Wet and windy weather has meant that water temps have dropped significantly over the last few days. This has been a blessing in disguise and although the anglers don't like it, the fish welcomed the cooler conditions.
Dries and emergers have been the most popular patterns recently, with Jimmy Sayer and Luis deSouza landing 7 & 8 respectively at the weekend.
Water clarity is exceptional so small flies are, as usual working best. Nymphs and crunchers fished just under the surface will work, especially when targeting individual fish or small groups.
There have been one or two resident brownies caught recently, most of which are well into the 3lb bracket.
For more information call the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 11th September
The wind and rain this week have provided some challenging casting conditions. On Friday those who braved the bad weather were rewarded. RMF member Jan Lewandowski fished a short 2 hour morning session and banked 4 rainbows in quick succession on daddy patterns. Visiting angler Rob Gibbons landed 6 Rainbows in the slightly more favorable weather on Saturday. All were landed on small black buzzers. The forecast of decreasing wind and rain will hopefully make fishing a little easier and continued cooler temperatures will see fish activity increase.
Monday 4th September
The arrival of some more autumnal weather has seen the fishing improve no end. On Thursday Martin Smith landed 11 Rainbows and a Brownie on damsels and Chris Smith also banked 11 Rainbows in a short afternoon session using a variety of damsels and buzzers. On Sunday, Barry Tierney and Jimmy Sayer landed 5 a piece on CDCs, PTNs and F Fly patterns. The continued overcast and cooler weather will almost certainly see fish actively feeding and expect evening rises and dry fly patterns to prevail. For more information please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 29th August
The heatwave over the bank holiday weekend didn't really do much for the fishing, but although extremely hot, fish were still caught on nymphs.
The rod average for the last week has nearly doubled as the water continues to cool down. Stocking has resumed and new fish will certainly be a welcome addition to the resident stock. Notable returns include Drew Patrick with 13 rainbows, John High with 7 rainbows and after a group lesson with James, the Summerton family caught their first trout ending the day with 6 rainbows on their very first outing.
The second half of the week is due to be much cooler and feeling more autumnal which will only be a good thing. Nymphs such as damsels and small GRHE will work, dries for the cloudy days. The rod average over the last few days has been 4.8.
Monday 21st August
The constantly changing weather has seen a real variety of flies produce takes this week. RMF member Drew Patrick had a great day on Thursday. Using various dry patterns including klinkhammers and CDC buzzers, Drew landed 5 Rainbows and a stunning 3.5lb Brown. In the last couple of days we've seen fish landed on klinkhammers, damsel nymphs, CDC & shipman's buzzers, F fly and hoppers so don't be afraid to try a variety of flies. As usual, late afternoon onwards seem to be the most productive times. We will be stocking the lake on Thursday.
Monday 7th August
As we draw closer to Autumn and the days start getting a little shorter there is a real sense of things starting to improve for a trout water. Cooler nights have seen water temps drop slightly and although still just touching 20 degrees the fish seem perfectly happy and the fishing over the weekend was unseasonably good!
7 anglers on Saturday saw 20 fish caught with Barry Tierney banking 5 on dries and diawl bach nymphs. Friday evening Mary Taylor had 8 at last knockings on Shipmans fished from the West bank.
Clarity is good so small dries and emergers on the cloudy days have worked. Nymphs or static buzzers for all other times.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 31st July
A much cooler week and a night of heavy rain has brought water temps down considerably and the fish have certainly responded. From seeking shade around the island and margins they are now freely feeding in open water and are much more active. However, its still Summer and fishing is still incredibly hard on the bright, hot days so try and choose your days carefully if possible.
Matt Bradbeer managed to bank 5 on Saturday using buzzers and dries and Jimmy Sayer had 6 on Sunday morning using black Shipmans.
For more information call James on 01953 483971
Monday 24th July
Water temperatures remain at 22 degrees although not anything like critical, the fish are now starting to get difficult to catch due to the Summer temps.
Jimmy Sayer landed 5 on Saturday morning and Drew Patrick had an incredible session on Monday landing 8 rainbows in total from the island.
Dries have been the only thing which has been catching consistently with wulff patterns and cdc's working best.
Anyone wishing to fish is advised to steer clear of the bright, hot days as the overcast cooler days, especially if there is a little breeze will be much more worthwhile.
For more information call James on 01953 483971
Monday 17th July
Occasional rain showers and cooler nighttime temperatures have kept the fishery going over the Summer. Water temps are still pretty high but nothing like last years heatwave and although anglers have to pick their times carefully there is still some good fishing to be had. Evenings have by far and away been the best time of day, with a good evening rise occurring on most nights. Sedge have been hatching and any small imitation has been a good bet, particularly near the island as fish are tending to congregate in the shade of the willows.
If the sun appears during the day, conditions make fishing very hard indeed so keep an eye on the forecast. Cooler, breezy days with a good cloud covering will obviously be the best bet. For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 10th July
Changeable conditions and more rain over the last week have meant water levels are unseasonably back up to their Winter mark. Temperatures still remain pretty high so dont expect any amazing sport on the bright, sunny days but when its overcast and breezy there is still some fantastic action to be had on dries.
Lester Bishop fished a Saturday morning session and landed 6 rainbows all on dries. CDC emergers and hoppers doing the trick. By lunchtime there wasn't a cloud in the sky and sun was shining which put paid to any further success.
Luis deSouza has been fishing regularly in the evenings and with great success. We are still getting a substantial evening rise most nights and the sport can be extremely good.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 3rd July
The heavy rain and drop in temperature last week was a godsend and decreased water temps dramatically overnight. The fish seemed to really respond to this and the weekend in particular saw a definite rise the in catch returns book.
Cloudy spells on both days were a relief from the sun and cdc's and emerger patterns worked well. Black buzzers also accounted for fish with father and son Mike and Matt Bradbeer banking 15 rainbows between them on Saturday.
Lester Bishop landed 5 rainbows and brown in a short morning session which came to a halt when the sun appeared from behind the clouds.
Since the rain the water has become extremely clear so smaller flies will work best.
Try klinkhammers, cdc buzzers or small shipmans for when conditions allow and black buzzers fished static when the sun is shining.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 26th June
A perfect weekend of weather meant the fishing went from pretty average at best to exceptional overnight. The hot, bright sunny days saw fish retreat to the deeper water but over the weekend the temps were cooler and stormy, overcast skies meant that fish were making the most of the conditions and were up and feeding.
On Saturday, Graham Coles banked 6 rainbows on home tied emerger patterns from the West bank. Sunday saw 8 anglers and some really encouraging returns. The rod average was 4.25 with Andy Hunt landing 9 on dries from the back of the island, Martin Smith had 7 rainbows and 1 huge double figure brown trout from the far end of the lake on blobs and Luis deSouza had 8 rainbows during a frantic last minute evening rise.
Avoid the hot, bright, sunny days especially if there is no breeze as fishing will be difficult to say the least.
For more information call James on 01953 483971.
Monday 19th June
A scorching few days recently has made fishing pretty difficult. The weekend was a write off due to temperatures close to 30 and not a breath of wind. Despite the conditions the fish seem to be surprisingly happy and ready to feed when conditions permit. An overcast Friday morning saw Lester Bishop bank an impressive 10 Rainbows in a couple of hours on dries, by mid day the sun was shining and temperatures increased putting paid to any action for the rest of the day.CDC's and F Flies have been a popular choice, damsel nymphs or deep buzzers for when its sunny. The rod average over the last week was 2.2.
During the hot spells it will only be worth fishing in the mornings or late afternoons and evenings, with bright, hot and flat calm days very difficult indeed. Keep an eye on the website for updates during the summer as we may be forced to close or at the very least limit catch and release to safeguard the stock.
Monday 12th June
The cooler temperatures of last week have been a godsend with water temperatures dropping by a couple of degrees and things looking a little more normal for June.
The fish are in surprisingly good spirits and are feeding freely when conditions permit. We are getting a good evening rise most nights as proved by Jon Brooks and Luis deSouza last week, both managing to tempt fish on emergers, with small black shipmans being a killer as the light fades.
Other notable returns include Martin Smith with 11 rainbows and brown on buzzers and Jimmy Sayer using a cdc F fly to bank 6 on Sunday morning.
Expect the fishing to be good after a cooler night or on the cloudy, breezy days. During hot, bright spells Damsel nymphs, deep buzzers or goldhead hares ears should do the trick.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 5th June
Even though the water temperatures are unusually high for this time of year the fishing has been consistently good. Saturday was the busiest day of the weekend, with 18 anglers throughout the day. The best return was Lynne Wee who landed 10 rainbows and 2 browns, closely followed by Adrian Head with 9 rainbows. All were caught on either shipmans or scruffy buzzers from the island.
Jon Brooks banked 12 in an evening session using small skinny buzzers and fishing until dark. Luis deSouza fished the evening rise on Sunday and tempted 6 with black shipmans. The island has been a sanctuary during the day and offered shelter from the sun so this is a good place to start. Small buzzers are still working well with shipmans, cdc's and hoppers when the cloud allows.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 30th May
The weather has been the deciding factor recently with bright, hot days proving a little challenging. The fishing is still surprisingly good, especially on the overcast, cooler days with Bank Holiday Monday seeing a lake full of anglers and some respectable returns. Deep buzzers have been the order of the day when its sunny, with Jon Brooks using them to great affect on Saturday evening, when in a short 3 hour session he landed 10 rainbows. Jimmy Sayer used Shipmans in the morning to temp 11, finishing at mid day when things got a little too hot.
Monday was the busiest day of the weekend and the weather was much more suitable. Martin Smith managed 9 using Buzzers from the West Bank while Graham Coles and Drew Patrick used dries to great effect seeing plenty of action on yellow mayfly patterns and cdc buzzers.
Expect the weather to cool down a little this week with slightly more cloud cover on certain days helping the fishing.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 22nd May
Recent warm and bright sunny days has still seen fish readily feeding and the appearance of some much needed cloud cover has meant we've seen some glorious evening rises. Martin Smith fished a morning session on Friday and banked an impressive 12 Rainbows using buzzer patterns. A jam packed day on Saturday saw 13 anglers on the banks. RMF members Richard Mainprize and Graham Coles both fished CDC buzzers and landed 9 and 6 Rainbows respectively. Sunday saw regular Jimmy Sayer bank 11 Rainbows despite the bright sunshine all on emergers. With more warm and sunny weather forecast we expect to see plenty of evening hatches and rising fish. The odd mayfly have been spotted so don't rule that pattern out of your arsenal but buzzers remain the most effective fly choice.
Monday 15th May
Despite the changeable weather over the last few days the fishing has been consistently good, particularly on the overcast and breezier days. On Friday Kevin Southey had a fantastic 4 hour session. Using a real mix of flies including buzzers and dries, Kevin banked 15 Rainbows. On Saturday Andrew Tink and Luis De Souza had very productive sessions. Andrew fished the afternoon during both sunshine and rain showers and landed 12 fish in total. Luis took advantage of a great evening rise and banked 12 Rainbows on black gnat and grey duster flies. Mary Taylor fished Sunday's evening rise and managed 10 Rainbows on CDC buzzers. Buzzers have most definitely accounted for the most fish this week, whether CDCs during an evening rise or Shipmans and olive buzzers fished almost static just under the surface on the brighter days.
Monday 1st May
A busy bank holiday weekend was greeted by perfect conditions for fishing. Saturday saw 13 anglers land a total of 54 fish, with the rod average being 4.1. Conditions on Sunday and Monday were even better, with overcast skies all day and good breeze meaning most fish were up and taking dries. CDC buzzers and shipmans were stand out flies when condition permitted with sub surface buzzers or bloodworms for brighter periods.
Notable returns included Patrick Larke with 12 on Saturday and Luis DeSouza 13 in the evening. Jan Lewandowski from Thetford banked 20 and Nick Fisher totalled 12.
Monday saw the first Mayfly of the season and Hawthorns and Alder still in abundance. Buzzers hatches are prolific on warmer days so patterns to try include black hoppers, shipmans and cdc's as well as olive nymphs or small hare's ears.
NEW Fly Tying vid for those interested
Monday 24th April
Typical Spring weather over the last few days has been perfect for buzzer fishing and dry fly action. Warm, overcast days have seen an abundance a fly life, both aquatic and terrestrial and the feeding frenzy of rising fish which follows.
Alders and Hawthorns have been hatching when warm so black hoppers or large black cdc's have worked well, particularly when breezy. For the calmer days, smaller dries and buzzers will be better and when the sun makes an appearance try deep buzzers, goldhead nymphs or diawl bachs.
Lester Bishop banked 6 rainbows on buzzers and dries on Saturday from the far point, Martin Smith had a great day on Sunday with 14 on sunk goldhead Daddies and Al Perkins showed great watercraft and landed 4 fish in quick succession on a tiny goldhead nymph at the weekend when the bright conditions put paid to any surface action.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 17th April
Unsettled, cooler weather last week didn't hamper the fishing and buzzer hatches were still in abundance. A few Hawthorns have been making an appearance too, with black hoppers taking a few fish on overcast days.
Crystal clear water has made fishing more challenging on brighter days so a good breeze is essential, especially if wanting to fish dries.
Keiron Harney from London fished on two consecutive days at the weekend and banked 12 on the Saturday and 16 on Sunday, all fish were taken on black and olive buzzers fished static. Other notable returns included James Fleetcroft with 9 rainbows, Mary Taylor also with 9 rainbows and Darren Blayney with 21 rainbows.
The weather forecast, particularly at the end of the week looks very promising.
Cooler temps and overcast days should mean that this buzzer feeding frenzy will provide some excellent fishing.
Monday 10th April
A busy week with plenty of anglers has seen some great daily totals in the returns book. Buzzers have been far and away the best method recently and a small black or red bloodworm buzzer fished static on a floating line has been successful all over the lake but particularly the West bank. Tom Shead banked 13 rainbows on a jam packed day on Thursday using buzzers fished under an indicator. Other methods have worked, particularly on the bright, sunny days and on Saturday Martin Smith had 20 rainbows fishing from the far point using damsels and lures fished a little deeper.
With cloudy days forecast for this week and the fish really switched on to feeding, buzzers and small hares ear nymphs in natural and olive will be certainly worth a try. CDC buzzers or small emerger patterns will take fish when dries are top of the list. The rod average for this week has been 5.2.
For any groups of 3 or more wishing to fish, it may be best to call before setting off as the lake has been particularly busy recently. For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 3rd April
March was one of the busiest months to date, with 175 anglers in total catching 965 fish with the rod average being 5.5. Almost all fish fell to buzzers and emergers with the fishery seeing some of the best buzzer hatches for years.
The weather recently has been near perfect and overcast breezy days have seen fish rising all day, gorging themselves on this subsurface phenomenon.
One of our giant brown trout was caught last week by newcomer Ashley Riches from Kings Lynn. The fish, estimated at well over 10lb was caught in the margins on a small olive green buzzer and returned safely to fight another day.
Our season start competition on Saturday saw a lake full of anglers compete for first prize of a new Vision ONKI fly rod. A tense final hour saw Jon Brooks and David Long tied for first place, with Jon taking the spoils in the final minutes with 6 rainbows and a brown and David finishing a respectable 2nd with 7 rainbows. Jon White completed the top 3 with 4 points. A great day was had by all and a total of 45 fish were caught.
As mentioned, buzzers have been far the most productive fly choice. On Friday Keith Mills and Drew Patrick landed 12 Rainbows each on a variety on buzzer patterns. RMF regulars Jimmy Sayer and Luis DeSouza had very productive sessions on Sunday. Jimmy landed 8 Rainbows on buzzers whilst Luis fished a short evening session and banked 10 on black shipmans buzzers and GRHE.
For more information please call 01953 483971
Monday 27th March
The key word this week has been "buzzers". With fish gorging themselves on this subsurface phenomenon there has been plenty of extremely high catch returns.
By far and away the most effective method over the last few days has been fishing a static buzzer or two into the wind. The fish have followed the wind as they do at this time of year and although we've had some sunshine to deal with, even on the bright days fish have been taken just under the surface.
Pray for overcast or hazy days and fish will freely rise to emergers, patterns such as black Shipmans or cdc buzzers come into their own.
Recent stand out returns include Lester Bishop from Harlow who banked 13 rainbows and a brown on Saturday using small buzzers, Andy Hunt with 7 rainbows from the opposite end of the lake and Kevin Southey with 12 on Friday.
Olive nymphs have also been working well with Andy Morgan fishing from the point on Sunday and banking 10 rainbows on small hot head damsels.
Fish have been caught all over the lake but on windy days head fo the windward bank.
The rod average this week has been 5.6. Just a reminder to everyone that we have a competition this Saturday 1st April and will be closed for day ticket for that day.
Monday 20th March
Its been a busy week at the fishery, with the banks full of anglers and buzzer hatches on most days providing a real early season spectacle.
