with his fish. (SEE GALLERY)
stan youngson measured the fish which was 37 inches long and estimated to weigh in the region of 18 to 19.5lb.
We convinced John to go and get the fish weighed in.
It was such a fine specimen.
the owners have trophies to present for such fine specimens, and the trophies in themsleves are all part of the history of the river ugie. if you catch a prize fish, get it weighed in!!!! call the ghillie, and he will point you in the right direction.
I think this is evidence of the commitment from the owners of the river and the dedication of Duggie at the hatchery, that we are starting to see fish this size again!!
We have witnessed 14.5lb, 13lb, 13lb, 12lb, 11lb and of course, johns fish!!! and were only into the start of October!
John went onto to say that when he was playing the fish, another two fish "around the same weight" jumped in the same pool.
As soon as i know the official weight, i will let you all know.
Sunday 23rd September
Ian Hepburn had a fresh grilse weighing in at 6lb from buthlaw on a rapala.
Sticky James had a fresh fish weighing 12lb on the worm at the pump house.
Gilbert had a fish weighing 11lb from Cassies Pool on the worm
And Lewis had a fresh grilse weighing 4.5lb from buthlaw also on the worm.
friday 14th september
lEWIS iREONSIDE LOST A SALMON AT THE MEETINGS.
tHE WATER ROSE TO 0.5METRES OVERNIGHT. aT THE END OF PLAY TODAY, THE LEVEL HAD DROPPED BACK 6 INCHES, BUT NOW CARRYING A GOOD COLOUR.
thursday 13th september
wATER ON THE RISE NOW. gEO yOUNGSON LOST A DOUBLE FIGURE FISH AT THE MEETINGS.
Wednesday 12th September
With the water only reading 0.3cm on the gauge, it hasnt stopped the fish coming in. Ally Ironside lan ded and weighed in a salmon weighing 14.5lb. The fish was caught at the meetings. Second up and his son Lewis ironside landed a sea liced salmon weighing in at 6.5lb. Lewis cuaght the fish at artlaw. and finally on the same night, Stan Youngson landed a fresh run grilse weighing 3.5lb at the meetings on the worm. The water isnt there, its running clear, but the fish are still moving up.
Most of the banks have been cleared for the remainder of the season.
wednesday 5th september
stanley youngson landed and returned a salmon weighing 12lb above stonemill. the cock fish was highly coloured dictating that it had been in the river for some time.no other
andy landed and areturned fresh run grilse weighing 3lb off the monyruey beat.
tuesday 28th august
stanley youngson landed and (returned) a fresh run grilse weighing 4lb at the meetings.
sunday 26th august weekly update
caley ian landed a sea trout last thursday at ednie. the fish was retained for broodstock. ian had another sea trout on the saturday at artlaw, and agian, was retained for broodstock.
derek mckenzie caught two seatrout last week at artlaw. both fish were also retained for broodstock.
ian buchan had two seatrout at buthlaw and stonemill, both fish returned.
ian also had a 4.5lb grilse from the plumbers pool.
eric the teacher landed a fresh 9lb salmon on the fly last week
sunday 19th august
reports from the river during the past week
NOTHING TO REPORT FOR MONDAY.
on tuesday, cALEY IAN HAD 2 SEATROUT AND LOST ONE ON THE RAPALA.
GEO YOUNGSON HAD ONE ON THE WORM (RETURNED).
dEREK HAD TWO FISH ON WEDNESDAY AT ARTLAW ON THE WORM.
NOTHING TO REPORT ON THURSDAY OR FRIDAY.
ON SATURDAY GEO HAD ONE AT 3LB (RETURNED)
STAN YOUNGSON HAD A PROLIFIC MORNING LANDING 3 FRESH RUN SEATROUT TO BEST 4LB, (ALL RETURNED) AND LOSING ONE..
tuesDAY 14TH AUGUST
THE RIVER WAS A LITTLE QUIET LAST WEEK IN TERMS OF ANGLING EFFORT.
LAST WEDNESDAY 8TH AUGUST SAW LEWIS IRONSIDE LOSE A GOOD FISH AT ARTLAW AND ALSO LANDED AND RETURNED A 2.5LB SEA TROUT.
STAN YOUNGSON HAD A CLEAN FISH WEIGHING 3LB AT THE MEETINGS ON THE THURSDAY.
AS WRITE, THE RIVER Has started to rise again after heavy rainfall last night (monday)
the river should rise by 6 inches at least after the downpours.
where are the grilse????????
tuesday 7th august
the river rose overnight to 0.6m after what must be the heaviest downpour overnight on record. streets were flooded, and the lower stretches of the river was carrying a heavy colour what was perfect for worming. strange to see, when i travelled to buthlaw for a cast in the evening as the water was a totally different colour!
there were no fish to be seen last night, and the reports were the same as far down as stonemill.
however, now that the water has dropped back to 0.3m hopefully we should hear of the local day time fishers bagging a few.
there cant be much sea trout left to come, as we wait in anticitpation for the grilse to come!!
thursdAY 2ND AUGUST
BEEN A FEW FISH TAKNE SO FAR THIS WEEK, THE WATER ROSE TO 0.6M ABOVE SUMMER LEVEL ENCOURAGING A FRESH RUN TO ENTER THE SYSTEM.
DEREKMMCKENZIE HAS BEEN PRODUCTIVE AND THERES BEEN A FEW SALMON AND GRILSE TAKEN.
CALEY IAN HAS HAD ANOTHER SALMON (7LB) AND ANOTHER GRISLE..
LEWIS IRONSIDE LANDED ONE TROUT TO 3LB AND LOST ANOTHER AND DASS LANDED WHAT MAY BE THE HEAVIEST SEA TROUT OF THE SEASON SO FAR WEIGHING 6LBS.
WATER IS NOW DROPPING BACK TO 0.3M ABOVE SUMMER LEVEL, SO HOPEFULLY THE HIGH TIDES WILL BRING A FEW MORE IN FOR THE WEEKEND.
two weeks from saturday 16th july to saturday 28th july
can i say a big thank you to duggie wallace who has kept me in the know of recent catches and returns from the ugie since i have been away on holiday.
rain appeared most days, however, not far enough up withiin the catchment area to give us any increase on height on the river.
sea trout are seen all the way through the system. this is really encouraging signs and a true reflection of the hard work and dedication of the commitee and the owners since the re stocking programme began.
grilse are also showin througout the system, although the water being quite low at the moment.
reports
week ending 28th july
john massie had a Sea Trout and a 7lb Salmon on Friday at the Swirl Pool on a rapala
Derek mckenzie had a hold of 3 on Friday morning and landed one at 4lb.
duggie wallace had a fish at 2lb on thursday night
stanley youngson lost a good fish at buthlaw on wednesday night
geo youngson landed his first grilse of the season on saturday weighing 4.5lb on the worm.
week ending 17th july
eric the teacher Five seatrout between Thursday and Saturday on the fly - all bars of
silver. Two 4 pounders, one 3.5, two 2.5. well done eric.
