Bracey adapts to difficult conditions with Rusty Cup success at Loch Calder

The sudden drop in temperature last Saturday morning saw some hardy Dounreay Fly Fishing Association members donning as many layers of clothing as they could get under their usual fishing outfits. A bitterly cold north-east wind greeted 12 anglers as they signed on at the east side dam for a 10am start to their traditional season-opener on Loch Calder.

When the paperwork was completed, it was surprising, considering the wind direction, that some set off for the New Bay area rather than fish the east bank where they would have the wind on their backs.

Back at the dam following lines up at 4pm, the decision to go to the bay proved to be a wise one, as the best two baskets came from the hard-to-fish area.

After missing last year’s event, Toby Bracey showed he could adapt to the difficult conditions and area by placing 11 trout weighing 5 lb 9.5 oz on the scales. This was just enough to secure the Rusty Cup and 12 Bank League points.

Toby had used a Fast Tip line with Kate McLaren Muddler, Red Thang and Viva Sparkler flies to make a fine start to his season.

Alex Donald had also figured out how and where to fish in the bay, and finished a close second with 10 fish for 4 lb 10 oz and 10 points. He had employed a Midge Tip line with size 12 dark-coloured flies such as Black Pennell, Bibios and various Hedgehogs.

Last year’s Rusty Cup winner, Neil Clyne, decided to fish the same area of the east bank to the north of the dam, and returned with five trout for 2 lb 2 oz and eight points for third place. He had used an Intermediate line with Clan Chief, Green-Tailed Kate McLaren and Loch Ordie flies.

Tony Chalmers had the best fish of the day (worth an extra point) in his bag of four for 1 lb 14.5 oz and eight points. George Robertson had also ventured to the bay where he caught four for 1 lb 10.5 oz and six points. Kevin Imlach and Aivis Kreslins tied for sixth place with three trout for 1 lb 7.5 oz and five points each.

The club's next event sees the boat season start with the President's Quaich competition on Loch Watten on Saturday, May 6.

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