Thursday saw 13 anglers and a rod average of 5.2 with the best falling to Mick Parker from Wymondham with 16 Rainbows on buzzers.
The following day David Shipp returned 12 on black Shipmans.
During an incredible hatch in the morning, Patrick Larke had 10 on Bloodworm patterns on Saturday.
Sunday was certainly by far the best day for fishing and with a good breeze and mild temperatures we saw a rise which lasted pretty much all day.
Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham took this opportunity to experiment with dries and emergers and landed 10 Rainbows from almost every area on the lake. Jimmy was using cdc buzzers, black gnats and klinkhammers.
As mentioned, the buzzer hatches have been biblical recently so any subsurface pattern should work if small, for emergers try cdc's, shipmans or small griffiths gnats.
Monday 13th March
Its been a busy week its been at the fishery this week and with lots of anglers on the banks the fish have been in fine form.
The slightly warmer days have meant that buzzers hatches are really starting to make a appearance, especially late afternoon. Its no surprise that the returns book is full of big numbers, with buzzer or emerger patterns as well as bloodworms accounting for the majority of fish.
The Inlet point and far point have been hotspots recently but fish have been caught from all over the lake with the windward bank being a dead cert if it gets a little breezy.
Saturday saw an incredible rod average of 9.0 with top rod being Barry who returned 20 rainbows. Other impressive tallys included John Little from Gt Yarmouth with 16, Patrick Larke with 15 on bloodworms, Luis deSouza with 14 on buzzers and diawl bachs one of which was a 4lb+ brownie and Martin Smith with 18 on Sunday.
All fish spooned have been full of buzzers and daphnia so drifting small naturals on the wind has been by far and away the best method, especially if we get some warm, overcast days.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 6th March
Its been an exciting few days at the fishery recently. Not only has the fishing been really good, there's also been some major changes in the shop too.
The last few days have really felt like Spring is finally here and the fish have certainly helped things. Buzzers and Bloodworms have been by far and away the fly of choice with all fish being spooned proving that buzzers and daphnia have been high up on the menu. Dries too have now started consistently working well when conditions permit with David Shipp using Shipmans Buzzers on Saturday afternoon and totaling 10 rainbows in a short session from the far point.
Other notable returns include Drew and David Patrick who had 15 rainbows each on flexifloss bloodworms, buzzers and damsels with Mike Glynn landing 20 on Thursday using damsel nymphs.
A group booking on Sunday saw 10 newcomers brave the wind and persistent rain in an attempt to catch their first trout. After a group lesson they all managed to catch at least one for the table with James Smith an RMF regular catching the fish of the day on his very last cast, a fin perfect rainbow caught on a size 20 midge pattern on the surface. A great day considering conditions and a really nice sight to see fish rising freely to buzzer hatches even in these cooler conditions.
We now have all our new 2017 stock in the shop so feel free to pop in for a browse around or a chat about any of the new products for this year.
Click HERE for 2 NEW videos in the Gallery section
James Smith's final trout caught on a size 20 Dry..!
Monday 27th February
Our first mention in the report this week must go to RMF member Andrew Patrick who not only fished the day storm Doris hit but banked an impressive 12 Rainbows on bloodworms, appetizers and even on dries! Sunday proved a productive day on the trout lake. Tom Shead from Norwich landed 6 Rainbows in just a few hours using a cpmbination of bloodworm and damsel patterns. Mary Taylor had a fantastic session on Sunday too. Using gold head hare's ear, Mary banked 11 Rainbows and a Brownie. With the weather set to overcast and blustery, fly choice should remain unchanged however, on the warmer cloudy days, dry fly patterns are definitely worth trying.
Monday 20th February
Last week's mixed weather certainly provided a range of conditions for anglers. Despite the flurry of snow, RMF member Jimmy Sayer landed an impressive 22 Rainbows all on small buzzers fished static and bloodworm patterns. Relative newcomer to the sport Mary Taylor had a great day's fishing when she banked 9 Rainbows on a gold head lure and on the same day Patrick Larke from Attleborough had 12 Rainbows on small cat's whiskers. On Sunday, father and son Bob and James Fleetcroft made the most of a short afternoon session. The pair landed 11 Rainbows between them in a little over three hours. With overcast but warmer weather forecast we should see more and more buzzer hatches and fish starting to switch on to dries.
Monday 13th February
Despite the return of wintery weather the lake has continued to fish well. On the colder days the fish have sunk a little lower but on warmer days we've still seen plenty of action higher up and buzzers working well. On Saturday Ken Fish had an incredibly productive 3 hours session. Ken landed 8 Rainbows and 2 Brown trout using black lures and blue flash damsels. Also on Saturday, Graham Coles fished a minkie blob to bank 9 Rainbows in another short pre-rugby session! On Sunday RMF member Jimmy Sayer banked an impressive 22 Rainbows. Using both bloodworms and buzzers static on a floating line, Jimmy caught fish from predominantly from the far end of the lake.
Monday 6th February
The almost Spring like weather over the weekend resulted in some excellent fishing at RMF with our first buzzer hatches of the year and fish being taken on dries. On Saturday Andy Hunt from Morley had 8 Rainbows on a combination of bloodworms, buzzers and klinkhammers. Lester Bishop fished on Sunday morning and banked 9 Rainbows on apps bloodworms and Kevin Southey landed 6 with the weekend's rod average being 3.9. Unfortunately the temperatures are forecast to drop again so surface action may decline. Recommended fly choices would be the ever popular apps bloodworm fished static or small lures such as cats whiskers, damsels or minkies fished on a sinking line.
Monday 30th January
The cold snap put paid to any fishing until Saturday, which greeted us with a rise in temperature and an ice free lake for the first time in a week.
RMF member Jon Brooks defied all logic and had the best session with 5 rainbows in just a couple of hours in the evening on buzzers fished on a floating line and just inches under the surface. Andy Morgan from Narborough caught 3 on various lures a little deeper and on Sunday, Jimmy Sayer landed 4 on a home tied Damsel Nymph.
Newcomer Mary Taylor banked 4 rainbows in quick succession on various nymphs.
The fish have been rising freely to sporadic buzzer hatches in the afternoons and although few and far between its looking promising for Spring.
Sinking lines and lures or heavy nymphs should still have the edge on other tactics or flies, but with the weather warming up this week dont discount buzzers or small nymphs fished just under the surface.
For more information call James at the lodge 01953 483971
Monday 23rd January
The fishing has been a little more challenging this week due to the plummeting temperatures with a distinct drop in rod average since the hard frosts.
Most anglers that have braved the cold have caught on sinking lines and lures but surprisingly there are still fish being caught on buzzers and bloodworm patterns on floaters. Craig Rodriguez landed 7 rainbows in an afternoon using this method from the East bank, while on the same day, Drew Patrick had 4 rainbows and a Brownie on a sinking line and black tadpole lure.
A mention must go to Lester Bishop who fished a bitterly cold morning on Saturday and was rewarded with 3 rainbows caught using bloodworm patterns fished no more than a couple of feet from the surface. Lester was fishing a small channel in the ice which was cleared that morning.
The cold snap has put a stop to fishing for a few days as the lake has been frozen since Sunday. We were able to keep the water ice free for a few days but despite running the aerator and using the boat to break it up it is now frozen solid and not likely to be clear until the weekend.
For more information call James on 01953 483971
Monday 16th January
Wintery showers and freezing temperatures have done nothing to put the fish off over the last few days with most anglers enjoying some superb sport despite the icy conditions. It is now pretty certain than sinking or intermediate lines have the edge, with lures and minkies really coming into their own. Floating lines and buzzers have surprisingly still caught fish, this being proved by Jon Brooks on Sunday evening when he managed to tempt 3 rainbows to a static black buzzer from the lodge end of the lake.
A red letter day for Bob Fleetcroft and Richard Hems on Saturday saw them bank 33 fish between, Richard with 19 and Bob 14. All fish fell to mini minkies fished on sinkers or inters from the far end of the lake. Other mentions this week must go to Andy Hunt with 12 rainbows, Drew Patrick with 15, Andy Morgan with 9 and a special mention to local angler Clive Bound with his best ever day and 11 fish.
Location has been key over the last few days, with most fish still in deeper water at the far end of the lake. Small lures and mini minkies have been the best options, but dont rule out buzzers or apps bloodworms, especially if there is a little wind.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 9th January
A mixture of conditions last week saw a variety of methods used, most of which proved successful. A sharp frost on Thursday meant that the lake was partially frozen, this didnt stop Alan Cobham, who despite having to wait for certain sections of the lake to become clear managed to bank 8 rainbows in total in difficult conditions. Alan was using an intermediate line and a combination of Damsels and apps bloodworms. A much milder weekend saw standout performances from Martin Matthews and Chris Bonner. Martin landed 20 rainbows in total using a sinking line and lures such as cormorants and cats whiskers and Chris had 13 again using a sinker but snakes and damsels were the flies of choice.
The occasional fish are still being caught on buzzers and bloodworms near the surface but the majority are in deeper water now.
The rod average last week was 3.85.
For more information call James on 01953 483971
Monday 2nd January
A busy few days at the fishery between Christmas and the New Year saw a total of 29 anglers over 4 days catch a total of 116 trout including some belated Christmas presents for some of them!
The first anglers on the bank after Christmas were Garrick Hannah and Barry Tierney. Garrick had a successful morning and landed 5 Rainbows on hometied lures from the West bank. For Barry, it was a different story as a fishless morning resulted in the capture of a huge brown trout in the afternoon in the form of a double figure monster landed after a 20 minute battle and caught on a hometied claret damsel nymph. A personal best for Barry by a long way and the biggest fish to be caught at the fishery for 4 years. (pic)
Other anglers to have enjoyed success were Patrick Larke with 15 rainbows on buuzers, Roy Harvey with 12 on bloodworms and Drew Patrick with 10 on damsels and tadpoles.
As mentioned last week, the fish are starting to head to deeper water and slow intermediate or sink tip lines have been the better option recently.
Flies such as mini minkies, small goldhead nymphs and lures have worked well when fished deep or buzzers and bloodworm patterns fished static should still pick up fish, particularly on dull days.
Barry Tierney with a double figure Brown trout from Tuesday.
Tuesday 27th December
The windy weather over the Christmas period certainly rewarded those who braved the conditions and got out on the bank.
Holiday maker Graham Austin had his best session to date with an impressive 18 rainbows just before Christmas. All caught on small nymphs and black buzzers.
Paul Worley lived up to his name and persevered on a very windy overcast day on Friday and was rewarded with 14 rainbows and a brown trout from the West bank using a home tied mini minkie. The fishing has continued to be very good despite the cold snap and fish are still fairly actively feeding and up in the water.
Lures and intermediate lines will account for most fish, but floating lines and long leaders fished with a weighted fly are still a viable option.
The introduction of some very large Brown trout last week should keep things interesting over the Winter for those who can withstand the cold and continued stocking in readiness for the Spring should provide some of the best fishing of the year over the next few weeks.
We will be closed on New Years eve and New Years day.
For more info call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 19th December
A foggy week last week saw some exceptional fishing. The dull, low light conditions really seemed to help the clear water and most anglers returned up to and over 10 fish. The best numbers for the week were from Elliot Macrow with 17 rainbows and a brown on Thursday. Other good returns included Keith Mills with 14, Mike Glynn with 13, Gary Waker with 12 and a special mention to Drew Patrick with 15 and a fish from every platform on the lake! All manner of flies have been taking fish and due to the conditions dry flies have been working well if a breeze picks up. Lester Bishop banked 10 on Saturday on a combination of cdc buzzers & Klinkhammers. Other flies to try are static buzzers, hare's ear nymphs or lures such as blue flash damsels, cats whiskers or minkies.
We would like to wish all our anglers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Monday 12th December
The fishing last week was a tale of two halves, with the early part of the week being decidedly easier than the latter. The rod average was up around 6.0 until the temperatures soared up to 14'c which surprisingly made the fishing more difficult and anglers struggled to see the same double figure returns of a few days beforehand.
Drew Patrick, Mike Glynn and Luis Desouza all returned over 10 fish with Mike managing 13 rainbows and a brownie. He returned 2 days later and totalled 10, a personal best haul over 2 days. A good number of fish were caught on lures, but nearly half were taken on black buzzers and apps bloodworm patterns, even a few on dries! Since the increase in temperatures the numbers have reduced a little with the average being 3.5, but location is key. With fish being stocked consistently throughout the winter look out for a few monsters going in over the next few weeks.
Finally, a big thank you to all those who came to our Xmas event at the fishery last weekend. It was a good chance to catch up and share a drink with customers new and old. The fly tying sessions on Sunday proved very popular and we will be holding more tying classes in the New Year.
Monday 5th December
The recent cold snap has seen fish move to deeper water, with sink tip lines or intermediates starting to fish really well particularly on the brighter days.
Mike Glynn from Thetford used this method to good effect last week when he successfully landed 10 rainbows on a sink tip coupled with lures such as olive damsels and cats whiskers.Ken Whitton had similar success on Thursday when in an afternoon session he took 11 on zonkers from the West bank.
Other notables returns include Lester Bishop from Harlow with 10 on klinkhammers, Clive Bound with a personal best 5 rainbows on black buzzers and a special mention to Zac Lewis who caught his first trout on Saturday (picture)
With milder weather forecast for the end of the week things may change but at present nymphs and lures have proved most effective, with buzzers or emergers targeting fish on the overcast, warmer days.
Just a reminder that we have our Christmas weekend this weekend (10th/11th) so come along for a glass of something, discounted tackle, fly tying and season ticket renewals.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 28th November
The fishing over the last week has been pretty consistent, with plenty still being caught in the surface on dries, emergers or buzzer patterns.
At the moment the fish are still up, but as the temperatures start to drop expect the fish to begin moving to slightly deeper water.
Clive Bound enjoyed a pretty surreal morning fishing last Thursday, when on a cold and windy day managed to bank 4 rainbows on a Shipmans Buzzer from the West bank. Once again, Kevin Southey mastered the conditions and ended a mornings fishing with 7 rainbows and brownie. Kevin was fishing the point and using a small montana nymph. Ross Tredar had 7 on lures, Keiron Harney had 5 on small nymphs and Luis Desouza had 9 in an evening on home tied apps bloodworms.
Monday 21st November
Wet and windy weather recently certainly hasn't had a detrimental affect on the fishing, with even the bright, calm days fishing surprisingly well for this time of year.
Last Friday and Saturday saw a bumper day for anglers on the banks and although bitterly cold, the numbers in the record book told a different story..
Newcomer Kevin Southey enjoyed a great mornings sport on Friday with 5 rainbows to the bank. Kevin was using a black nymph on a floating line and fishing on the point.
On the same day, Allan and Kyle Lynn had 16 between them on buzzers and cdc emergers, Bodie had 11 on small nymphs and dries and Norris 10 rainbows on buzzers. RMF member Ken Whitton used zonkers to bank 9 rainbows in only a couple of hours from the lodge end of the lake.
A special mention must go to newcomer Andy Hunt who enjoyed his best day since taking up the sport in the Spring. Andy fished on Saturday and caught 9 rainbows, all released to fight another day and caught on a combination of buzzers and klinkhammers.
The rod average for these two days was in impressive 8.1, with not a single blank. Weekly average was 5.8.
As mentioned last week, the water is exceptionally clear at the moment so fly choice is proving to be key. Sinking lines are starting to pick up a few more fish as they become more inclined to head to deeper water and lures or damsels will be the fly to try. Buzzers, cdc's and apps bloodworms have all been productive patterns.
Monday 14th November
Consistent fishing and inconsistent weather has been the story recently with anglers that are willing to brave the rain being rewarded with impressive catch returns and some really great sport with hard fighting fish.
Newcomer Martin Smith had a cracking day last week and despite cold, gloomy conditions managed to bank 10 Rainbows. All were released to fight another day and were caught from the far end of the lake on Damsel nymphs.
On Friday, Paul Chipperfield from Norwich landed 12 Rainbows on small hares ear nymphs and buzzers, Jan Lewandowski had 10 on various lures and father and son James and Bob Fleetcroft enjoyed a short session on Sunday which produced 11 rainbows and a brownie between them.
Despite a small gathering, the fish are now well spread out and have been caught from all over the lake. Despite the cold snap last week they are still pretty high up in the water, which is now even clearer than ever and have been taken on various patterns from small cdc emergers and buzzers to minkies fished on a sinking line. The rod average for last week was 6.14
For more information call James on 01953 483971
Monday 7th November
Last week was probably the busiest and most consistent week of fishing so far this year. Cooler temps and a change in pressure has meant that the fish are now really active and this has been proved by the catch returns.