Derek mckenzie has also been pickin away this week.
duggie wallace had a 2.75 lb troot last night (Fri) at Ednie, and had a hold of another one later in the evening.
Word is there has been a lot of trout on the go off Buchanhaven this week.
Creighton geddas had one at the Grilse Pool and one at the Pot,
there are also reports of lots of sea trout seen at the lower reaches of buthlaw.
duggie wallace kept a nice 4.5lb trout for broodstock on saturday night.
ian hepburn finally got off the mark this season with a 3.5lb seatrout taken at buthlaw, and with the same fly as he netted his first fish last season.
tuesday 10th july
the river level increased by three inches throughout the day making perfect condition for the spinner and the worm. the water was carrying a bit of colour, but it never stopped anglers trying the fly either.
sticky james had a fish (2lb) at buthlaw.
pows james also had a fish (2lb) at buthlaw.
eric the teacher lost a fish and had a hold of another two on the fly
geo youngson had a fresh fish (3lb) on the fly at buthlaw
monday 9yh july
geo youngson took a fresh fish tonight at artlaw on the worm (returned) and graeme buchan lost a fine fish down from the clay pipe.
sunday 8th july
eric richardson had good success AT HIS LOCAL HUNTING GROUNDS BETWEEN THURSDAY AND SATURDAY EVENING..
ERIC WAS LUCKY TO LAND 2 FISH @ 4LB , ONE AT 3LB AND ONE AT 2.5LB AND ALL CAUGHT ON THE FLY. THE RIVER CONTINUES TO RISE, BUT WITH NO SIGNS OF RAIN TODAY, IT SHOULD BE OKAY FOR TOMORROW FOR THE ANGLERS WHO PREFER THE SPINNER AND WORM METHODS.
saturday 7th july
river levels remained low throughout the week, encouraging anglers to have a go with the fly.
fish have been few and far between this week.
Crighton, sticky james and derek mckenzie all had fish this week.
wednesday was a good night. willie buchan had 2 seatrout and lost one. at the cruivves.
geo youngson had a fresh fish weighing 3 1/2 lb on the fly at buthlaw
lewis ironside landed another at the stonemill.
no reports of anything taken on thursday.
friday saw duggie wallaces efforts rewarded with a fish on the fly weighing just under 3lb. this was just after losing one earlier on in the evening at artlaw.
tonight (saturday) geo youngosn had a fish of 2lb at the stonemill, again on the fly.
the water was up 2 inches tonight and with rain as forecast for the next two days, lets hope that the levels increase to encourage more sea trout into the system. who knows, we might even see the grilse starting to show.
reports this week of some of the seatrout starting to change their colour, if you catch a fish that is slightrly coloured, please let
common sense prevail and return it to the water or place into one of the keep boxes for the hatchery.
i will be on holiday from saturday 14th july until thursday 26th july. please report all catches by email, and i will post them on the ugie website when i return.
tight lines
friday 29th june
its official, the salmon are here!! Caley ian is the lucky man landing a fresh bar of silver to 8 1/4lb at artlaw. well done ian you deserve it!
he told me he also had a sea trout the same morning, but when he hooked into the salmon, the way the fish was behaving was a little strange? it threw him a little? probably would if you though you were into a sea trout and out jumps a 8lb salmon! good job you had a net big enough ian.
derek mckenzie also had a sea trout, but reports are that there is a lot of fish being taken that are a bit on the thin side? seemingly there wasnt enough flesh on dereks troot to fill a sandwich?.
im sure derek will get his fair share of troots and salmon afore the end of the season. stick at it derek.
caley ian was kind enough to pop in by to see me and to correct me that i had in fact spelt his name wrong? "its ian milne, not ian mclean!" sorry ian, i always knew you as caley ian :)
it would be nice to see more anglers on the river banks, the fish are there! good luck for the weekend.
thursday 28th june
more news from the banks and fish are steadily making an appearance throughout the system.
the water, although its dropping back a bit, still carries a slight tinge..
buthlaw seems the place to be this season, in fact it was the same last season if i remember correctly.
john massie had 2 seatrout at buthlaw, and johnny slater also had two at buthlaw.
ian buchan also had two at buthlaw (and this was all on the monday!!!!) and he also lost another two.
whether it was on the monyruy side or the uaa side, alec bright also had a sea trout at buthlaw.
on tuesday, sandy watt was unlucky to lose one at buthlaw, but good old derek mckenzie was lucky enough to land one at inverugie.
a big massive thank you goes to ian milne (caley ian) for cutting the banks at artlaw .
another thank you to duggie wallace who was also cutting the banks.
duggie informs me that the banks is now cut from the pipeline (get up there sandy!!) down to the horeshoe bend. well done boys.
please bear in mind that the banks surrounding the clay hole are starting to give way. big gaps are starting to appear
we advise all anglers to be careful when fishing in that area.!!!
monday 25th june
lewis ironside landed a sea trout at horshoe tonight weighing 4lb. river now steady and carrying a good colour. he also landed on on friday night at artlaw. and marrick also gets his second of the season catching one on monday also.
Saturday 23rd june
the river has steadily risen over the last two days, and hopefully will encourage more sea trout to enter the system.
reports from the banks have been a little slower this week.
Derek mckenzie had a 3lb sea trout on wednesday.
baxter landed a fish the same weight at middleton and sticky james landed a sea liced trout (2lb) at the meadows.
and on monday sandy watt had a nice fish weighing 2lbs at stonemill.
Sunday 17th june
derek mckenzie had two sea trout in the bagthis week, and lewis ironside landed and safely returned a slightly coloured sea trout weighing 2 1/2lb. lewis caught the fish at the horse shoe bend. that brings lewis tally to 3 for the season so far. lewis 3 - old man 0
FRIDAY 15TH JUNE
BANK CLEARANCE UPDATE
THE BANKS ARE NOW CUT FROM THE MEETINGS ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE WHIN POOL.
THE LOWER REACHES, POT SUNKEN, CRUIVES, MEADOWS, MINISTERS EDDY, SCOTTS POOL ARE ALL CUT.
thursday 14th june
duggie wallace got his first fish of the season ON THE FLY.
his efforts were rewARDED AT THE HORSHOE BEND. WELL DONE DUGGIE AND GOOD TO SEE YOU BACK ON THE BANKS.
wednesday 13th june
sandy watt was on the ball on wednesday night landing a fresh fish to 3lb on the fly at stonemill, and that was with AN AUDIENCE!!!
mYSELF, wILliam and stan was there to witness the action. well done sandy. PICTURE ON THE GALLERY.
Tuesday 12th june
reports that marrick caught his first seatrout of the season at the meetings on the fly.
MONDAY 11TH JUNE
WELL ITS BEEN A PRODUCTIVE WEEK TO SAY THE LEAST.