Last Thursday saw the best rod average for a long time with 11 anglers landing a total of 59 trout, thats a rod average of 5.36. Fish were caught all over the lake but a couple of groups still remain just off the island and over the deep water at the far end of the lake. The best rod on the day was Mr Waker with 12 Rainbows, all caught on lures. Other notable entries for last week were Luis deSouza with an impressive 7 rainbows and a brown caught in a 3 hour afternoon session on cdcs and shipmans. Tim Parker, with 6 rainbows and a brown on a montana from the far point. John Knight with 6 rainbows and 3 browns which fell to buzzers. Finally, Martin Matthews on Sunday with 9 rainbows on damsels and cats whiskers fished on a sinking line.
As stated above, all manner of flies and tactics have taken fish recently, most of which are weather dependent. Generally small nymphs or buzzers will continue to work until the fish start to head to the deep water and when they do, cats whiskers, weighted nymphs, damsels and nomads will be worth a try.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 31st October
The fishery has been extremely busy over the last week and fishing has been pretty consistent, with the odd angler returning into double figures.
The weather hasn't helped things, with high pressure and very little wind making conditions less than ideal, however, things are due to change this week with cooler temperatures and low pressure ensuring a light breeze which will help those wishing to still fish dries!
Returning angler Chris Taylor fished on Thursday and was welcomed back to RMF with a total of 14 Rainbows and Brown trout. Chris was using a mixture of CDC emergers and various buzzers.
A mention must go the captor of the biggest fish of the week, Kevin Knights.
Kevin was fishing on Saturday and caught a beautiful Brown and two Rainbows, one of which was over 4lb and returned safely to fight another day, (pictured). Buzzers have continued to be the most prolific fly choice but improving weather conditions next week could see dry fly patterns producing the goods again.
Monday 24th October
Visiting angler Elliot Macrow fished on Thursday and, despite changeable conditions, banked 8 Rainbows and a Brown Trout using a variety of dry hoppers caught predominantly from the far end of the lake. The favourable weather on Saturday saw a busy day at the lake and a wide variety of flies produced fish. Damsels and CDC buzzers seemed most effective and the rod average for the day was 4.4. A special mention this week to Mary Taylor who, after a casting lesson from James, went on to catch her very first trout and on a nymph to boot! The forecast mild and overcast weather for the end of the week should ensure some excellent fishing with black or claret hoppers being our fly recommendation.
Monday 10th October
Its been a pretty consistent week at the fishery this week with the rod average being 4.2 and many anglers returning into double figures. One such instance was visiting angler Chris Ives from Essex who enjoyed an action filled day last week. Chris was using a combination of buzzers and hares ear nymphs and when conditions permitted, Daddies in the ripple and was rewarded with 14 Rainbows all caught from the point, fishing over deep water.
Another successful day was had by RMF member Drew Patrick who had double figure returns on two separate occasions. The first, last week saw 10 Rainbows and 2 Browns to the bank and on Sunday 12 Rainbows were successfully landed. Most fish were taken from the far end but recently fish have started moving from the deeper water and the West bank and lodge end of the lake have started producing fish, with a good hatch of buzzers on Sunday seeing fish taken on cdc's and hoppers close to the bank near the island.
Conditions are now perfect, with water temps and conditions pretty much ideal and sport, particularly on cloudy, breezy days being exceptional...
Avoid flat calm, bright conditions!
Monday 3rd October
What a week its been! The temperatures have dropped significantly and the fish are really active. All but one of the returns for last week had been successful with the rod average being well over 6 and the most falling to Darren Blayney who landed 17 Rainbows and a Brown on Friday using daddies and lures at the far end of the lake fishing from the point.
All anglers commented on the abundance of rising fish especially as soon as cloud cover was present, with hoppers, daddies and cdc emergers taking plenty of fish.
Collin Picton fished on Sunday morning and was rewarded with 9 rainbows and brownie on static buzzers and cdc emerger patterns.
The deeper water at the far end seems to be the best area at present with Damsel nymphs, GRHE's and small black lures being the best sub surface options. On overcast days, especially when there is a breeze try daddies and hoppers fished into the ripple.
Monday 26th September
After a 6 week closure due to high water temps and dangerously low oxygen we are pleased to announce that we are back up and running again. The weekend was by far the best couple of days of last week, with the weather being near perfect on both days.
Barry Lister enjoyed his best ever day at RMF on Friday when he landed 8 Rainbows in total. Barry was fishing a sinking line and fishing from the West bank using lures and Damsel Nymphs. His 8 fish haul included 2 fish over 3lb.
Saturday saw a return to RMF for Nick Wale from Toftwood. Nick fished the far point and using various flies managed to land 8 rainbows in a morning with the biggest being a 4lb fin perfect specimen which was safely returned to fight another day. Nick was using a combination of Damsel nymphs and lures and catching over the deep water in the middle of the lake.
A special mention must go to Carl Norman and Andrew King who after a lesson with James on Friday morning both went on to catch their first trout each, with Andrew landing two. Both caught on goldhead Damsel nymphs from the lodge end.
More fish are due to be stocked this week and the fishing should only improve as the weather gets cooler. For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 5th September
After a problematic few weeks we are pleased to announce that the trout lake will re-open on Thursday 22nd September. The lake has been closed due to severely high water temperatures and significantly decreased dissolved oxygen readings, despite running the aerator 24/7.
The Environment Agency were consulted and after a site visit confirmed the diagnosis made by myself a few weeks ago... Here's to a cooler September!
Monday 29th August
The trout lake is still closed while we wait for water temperatures to drop. The coarse lake is still open as usual.
Monday 22nd August
The trout unfortunately remains closed due to water quality issues but oxygen levels are improving and we plan to restock and reopen shortly.
Monday 1st August
Although July is generally considered the height of summer and never the easiest month for trout fishing, due to the heavy rain at the beginning of June, water temperatures are nothing like that of last year and the fishing is still hanging on in there...JUST! Its is pretty inconsistent, with morning and evenings obviously being the best times, but don't write off overcast days either.
Luis Desouza from Gt Ellingham enjoyed a great evening on Thursday and landed 8 rainbows in a couple of hours on black hoppers and a few on diawl bach nymphs cast to rising fish.
Richard Mainprize fished on Sunday and tempted 11 to the bank on Hares ear nymphs from the lodge end of the lake.
The fish are now starting their typical Summer behavior and starting to shoal.
Monday 25th July
Even with the recent hot weather and increasing water temperatures the fishing over the last few days has been pretty consistent with anglers returning a rod average of well over 4 fish.
Jan Lewandowski from Thetford landed 6 on Thursday on small dries and nymphs cast to rising fish. A mention this week must go to Bill Harris and his son and daughter John & Lucia. A morning's fishing for John's Birthday resulted in 7 fish in total with all three landing a trout in what was pretty difficult conditions due to the heat and lack of breeze. All were taken on Daddies fished into the ripple from the lodge end of the lake.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 18th July
Conditions this week have meant that fishing during the day, particularly mid day when the sun is at its strongest have been tricky. Early mornings have been by far the best times with plenty of fish caught on dries and buzzers. Mick Donoghue proved this on Monday morning when he has his best session to date, landing 6 rainbows in just a couple of hours. Dave Johnson fished on Saturday and managed to land 10 rainbows on various dries and small emergers.
A special mention this week goes to newcomer Mark Bridges who, after a lesson from James managed to land his first trout on Sunday morning on a tiny olive nymph fished just under the surface.
Monday 11th July
More unsettled weather over the last few days has been a real godsend for this time of year, with water temps unseasonally low. The fish are feeding throughout the day, with a real emphasis on early-mid morning, with a slight lull in activity by midday on the brighter, warmer days. Surface sport has been thick and fast, with many anglers choosing dries over nymphs or buzzers. Small Adams, Shipmans or CDC emergers and Klinkhammers have been worth a try, but the smaller the better in such clear water.
RMF member Ken Whitton landed 9 rainbows last week on CDC buzzers and Klinkhammers from the far point, while David Shipp had a great short afternoon session at the weekend and ended up with a total of 10 Rainbows all caught on a Shipmans.
A special mention this week must go to returning angler Alan Perkins. After a 5 year "sabbatical" from the sport Alan soon found his form and after a few casting pointers from James was back into the swing of things. After a few missed opportunities Alan landed his first trout on Friday afternoon and ended up with 3 rainbows in total. All caught on a black buzzer from the far end of the lake.
Monday 04th July
With all the rain over the last couple of weeks, the fishery is unusually more Spring like than Summer, with water temperatures surprisingly low and lake levels quite high. This has helped the fishing, with the fish being in good condition and happy to feed, even on the most unsuitable days.
Keiron Harney from London proved this on Saturday when he tempted 7 Rainbows and Brown trout on tiny cdc emergers and Klinkhammers from the lodge end of the lake. Sunday saw more of the same, with RMF member Ken Whitton and regualar John Twining landing 9 Rainbows and 8 Rainbows respectively, both using dries or buzzer emergers. Warmer conditions are expected for this week with overcast skies meaning that dry fly fishing should continue to be effective. Nymphs such as GRHE or crunchers for the brighter days, but make sure they are small due to extremely clear water. For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 13th June
Slightly more unsettled weather recently has really helped the fishing, with the high temperatures and bright sunshine being replaced with overcast skies, heavy showers and the odd storm. The dry fly fishing has been superb, particularly on these days, with all manner of dry flies taking fish. Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham banked 10 rainbows on Thursday using Klinkhammers and buzzer emerger patterns, while on the same day, Tom Shead from Norwich also landed 10 on black Shipmans buzzers fished static in the surface film.
Lures and Nymphs have also been working, but in different conditions. Warm, sunny days will be more difficult to fish dries effectively so Damsel nymphs or Hares ear nymphs will be a good choice. Mike Glynn and Geoff Peek proved this last week both banking 12 fish each.
A corporate event at the weekend saw 12 newcomers to the sport try fly fishing for the first time. 30 fish were caught between them and all went home with a trout, with Matt Keane landing 10 Rainbows on daddy long legs patterns.
Monday 6th June
With increased water temperatures and warmer weather recently, the buzzer hatches have been prolific. The odd Mayfly appearing on Sunday meant that most fish were caught on dries, a contrast to last week when cooler temperatures and strong Northerly winds meant that many fish were caught on lures or nymphs.
RMF member Jan Lewandowski from Thetford returned 5 Rainbows last week using orange lures, while Brian Sims also returned 5 using shipmans dries and hoppers.
Brian also fished a couple of days later and had a 4 Brown trout, also on Shipmans. A special mention must go to newcomer to fly fishing Bradley Cushing from Attleborough, who after his first lesson with James landed a beautiful, hard fighting overwintered Rainbow of over 3lb. Bradley was using a size 18 griffiths gnat and fishing the lodge end of the lake.
TROUT LAKE CLOSED SATURDAY 11th JUNE due to a corporate booking
Monday 16th May
Slightly cooler weather over the last few days has meant that dry fly fishing has been a little more challenging, particularly when the wind has been in the North.
The days which have been productive have been overcast with a gentle breeze.
Newcomer Elliot Macrow fished RMF for the first time last week and was duly rewarded with 9 Rainbowsand 1 Brownie. Elliot was fishing the far end of the lake and was using buzzers and dries.
Peter Towers fished for the first time in years after a long break from fly fishing and to his surprise manage to land 6 Rainbows. Well done Peter!
RMF regular Nathan Muir banked an impressive 22 Rainbows on Saturday.
Nathan was fishing dries such as Mayfly patterns and upwings and caught fish from all over the lake.
If the days remain overcast with a little breeze it'll be perfect conditions for buzzer fishing, with emerger patterns such as cdc buzzers an small dries working as the temperature increases later in the day.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 9th May
A week of abnormally hot weather for this time of year has seen some of the most impressive hatches of fly life of the year so far.
Buzzer hatches have been constant throughout the afternoon/evenings with terrestrials such as Hawthorns and Alders showing in good numbers and becoming a staple part of the trout's diet at this time of year.
A special mention must go to Jemma Davies this week as she caught, landed and held her very first trout on Thursday. Fishing with her partner and long term RMF regular Simon, she managed to bank 4 rainbows in total and 2 brown trout! Jemma was using static buzzers and fishing the lodge end of the lake.
A successful evening was had by Ian Perryman on the same day. Ian landed 8 rainbows and a brown trout using cdc buzzers and hare's ear nymphs.
A milder week is forecast with slightly more cloud cover which will help the fishing during the day. Dries and static buzzers will be the obvious choice depending on weather and light conditions.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 2nd May
Cold Northerly winds, although difficult for the anglers, don't seem to have put the fish off over the last week with many coming to dries or emerger patterns right throughout the day.
Warmer weather is now upon us which will only increase the activity of feeding fish and the all important daily buzzer hatches, which when conditions are right have proved pretty spectacular to watch when the fish start feeding.
Luis Desouza fished a late evening session last week and in surprisingly cold conditions managed to land 15 Rainbows before dark, with a good evening rise taking place late on. Luis was using small Shipmans buzzers targeting individual fish in the ripple. RMF member Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham banked 8 Rainbows on Sunday using sub surface black buzzers from the West bank. A mention must go to Paul Worley from Tharston who landed a fin perfect overwintered Rainbow on Saturday (pictured). The fish took a small black cdc emerger from the lodge end of the lake during a good hatch.
A dramatic increase in temperature is expected over the next few days so expect fly life to be in abundance, with dries such as black hoppers, cdc's and shipmans all sure to work well.
Monday 25th April
RMF member Drew Patrick enjoyed a productive day on Thursday. Drew landed 11 Rainbows in total using olive damsels and bloodworms. Kieran Harney had a fantastic session on Saturday. Using both suspender and black buzzers, Kieran banked 10 Rainbows and 2 Brown trout. A special mention this week goes to Stan Worrell who fished an afternoon session last week. Stan landed not only his first ever Rainbow but also his first Brownie on home tied Diawl Bachs. With warmer temperatures encouraging hatches, buzzer patterns have accounted for the majority of fish recently, particularly in natural black and olive colours.
Monday 18th April
Despite the changeable weather over the past week, the fishing has remained consistent with the rod average staying above 4.5. Callum Naismith from Great Ellingham landed his first ever trout at the weekend. He went on to successfully bank 4 Rainbows using a home-tied F Fly. RMF member Ken Whitton had a great session on Wednesday. Using small lures fished on a floating line, Ken landed 8 Rainbows in total. On Friday visiting angler Elliot McRow had a fantastic day. Using a variety of buzzers, Elliot banked an impressive 3 Rainbows and 4 Brown trout. The dry, fine weather and warmer temperatures forecast will encourage buzzer hatches and general fly life on the fishery. On warmer days, Hawthorns and Alders will be in abundance and black Hoppers, Bibios and CDC F flies should prove successful.
Monday 11th April
There has been a real Spring feeling in the fishing over the last few days with many fish being taken on dries. Although it is obviously weather dependant, there has been sporadic hatches of Alder fly and Hawthorn on the warmer days and obviously buzzer hatches in abundance, generally in the afternoon/evenings when things have warmed up a little.
Luis Desouza has again been catching on dries, black hoppers being his preferred pattern with evening returns of 6 rainbows last week.
Visiting anglers Graham Sanderson and Donald Patrick enjoyed a great evening last week when both had 11 rainbows in an afternoon. Using small nymphs fished just under the surface and fishing the West bank, the pair then switched to dries later on in the evening and were taking fish on cdc buzzers just before dark.
If the weather stay mild the dry fly fishing should only get better, with cold winds and rain being the only thing to put paid to surface action.
Monday 4th April
RMF hosted its first fly fishing competition of the season on Sunday and the anglers were greeted by some real Spring weather to test their skills.
Warm and breezy, with very little cloud cover meant that buzzers were in abundance. Hawthorns and Alders also made their first appearance of the year, but top of the water action was slow at times with most fish being taken on bloodworms, buzzers or small nymphs. The water is VERY clear so smaller flies tended to be the better option.
As there was a tie for the top spot in the competition a decision was made that the eventual winner was Nathan Muir from East Wretham as his tally included 4 Brown trout. Nathan received a Vision Vipu fly rod as his prize (see Pic)
Steve Beckham was a very close joint first and landed a total of 8 rainbows after a close fought and frantic last half an hour! Steve came away with a new Snowbee fly fishing vest. RMF member Dave Black from Wymondham claimed third place with a total of 5 rainbows and won a selection of Veniard fly boxes.
As water temperatures start to increase the buzzer hatches should improve with terrestrials also starting to be included in part of the trout's larder. On cloudy days the dry fly fishing will be exceptional, particularly from the West bank.
Small cdc buzzers and emergers and black hoppers should do the trick as proved by Luis Desouza last week when in an evening session he banked 11 rainbows.
Nathan Muir receiving a Vision Vipu fly rod as first prize.
Steve Beckham claims 2nd Dave Black takes 3rd
A sincere thank you to all those who took part and made the day a real success.
Keep an eye on our facebook page for all the pics from the day.
Spring Newsletter
Sunday 3rd April
On Sunday 3rd of April we will be holding a competition to mark the start of the new season here at RMF. This is an open event and not to be taken too seriously but just a great opportunity to enjoy some good fishing and bankside banter with some great prizes up for grabs as always. The competition will be run as catch & release only and entry is just £10 which includes lunch for all those attending. Full details and rules will be set out on the day but start time will be approx. 9.30, breaking for lunch half way through. Please can you let James or Katie know if you'd like to attend as places are limited and likely to taken quickly!
2016 Ticket Prices
From 1st April we will be changing our ticket structure for day ticket fishing. There will no longer be day and evening tickets but a 4 fish day ticket at £25 and 2 fish day ticket at £20 regardless of length of stay.
Season tickets, rules and catch & release policy have all remained unchanged.
Season Tickets
We have a handful of Season Tickets left for the 2016 season. As you know, we limit numbers each year so if you wish to renew or join for the first time, please get in touch as soon as possible. Thank you to all of you who have joined already, the season starts on the 1st of April and tickets will be sent out at the end of the month or collected from the lodge nearer the time.
Fly Tying Sessions
Due to popular demand, we will once again be hosting fly tying classes. the first will be in late April and the sessions last 2-3 hours... depending on supplies of tea and cake! There is a sign up sheet in the lodge for those interested or speak to James about dates. The classes are for all tying abilities and are £10 per session.
Monday 28th March
A special mention must go out to the anglers who braved Storm Katie to fish RMF over the Easter weekend. Member Jon Brooks was rewarded with 8 Rainbows on PTNs and black buzzers on Saturday afternoon and Drew Patrick who braved the awful conditions on Sunday to fish. Drew managed 5 Rainbows despite gale force winds! The forecast warmer and more settled weather will see plenty of buzzer hatches and rising fish particularly on overcast days so black & olive Buzzers and Pheasant Tail Nymphs will continue their success rate. On Sunday the 3rd April RMF will be holding its annual fishing competition. A catch and release session with prizes for the most fish caught is just £10 pp including lunch. To book a place please call 01953 483971 or email rocklandsmerefishery@gmail.com
Monday 21st March
Its been a busy week at the fishery and, thanks to a good hatch most afternoons, numbers in the returns book have been well into double figures. Paul Chipperfield from Norwich fished three sessions last week and totalled 50 fish. His best day was Thursday when, using small hare's ear nymphs on a floating line along the West bank, Paul returned 21 fish, 4 of which were Brown Trout. RMF member Jimmy Sayer had a great afternoon session on Sunday. Using small buzzers at the far end of the lake, Jimmy banked 12 Rainbows and 4 Brown trout in total. A special mention this week to Nathan Muir who, after trying for nearly a year, landed not only his first but his second and third ever Brown trout on Saturday as well as 14 Rainbows. The fish are well spread throughout the lake and are feeding on buzzers and nymphs so fly choices for the coming week would be hare's ear nymphs, crunchers and olive buzzers generally quite small due to the clarity of the water.
Paul Worley returning one of Seven Rainbows caught in a session on Saturday.
Monday 14th March
On Saturday RMF member Tom Shead had a great day. Using both buzzers and a black damsel, Tom landed 7 Rainbows. Also on Saturday Mike Palmer from Dereham had a fantastic afternoon session. Mike banked 6 Rainbows and a Brownie using buzzers in the top 3ft of water. RMF member Patrick Larke enjoyed a productive morning on Sunday. Using buzzers, bloodworms and montanas, Patrick landed a impressive 11 Rainbows in just 4 hours! The warmer and more settled weather should see more consistent buzzer hatches, particularly later in the day.
Monday 7th March
Recent cold winds and dropping temperatures have certainly not hampered the fishing over the past few days, in fact Sunday saw a first buzzer hatch of the season with fish sipping just under the surface all afternoon.
Father and son Mike & Matt Bradbeer enjoyed an incredible afternoon and managed to land 12 rainbows each using a variety of buzzer patterns.
Both were fishing from the West bank and using floating lines to fish the buzzers almost static. RMF member David Shipp had his best day to date last week when he landed 15 Rainbows using a small bloodworm pattern.
Milder weather is forecast towards the end of the week so expect fly life to increase as the temperatures rise. Buzzer hatches will only become more frequent and in particular from midday onwards as the water gets a chance to warm up slightly we should see some real Spring like activity.
Monday 22nd February
RMF member Andrew Patrick had a productive session last week. Using the go to fly choices of bloodworms and cat's whisker, Drew banked 4 Rainbows in total. Glyn Isaacs fished a very short session on Friday and landed 4 rainbows on a white cats whisker. A special mention to John Hogg from Bury who landed a beautiful rainbow at well over 3lbs on Sunday morning. With the cold nights set to return, we expect fly choices to remain unchanged but the warmer days may see fish nearer the top and buzzers will be worth a try.
Monday 15th February
RMF member Terry Eley had one of his best days on Friday. Using a bloodworm buzzer, Terry banked 6 Rainbows in total. Jan Lewandowski from Thetford had a great session on Sunday despite the chilly weather. Jan landed 6 Rainbows on Cat's whiskers. A special mention this week to Dave Lewis and his nearly 4lb Rainbow taken on a buzzer pattern on Saturday afternoon. The cold weather means the fish tend to head into deeper water and cats whiskers have been the most successful fly choice. However, on the warmer and sunnier days, fish have been taken on buzzers and pheasant tails recently.
Monday 8th February
Stuart Marshall from Norwich had a great day last week. Using the ever popular cat's whisker and a Montana nymph, Stuart landed 8 rainbows in a short morning session. David McColl had a successful 3 hour session on Saturday morning. David banked 5 Rainbows on using a variety of damsel patterns. The forecast wet weather might not be ideal for anglers but hopefully the recent strong winds will die down to aid casting! Whilst cat's whiskers and damsels continue to be the most popular fly choice, Mike Glynn from Thetford had 4 Rainbows on dry flies last week.
Monday 1st February
Warren Barwick from Thetford had a great session on Friday. Using damsel nymph patterns, Warren landed an impressive 12 Rainbows in total. Also on Friday, RMF member Drew Patrick had great results with a cat's whisker, banking 6 rainbows. On Saturday Jimmy Sayer was another angler to see good results from a cat's whisker. Jimmy landed 5 rainbows in a short afternoon session. Although the forecast windy and wet weather may be unfavourable casting conditions, the lake has been fishing well with damsels and cat's whiskers remaining the most popular fly choices.
Monday 25th January
RMF member Jon Brooks had a great 2 hour session on Friday. Using small damsels, John landed 3 Rainbows. On Sunday, angling couple Sam and Barry banked 5 Rainbows on cat's whiskers and damsels. The recent cold weather did see the lake freeze but as temperatures are set to stay close to double figures we can be sure of frost free fishing. Damsels, cat's whiskers and small lures continue to be the most productive fly choices and the far end of the lake, close to the island a particular hot spot.
Monday 10th January
On Friday morning RMF member Dave Black from Wymondham defied logic to land 3 Rainbows on a dry fly! Using a sedge pattern Dave fished behind the island and into a good ripple. Visiting angler Leonard Richards from Hampshire had a productive 2 hour afternoon session at the weekend. Using cat's whisker patterns, Leonard banked 6 Rainbows and a Brownie. Also on Saturday, Paul Worley from Tharston landed 4 Rainbows on a gold head bloodworm. At the moment the fish seem to be holding up in deep water in the middle of the lake. Reaching them can be tricky on windy days but when casting is up to scratch, bloodworms, crunchers and cat's whiskers all prove successful.
Monday 21st December
RMF member Geoff Peek from Stalham had a successful afternoon on Thursday. Geoff banked 5 Rainbows on GRHE and a pheasant tail nymph. Matthew Keane had a great lunchtime session on Friday. Using a variety of daddy patterns, Matthew landed 6 Rainbows in total. Despite being late December, the unseasonably warm weather means the fish are still prepared to take dries, with CDCs, shipman's and daddies all working well, particularly on windy days. The fishery will be closed and Christmas & Boxing day and New Year's eve & New Year's day. We wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas.
Monday 14th December
As temperatures have finally dropped to a more seasonally appropriate level, the fish have gone into deeper water. However, when conditions are right, dries can still produce takes, as proven by Dave Black from Wymondham who had 3 Rainbows on dries last week. RMF regular Stuart Marshall had a great session on Thursday morning. Using damsel nymphs and cat's whiskers, Stuart landed an impressive 10 Rainbows in just 3 hours. On Friday afternoon Nathan Muir banked 7 Rainbows. All were taken on bloodworm buzzer patterns from the far end of the lake.
Monday 7th December
A big thank you to all who attended our Christmas event at the weekend and particularly those who braved the blustery weather to fish. Conditions may not have been favourable but many anglers had an excellent day's fishing. On Saturday Martin Matthews from Norwich landed an impressive 12 Rainbows. The fish were taken on daddies and cats whiskers predominantly from the far end of the lake. On Sunday RMF member Jimmy Sayer had a great afternoon session. Using bloodworm patterns, Jimmy banked a stunning 21 Rainbows. Despite the cooler temperatures fish can still be taken from the top daddies and buzzers have proven to be the most popular fly choices.
Monday 30th November
The wet and wild weather recently has meant conditions have been tricky, casting has been a challenge on most days so the anglers that have managed to brave the wind and rain have been duly rewarded with some good sport.
Saturday afternoon saw gusty winds and rain showers, but didn't stop RMF member Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham. Jimmy was using cdc bloodworm patterns and fishing from the point managed to bank an incredible 10 rainbows in just a short session. A mention must go to Mike Glynn from Thetford who fished a morning session on Thursday and caught 3 rainbows on static buzzers from the far end of the lake, an area which up until recently hasn't been a particular hotspot... Well done Mike!
With the weather set to continue to be wet and windy it will be all about picking your days in the coming week, surface flies and nymphs should all still work but as temperatures decrease try lures or static patterns such as apps bloodworms or buzzers in deeper water.
Just a reminder that it is our Christmas Sale weekend at the lodge this weekend.
Special offers, discounted tackle and season tickets available for this weekend only. Everyone welcome.
For more information call the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday November
Chris Ives had a great day on Friday. With the majority of fish coming around lunchtime, Chris landed 10 Rainbows in total. All were taken from around the island on dry daddy patterns and bloodworms. RMF regular Nathan Muir had a great morning session on Saturday. Using buzzer and bloodworm patterns, Nathan banked 7 rainbows in just a few hours. The recent rainfall has ensured water levels are back up to their pre summer state and despite gin clear water, fish are still showing near the surface. When conditions permit, there has still been dry fly action to be had but as temperatures continue drop, fish will start moving into the deeper water where slow weighted nymphs, buzzers and lures will be the best fly choice. On the weekend of 5th & 6th of December we will be holding our annual tackle sale with up to 50% across all product ranges.
Monday 9th November
On Thursday, Stuart Marshall had a great morning session. Stuart banked 8 Rainbows in total on a variety of Nymphs fishing from the point to the island.
Dave Black from Wymondham had a productive session on Sunday. In just a couple of hours Dave landed 5 Rainbows taken on bloodworms & PTNs.
Whilst many have not wanted to brave the recent wet and windy weather, those who have have been rewarded with some great surface action. Pheasant Tail nymphs, small bloodworm patterns and hoppers fished in the ripple have been the top fly choices this week and the area around the island remains a key hot spot. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 2nd November
Sunday saw several anglers take to the lake and proved to be a fantastic day for all with a rod average of 7.25. Brian Sims from Thetford had a great morning session, landing an impressive 10 Rainbows in just two hours. Brian was using shipman's buzzers and pheasant tail nymphs on a floating line. Duo Sam Bean and Barry Lister both had a great day. Using a variety of buzzers, the pair landed 21 rainbows between them. Shipman's buzzers and PTNs seem to be the preferred fly choice at the moment and between them, account for the vast majority of fish over the last few days. A special mention this week to Vic Cossins who, after a lesson with James, landed 2 Rainbows Saturday afternoon.
Monday 26th October
On Wednesday Ryan Hawes from Carbrooke and a great 3 hour session. Using small lures, Ryan banked 7 rainbows in total. Also on Wednesday, Paul Worley from Tharston landed an impressive 11 Rainbows. All taken on nymphs from the East bank of the lake. The East Anglian Fly Dresser's Guild had a great day on Sunday. Using a wide variety of flies including bloodworms and klinkhammers, the group landed 25 fish between them with Alan Nelson being crowned the overall winner on the day. The East bank of the lake, particularly near to the island, continues to be a hot spot with nymphs and bloodworms proving popular fly choices. Rod average over the last few days has been 5.3 and mornings seem to be the most productive times.
Monday 19th October
On Saturday the trout lake was booked for a corporate event and 12 anglers of mixed fishing experience took to the lake. A great day was had by all with a total of 27 fish being caught on a wide variety of flies. Matt Hutchinson from Diss had a great 4 hour session on Sunday afternoon. Using nymphs and cat's whiskers, Matt banked an impressive 12 Rainbows. Special mention this week to teenager Fitz Horner from Brooke. During his second casting lesson with James, Fitz landed his first ever trout - well done! Crunchers and nymphs have been productive fly choices on still days with daddies, hoppers and shipmans working well when fished on a ripple. A particular hot spot has been on the East bank close to the island.
Monday 12th October
RMF member Roger Bobbin had an impressive morning on Wednesday. In just a hour and a half Roger banked 7 Rainbows on a cruncher. Martin Matthews from Norwich had a great morning session on Sunday. Using home tied klinkhammers, Martin landed 10 Rainbows in total. Whilst Shipman's buzzers still seem to account for the majority of fish, klinkhammers and other dry patterns are starting to produce takes with mornings seeming to be the most successful sessions at present. Please note the trout lake is closed for day tickets on the 17th and 25th of October for group bookings.
Monday 5th October
As the Autumnal weather continues the fish are becoming more active. Daddies and buzzers, particularly shipmans, are still the most effective flies. RMF member David Shipp enjoyed a afternoon session on Thursday. Using the go to combination of daddies and buzzers, David banked 7 Rainbows. Brian Sims from Thetford had a spectacular morning on Friday. In just a few hours Brian landed 12 Rainbows using both daddies and shipmans buzzers. Please note the fishery will be closed for day tickets on the 17th October for a group booking.
Monday 28th September
RMF regular Kieron Haney fished a day session on Saturday, banking 9 Rainbows in total using hoppers, daddies and black buzzers. Richard Mainprize from Wymondham had a great morning session on Sunday. Using a combination of buzzers and black midges, Richard landed an impressive 10 Rainbows in just over 2 hours! Despite the return on sunnier days, the fish are still feeding well. Buzzers and pheasant tail nymphs have been doing the business this week but, on overcast days, any dry fly seems to perform.
Monday 21st September
David Setterfield from Hampshire fished an early evening session on Friday. David landed 10 Rainbows in total all taken on daddies. Nick Wale from Dereham had a spectacular return to fly fishing on Saturday. Using various daddy patterns Nick banked an impressive 18 Rainbows in just 4 hours! Another notable catch this week is from RMF member Paul Worley. Using a small Shipmans Buzzer, Paul landed a beautiful Brown Trout after stalking the margins. The fish are continuing to feed well since the arrival of Autumn and daddies or small buzzers remain the most effective fly choice. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 14th September
RMF member Geoff Peek had a splendid afternoon on Thursday. Using gold ribbed hare's ear, Geoff banked an impressive 8 Rainbows in just 3 hours! Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham fished a morning session on Sunday. Jimmy landed 5 Rainbows in total all taken on Shipman's buzzers. Now that Autumn has well and truly arrived the fishing will continue to improve. Buzzer patterns, particular Shipman's, and hare's ears have proven the most effective fly choices this week and we expect that to remain the same. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 7th September
The consistent lower temperatures combined with showers and overcast days have really improved the fishing recently. Alan Robinson from Thetford had a great session on Saturday. Using a black peacock spider and a sunken daddy just under the surface, Alan landed an impressive 9 Rainbows in total. RMF regular Jimmy Sayer fished on Sunday afternoon. Using various dry flies, Jimmy landed 5 Rainbows in quick succession. This week's catches have been almost exclusively on dries with CDC buzzers and daddies proving most effective.
Monday 24th August
The forecast wet Autumnal weather will certainly help to freshen up the water and hopefully decrease temperatures. On overcast days, daddies remain the recommended fly choice while damsel nymphs have been productive on brighter days.
England Youth International and ex student Martin Matthews had a rewarding day on Saturday despite the unfavourable hot and bright conditions. Using damsel nymph patterns Martin banked 3 Rainbows and a Brown Trout. A special mention this week to Lucia Harris who landed her first ever trout on Friday using a black buzzer just under the surface.
Monday 17th August
While the warm weather and bright sunny days persist, fishing has been a little challenging but morning and evenings have produced some excellent fishing.