FIRST OF ALL, STICKY JAMES HAS BEEN CONCENTRATING AT THE TIDALS AND HAS HAD GOOD SPORT WITH THE FINNOCK, ALL IN GOOD CONDITION, NOT FORGETTING THE TROOT HE BAGGED TO 2LBS.
STAN YOUNGSON WAS ALSO AT THE TIDALS LAST WEEK AND REPORTED A GOOD HEAD OF FINNOCK IN THE LOWER REACHES AND ALL IN GOOD CONDITION.
STAN HAD A GREAT EVENING LAST friDAY LANDING 5 SEATROUT FOR HIS NIGHTS EFFORT AT BUTHLAW. ALL OF THE FISH WERE RETURNED BARR ONE WEIGHING 2.5 LBS. ALL ON THE SPINNER
again up at buthlaw, eric the teacher had a fresh fish weighing 3lbs on the fly on friday evening.
A LITTLE FURTHER UP AT THE MEETINGS, LEWIS IRONSIDE LANDED A CRACKING BRACE OF SEATROUT. first fish was taken on the worm weighing over 3lbs and the second fish on the spinner weighing 2.5lbs CHECK OUT THE PICTURE YOURSELF IN THE "UGIE GALLERY"
REPORTS FROM THE BANK ALSO INFORM ME THAT KENZ STEPHEN HAS HAD TWO SEA TROUT DOWN IN THE MIDDLE STRETCHES (CRUIVVES AND THE MEADOWS).
ALL IN ALL, A GOOD WEEK FOR THE ANGLERS WILLING TO MAKE THE EFFORT.
IF YOU HEAR OF, OR KNOW OF, ANY angler beeing succseful on the banks, please let me know by call, text or emai.l.
ps please adhere to the new rule of only one treble to be fished on each lure (spinner)
tight lines lads.
SUNDAY 10TH JUNE
SORRY FOR THE LACK OF GOSSIP FROM THE BANKS RECENTLY.
BUSINESS COMMITMENTS HAVE KEPT ME AWAY FROM THE RIVER, BUT NOW ALL IS BACK TO NORMAL.
ITS WAS GOOD TO SEE THE RIVER RISING HALF A METRE LAST WEEK
WE ALL KNOW THAT THE SYSTEM DESPERATELY NEEDED IT.
THE RISE IN WATER MIXED WITH THE HIGH TIDES (SOME AS HIGH AS 4METRES) MEANT A GOOD HEAD OF SEA TROUT ENTERED THE SYSTEM FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS SEASON, AND THE ANGLERS HAVE BEEN OUT IN FORCE.
BANK CUTTING HAS STARTED, BUTHLAW IS ABOUT COMPLETE, LANG SHOT AND THE MEETINGS WILL BE COMPLETE BEFORE THE END OF THE WEEK.
ITS SATISFYING TO SEE THE EFFORTS OF THE COMMITTEE REWARDED WITH THE RECENT UGIE RESTORATION PROJECT COMPLETED AT STONE MILL.
WHAT A DELIGHT IT IS TO WET THE FLY IN THE EVENING AFTER ALL OF THE HARD WORK PUT INTO THIS STRETCH OF RIVER.
THE COMMITEE HAS ALSO BEEN SUPPLIED WITH NEW GRASS STRIMMERS AND WOULD INVITE ANY MEMEBER TO TAKE PART IN THE ENVIABLE TASK OF "CUTTING YER HOT SPOTS"
IT REALLY IS A HUGE TASK FOR THE RIVER BANKS TO BE KEPT TO A MINIMUM, AND WOULD BE GRATEFUL IF SOME OF THE YOUNGER MEMBERS TAKE PART IN KEEPING THE GRASS DOWN TO A MINIMUM.
LUNAR FISHING HAS ALSO PROVIDED THE COMMITEE WITH A "SPACE BUGGY" TYPE THINGY!!.
A GREAT LITTLE MOTOR FOR USING UP AND DOWN THE LENGTH OF THE RIVER, HELPING IN DEPLOYING AND COLLECTING THE "TROOT BOXES," CUTTING GRASS ETC.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP OUT IN THE CUTTING OF THE BANKS, YOU CAN CALL ME ON 07801 678709 TO ARRANGE THE COLLECTION OF STRIMMER AND FUEL.
THE NEW STRIMMERS, ARE EFFORTLESS TO WORK.
THEY COME WITH 4HP ENGINES AND STRIMMER CORDS THAT SEAM TO LAST FOR EVER.
GIVE IT A GO!!!
Sunday 20th may
sandy watt lost a sea trout at the take end of the week at buthlaw.
MONDAY 14TH MAY
as from this week, it was decided by commitee members that duggie wallace relaxes his time on updating the web site and instead concentrate his valiant efforts in the up keep of the hatchery.
duggie is a valuable asset to the river, and the commitee feels that the upkeep of the hatchery is a massive task on its own.
last season, duggie was looking after the hatchery from day to day, cutting back the banks and also updating the website!!!!
no wonder the man never had time to wet the fly!!
to take some weight off his shoulders, i have agreed to maintain the upkeep of the website, and hopefully see duggie more on the river banks for the right reasons!!
we are priviledged to have our own webiste, but its only as good as the information our members provide...
please send me pictures, videos and or catch information, and ill make sure everything is uploaded as soon as.
tight lines
geo youngsoN
THURSDAY 1ST MAY
First reported Sea Trout (2lb) caught at the tail end of last week from the Inverugie area, well done Sandy Buchan.
crighton geddes has had some sport with the odd finnock or two at the tidals. crighton also landed and returned a seatrout to 2lb.
but he did have concerns for the fish, as it didnt look in the best of conditions, but it was carrying sea lice, and was returned to the river.
Ugie Angling Permits are now available from :-
Ugie Salmon Fishings
Golf Road, Peterhead
Scotland, AB42 6NF
Tel: 01779 476209
Fax:01779 471475
Season 2011
13/11/2011
Ugie Angling AGM will take place on Monday 5th December at the Palace Hotel, 7.00 for 7.30pm.
31/10/2011
Steven Cooper rounded off his season with a productive last day, he caught and returned a 4lb Hen Grilse and kept a bar of silver 12lb cock Salmon both taken on the North Ugie with a Rapala, roll on next season!!!
30/10/2011
On Saturday (29th) Ian Hepburn landed a fresh 9lb Salmon on the flying "C" (Stonemill).
29/10/2011
Yesterday at 1pm, while fishing a conehead tube, (Stonemill) Ken Strachan landed/returned a 4lb sea liced Grilse (cock fish).
28/10/2011
Steven Cooper landed/returned a 9lb hen fish up the North water, it swam away strongly to hopefully pair-up with her mate again to continue their journey upstream and spawn successfully later in the year.
24/10/2011
Persevering in the blustery conditions paid off for Alex (Bright) Buchan, landing a fine 13lb fish (Buthlaw), his neaper, Andy Stephen also lost a double figure fish.