Visiting Devonshire angler Sam Walker had a great session last week. The thirteen year old landed an impressive 14 rainbows and a brownie using a variety of lures. RMF member Richard Mainprize capitalised on a morning rise on Saturday. In just a short hour long session Richard landed 3 Rainbows on daddies.
The cooler temperatures and distinct autumnal feel will help lower water temperatures and enliven the fish. Damsel nymphs on the sunnier days and daddies on overcast, windy days should remain the most productive choices.
Monday 11th August
On windy days it has been the larger dry flies which have been the most successful. Daddies and black hoppers fished into a good ripple acting as a wake fly have tempted most fish, particularly on overcast, cooler days.
The West bank has been area, with most fish out in the middle of the lake.
Jan Lewandowski and Mike Glynn fished on consecutive days last week and caught 6 rainbows and 5 rainbows respectively, all on dries.
Lets start hoping for some autumnal winds and cooler days so the water temperature keeps dropping and fish start to become more active.
For more information call the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 3rd August
Warmer weather has meant the fishing has been relatively slow over the last few days... Clear water and bright sunny days have meant that dry fly action has been limited. Lures and nymphs have been the go to fly at these times with the dries coming into their own in the evenings. With the nights drawing in as we approach Autumn the best time of day will start to approach a little earlier and hopefully as things start to cool down we should see an increase in activity.
Holidaymaker Mark Dunnett enjoyed his first trip to RMF last week and landed 6 Rainbows. Mark was using a drowned Black Hopper fished just under the surface as a wet fly from the far end of the lake. John Little from Gt Yarmouth fished a morning on Friday and banked 4 good Rainbows on Black Buzzers, again fishing form the far point and drifting buzzers with the wind.
No huge numbers in the returns book but very few blanks either so although a bit of a challenge there is still some good sport to be had... Just needs a little thought!
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 27th July
Overcast, windy conditions have certainly been the most prolific times to fish over the last week. Warm bright days are still proving a challenge, particularly when there is little wind.
Stuart Marshall from Norwich fished a morning session last week and in 4 hours managed to land 5 rainbows and a beautiful, fin perfect Brown trout. Stuart was fishing the far end of the lake a using static buzzers fished on a floating line.
Local anglers John White and Andy Harris fished the evening on Thursday and were duly rewarded with some great sport. Using small black and olive Klinkhammers the pair managed to bank 8 fish between them, with the evening rise coming late in the day.
With rain around and temperatures due to drop a little this should help water temperatures. Mornings and evenings will still be the best opportunities but don't discount the days when the weather takes a turn for the worst as these will throw up some surprises at this time of the year..
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 20th July
Mixed conditions has meant that the fishing on certain days is pretty challenging.
High temperatures and bright sunny days have been difficult, with the odd fish being caught on deep nymphs or buzzers. Paul Trevelyan defied all logic last week however, when he managed to land 7 rainbows in a morning session. Paul was using small black klinkhammers and fishing the far end of the lake.
Visiting holidaymaker Ronald Stewart fished a morning session on Sunday and had 6 rainbows on dries. Ronald was fishing small black cdc buzzers and shipmans from the point at the far end of the lake.
Windy, cloudy days have been by far the better choice, with an obvious increase in fish activity. For the brighter, hotter days it will be best to fish at the beginning or very end of the day.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 13th July
Thanks to the changeable weather conditions recently, the fishing has been a little unpredictable but on the cooler, breezy days fish have been readily rising for dries or taking buzzers just under the surface. Brighter, warmer days have been a challenge, particularly when there has been a lack of wind. Stuart Marshall took advantage of a morning hatch on Thursday. Using various flies fished just under the surface, Stuart landed 8 Rainbows and a Brown trout. On Friday Keith Mills from Hingham banked an impressive 9 Rainbows and a stunning 3lb Brownie on small white Caenis.
The forecast cooler weather should further improve the fishing, particularly if we get some rain
Monday 29th June
It has been another warm week at the fishery and, while we've seen great hatches in the early morning and evenings for dry fly fishing, the midday heat has meant static buzzers and Shipmans have been the most prolific flies.
RMF member Mike Glynn had a great session last week. Capitalising on the cooler and overcast morning, Mike landed 6 Rainbows in total all taken on Dry Flies. David Long from Norwich enjoyed an idyllic evening on Thursday. As the temperature dropped David banked 6 Rainbow and a Brown trout in just a couple of hours. Tom Pillington made the most of the refreshed water after the rainfall on Sunday evening. Using a variety of dry fly patterns, Tom landed 6 Rainbows in total. The forecast warm weather could make conditions challenging in the peak of the day but overcast mornings and evenings, especially if there's a breeze, will ensure some excellent dry fly fishing.
Monday 22nd June
The bright sunshine of last week made fishing slightly more challenging but mornings and late afternoon, particularly on cloudy days have seen some prolific hatches. Keith Mills had a fantastic session last week. Using the ever popular black buzzer, Keith landed 7 Rainbows in total. A morning Father's Day session for Andrew and Martin Matthews proved very rewarding. The pair banked 7 Rainbows between them all on damsel nymphs. A special mention this week to Henry Dye who, on Friday, landed a stunning Brownie estimated at around 3lb, caught on a dry fly from the margins. The warmer but overcast days that have been forecast should ensure some excellent fishing this week. Nymph patterns and static buzzers both continue to work well.
Monday 15th June
Although we haven't seen temperatures rocketing recently, the mild nights and consistently warm days have meant that water temperatures are starting to increase and the fish are becoming a little more challenging, particularly at midday.
As always at this time of year the conditions dictate the sport and when conditions permit there is some really good action to be had. Mornings and evenings are obviously the best times, but don't dismiss days which are cool, windy and overcast as the fish will rise freely all day. Blustery days last week saw the best of the action, with flies like daddies, hoppers and sedges fished on the choppy water working well.
Holiday maker Tom Wesley visited for the first time last week and despite a frustrating start managed to finish the day on 7 rainbows to the bank. Tom was using black klinkhammers and shipmans buzzers fished from the West bank.
Monday 8th June
The relatively hot weather recently has been helped by the strong breeze allowing anglers to fish dries throughout the day providing they find a decent ripple.
Alan Skinner and Chris Ives travelled up from Colchester last week to visit the fishery for the first time and were duly rewarded with a fantastic days sport.
The pair landed 13 Rainbows between them, with most coming to dries such as Adams, Klinkhammers and Mayfly patterns... Well worth the drive!
Jan Lewandowski from Thetford fished last weekend and banked 10 rainbows in total. Jan was using Shipmans emergers and fishing from the West bank.
If the bright, sunny continues a good breeze will be welcome, but on the still days, try Hares Ear Nymphs or black buzzers just under the surface. Lures pulled on a floating line will also produce takes.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 1st June
Its been a mixed bag over the last few days. Mornings and evenings are slowly starting to become the better times of day to fish, particularly on the better days when the midday sun puts the fish off for a couple of hours.
Recent unsettled weather has given us a break from the bright, sunny days which has actually slightly helped things. With an abundance of fly life of all shapes and sizes there has been no shortage of competition, especially for the dry fly anglers.
Small grey dusters, klinkhammers and of course Shipmans have been prominent on the returns, with damsel nymphs and buzzers another option when circumstances are more favourable for sub surface patterns.
Chris Bonner from Stowmarket enjoyed back to back trips to the lake on Thursday and Friday last week. Chris totally 15 rainbows over the two days, with the most coming on the Friday which saw persistent rain most of the day. Chris was fishing buzzers and emergers.
Andrew Harrison from Bury banked 15 Rainbows last Wednesday using a combination of CDC buzzer emergers and klinkhammers and fishing mostly from the West bank.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 25th May
Perfect conditions over the last few days have meant that the dry fly and emerger fishing has been exceptional, with nearly every return catching on dries.
Last week Kevin Knights from Poringland landed 10 Rainbows on a combination of dries and small Damsel nymphs fished just in the surface film. Kevin was fishing on the West bank. On the same day, Geoff Peek from Stalham also banked 10 fish using a Hares Ear Nymph and also fished in the surface film Geoff was targeting rising fish in the evening. Roger Bobbin from Wymondham used a home tied sugar cube emerger pattern on a short Monday morning session to return 11 Rainbows from the far end of the lake. Klinkhammers, Black Hoppers and even Daddies have all taken fish, with Damsel Nymphs or buzzers fished in the top couple of feet a better choice on the brighter days.
The weather is set to be pretty similar over the next couple of days, with possible rain towards the end of the week, on the warmer days expect the odd Mayfly to be coming off in the afternoons.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 18th May
Perfect conditions have seen plenty of fly life at the fishery over the last few days. The odd Hawthorn is still present which is surprising for the middle of May and we are now starting to see the odd Mayfly hatching off, something which will steadily increase until we reach a crescendo in a couple of weeks time. Damsels too are now making an appearance as well as the obvious buzzer hatches, Alders and sporadic sedge in the evenings. Water conditions are excellent at present, in fact crystal clear, which does make for tricky fishing, especially on the calm days. In such conditions, dry fly fishing can be difficult in the middle of the day as Mike Glynn from Thetford proved on Thursday. After no luck on surface flies, Mike used a slow sinking tip and various lures to tempt his total of 13 Rainbows. A different approach was taken by member Brian Sims, also from Thetford. Brian fished an evening session using small shipmans buzzers and landed 7 Rainbows from the far end of the lake. Using the wind to his advantage on Saturday, RMF newcomer Gary Smith fished dries such as mayfly patterns to bank 8 Rainbows in total. Fishing in bright conditions, Gary had the wind on his side and most fish came from the windward bank at the lodge end of the lake, where fish were seen to be rising all day. Slightly more unsettled weather this week and the chance of rain will mean the fishing should actually be a little easier, especially on the overcast days. Rain will put the fly life and rising fish off for a while, but nymphs or buzzers fished just under the surface will certainly be the way to go in these conditions.
Monday 11th May
With May well underway the annual, and hotly anticipated, Mayfly hatch has begun. Many anglers have witnessed good numbers of Mayfly emerging throughout the warmer days. Keith Mills from Hingham had a great session on Thursday. Using black Klinkhammers and Damsel Nymphs, Keith banked 10 Rainbows. Also on Thursday, RMF member Ken Whitton saw impressive results from a static black buzzer and floating line method. Fishing mainly the far end of the lake, Ken landed a total of 15 Rainbows. Brown trout aficionado Jon Brooks landed two of our resident Brownies last week, both estimated at around 4lb. Stalked on a Mayfly emerger in the margins and both caught just a few feet from the bank. a special mention this week goes to 10 year old John Harris. After a casting lesson with James, John landed his first (and second) ever trout!
Whilst the Mayfly hatches are just beginning, Hawthorns are having their final fling, so black Klinkhammer and hopper patterns are performing well and the overcast and warm days forecast will ensure the fantastic Dry Fly action will continue.
Monday 5th May
Prolific buzzer hatches as well as the annual fall of Hawthorns has meant that the dry fly action over the bank holiday weekend was pretty spectacular.
Keiron Harney from London enjoyed a fantastic day on Saturday when using Black Klinkhammers at the lodge end of the lake took 25 Rainbows during an incredible fall of Hawthorn Flies.
RMF member Paul Worley from Tharston had a brief, but action packed session on Friday. Paul fished for no more than three hours and was rewarded with 10 rainbows, again all taken on Klinkhammers.
The resident Brownies have been showing more than usual recently, with a good number coming out over the weekend, the biggest being close to 5lb.
Mild, wet and windy weather over the next few days will probably mean decline in fly life, but the conditions will be perfect for dries between the showers.
Black Hoppers, Hawthorns and Klinkhammers fished into the choppy water will all certainly produce takes with slow buzzers or nymphs fished just under at all other times.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 27th April
The continued warm weather has meant frequent and sustained buzzer hatches from midday onwards. Colder mornings have meant activity is a little slow on the surface. Dry flies and Shipman's buzzers have proven the most popular flies this week. RMF member Brian Sims had a great evening session on Friday. Using both shipman's and pheasant tail nymphs, Brian banked 9 fish in just a few hours. Another member to have a productive session later in the day was Paul Worley. Paul fished for just two hours on Saturday but was rewarded with 7 Rainbows all on klinkhammers. Bucking the trend of afternoon success, Richard Mainprize from Wymondham fished on Sunday morning. Using black shipman's and pheasant tail nymphs, Richard landed a total of 12 Rainbows.
The forecast of scattered showers and cooler temperatures will mean the hatches and dry fly action may decrease slightly but sub-surface buzzers and nymphs will continue to be effective. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 20th April
The recent warm weather and brighter days have produced prolific buzzer hatches, however, the best dry fly action has been predictably mornings and evenings. When the sun is high in the middle of the day, sub surface buzzers or nymphs such as Diawl Bach have been better choices. RMF member Jan Lewandowski enjoyed a productive afternoon on Friday. Jan landed 9 Rainbows in total including one falling to a dry fly pattern. On Saturday, Gary Smith banked 7 Rainbows and a lovely Brown Trout using a combination of buzzer patterns including Shipmans. Richard Mainprize from Wymondham had a great short session on Sunday morning. Richard landed 6 Rainbows in just a couple of hours. A special mention this week goes to newcomer Ryan Hawes. After a casting lesson with James, Ryan went on to land an impressive 3 fish on his first solo fly fishing day. With the end of the week set become more unsettled, fishing is likely to improve especially on overcast days. CDC buzzers, klinkhammers or other emerger patterns will work well during morning and evening rises.
Monday 13th April
Spring is certainly in the air and if the recent weather and subsequent afternoon/evening hatches are anything to go by its going to be a good one.
Increased daytime temperatures have meant that most anglers have been treated to some really exciting dry fly sport as prolific buzzer hatches have been triggering some really spectacular rises.
Member Brian Sims from Thetford enjoyed his first evening session of the year on Friday and was duly rewarded with 9 rainbows. Brian was fishing small black shipmans buzzers in the ripple. Luis deSouza landed 17, again on shipmans and described the evening rise as a frenzy of activity right up until dark.
Buzzers fished sub surface have also accounted for fish on the brighter days or in the mornings when temps are still a little colder. Black or olive buzzers fished static on a floating line left to drift has been the best method.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 30th March
Last weekend the fishery held its annual Spring fly fishing competition and despite the extremely difficult conditions on both days some excellent sport was had by all.
78 trout were caught in total, with the winner Ken Whitton banking an impressive 27 rainbows to claim first prize of a Vision Vipu fly rod. Ken was using lures fished on a sinking line. 2nd place went to Nick Wale and 3rd to Kevin Knights. Well done to all those that braved the weather and thank you for your support.
The fishing has been exceptional for the time of year, with recent warm southerly winds ensuring there have been some quite spectacular buzzer hatches and subsequent rise, particularly in the evenings.
CDC emerger patterns and klinkhammers have been the best flies, particularly small sizes.
Due to the wind, the West bank has been the most favoured but those anglers able to persevere into a head wind have been rightfully rewarded.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk.
Monday 23rd March
The recent Spring like weather has seen an increase in regular daytime hatches and the fish are feeding freely. As a result there have been some spectacular catches of late. On Friday, RMF member Patrick Larke took advantage of an afternoon buzzer hatch. Using tiny buzzers and a floating line Patrick landed an impressive 22 Rainbows in a 6 hour session - that's nearly a fish every 15 minutes! Sunday saw similar ideal conditions and Mr Williamson and Jimmy Sayer both recorded excellent catches. Using a combination of buzzers, gold head nymphs and corixia, Jimmy banked 15 Rainbows and a Brownie while Mr Williamson landed 23 Rainbows on a green and olive gold head nymph.
Next weekend is the annual RMF fly fishing competition. It is an open event and there are some fantastic prizes including a Vision fly rod. We would love to welcome anglers new and old to the event.
Monday 16th March
Colder temperatures and stronger winds have meant that the last few days have proved more challenging than recent times but Sunday saw a prolific buzzer hatch and rising fish throughout the day.
RMF member Jon Brooks patiently stalked a beautiful Brown Trout estimated at 3lb and, after trying many different patterns, eventually caught it on a size 16 Pheasant Tail Nymph in about 18 inches of water from the West bank margins. (picture attached) Ken Whitton had a great session last week. Using various damsel lures and cats whiskers, Ken banked 12 Rainbows in total. John Archer from Litcham Friday 15 Rainbows on a Gold Head Daiwl Bach. Special mention this week to Patrick Larke who braved the cold winds on Sunday and capitalised on the buzzer hatch. Patrick landed 6 Rainbows all on buzzers from the far end of the lake.
Monday 9th March
As the weather continues to warm and turn Spring-like, we have seen more hatches, particularly in the overcast afternoons. Prevailing wind has meant the fish are predominately at the far end of the lake where the water is deeper. Such a hatch happened last Thursday afternoon and RMF member Luis deSouza took full advantage of the rising fish. Using a small buzzer on a floating line, Luis landed an impressive 20 Rainbows and 2 of our resident Brownies. On Friday, John Archer from Norwich had his best session of the year. John banked 16 Rainbows and a Brown trout on Pheasant Tail Nymphs and Gold Ribbed Hares Ears. On Saturday visiting Angler Malcolm Smith enjoyed a great short session. Using buzzers and fishing the far end of the lake, Malcolm landed 8 Rainbows and a Brownie in just two hours! With some cloudy, dry days forecast we can expect buzzers and nymphs to continue to work well and overcast afternoons will see buzzer hatches and freely feeding fish.
Monday 2nd March
Mike Glynn from Thetford had a great session last Thursday. Using lures and a sink tip line, Mike banked 12 Rainbows in just three hours. Stewart Easey from Great Yarmouth fished on Friday and landed 13 Rainbows and 2 beautiful over wintered Brown trout. All taken from the deeper far end of the lake on a Cat's Whisker fished deep and slow. On Saturday RMF member Ken Whitton had his best day of the year so far. Using zonkers and damsels, Ken managed a total of 14 Rainbows. A special mention to Paul Rogers this week who took advantage of a buzzer hatch on Saturday. Using an Olive buzzer pattern, Paul landed 7 Rainbows while the fish were rising. When conditions have been right, we've seen some great buzzer hatches and rising fish but, while temperatures remain low, the fish have been predominately in the deeper water at the far end of the lake. Later this month RMF will be hosting the annual fly fishing competition, more details will be on our website and in the EDP shortly.
Monday 23rd February
Trevor Seaman and RMF member Luis deSouza both had great sessions last week. Trevor banked 12 Rainbows on damsels and Luis 19 Rainbows in short morning session, all taken on a static bloodworm and floating line. Spring is on the way and on warmer afternoons the first buzzer hatches of the year have begun. Roger Gibbons and Paul Worley were the fist anglers to capitalise on the rising fish at the weekend. Roger catching on a small black buzzer and Paul enticing 2 Rainbows on a tiny CDC buzzer - no small feat in February! Although cold nights are forecast, daytime temperatures are quite mild for the time of year so we expect to see some more afternoon buzzer hatches this week. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 16th February
Last week saw some spectacular fishing with plenty of double figure catch returns. RMF regular Stuart Marshall had a fantastic session on Thursday last week. Using buzzers and cat's whiskers, Stuart banked an impressive 22 Rainbows in just four hours - that's a fish every 10 minutes! On the same day, John Little from Oulton landed 16 Rainbows and one of our beautiful resident Brownies. John was using damsels and fishing the far end of the lake. On Sunday, RMF member Jimmy Sayer fished static bloodworms just few feet from the surface and totalled 9 Rainbows. With mixed weather conditions forecast, we expect the same mixture of flies to produce results. Damsels and cats whiskers will continue to be successful with subsurface bloodworms and buzzers becoming effective on warmer days.
Monday 9th February
The slight rise in temperatures recently have seen plenty of notable catches. On Thursday RMF regular Jon Brooks managed 7 Rainbows in just a couple of hours. Jon was fishing Cat's Whiskers and Damsels and caught from various locations. Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham fished the fully thawed lake on Sunday. Using Cat's Whiskers on a floating line with a slow retrieve, Jimmy banked an impressive 14 Rainbows in total. Tom Shead from Norwich also fished on Sunday. Tom banked 5 Rainbows and a stunning overwintered Brownie. All were taken on Cat's Whiskers and a sink tip line. As we draw closer to Spring and the weather becomes milder the fish will begin actively feeding, however, cold nights will ensure the fish are still quite deep. Static bloodworms or lures such as Cat's Whiskers fished on sink tip or intermediate lines will still be the best bet and the majority of fish are coming from the deeper far end of the lake. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971.
Monday 2nd February
With wintery showers and plenty of snow over the last week it has been a pleasant surprise that it hasn't dampened the anglers spirits as the banks have been busy in even the toughest of conditions.
Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham surprised us all on Saturday when in only a short afternoon session and in driving snow and freezing temperatures managed to land 7 Rainbows, a well deserved tally given the conditions. Jimmy was using a floating line and goldhead cats whisker fished from the West bank over deep water.
Angling buddies Andrew Wright and Tony Eagling braved the weather on Sunday and fishing through the rain, sleet and snow showers banked 7 Rainbows between them, both using bloodworm patterns and fishing the far end of the lake at a depth of 6-8 feet.
Paul Worley from Tharston must get a mention this week as on Sunday morning he landed 2 beautiful brown trout one after the other. Usually a rarity at this time of year, Paul tempted the brace on a home tied damsel nymph fished at around 2-3 feet deep.
Wintery showers are expected to continue over the next few days with night time temperatures dropping to below freezing so expect more of the same over the next week or so... Goldhead lures such as Cats Whiskers or Olive Damsel patterns twitched back slowly or Bloodworms fished static over deep water should all work well.
Paul Worley with his 2nd of two Brownies caught on Sunday morning.
Monday 26th January
There hasn't been too many opportunities to fish over the last week due to the ice, but Saturday saw the lake thaw out for the first time in a few days and even though water temps were close to freezing some good sport was had.
Patrick Larke from Attleborough managed to fish on the far bank and despite the moving ice sheets, landed 8 rainbows in total in only a morning session. Patrick was using bloodworms fished under an indicator at 6ft deep.
Dave Johnson fished an afternoon last week and found similar methods worked well. Dave too had 8 rainbows but was fishing a black buzzer static at similar depths, all from the West bank.
Milder temperatures and rain at times will keep the ice off the lake and should see the fishing continue to improve as water temps warm up a little.
Cats whiskers fished on an inter or sinking line may be worth a try in the next few days, with bloodworms, buzzers or nymphs on a floater when things warm up.
For more information call the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 19th January
Stuart Marshall from Norwich had a great short morning session last week. Fishing the far end of the lake and using small cats whiskers and damsel nymphs, Stuart banked an impressive 12 Rainbows. On Friday, Jan Lewandowski landed 5 Rainbows and a Brownie on black or green lures and fishing the West bank. A special mention this week to all the anglers who braved the snow on Saturday to fish. Despite the freezing conditions, the fish were still active and everyone had a successful day. RMF member Paul Worley had 6 Rainbows on damsels as reward for braving the snow.
The weather is set to remain frosty and cold so damsels, weighted nymphs and small cat's whiskers will continue to produce takes. We've seen the last of the wind for a little while which will make things slightly more difficult So on the colder, flat calm days, expect the fish to be a little deeper, weighted flies and intermediate or sink tip lines will be required.
Monday 12th January
On Sunday Rocklands Mere Fishery hosted the inaugural fly fishing competition for the East Anglian Fly Dressers Guild and what a great day they had.
Despite the challenging conditions, strong winds didn't seem to hamper the anglers as they took to the banks. A total of 55 Rainbows were caught within the 6 hour competition with the eventual winner being C Bonner from Stowmarket, landing a total of 12 fish using a floating line and small hot headed Damsel nymphs.
The recent milder temperatures and windy days have meant that the fish are all up in the water and most anglers found that takes were coming within 2-3 feet of the surface. Overall a great day was had by all and we will certainly be looking forward to welcoming the club back to the fishery in the future.
Last week RMF members Jon Brooks and Richard Mainprize fished late afternoon sessions and, despite the wind, were rewarded with 14 and 16 fish respectively. Both were fishing the windward bank and using small, skinny Damsel patterns and PT Nymphs, with Richard commenting that takes were coming just on the lift after a short pause in retrieve.
With the wind expected to continue for the next few days expect much of the same, it makes for challenging casting, but it is certainly rewarding.
Monday 5th January
Happy New Year!
RMF regular Philip Bodie had an excellent day last week despite the lake being partially frozen. Fishing the only clear spot on the West bank, Philip landed 9 Rainbows in total on Corixa patterns. Father and son Mike and Matt Bradbeer had a great session on Friday morning. Using bloodworms and floating lines with a long leader, the pair banked 6 Rainbows each. The forecast mild and windy weather for the end of the week will provide excellent conditions. Expect large dries to work in the ripple or static bloodworms or small, weighted nymphs.
WE WILL BE CLOSED ON SUNDAY DUE TO A GROUP BOOKING.
Monday 22nd December
The warmer weather recently has meant some fantastic rises at the fishery and several notable days fishing. The conditions on Thursday were ideal and every angler had impressive returns.
Terry Eley from Ashill had his best day to date when in only a short session managed 5 Rainbows and 2 Browns, all from the island point and using a combination of cdc dries and buzzers. RMF member Ken Whitton had 14 Rainbows in just 4 hours using zonkers and minkies fished on a floating line just beneath the surface, showing that the fish are starting to feed on fry ready for the winter. Newcomer Peter Manning fished the island point last Thursday and banked 9 Rainbows and 2 Browns using olive damsel lures and a fast retrieve.
The sudden increase in temperature and warm wind has meant that most fish are now surface feeding and floating lines are the order of the day. If temperatures drop again, expect the fish to be slightly deeper when intermediate or sink tip lines will work best.
Monday 15th December
John Archer from Litcham had a spectacular day last week banking an impressive 13 Rainbows and 5 Brown Trout. The fish were mainly taken on bloodworms and green-eyed panthers and John caught fish from every platform around the lake.
RMF member Paul Worley had a fantastic session on Sunday. Using a home-tied damsel nymph, Paul landed a total of 12 Rainbows including a beautiful 4lb fish that was returned to fight another day. The cooler temperatures and gin clear water means the fish are currently a little deeper. Sink tip or intermediate lines and olive or black lures and damsel nymphs will be the most productive methods in the coming days.
Monday 8th December
Firstly, a huge thank you for everyone who came to our Christmas Event over the weekend. Always nice to chat with our anglers away from the bank! Ken Whitton fished on Friday and banked an impressive 12 Rainbows and a Brown Trout from the far point. Ken was using zonkers on a floating line and a fast, figure of eight retrieve. RMF member Paul Worley had a great session on Saturday. Despite the bright sun, Paul landed 8 Rainbows from the island using a gold head olive nymph on a floating line. The area around the island is certainly proving to be a hot spot at the moment and the most effective flies have been weighted olive nymphs, damsel nymphs and zonkers or minkies.
Monday 24th November
It was a busy weekend at RMF. A full house and near perfect conditions on Saturday meant plenty of fish were caught. Overcast skies and a gentle warm breeze made for plenty of rising fish and due to the decent ripple, Daddies and wake flies were most successful.
Matthew Bradbeer was the most successful angler on Saturday when he banked 12 Rainbows. Mainly from the West bank and on a combination of Daddies fished on the surface twitched through the ripple or unweighted damsel nymphs on a figure eight retrieve. Other notable returns include 6 Rainbows and a Brown trout for visiting angler Paul Milkeson from Coventry who braved the rain on Sunday morning. Paul only fished for a couple of hours and was using small grey minkies fished on a fast retrieve.
Last week RMF member Ken Whitton had one of his best days recently when he banked 10 rainbows. Ken was fishing the far end of the lake near the outlet and using a floating line and lures such as cats whiskers and olive fritz.
Geoff Peek from Stalham also had a memorable afternoon, when in a short session he managed 6 rainbows and missed just as many. Geoff was fishing a small Hare's ear nymph just under the surface from the middle of the West bank.
As previously mentioned in the newsletter we have a large stocking of Brown trout due to be introduced this week as well as the usual stocking of rainbows.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 17th November
The recent wet weather has certainly brought the water levels back up at the fishery and the fish have responded well to the influx of fresh rainfall and well oxygenated water. RMF member Peter Baxter had a successful day last week using a suspender buzzer, Peter banked a total of 7 Rainbows as the fish were feeding in the surface layers. Paul Rogers from Taverham had a great session on Sunday. Paul landed 12 Rainbows all taken on a floating line and pheasant tail nymph fished just under the surface. The crystal clear water at the moment means small nymphs fished just under the surface to rising fish or cats whiskers fished a little deeper should prove successful in the coming days. For more information or to book, please call James on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 10th November
With temperatures still pretty mild for the time of year, the fish are generally still feeding in the upper layers. Dries and emergers are still the best bet, with cdc buzzers and kilinkhammer style patterns working well.
Philip Bodie used small greased hares ear nymphs just under the surface last weekend to good affect and banked 12 Rainbows and a Brown trout.
Lures such as cats whiskers or green eyed panthers will take fish also, but no need for sinking lines just yet. Mike Glynn from Thetford proved this last week when he landed 11 rainbows on black and green lures.
The water is still, as always exceptionally clear so presentation is key.
For any more information call the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 3rd November
Anglers have been enjoying excellent sport during the past week with most fish taken on dries. Everything from the small cdc emergers to big daddies or muddlers pulled through the ripple have taken fish. Joe Ludkin and his father Andy enjoyed an action packed morning on Saturday. Both were using Joe's hometied "Reel Wings" dry flies and managed to bank 7 rainbows between them, adding that they lost or missed just as many! The weather has certainly helped things recently, with warm, breezy days contributing towards perfect conditions for dry fly fishing.
Lures and nymphs have worked too, with Andrew Tink from Lowestoft landing 14 rainbows last week on a combination of cats whiskers and blobs fished just under the surface on a floating line.
Things should remain exceptional for the time of year, no real drop in temperature will mean that the fish should continue to feed for many more weeks to come.
Monday 27th October
The recent cooler nights and breezy days has meant we've seen some spectacular surface action. Tom Shead from Norwich had a great day on Friday. Using Cats Whiskers fished just under the surface, Tom landed a total of 6 Rainbows. Robert Williams from Stowmarket had a fantastic afternoon session on Sunday. Robert banked 6 Rainbows in just 3 hours all taken on Bob's Bits and Shipmans Buzzers. Conditions are set to remain unchanged and dry flies will almost certainly be the fly of the choice, particularly on breezy days.
Monday 20th October
RMF regular Jon Brooks showed that patiently stalking the margins has it's rewards. On Saturday evening he landed one of our resident Brownies estimated at over 5lbs, a fish which he had been targeting for several weeks. A John Storr Corporate booking fished the lake on Sunday. In challenging windy conditions all 8 of them managed to bank at least 2 fish, no mean feat given that several were newcomers to the sport. Buzzers, nymphs and bloodworms have accounted for the most fish over the last week and with similar weather conditions forecast, this looks set to remain unchanged.
Monday 13th October
Now that the water temperature has decreased, the fish are rising throughout the day and regularly feeding in preparation for Winter. Fishery stalwarts, Don Seaman and Pat Curtis enjoyed a great morning's fishing on Friday. Using a combination of buzzers and small lures, the pair totalled 17 fish between them. RMF member Andrew Tink had a successful day on Saturday. Using everything from buzzers to lures, Andrew banked a total of 9 Rainbows. Also on Saturday, Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham enjoyed plenty of dry fly action. Jimmy landed 8 Rainbows predominantly taken on an Adams. The recent heavy rain and well oxygenated water means there'll be an abundance of rising fish and surface action in the coming days.
Monday 6th October
Last weekend saw temperatures drop quite dramatically, hopefully marking the start of Autumn. The cooler, more unsettled weather will certainly continue to improve the fishing as the water temperature drops.
Fishing has been difficult in still conditions, with plenty of fish freely rising they have been difficult to tempt on the dry fly. On the windier days however, things have been very different. RMF regular Andy Livingston enjoyed a productive afternoon last week and landed 4 fin perfect rainbows. Andy was fishing the far bank into the ripple with hoppers and spider patterns.
Newcomer, Brian Lawler from Bury enjoyed his very first visit to RMF and despite the weather managed to tempt 4 rainbows and a stunning overwintered brown trout. Brian was fishing the far end of the lake and using small bloodworm patterns fished on a floating line.
The fishery will be closed this Sunday due to a corporate day.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 29th September
The cooler weather in the mornings and evenings have proved the most successful time to fish recently with emerger buzzers, CDCs and klinkhammers accounting for the majority of takes. RMF regular Nick Wale fished on Saturday. Using CDCs and pheasant tail nymphs, Nick banked a total of 6 Rainbows caught predominantly in the morning. Another RMF regular Jon Brooks had an evening session on Sunday and was rewarded with a stunning 4lb Brown trout taken on an emerger pattern. As the weather turns more Autumnal, we can expect the fishing to continue to improve after the long hot Summer.
Monday 22nd September
The mixed weather this week has meant some days have been more challenging than others but, when conditions are favourable, there have been some impressive rises. RMF member Roger Bobbin fished a 2 hour morning session on Thursday and was rewarded with a spectacular 17 Rainbows from predominately the lodge end of the lake. Paul Rogers from Taverham fished on Saturday and using black epoxy buzzers managed 11 Rainbows in total. Andy Livingston visited on Sunday and, when the sky clouded over, banked 6 Rainbows using a CDC shuttlecock. If the weather remains cooler and overcast, we can expect to see similar morning rises in the coming days.