20/10/2011
It has been a cold few days but fish continue to come to the net, again Buthlaw proving a popular spot. Some of the lucky anglers being - Eric Richardson 3.5lb Grilse, Derek McKenzie 8lb Salmon, Simon Stephen 8lb Salmon (returned). Further downstream at Inverugie Greighton Geddess landed a 6lb fish, Kenz Stephen and Derek McKenzie both landed Grilse. Peter (Pats) Buchan broke on a good fish at Rora Pool, Eric Richardson lost a good fish well up the South Ugie water. Andy Stephen ended up in the water while playing a Salmon, he managed to get back on dry land and went on to play and successfully land the fish.
18/10/2011
Good to hear of some double figure fish being caught, William May landed one of 14lb on Saturday. Yesterday, (Monday) David Stephen landed a 15lb fish.
15/10/2011
Patrick Jackson landed a 5.5lb Grilse on the spinner this morning (Stonemill).
12/10/2011
George Youngson also lost a double figure fish on Sat at Buthlaw after a 10 min fight, but had better luck last night (Wednesday 12th) by landing a 6lb Grilse on the fly. Earlier in the week, Ian Hepburn weighed in a sea liced Salmon of 15lb on spinner (Stonemill). James Strachan fishing light, landed a 12lb Salmon (Meadows). Eric Richardson is on fine form, landing 6 fish in the last 10 days.
11/10/2011
Saturday (8th) Buthlaw proved the place to be once again. Eric Richardson landed a 10lb fish on the fly. Ian Buchan landed a 4lb Grilse also on the fly. Sandy Watt played a good fish for a while but it was not to be, he went on to land a 5lb Grilse later in the day. Lewis Ironside also landed a 6lb Grilse, (all Buthlaw).
03/10/2011
Stan Youngson reported landed a 6lb sea liced grilse on Friday night (Stonemill). Today, James (Pows) Buchan reported an 8.5lb Salmon (Buthlaw). Ian Milne returned a gravid cock fish of around 9lb (Artlaw)
22/09/2011
A few fish caught over the last few days - James(Pows)Buchan landed 2 last Friday (second one 6lb- Buthlaw). John Bruce returned a Sea Trout about the 5lb mark. On Wednesday, Ian Milne - 13lb Salmon (Whin Pool). On Tuesday, Stan Youngson reported a 5lb Grilse on flying C (Horseshoe). On Wednesday, George Youngson also reported a 5.5lb Grilse on the worm (Meetings).
Reports of a good run of "double figure" sized fish were seen passing through Buthlaw on Tuesday evening and again on Wednesday morning.
21/09/2011
A 12lb Salmon was landed yesterday by Sandy Watt (Buthlaw).
20/09/2011
Ally Ironside reported a sea liced 6lb fish today (Ednie).
19/09/2011
Buthlaw continues to be the hot spot at the moment, Lewis Ironside reported an 8.5lb Salmon this morning.
17/09/2011
Earlier in the week Ian McLoud landed a Sea Trout and a Grilse (Inverugie), Marek Staszewski landed a Grilse on the fly (Inverugie). On Wednesday, Ian Milne was in action landing a 8lb & 11lb Salmon (Artlaw). Derek McKenzie landed a 5.5lb fish (Buthlaw). Buthlaw was the place to be yesterday, James(Pows)Buchan & Alex(Bright)Buchan both landed a 9lb Salmon. John Massie lost 2 and Derek McKenzie also lost a fish (Lang Shot). Water on the Rise today again after heavy rain overnight, water was at +12" (and rising) at Inverugie @ 1300hrs.
09/09/2011
Derek McKenzie landed a 4.5lb sea liced grilse earlier this week (Inverugie). Eric Richardson was in amongst the action again at the begining of the week as well, landing a 4.5lb Grilse and a 9lb Salmon, both on the fly (Buthlaw).
An electro fishing survey took place throughout the river today. North and South Ugie were targeted, along with many tributaries throughout the catchment. Video footage was captured throughout various area's. Area's targeted were electro fished for 5 min spells, all area's were very healthy with Sea Trout & Salmon fry (this last spawning season) and Sea Trout & Salmon parr. Salmon fry were averaging (coming to the net) 18 per minute while electro fishing some area's on the main North Ugie. South Ugie burn's (about18" wide in parts) were also producing high numbers of Sea Trout fry & parr.
04/09/2011
A 14 lb Salmon was caught on the worm by Eric Richardson last week (Buthlaw)
31/08/2011
Yesterday - Andra Sim lost a Salmon last night and landed one this morning (Cruives). James Strachan, David Low, Simon Stephen (S/Trout landed/returned) and Andy Stephen (1 S/Trout landed/returned & 2 retained for brood stock). Also yesterday - George Youngson landed/returned 3 Sea Trout to 4lb and also landed a 4.75lb Grilse (Strawberrybank). John Lowrie landed 2 Sea Trout (Rora Pool).
29/08/2011
Today started with water level at +24" , by lunchtime it had reached +30" and at 1800hrs it had reached +36". Most of the water was coming from the North Ugie catchment. Eric Richardson landed a 7.5 lb fish on the fly a few days ago (Buthlaw)
27/08/2011
Ian Buchan was back in the action again on Wednesday, landing a 4lb Grilse on the fly (Inverugie)
24/08/2011
Reports from Artlaw fishers that the water is alive with parr jumping for small insects about.
Ian Buchan landed another grilse (Inverugie) on the fly earlier this week.
17/08/2011
Grilse making an appearance throughout the system, Yesterday, an angler landed/returned 6 Sea Trout and also had a Grilse. Robert Bell and David Stephen both landed sea liced Grilse, Steven Cooper reported a fresh 5lb Grilse on rapala (Buthlaw). Recent weather conditions has opened up the mouth of the river again so hopefully this will encourage more fish to enter the system. reports of coloured Sea Trout with sea lice over the last few days have also been coming through.
16/08/2011
A 12 lb Salmon was landed at Buthlaw today by Sandy Watt.
15/08/2011
Ian Buchan landed 5 Sea Trout on Friday evening (Buthlaw). Reports of a good number of fresh "fish" "heading & tailing" through the Pot on Saturday. Reports of a lot of "coloured" Sea Trout throughout the system now with many anglers landing good numbers of them daily. Water level has dropped from +6" at sunrise to +4" at sunset.
14/08/2011
Peter Buchan landed a sea liced grilse on Friday (Artlaw). A good few Sea Trout were landed on Friday, most were past there best and many were donated for hatchery brood stock by Ian Milne & Derek McKenzie. David Wiseman's grand child managed to land one in excellent condition (Cruives).
Some heavy showers today in the catchment so water height could rise again tomorrow.
09/08/2011
Water level today at sunrise was +15" falling to +9" by sunset. Eric Richardson landed 5 Sea Trout & James Buchan also landed 1 at Strawberry Bank. Andrew Sim landed 2 and John Massie also landed 1 at Cruives. Derek McKenzie Landed 4 including a grilse at Artlaw.