Monday 15th September
Fly fishing newcomer Wayne Thompson from Rocklands had a great session on Thursday. After a lesson with James, Wayne went on to catch 6 fish in total including his first Brown trout. Wayne was using Shipman's buzzers and Griffiths Gnats. RMF member Ken Whitton had a fantastic day on Friday. Using various hoppers and lures, Ken banked an impressive 17 Rainbows in total. A special mention this week goes to fishery owner James' 2 year old son William. Fishing with his dad on Thursday, William landed his first ever trout and on a dry fly too! The weather is set to be more of the same this week, so small nymphs and CDC emergers on the overcast days should prove successful.
Monday 8th September
Although the sunshine and warm weather has returned, the fish are still feeding well and any temperature change doesn't seem to have affected catch rates. RMF regulars Jimmy Sayer and Paul Rogers had excellent days last weekend. Jimmy was using klinkhammers and cormorants and landed 8 Rainbows in total. Paul banked an impressive 12 fish on a combination of small buzzers and pheasant tail nymphs. Also on Sunday, Chris Efstratiou from Norwich had a successful evening of 12 fish in just a couple of hours on gold ribbed hare's ears. With weather forecast to stay warm with sunny spells, we expect fly choices to remain unchanged for the coming week and buzzers and nymphs proving most successful. --
Monday 1st September
Recent rain showers and cooler spells have helped lower water temperature and the fish have responded. Sunday afternoon in particular saw a decent rise although the fish were tricky, with only tiny flies working well. CDC emergers and Griffiths gnats have been popular patterns with small hares ear nymphs working sub surface. The large resident brown trout are starting to make an appearance again, with Colin Brown from Oulton Broad landing a 6lb'er last week.
The far end of the lake is still the favoured spot, but unsettled weather and recent stocking should see fish start to disperse and move into the shallower areas again.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 25th August
Its been a busy week at RMF this week. The recent cooler weather and brisk winds have helped conditions and the fish have certainly responded.
Season ticket holder David Long from Norwich enjoyed his best session in recent weeks on Thursday evening. David was fishing his ever faithful Pheasant tail nymph on a floating line and banked 9 fish in total.
Newcomer Mr B Sims also had success on PT nymphs, this time a yellow thorax version. Mr Sims also landed 9 fish in a just a short 4 hour evening session on Friday. The weekend saw newcomer Colin Cook from Attleborough catch 3 rainbows on his home tied damsel nymphs. Colin has only been fly fishing a handful of times and Saturday was his best session to date.
Nymphs and buzzers fished just under the surface or small dries on the dull, overcast days are the best bet in these changeable conditions.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 18th August
What a difference a week makes..! Things have certainly picked up since the weather has cooled down and the wind has picked up. Significantly lower temperatures both during the day and at night have meant that water temps have dropped and the fish are actively feeding throughout the day, so much so that the rod average has doubled over the last week from 1.4 to 2.9 per angler.
Cool gusty winds at the weekend saw the best of the fishing, with Andy Harris and Jonathan White fishing an evening session on Saturday and between them landing 17 Rainbows. Both were using size18 Griffiths Gnats and fishing the far bay.
RMF member Jan Lewandowski from Thetford fished a short 3 hour session on Sunday evening and using lures totalled 5 fish, 4 Rainbows and a lovely overwintered Brown.
A mention must also go to local angler Tham Evans who, using daddies landed 4 Rainbows in just an hour long session before dark.
If this wind keeps up and the weather continues to stay unsettled we can expect the fishing to continue to improve.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 11th August
In wet and windy conditions on Sunday morning, RMF member Jimmy Sayer from Wymondham landed 5 rainbows and lost just as many at the net. Jimmy was fishing a combination of bloodworms and emergers and most of his fish came from the far end of the lake. The cooler weather recently will certainly help the water temperature and with showers on and off over the last few days the fish should be much more inclined to feed.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 4th August
Water temperatures are still relatively high, so on the brighter days, evenings and early mornings are still the best times to try.
Colin Brown from Oulton Broad fished a morning session last week and caught a total of 6 rainbows, 4 of which were over 3lb and one 6lb. Colin was fishing the lodge end of the lake and using size 16 dries.
Buzzers fished static have also accounted for fish, as have nymphs such as damsels and diawl bachs.
Sorry Ive not been around much over the last few days... Our second child, Rosa Sarah Harrold was born on Thursday morning at 2.30am weighing 8lb 3oz.
Monday 28th July
The high temperatures and bright sunshine have meant fishing has been challenging with dry flies and buzzers being responsible for the majority of fish. RMF member Mike Glynn from Thetford had a productive session last week. Using green buzzers and fishing from the far end of the lake, Mike was rewarded with a total of 7 Rainbows. Peter Allison from Newmarket enjoyed a short morning session on Sunday. Fishing towards the island, Peter had 3 Rainbows and a beautiful Brown trout taken on daddies and klinkhammers. Overcast, cooler mornings have seen plenty of rising fish and with slightly cooler and cloudier days forecast dry flies and buzzers will remain the most productive fly choices.
Monday 21st July
Small dry flies have been the order of the day recently, with Shipmans, cdc emergers and Klinkhammers working well when conditions permit.
Luis DeSouza from Gt Ellingham fished an evening session on Sunday and was rewarded with 6 Rainbows and a lovely overwintered Brown trout using a small hares ear shipmans. The fishing during the middle of the day has been typically quite challenging, especially when there is no cloud cover. Mornings and evenings have produced the best action on such days.
Visiting angler Jim Knight, fished a day session on Saturday and due to the hot, bright conditions and the abundance of hatching damsels was using a olive damsel nymph fished deep at the far end of the lake. Jim banked 4 lovely Rainbows using this method.
Monday 14th July
Although the weather has been mainly warm and sunny, the few recent downpours and cloudy days have produced some excellent fishing. A good example of this is Friday when RMF member Nick Wale banked 12 Rainbows in a short morning session. Nick was using a combination of nymphs and dries. Another RMF regular Rolie Flynn had a great day fishing on Saturday. Using a selection of tiny dries, Rolie landed 7 Rainbows in total despite the mixed conditions. With warm weather set to continue, mornings and evenings will no doubt prove the most productive times particularly on overcast days.
Monday 7th July
The overcast and unsettled weather at the weekend was a refreshing change from what were difficult conditions during last week. Cooler temperatures, dull days and scattered showers meant that fishing was a little less of a challenge and nearly all anglers had bumper catches to show for it.
Jan Lewandowski from Thetford fished a morning session on Sunday and was rewarded with 10 rainbows to show for his efforts. Jan was using mainly lures such as minkies on a floating line. Another angler to bank 10 rainbows was season ticket holder Ken Whitton. Ken was fishing the far end of the lake and using Diawl Bach nymphs and lures on a floating line.
The evening rise is by far the most exciting part of the day at this time of year with many anglers enjoying the best of the sport during the last 45 minutes before dusk.
Monday 30th June
Season ticket holder Nick Wale had a spectacular 4 hour's fishing on Saturday. Using hoppers and nymphs, Nick was rewarded with 14 Rainbows in total. Also on Saturday Adrian Bordianu managed 10 Rainbows in an evening session, again all taken on hoppers and pheasant tail nymphs. Despite the terrible rainy start to Sunday, the afternoon provided some excellent fishing. RMF member Paul Worley banked 6 rainbows in just a few hours. Paul was using the ever successful hoppers too. Although temperatures are set to rise again, the cloud cover should ensure plenty of surface action and fly choices will remain hoppers, klinkhammers and daddies.
Monday 23rd June
Considering the time of year and the recent changeable weather, the fishing has been pretty consistent. Bright, sunny afternoons are obviously best avoided, but the evening rises have more than made up for it, with overcast or cooler days seeing plenty of rising fish and dry flies still accounting for the majority of the action.
Damsel nymphs or PTN's on the hotter days are a safe bet, with fish gorging themselves on the abundance of blue damsels in the margins.
Jan Lewandowski from Thetford fished a short 4 hour session on Friday and managed 7 rainbows fishing such nymphs patterns.
RMF member Ken Whitton had a great day too on Friday, landing 6 rainbows on Klinkhammers.
A mention must go to Roger Bobbin from Wymondham for landing a monster rainbow of over 10lb last week. Roger caught the overwintered, fin perfect specimen on a foam Daddy and the fish went back no worse for wear to fight another day.
Fish are freely rising with good spots being off the point near the island and the long West bank which provides plenty of shade in the afternoons.
Monday 16th June
The slightly cooler and overcast weather over the weekend saw 26 anglers take to the banks. The break from the bright sunshine made conditions perfect for dry fly action with the vast majority of fish being taken on the surface. RMF regular Nick Wale fished on Saturday morning and totalled 11 Rainbows including a beautiful over wintered fish of approx. 4lb. Nick was using olive Klinkhammers and claret hoppers. George Hoolhouse treated his father to a day's fishing on Sunday which turned out to be quite a memorable day. The pair were fishing foam daddies at the lodge end of the lake when his father hooked a stunning 7lb Rainbow which was safely released to fight another day. Jon Brooks from Ashill also fished on Sunday evening. In a short 3 hour session was he rewarded with a total of 6 fish on buzzer emergers. With overcast days and cooler temperatures expected dry fly fishing will continue to be the most effective method and late evening rises providing plenty of action.
Monday 9th June
The increasing temperatures and bright sunshine of late have meant fishing during the day has been quite challenging recently, morning or evening sessions have proved most successful. RMF season ticket holder Luis de Souza capitalised on a great evening rise on Friday. Using small black shipman's buzzers, Luis banked a total of 13 Rainbows in just 3 hours. With some warm and overcast days predicted, we can expect plenty of dry fly action and evening rises a plenty.
Monday 2nd June
The warmer weather over the last few days has meant that fly life on the lake has once again began to hatch after the rain of last week. Damsels are in abundance and olive Damsel nymphs or the adult dry fly imitation both work well. Mayfly's are still producing takes but due to the gin clear water dry fly fishing is a little easier on the overcast days.
Colin Brown from Lowestoft banked 10 rainbows on Friday morning. All fish fell to Klinkhammers in various colours and Colin was keeping on the move ensuring that most fish were stalked quite close to the margins.
More unsettled weather this week will help things. Showers, overcast skies and cooler temperatures will ensure that water temperatures remain low enough to keep the trout feeding into the summer months.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 26th May
A huge thank you to everyone who came along to our event over the bank holiday weekend. The weather certainly provided some mixed conditions but dry flies proved to be the most successful fly choice on both days. Congratulations to Adrian Bordinau who won our fishing competition and Paul Worley for winning the fly tying competition. Adrian banked a total of 11 Rainbows in an afternoon session all on dries and hare's ears. There have been numerous large brown trout caught in the margins too. Peter Ketteringham managed two on small klinkhammers both good overwintered fish of over 3lb.
With some overcast and showery weather ahead, expect plenty of surface activity between the showers, with static buzzers or small skinny nymphs such as diawl bachs working well at other times.
Monday 12th May
The more unsettled weather over the last week has seen a variety of flies produce takes, however, Mayfly have been consistently hatching. RMF regular John Archer had a great day on Thursday. Using Mayflies, Pheasant Tail Nymphs and buzzers, he was rewarded with an impressive 16 fish including 2 beautiful over wintered Brown Trout. On Saturday, visiting angler Kieron Harney had a fantastic evening on Saturday. Kieron banked 17 Rainbows in total on a black suspender buzzer from the far end of the lake. With the weather set to warm up again later this week, we expect to see some prolific Mayfly hatches. We are holding an open weekend and BBQ on the 24th and 25th of May with both fly tying and fishing competitions taking place.
Monday 5th May
Much earlier than previous seasons, thanks to warm sunny days, Mayfly mania has begun at RMF! The bank holiday weekend saw several anglers see success on Mayfly patterns, notably newcomer Matt Moyes, on only his second fly fishing session, who banked a total of 10 Rainbows all on a spent Mayfly pattern. On Saturday RMF member Nick Wale had a fantastic morning session with a total of 21 Rainbows on a CDC buzzer. A special mention goes to Paul Worley (below) who caught his first Brown trout on Monday. A stunning 4lb specimen taken on a home-tied black gnat.
Mayfly are set to continue hatching on any warmer days and small dries are a safe bet too. For more information or to book visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk or call 01953 483971
Monday 28th April
Slightly unsettled weather over the last week has seen plenty of anglers, with various tactics accounting for fish.
Norwich anglers Adrian Bordianu and Daniel Botez fished an evening session last Wednesday and between them caught 20 Rainbows, most on Olive Klinkhammers. In contrast, RMF member Mike Glynn from Thetford once again showed that lures will still work when on the very next day he landed 13 rainbows. Mike was using blobs fished on a sink tip line.
A mention must also go to RMF regular Bernie Nunn, who on Sunday morning used home tied suspender buzzers to tempt 6 rainbows off the top.
Cooler temperatures and the odd shower will almost certainly mean that the daytime hatch and subsequent rise may become less frequent, but buzzers and small hares ear nymphs fished slowly should be a good method to fall back on until Spring comes back!
Monday 21st April
The favourable weather during the Easter week saw plenty of anglers taking advantage of the bank holidays with some of our busiest days to date. Thursday in particular produced some spectacular dry fly and buzzer action with the fish coming thick and fast.
RMF member Roger Bobbin enjoyed an incredible 4 hour session on Thursday, banking a total of 11 Rainbows. Using CDC emergers from the windward bank, one fish was a stunning overwintered 10lb Rainbow which was returned safely to fight another day. Also on Thursday, Don Seaman from Dereham landed 18 Rainbows on a combination of dries and buzzers. Returnee Mark Salway had 12 Rainbows on Claret Shipmans on Monday, all from the lodge end of the lake.
Last week saw a total of 52 anglers and an impressive rod average of 4.6. The warm overcast days have seen plenty of buzzer, alder and caddis hatches making for some excellent dry fly action.
Monday 7th April
Much of the same over the last week with buzzer hatches becoming more prevalent when conditions permit, although the fishing tailed off a little on Sunday and Monday with the cooler wind and rain showers.
Member Mike Glynn from Thetford had a memorable start to his season last week when he landed a total of 25 Rainbows in two days. Mike was using mostly Damsel nymphs and lures fished on a floating line.
Paul Rogers from Taverham fished an evening session on Friday and using dries tempted 8 Rainbows off the top during a spectacular evening rise. Pauls fly of choice was small Klinkhammers. A mention must also go to Rhys Hunt, who in an evening session landed 12 Rainbows on cdc buzzers, klinkhammers and sedge patterns.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 31st March
Its been buzzers galore at Rocklands Mere Fishery over the last week, particularly over the weekend when warm hazy days saw plenty of rising fish and good buzzer hatches throughout the day.
John Archer fished on Friday and had over 20 Rainbows on skinny black buzzers and on the same evening Luis DeSouza managed to tempt 13 off the top in what can only be described as the most spectacular evening rise of the year so far. Luis was using a size 16 Shipmans buzzer and two of his Rainbows were well over 6lb.
Nick Wale from Dereham was using buzzers fished under an indicator and tempted 6 Rainbows on Saturday morning including one of 4lb+ (pictured below)
Nymphs are also proving successful at times with Mike Glynn from Thetford using Damsels to great effect on Thursday landing 10 Rainbows from the far end of the lake.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 24th March
Well Spring has certainly sprung at Rocklands Mere Fishery.
Last weekend saw prolific buzzer hatches with dry flies accounting for most of the fish, particularly on Sunday when the overcast skies and gentle breeze made conditions perfect for top of the water sport.
Newcomer Paul Worley enjoyed his best day since joining and witnessed the thrill of fishing dries when he landed a total of 9 Rainbows. Fishing on Sunday, Paul was using small black cdc buzzers and fishing the choppy water on the West bank. Another good day was had by Roger Bobbin from Wymondham who in an afternoon managed 11 Rainbows on small G&H Sedge patterns.
Nymphs and buzzers still prove successful on the brighter days with member Paul Rogers from Taverham using his faithful home-tied PT nymph to great effect on Thursday and banking 16 Rainbows.
A total of 219 fish were caught last week, with the rod average being 4.9 and over half of them taken on dries.
New season tickets will be sent out on Tuesday to all members...
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 17th March
What a week its been! The Spring like weather has meant that the fish are now certainly on the feed after the Winter slumber and as fly life increases, buzzer hatches in the afternoons have been met with great enthusiasm from the anglers.
Bloodworms are still working well, with RMF regular Ken Whitton landing a beautiful 5lb+ rainbow from the far end of the lake using a drifted apps bloodworm on a floating line.
Member Nick Wale from Toftwood fished in the wind on Saturday morning and totalled 15 rainbows. All fell to a cats whisker fished deep.