08/08/2011
Water level been rising all day, +12" tonight @ 1800hrs
06/08/2011
Kenz Stephen landed a couple of Sea Trout one evening this last week (Inverugie). Grilse have also been showing an appearance around the Inverugie area. Water on the rise although not expected to be so much rain as earlier predicted. Regardless, hopefully it will encourage more anglers on the river bank and sport will improve.
30/07/2011
The first Grilse of the season was landed by Andrew Sim today at Buthlaw, weighing in at 6lb. (photo to follow in the gallery).
28/07/2011
A few Sea Trout were landed earlier this week, Ian Milne had a couple, (both coloured). Derek McKenzie had one in good condition, Simon Stephen also landed a Sea Trout (donated for brood stock).
24/07/2011
Cold Northerly winds slowing things down a bit this last few days. 5 volunteers spent a few days this week cutting river banks.
21/07/2011
Marek Staszewski was yet again awarded with a nice Sea Trout on the fly earlier in the week (Inverugie)
Simon Stephen also landed a Sea Trout last night (Artlaw) again on the fly, (donated for brood stock)
With the Sea Trout starting to colour up, anglers are encouraged to donate Sea Trout for hatchery brood stock), holding drums for them are located at various locations throughout the system.
19/07/2011
Ian Milne landed a 2lb Sea Trout yesterday. Today (Tuesday) he was in the action again by landing a 9lb Salmon, (Artlaw). (Photo in gallery)
A squad were strimming up the water today (Meetings to Whin Pool) A good few fish were seen throughout the day when the strimming was taking place.
18/07/2011
A rise in water level this weekend will hopefully encourage some fresh fish into the system, water level back down to near summer level today (Monday). Local heavy showers tonight will hopefully keep things topped up for a few days.
Bank cutting has been taking place at a number of locations, i.e. Balmoor, Inverugie, Stonemill, Ednie, Artlaw, other locations further upstream should be cut this week.
Should any angler wish to cut their favourite beat strimmers are available along with fuel from a management team member (see "contacts" page)
11/07/2011
Where has all the rain gone? The river is in serious need of water. It seams that every shower in the North East has missed the ugie catchment area. The reports during the last few weeks have been very slim to say the least.
Marick had a trout on the fly last Sunday night Monday morning. Derek McKenzie had a cracking fish of 6 1/2 lbs at Artlaw on the worm. There are reports that Derek also lost a fresh run Salmon in the 8-10lb mark right at the net.
We had a days rain just over a week ago, and this did colour the water, but the river level still remained below the "zero."
Five anglers ventured down to the tidals on Saturday evening, but again, all drew a blank.Rain is forecast for this coming Thursday and Friday, and hopefully the anglers who do venture out will get their rewards.
11/05/2011
2 or 3 Sea Trout were seen at the tidals on Monday evening by a couple of anglers.
Season 2010
Sea Trout: May - September - Average 300 per annum.
Salmon: July - October - Average 100 per annum.
17/05/2010
The Sea Trout have started to make an appearance at the tidals. Ian Milne, James Strachan and Mathew Will being the lucky anglers to date. A couple of sightings have also been reported at Potsunkann over the weekend. Water levels at -1” at Inverugie bridge (car park) marker.
25/05/2010
Sea Trout continue to move upstream, catches from Eric Buchan (Tidals) and Lewis Ironside (2) (Meadows & Grilse Pool). Also heard reports of a Sea Trout being lost at Artlaw. Water over the last few days has remained around the -1” despite heavy local showers within the catchment.
28/05/2010
With the recent localized heavy showers the river has risen slightly and carrying a bit of colour, most of the colour is from the South Ugie catchment. Derek McKenzie had a couple yesterday and one earlier in the week on the copper pipe (Castle). Water level @ +3” and coloured.
30/05/2010
Water level been rising all day, was at +3” at 11.30am. Very coloured and at +7” at 7.30pm.
02/06/2010
Water level back to -1”. Derek McKenzie had 2 S/Trout to 4lbs this morning and Sandy Buchan had one in the early evening on the fly, Inverugie being the hot spot yet again. Sea Trout now showing an appearance throughout the system.
05/06/2010
Ian Milne was in the action today, covering a lot of water earned him a couple of Sea Trout, (Meetings & Ednie). Derek McKenzie also had 2 (Inverugie)
08/06/2010
Lewis Ironside landed 4 Sea Trout to 4lb (2 returned) in 12 casts tonight on a small flying C, (upstream from Ravenscraig). Water level @ -2” and carrying slight colour.
10/06/2010
Catch reports on the fly earlier in the week - James Strachan (Waterside) & Doug Wallace (Artlaw) finally managed to get one to stick.
Patrick Jackson also got off the mark by landing 2 this afternoon, 3lb & 5lb (Artlaw). Water level again back to –2” after the slight (2”) rise yesterday and now carrying very very slight colour. Prospects looking excellent as system is now carrying a good stock of Sea Trout.
12/06/2010
“Time of night” fly fishing proved successful last week to anglers in the Inverugie area, Kenz Stephen, Ian McLoud and James Strachan to name a few. For the few that are taking advantage of the conditions.
14/06/2010
“Time of night” again proved successful to Doug Wallace at Artlaw. A 3.75lb Sea Trout on a size 16 cinnamon/gold single did the trick. Ian Milne and Derek McKenzie are continuing there run and landing Sea Trout most days.
15/06/2010
Lewis Ironside landed a 2.5lb fresh run Sea Trout at mid day from the Boat Pool (Buthlaw). Like the last couple of years, large shoals of Sandeels are again making an appearance at the inner harbour, which is very encouraging for the Sea Trout and is probably one of the reasons for the healthy stock already in the system. Ian Hepburn landed and returned a fresh run Sea Trout of 1.75lbs below the Grilse Pool. Doug Wallace landed a fresh 4lb Sea Trout at Artlaw on a size 12 Silver Doctor.
18/06/2010
Ian Hepburn landed a fresh run Sea Trout of 2.75lb this evening on a flying C (Stonemill).
25/06/2010
“Time of night” fishing the fly this last week has been very productive for those taking advantage of the conditions, good numbers of fish continue to make their way upstream and can be seen most nights pushing their way through the shallows. Word on the river bank even at this early stage of the season is “the best Sea Trout season for many a year” most Sea Trout this season so far are in the 3-4lb category and in excellent condition.
03/07/2010
Catch returns have been slower this last week. Although fish continue to run, they are proving difficult to catch. A rise in water yesterday of about 1” proved all that was required for Stan Youngson to get off the mark, landing a fresh fish of 4.00lb on the worm at mid day (Cruives) Another angler returned a clean fish of 4.00lb shortly before midnight (Artlaw).
06/07/2010
David Stephen landed a couple of Sea Trout on the fly (Artlaw) over the last few days, time of night proving popular once again.
11/07/2010
Kenz Stephen landed a couple of Sea Trout this week, (1 returned) (Inverugie) Simon Stephen also landed (and returned) a Sea Trout of 3.5lb (Buthlaw).
17/07/2010
A well awaited rise in water over the last few days has encouraged fresh Sea Trout to enter the system, Thursday (15th) - Sea Trout to Ian Milne (Artlaw) and Lewis Ironside, (South Ugie). Peter Buchan landed 3 (North Ugie) Friday (16th) – Derek McKenzie landed a Sea Trout (Inverugie) David Weir also reported a 2.75lb Sea Trout on the worm (Buthlaw). Sat (17th) – David Weir reported a 3.00lb Sea Trout again on the worm (Artlaw). Reports from the riverbank tonight that Lewis Ironside had 2 today (Artlaw). Water level tonight back to -2” and still carrying a good bit of colour (dark).
18/07/2010
Water level back to pre-rise height (-3”) with a nice colour to it. More rain predicted this coming week.
21/07/2010
David Weir reported a 4.5lb Sea Trout on Tuesday 20th (Buthlaw).
Stanley Youngson Report
"Friday 16th July was fishing from 5pm - 9pm and had 3 off seatrout at Artlaw. All on the spinner and approximately an hour apart. 2 off were landed & returned (2->2 1/2 lb) and the third lost after a minute or so after being hooked.Saturday 17th July fished the whole day at Inverugie.....................not a bite and unbelievable after the productive evening the day before. On the upside, I did see a few larger fish entering the Pot at around 4.30- 5.30pm. None of them rising above the water surface but swimming just below it leaving a (large) trail on the water surface. These were either larger seatrout.............or possibly grilse/salmon? I have not seen anyone else to see if they have witnessed any larger fish, but this could be good for this time of the season.Tuesday 20th July (evening fishing). 1 off seatrout at Artlaw (1 1/2 -2lb) on the fly using a stoats tail size10 just before darkness starting. Returned.”
Unconfirmed reports of a Salmon being caught at Stonemill on Saturday 17th July.
23/07/2010
After a good rise in water the last few days levels have tonight dropped back to +3” and still carrying a good bit of colour. Most anglers today were rewarded with good sport and many had their “quota” by mid morning. Sea Trout continue to come off the tide with some topping the scales at over 5lb. It is also encouraging to see anglers donating Sea Trout for this years hatchery programme. For further information, regarding brood stock holding tank locations please contact any committee member.
25/07/2010
Water level back to 0” at Inverugie, still at +3” at Artlaw. Fresh Sea Trout continue to come off the tide. James Strachan, Harry Duthie and James Taylor had sea liced specimens on Friday night (23rd) (Cruives). Saturday morning (24th) produced more action up the water, Andy Chalmers continued his good run, (having landed 2 @ 4lb & 5lb the day before) by adding a nice 4 lber to his tally (Artlaw). Ian Milne also had a clean 4lber (Artlaw). Stanley Youngson & Doug Wallace also had clean Sea Trout @ 2lb (Artlaw).
29/07/2010
A few Sea Trout were reported earlier in the week, most of which are now past there best. Grilse have started to make an appearance, a couple have been caught over the last few days (Inverugie). Water level now back at -3” but still a “bonny” colour.
02/08/2010
Things have been quieter since the last spate, yo-yo water levels probably not helping things. Andra Sim has been “picking awa” among the Sea Trout (Buthlaw). (3’s & 4’s some days)
A few anglers have been in contact with Salmon, John Massie lost 2 (Buthlaw). Mike Lamont had a brief encounter (Ravenscraig). John Slater landed a 9lb fish (Buthlaw).
Banks newly cut at Artlaw today (Pipeline to Clay Hole). Buthlaw (Lang Shot & Whinn Pool) possibly will be cut tomorrow (Wed 3/08).
08/08/2010
On Wed 04/08/2010 an electofishing survey was carried out on various spawning burns throughout the Ugie catchment area. The Burns targeted were Artlaw Burn, Cairngall Burn, Quhomery Burn, the “Walled Garden” at Brucklay, Adziel Burn, Greenspeck Burn, Gonar Burn and Denend Burn (Glasslaw). Although the survey report is not back yet, the Ugie management team and water bailiff & were impressed by the numbers of Sea Trout & Salmon Fry and Sea Trout & Salmon Parr that were caught, examined and returned safely to the water from these locations. Video footage was recorded throughout the day from these locations and will be shown at the Ugie Angling AGM in November.
21/08/2010
Catch returns been slow this last few weeks, not a lot of anglers been fishing due to the conditions. Ian Milne and David Stephen have landed Sea Trout during this time, but it’s been hard going. Tuesday 17th August proved a good day for Chris Harper, landing a 4lb Sea Trout and a 5lb Grilse on a red flying ”C” (Artlaw), this being his first of both species and his first season on the Ugie, well done.
24/08/2010
Heavy rain overnight has produced a rise in water level that will be welcomed by all, water level @ Inverugie at 1200hrs today +9” and rising.
Yesterday evening, fishing the worm, George Youngson landed a sea liced Salmon @ 9.5lbs (Artlaw). Good to hear Stanley Youngson back on the river bank as well, after his recent illness.
29/08/2010
Wednesday 25th - Chris Harper landed and returned a 4lb Sea Trout on rapala (Inverugie). Heavy rain showers within the catchment yesterday produced a rise in water levels yet again, Inverugie +3” @ 1700hrs yesterday (Sat 28th) and Artlaw +9”. This past week, Ian Milne landed a 6lb grilse and lost another at the net (rapala). Andy Chalmers landed a 3lb Sea Trout (fly). Andy Stephen landed a 10lb Salmon (Monaruy). Water up again today (Sun 29th) +5”@ 1030hrs at Inverugie (car park)+11”@ 1800hrs at Inverugie (car park)
30/08/2010
Water level back down to +3” tonight at Inverugie (car park) @ 2000hrs. Reports of quite a few Sea Trout being caught and returned today throughout the system. George Youngson reported a fresh 4 lb Sea Trout (returned) tonight on the worm (Horseshoe). Stanley Youngson also landed/returned a 4 lb Sea Trout on Saturday on a vibrax spinner (Artlaw). Lewis Ironside reported landing a 10 lb Salmon this evening on a Flying “C” (Artlaw). Simon Stephen also landed a 6 lb grilse on the fly this evening (Stonemill).
31/08/2010
Water level now back to 0” @ Inverugie and still carring a good bit of colour. Not a lot been reported today compared with yesterday. Patrick Jackson lost a “chromer” on the fly this evening (Inverugie).
05/09/2010
This last week Derek McKenzie landed a 7.5lb fish (Ravenscraig), William May also landed a Grilse (Ravenscraig). Reports of a grilse also being landed at the “Double Hole” (Buthlaw). Sea Trout continue to be caught, some fresh run, although the majority are well coloured, (please remember Sea Trout must all be returned for the remainder of the season).Finnock now making an appearance in the system.
A section of the upper river had spawning gravel re-worked/loosened with forks this weekend to encourage more fish to cut redds in the area. The section has been used in the past and it is hoped more fish will now cut redds on this stretch of water this coming winter due to the gravel being easier to work. The section will be kept under observation during spawning to see if more fish take advantage of the re-work.
08/09/2010
A sea liced fish of 7lb was reported tonight.(Artlaw). Lewis Ironside being the lucky captor, he witnessed 3 or 4 fish making their way upstream around the time he grassed this one. High tides this week will hopefully encourage more fresh fish into the system. Water level remains at -3” @ Inverugie (car park) and running reasonably clear despite heavy showers within the catchment.
12/09/2010
Not many catches being reported this last few days. Last weeks high tides now broken, some decent fish been seen around Inverugie. Next high tides around the second week of October.
13/09/2010
George Youngson landed and returned a nice 4lb grilse on the worm tonight (Artlaw).
15/09/2010
Water level rose from -3” to 0” yesterday. At 1200hrs today was still at 0”. Heavy showers throughout the catchment today has pushed level up to +5” at 2000hrs tonight at Inverugie (car park).
18/09/2010
Water level started today (Sat) at +3”@ Inverugie (car park), and +9” @ Artlaw. Today, a fine breeze of wind (am) and overcast conditions failed to bring a lot of action, recent “yoyo” water levels seem to have put them off the take a bit. William Buchan landed a 14lb fish earlier in the week (Cruives). On Thursday 16th Derek McKenzie landed a 6lb fish and lost another about the 4lb mark (Artlaw). John Slater also landed a 7lb fish (Buthlaw) Ian Buchan landed & returned a 5lb Sea Trout (Buthlaw)
20/09/2010
Water level been rising slowly today from 0”@ 0700hrs to +2” @ 2000hrs tonight at Inverugie (car park). Ally Ironside landed a cracking 20lb fish and lost another two throughout the day on the flying ‘C’ (Buthlaw)
22/09/2010
Stanley Youngson landed a 4lb fish covered in long tailed lice on a fluorescent red/gold rap yesterday (Tue) afternoon (Meetings) he also lost a good fish on Saturday afternoon (Buthlaw). Alex Buchan “Bright” also lost a good fish on Mon (Monaruy). Derek McKenzie landed a licer of 4lb earlier this week (Potsunkann). Graeme Buchan also landed a 3lb grilse (Sat) and a 5lb fish on Monday 20th. Tonight, (Wed 22nd) Patrick Jackson landed a fresh run fish of 8lb on a Flying “C” (Stonemill). Water level (tonight) at 0” @ car park & +3” @ Artlaw. More rain forecast for tomorrow.
23/09/2010
Today’s water level (car park) +1”@0700hrs, +5”@1200hrs, +18”@1800hrs.
24/09/2010
Today’s water level (car park) peaked at +54”@0700hrs, dropping to +48”@1200hrs, then +42”@1800hrs.
25/09/2010
A few grilse were caught today at Buthlaw & Strawberrybank, a coloured fish was returned at Artlaw, coloured Sea Trout were returned throughout the system. Strong northerly winds continued throughout the day. Water level dropped fast throughout the day.
7/09/2010
Having landed a 20lb fish, lost another estimated in the mid 20’s and today landing yet another fish tipping the scales at 22.50lb (some time after it was caught) all this, in the space of 1 week is something most anglers can only dream about. Well done to Ally Ironside, and we’re not even into October yet, Flying “C” doing the trick once again. Other anglers in the action today were Billy Wylie & Gordon Forman landing 4lb fish (Potsunkann), Doug Wallace 6lb &7lb fish (Artlaw) (1 returned). Sandy Bruce lost a 6lb fish at the net (Artlaw). Lewis Ironside landed a 4lb fish (Stonemill).
29/09/2010
Yesterday, Billy Wylie landed a 3lb grilse (Inverugie) and lost another fish later in the day (Balmoor). Simon Stephen also lost a fish about the 10lb mark on the fly (Inverugie). Earlier today, before the water started to colour up, Ian Hepburn landed a 4lb grilse on flying “C” (Ravenscraig)
Water level on the rise again, +3”at car park tonight @ 1700hrs.
01/10/2010
James Strachan landed a couple of grilse over the last few days (Inverugie). Wullie Bruce has also landed a few (5lb & 13lb) over the last few days. Water back on the rise tonight, a few fish apparently were caught and others lost before the water started to rise.
02/10/2010
Between daylight and dark, the water level has risen a few inches slowly, +21” @ Inverugie (car park) and +60” @ Artlaw.
04/10/2010
Ally Ironside’s 20lb fish now added to gallery. A few nice fresh fish landed today. John Buchan landed a 6lb fish on the fly (Potsunkann), James Strachan and William Buchan also landed fish on spinner (Cruives). Water level back to +6”@ Inverugie (car park) & +12”@ Artlaw.
05/10/2010
James Ritchie “Jimmer” reported landing a 7lb fish and returned a 5lb Sea Trout later on yesterday afternoon (Artlaw) John Massie also landed a fish later on yesterday afternoon after losing one earlier in the day (Buthlaw). Derek Mckenzie landed a grilse this morning (Inverugie).
06/10/2010
John Bruce landed a fish yesterday (Artlaw). Today, William Stephen “Kenz” landed a fish on the fly (Inverugie). Harry Duthie had one on the spinner (Inverugie). Ian Hepburn reported 2 Grilse, 4.5lb on rapala and a 5.5lb “licer” on flying “C” (both from Stonemill).
0/10/2010
Derek McKenzie landed a grilse a few days ago (Inverugie). Lewis Ironside reported a 13lb fish on Friday (Ravenscraig). This last
week, William “Kenz” Stephen has landed/returned a few grilse, fresh of the tide, and on Friday landed a lovely 12lb fish, all caught on the fly.(Inverugie)Simon Stephen also had a fish this past week, again on the fly (Stonemill).
11/10/2010
Ian Milne had 8lb fish last Thursday (7th), a 12lb fish on Friday (8th) (Artlaw). Bill Wylie landed & returned a grilse today (Balmoor).
17/10/2010
Ian Hepburn reported a 4.5lb grilse today, caught on the fly and returned, (Buthlaw). George Youngson also reported a 5lb grilse on the worm, (Buthlaw).
21/10/2010
James Strachan had a fish on the worm a few days ago (Cruives). David Stephen landed a couple of fish yesterday (Rora). Simon Stephen landed 13lb fish today (Meetings).
23/10/2010
After a slight rise in water level, a good few fish have been caught this week, Simon Stephen had another one on the fly (Ravenscraig). Mike Lamont had a couple (Buthlaw). Most of the other unreported fish (I believe) were in the 6-10lb size.
25/10/2010
John Bruce & John Slater landed fish today (Buthlaw) Jim Lindsay also landed a fish on worm (Cruives)
7/10/2010
Yesterday, George Youngson landed a 5lb grilse on the worm (Artlaw) another visiting angler landed a 7lb fish also on the worm (Middleton Bend). Today, (Wednesday) in blustery conditions, Ian Hepburn landed a 6lb fish on the fly (Stonemill), Ian Milne – 9lb – (spinner) (Whinn Pool), Doug Wallace – 8lb – (worm) (Artlaw), Patrick Jackson – 8lb (Stonemill), Robert Forbes – grilse – (spinner)(Horseshoe Bend).
29/10/2010
Yesterday, (Thursday) Marek Staszewski landed a 9lb fish (Artlaw) John Massie landed a fish on the fly (Pipeline).
30/10/2010
Rounding off the season on a high, 12 year old Jacob Banks landed his first Salmon this last week, a lovely specimen of an autumn 12lb fish showing its spawning colours. The fish was safely returned to produce further generations to the river system, well done that loon!
2009 Returns
1/11/09
Last week of season and one of high water levels (including ANOTHER midweek rise). The week started with grilse of 6 lb to Ian Milne and Doug Wallace at Artlaw. During the week Patrick had 3 fish (including a clean run sea trout). Bill MacKenzie had a salmon of 14 lb and Ian McLeod one of 8 lb from Potsunkann. Andy Chalmers had “a licer” of 12 lb at Artlaw, Sandy Bruce one of 6 lb above Middleton’s bend and John Aiken had a 6 lb fish from Artlaw- all on rapala. David Weir lost a 12 lber at the net while Ian Hepburn returned a beautifully proportioned liced hen at Ravenscraig. The best fish for the season fell to John Slater on the last week when he grassed a 22 lb sea liced cock at Buthlaw. WHAT A CRACKER! (see gallery for photo).
25/10/09
Heavy rain and severe gales on Wednesday/ Thursday bringing another huge rise. Before this, Patrick lost a large fresh fish at Stonemill and landed a fresh grilse on the flying “c” on Tuesday. Jackie Aiken had a cock fish of 16lb at Ravenscraig and it’s reported that David Steven had 2 on Tuesday and 3 on Wednesday (all returned). Sandy Bruce got one from the Buthlaw area. Most stretches unfishable due to the height of the water, but a few cars seen at the Inverugie car park on Saturday. River again at plus 1 mtr.
18/10/09
A better week which started with George Youngson grassing a clean fish of 13 lb at Stonemill. The river rose again by a foot on Tuesday/Wednesday. Following this rise a few fish were landed/lost. Best of these was a 16 pound liced fish lost at the net by Sandy Bruce at Buthlaw after a couple of attempts to land it. On Saturday James Strachan had a 6lb grilse while worming at Cruives stream, John Massie had one of unknown size at Potsunkann and Ian Milne had two ( 7 & 10 ) on rapala at Artlaw/Ednie. Alex Aiken landed a nice grilse on rapala at Buthlaw.Couple of fish lost on fly this week also.
Week ending 11/10/09. Stan Youngson had a good day when the river was in spate, and caught two clean run sea trout and a 4 lb grilse all of which were returned. He did also grass a 7.5 lb salmon which was a keeper. Meanwhile, further upriver, some action was being had by “Caley” Ian (3 lb grilse), and John Massie who lost a “good fish” on fly at Buthlaw. “Bright” got a salmon of 15 lbs from the south bank at Buthlaw while James Strachan lost a grilse elsewhere and returned a sea trout. David Weir landed a 3 lb. grilse and next day James Buchan had a 4 lb grilse after having lost a big fish the previous day.
Week ending 4/10/09. No reported fish, but it’s believed Andrew Sim has been steadily taking fresh fish most days while worming at the Cruives. River up 6”.
Now for something completely different. Ian Hepburn caught his first ever fly caught grilse of 5 lbs on 5/10/09 which was RETURNED. Well done to him.
Week ending 13/9/09. Two salmon (best 10 lbs) to Derek McKenzie at Ravenscraig on Thursday 10 th while spinning. Followed by a grilse from Meadows to another angler on fly.
Week ending 6/9/09. A quiet week which started well with a clean run salmon of 9 lbs salmon to Andy Reid at Ravenscraig. Following a day of VERY heavy rain on Thursday, the river rose to its highest of the season (5 ft 5 ins) rendering it unfishable for the remaining two days (please see photos in gallery section).
30/8/09. Two grilse to report, one on fly, and the other on rapala.
Week ending 9/8/09. Five sea trout were caught at Potsunkann on Monday morning (back o’ Sunday), Three to W. Buchan and two to “Kins” Stephen, some were still in good condition. It’s likely there were other unreported fish taken that week.
Yet another rise in the river level on 14/8/09. Following this, Andrew Sim and W. Buchan each had a good grilse on worm at the Cruives. It’s also believed that similar fish have been taken on the spinner (rapala) higher up the river. Some clean sea trout taken on worm at Artlaw most of which were returned at this stage of the season. Ian Hepburn grassed a 3lb sea trout on worm near Longside on 17/8/09, while James Strachan had a grilse on fly in the tidal section. Only a VERY few anglers prepared to report catches.
2/8/09
A quieter but eventful week with the river mostly coloured throughout. Peter Buchan lost three one day including a salmon of about 8 lbs. Another salmon was lost by James Strachan at Buthlaw, while at the other end of the river, a heavy fish was lost at Bridge Pool while spinning. George Youngson had 3 sea trout to 3 lbs (one of which was returned). Best sea trout for the week was one of 6.5 lbs from Potsunkann. River now suitable for fly fishing.
Water rose all day on Saturday 18/7/09 and lots of fish were seen coming through the Cruives.
Monday proved to be the day to be out and a number were taken on worm/spinner at Buthlaw/Artlaw and Doug Wallace had 4 three of which were returned.
John Massie had two “crackers”, one near Longside and the other from the Swirl Pool. Many other fish have been taken and few recorded.
Also worthy of note is the first grilse (6 lbs.) caught at Buthlaw by Mr. Richardson. No immediate prospects for fly fishing.
After an earlier spate (two weeks previously) it’s estimated there were around 40 sea trout taken on worm & spinner (to 5 lbs.).
2008 Returns
Sea Trout; Overall, 245 Sea Trout were landed, 89 of which were caught/returned. Best Sea Trout of the season weighed in at 12.5 lbs. on fly (teal, blue & silver)
Salmon/Grilse; 111 were landed, 16 of which were released. Best salmon was an 18 lb. fish on the spinner (returned).
Night time Sea Trout fishing was hampered somewhat by the frequent summer spates, although the spinning/bait fishing members benefited from these conditions. This is the second successive season where fluctuating river levels have thwarted any serious night-time fishing. On the other hand, the increased river heights towards the season's end did encourage the "back end" Salmon to run.