A mention must also go to Tom Shead from Norwich who had his best day ever since joining the fishery with 15 rainbows. Tom was using a combination of Cats Whiskers and apps bloodworms on a floating line and fishing from the point at the top of the lake.
Member Richard Mainprize from Wymondham landed his personal best rainbow at 8lb late on Friday evening using a black lure fished deep.
An evening rise has been a daily occurrence recently, with Luis Desouza making the most of a couple of hours on Wednesday landing 9 fish in total, all on small grey shipmans fished on the surface.
Contrary to our winter newsletter, we don't shut on Mondays.
This was never implemented...Too much to do , so little time! On Mondays we are open as usual..
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 10th March
Much warmer weather has meant some exciting fishing over the last week at RMF, with buzzers hatches starting as the temperatures rise in the afternoons.
This has been proven by many anglers with black or olive buzzers fished on a floating line working very well in certain areas of the lake.
The inlet and inlet bay as well as the lodge end of the lake have been the best places to try. Regular John Archer managed to land 12 rainbows on Friday using size 16 black buzzers on a floating line, one of which was 5lb+.
Paul Rogers from Taverham fished an evening session last week with great success using a combination of small PT nymphs and later on in the evening Daddy Long legs patterns fished into the ripple at the windward end of the lake, a great feat considering the cold wind!
The fish are certainly starting to respond to dries, with the warmer afternoons the best time. Jon Brooks spent the afternoon on Sunday stalking Brownies in the margins and using Klinkhammers and CDC buzzers managed to tempt 2 lovely over wintered specimens (pictured below)
Monday 3rd March
The recent Spring like weather has made for some much more pleasant angling conditions although the wind has still been a challenge on some days! RMF regular Adrian Bordianu had a great afternoon on Saturday. Adrian banked 5 fish in total all taken on Buzzers and fishing the windward bank. Also on Saturday, James Poley from Mildenhall fished a short 3 hour session and landed 5 fish including a beautiful 5lb Brown trout. Bloodworms and buzzers fished static or Cats Whiskers fished deep are still the most productive flies and fishing the windward bank , although a little challenging, is the key to success. The warmer afternoons have seen prolific buzzer hatches and subsequent rise - a sign that Spring is upon us at last.
Monday 24th February
The mild weather and higher than normal daytime temperatures over the last week has meant that buzzers and small nymphs have prevailed as the fly of choice.
Bloodworms fished on a floating line at no more than two feet deep have proved extremely successful, particularly near the inlet bay and lodge end of the lake.
The deeper water at the far end of the lake will still respond to lures such as cats whiskers or vivas as proved by RMF regular Colin Brown from Lowestoft. Colin fished a morning session and landed 5 rainbows in total, 2 of which were close to 6lb. Adrian Bordianu from Taverham fished an afternoon session on Sunday and using sz16 olive hares ear nymphs on a floating line landed 15 rainbows and a brownie. No mean feat as Adrian ensured he caught from every platform on the lake.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 17th February
After the stormy weather at the end of last week, Sunday was most definitely the day to fish. Some dry, warm weather at last ensured that all anglers had a successful day. Notable catches include Andrew Livingstone from Newmarket who landed 3 Rainbows in total. Using a hot head Diawl Bach, one of Andrew's fish was a beautiful 5.5lb overwintered Rainbow caught from the lodge end of the lake. RMF regular Jon Brooks fished a 4 hour afternoon session also on Sunday. He was rewarded with 8 Rainbows taken on Bloodworms and Damsels on a floating line.
With the wind changing to Westerly, the lodge end of the lake is now the more productive area. Bloodworms on a floating line continue to be successful and holographic or hot head Diawl Bach are also working well due to slight water colouring after the storm.
Monday 10th February
The continued wet and wild weather has meant little change in favoured techniques of late and the deeper, far end of the lake is still the most productive.
RMF member Luis de Souza from Great Ellingham had an incredible morning's fishing on Saturday, releasing 17 Rainbows in total. Luis was fishing a static Bloodworm predominately at the far end of the lake. A special mention this week goes to fly fishing newcomer Paul Worley from Tharston. After tuition with James, Sunday was his second independent session and despite gale force winds Paul landed an impressive 5 Rainbows using small Cat's Whiskers. No mean feat in such atrocious conditions!
With the weather set to remain unchanged, recommended fly choices would be Bloodworms and Cat's Whiskers fished fairly slow and at the deeper far end of the lake.
Monday 3rd February
The deeper water at the far end of the lake has seen the most action over the last week. Goldhead damsels and cat's whiskers fished deep has been a rewarding method so too has diawl bachs or buzzers drifted with the wind. Once again, several larger, grown on fish have been caught, with the biggest last week being 7lbs. Big brown trout have also been showing with Ken Smith from Trowse catching two in an afternoon, both estimated at around 5lb each. With all the recent heavy rain and wind, the water is slightly coloured and with similar weather forecast, it may be that lures are the better option.
Monday 27th January
A drop in temperature, with the odd nightly frost has meant that the fishing has been less consistent than previous weeks, with the mornings proving to be the better time of day for good results.
Paul Humphrey from St Albans enjoyed his day on Friday when he landed 6 Rainbows. Paul was using a floating line and small cats whiskers lures fishing the far end of the lake.
There have been a good number of larger fish showing over the last seven days, with 5 & 6lb fish not uncommon at the end of day returns.
Bloodworm buzzers are definitely still worth trying and are accounting for plenty of fish, as are cats whiskers and blue flash damsels.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 20th January
The fishing over the last seven days has been pretty consistent, with only the last couple of days being a little more challenging due to the colder night time temperatures. Anglers have even been catching on dries, with cdc emergers and hoppers tempting fish to the surface on the warmer afternoons.
For the rest of the time, its been business as usual for this time of year, with lures such as cats whiskers or small black minkies fished deeper producing good results.
Bloodworms will also work, fished on a floating line and drifted or fished almost static as the last remnants of fly life hatch off before winter sets in properly.
There have been several big fish landed recently with 5 & 6lb rainbows not uncommon in the end of day catch returns. The Brown trout too have been making an appearance with newcomer Alan Sturridge catch two estimated at over 4lb each.
For more information call James at the fishing lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 13th January
With slightly more wintery weather upon us over the last few days, the fish have generally been feeding a little deeper in the water with heavier flies or intermediate or sinking lines working well.
RMF member Phil Haney fished a day session on Friday and was rewarded with 10 rainbows up to 6lb and a lovely brownie. Phil was using cats whisker and fishing quite deep. Jon Brooks had a day to remember once again, when in only an afternoon session on Sunday landed a total of 11 rainbows. Jon was using goldhead damsels and cats whisker lures and fishing the far end of the lake.
Buzzers and bloodworm patterns have still been working, but fished static or drifted with the wind. Fred Winstanley from Thetford using this method to great effect on Thursday evening with a total of 4 rainbows and 2 stalked browns.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 6th January
Relatively mild weather recently has meant that on some days the fish have been up in the water taking dries. Daddies, hoppers and cdc buzzers are all working in the choppy water. Even on the colder days the fish don't seem to be too deep, with floating lines and bloodworm buzzers still proving extremely successful.
Bernie Nunn and Roger Bobbin from Wymondham had a surprising mornings fishing on Sunday when, in only a short session managed to land 12 fish between them, Bernie with 5 Rainbows and Roger with 7. They were using a combination of Bloodworm buzzers and cats whiskers and fishing at 2-3 feet deep.
With continued wet and windy weather forecast and no real sudden drop in temperature expected, the fish should remain within reach. Only the first real hard frosts will send them into deeper water.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 30th December
The wet and windy weather over the festive period has meant that conditions have been hard, but a slight break in the weather over the weekend saw plenty of anglers on the bank.
Season ticket holder Patrick Larke from Attleborough fished on Sunday and had a day to remember. Sunday was Patrick's Birthday and he was duly rewarded with his most successful day to date. He landed 12 rainbows in total with all coming on a bloodworm buzzer fished under an indicator on a floating line. Patrick's biggest fish was estimated at just over 4lb.
With relatively mild, windy weather set to continue expect the fish to be up in the water, with only prolonged cold spells putting the fish deeper. Floating lines and large dries have proved very effective on the windy days fished in choppy water.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 23rd December
Wet and windy weather recently has not affected the fishing too much, with last week seeing some impressive catches for the anglers prepared to brave the conditions. Mike Glynn from Thetford fished a sink tip line and orange lures quite deep which produced 9 rainbows last Wednesday.
Regular, Jon Brooks fished a very short afternoon session in the wind and rain and was rewarded with 6 rainbows. Jon was using a mixture of damsels, cormorants and cats whiskers.
Rhys Hunt from Scratby proved that even in cold winds, trout will still take dry flies when he landed 6 rainbows on Sunday, 3 of which were caught on cdc buzzers.
Lastly we would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and hope to see you on the bank again in 2014...
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 16th December
With a fairly mild week the fish have been surprisingly active for the time of year, with plenty of surface action meaning lots of success using dries. On colder days with little wind sinking lines or lures fished deeper will provide more takes.
Newcomer Stephen Greensword from North Walsham fished last week with great success landing 3 Rainbows and 2 Brown trout on his first ever visit. Stephen was using a sinking line and black lures and was fishing the inlet point.
Nick Wale from Toftwood proved that dry flies can still be used in the Winter, when on Saturday he caught 8 rainbows on a mixture of cdc buzzers, klinkhammers and hoppers fished into choppy water.
Other notable captures from last week include specimen fish for RMF members Phil Haney and John Archer who landed rainbows to 7lb and 8lb respectively.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 9th December
The annual RMF Christmas event and fly fishing competition held at the fishery last weekend was a huge success, whether it was fishing the competition or viewing the demonstrations there was a great turn out on both days.
Our fly fishing competition was won by Rhys Hunt (pictured below) from Scratby, who on the Sunday banked an incredible 15 rainbows and 1 brown trout. Rhys was mainly fishing home tied minkies on a sinking line and went away with first prize of a new Vision fly rod and bottle of Champagne.
A mention must also go to 2nd Place Andrew Tink from Lowestoft and 3rd placed Jan Lewandowski from Thetford in what was a hard fought and very close finish.
A big thankyou to everyone who came along at the weekend.
The lake is fishing well at present but be prepared to fish a little deeper as we creep into winter. Sinking lines will reach more fish and lures or fry patterns should prove successful especially as temperatures drop and fly life decreases.
2nd placed Andrew Tink from Lowestoft with a beautiful 6lb Rainbow.
Christmas Event
The annual RMF Christmas event will take place on the 7th and 8th of December this year. Alongside our usual festive refreshments there will be a fishing competition held over both days with some fantastic prizes on offer including a new vision fly rod.
James will be giving Smoking demonstrations throughout the weekend on everything from how to fillet and prepare your catch to brining and selecting woodchips. Those of you who fish over the event weekend may also be able to have your catch smoked for you!
There will be a fly tying demonstration and a chance to sign up for the RMF fly tying evening classes held at the fishery.
To make way for new product lines and 2014 stock, the RMF tackle shop will be undergoing a revamp before the Christmas Event. There will be lots on offer in store including some exciting new products as well as some clearance and sale items available for the Christmas weekend only. Don't forget you can also browse our extensive range at rmftackleshop.com
Our Christmas Event is a great way to get some present buying done away from the hectic city shops. If you're stuck for gift ideas, why not buy a Rocklands Mere Fishery Voucher? Available for casting lessons, a day's fishing or tackle, they make an ideal gift.
Memberships
Advance sale season tickets will be available and anyone purchasing over the Christmas weekend will be rewarded with a £20 RMF gift voucher. It is worth noting that we limit the number each year and they are offered on a first come, first served basis. The 2014 season ticket will remain unchanged at £300 or, for the first time ever we will be offering a premium membership ticket for unlimted sessions throughout the year for £450.
Opening Hours
Just a reminder that our Winter opening hours are now in operation and will run until April 1st 2014. The fishery opens at 8.00am and closes for ticket sales at 5.00pm (or dusk). If you wish to fish an evening, please ensure you arrive before this time.
Over the festive period, Rocklands Mere Fishery will close on 24th December and repoen on Friday the 27th December.
Beginning in January, RMF will be closing on Mondays. The fishery will be closed to all anglers on Mondays excluding Bank Holidays.
Rule Changes
As many of you know, we have recently stocked some larger fish to add yet more variety to the fishing at RMF and will continue to do so throughout the winter months. Please ensure your leader and tippet are up to scratch and we would also ask that all fish of 4lbs and over are returned as per the fishery rules.
Catch and release is no longer limited, however, please use common sense.
We are also not implementing the sinlge fly only rule. Anglers are now able to use two flies per rod if desired.
Report
While recent weather conditions may not be much fun for us anglers, the arrival of winter has certainly helped the fishing after a long hot summer. Plenty of overcast, windy days have resulted in some fantastic surface action. This, combined with the recent introduction of our bigger fish, has resulted in many memorable sessions. Rhys Hunt (pictured below) was one of the first to encounter our big fish and landed over 20 rainbows in a morning using white minkies on a floating line.
As temperatures drop, expect lures or larger nymphs to produce more takes. Floating lines with longer leaders may be required as the fish start to feed in deeper water. Stocking will continue right through the winter, with more specimen sized rainbows trickled in with the usual high quality stock fish.
Keep up to date with fishery reports and everything else going on at www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Corporate Events
Due to a combination of our unique, tranquil setting and fantastic hospitality, Rocklands Mere Fishery Corporate Events are an incredibly popular way to entertain clients, reward staff or simply celebrate! Each event is specifically catered to our clients needs, so whether you’re looking for a corporate event with a difference or a unique stag venue, RMF has the solution for you.
All our events include expert tuition with our GAIA qualified instructor so complete beginners and experienced anglers alike can cast a fly to the rising fish. Catering for your event can be talilor-made to suit you. We offer three standard catering options but these can easily be customised to your ideas and we can do anything from canapés and drinks parties to fully catered events such as our ultimate ‘Mayfly’ event. Prices from £60 per person. For more information call James or Katie on 01953 483971.
We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the RMF Christmas Event.
Kind regards,
James & Katie
Monday 2nd December
The fish are now starting to move into deeper water as the temperatures drop, however can still be found rising sporadically on warmer afternoons. On such occasions buzzers or emergers have produced results, as have hares ear nymphs fished very slowly. Black lures have been a favourite recently, fished slow and deep on a sink tip line or floating line with a long leader.
John archer had a successful day last week when he landed 17 rainbows up to 6lb and a brown trout of just under 5lb. John was using a combination of Green eyed panther lures and apps bloodworms fished deep.
Newcomer John Cheeseman from Norwich fished on Thursday and despite the cold banked 3 rainbows and a beautiful Brown trout to finish the day. John was using a bloodworm on a floating line and also managed one on a dry fly.
Just a reminder that it is the annual RMF Christmas event this weekend. Everyone is welcome. For more information contact James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 25th November
Given the recent drop in temperatures, the fish are starting to move into the lower layers and weighted nymphs or buzzers on a long leader have seen the most action over the last week. James Hilton from Hethersett landed 12 Rainbows on Friday afternoon. James was using a combination of bloodworms and buzzers on a long leader fished almost static. One of James' fish was approximately 5lb and was returned to fight another day. Nick Wale from Toftwood fished at RMF on Saturday and despite the cold and showery rain. managed a total of 20 Rainbows. Nick was using home-tied lures, such as cormorants, as well as bloodworms fished deep. With conditions set to remain unchanged, floating lines and long leaders or sink tips should remain effective.
Monday 18th November
The fishing over the last week has been pretty consistent, although methods and fly choice has varied. Some anglers are still choosing to use dry flies and with success.
Daddies, hoppers and black gnats have all accounted for fish, as have nymphs and buzzers, with some anglers choosing to fish slightly deeper, with lures such as cats whiskers and viva's both proving successful.
RMF regular, Andrew Tink from Lowestoft managed to land 6 rainbows on Saturday, one of which was an immaculate specimen at 5lb+
With colder weather forecast over the next few days, expect the fish to move to slightly deeper water.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 11th nomvember
colder temperatures have meant that the fish have been slightly deeper this week, with long leaders and weighted nymphs or lures being the better option. Dries will still work, but wait for windy days and a good ripple and try larger flies such as hoppers, daddies or muddlers.
stocking is to continue throughout the winter.
for more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk.
Monday 28th October
A wet and windy weekend saw only the bravest of anglers turn out for what must be the most challenging form of fishing in such conditions.
Strong winds on Sunday made casting a bit of a lottery, but RMF regulars Jon, Paul and Jan battled the gales and all caught fish and mainly on dries!
Daddy long legs and big Klinkhammers bounced over the waves brought fish up into the surface and although tricky conditions for the anglers, the trout seemed to thrive in the choppy water.
On Saturday the Aldred brothers, David and Lesley from Norwich fished for the first time in years as part of David's 60th Birthday present. Both caught fish despite the heavy rain, with Les managing 2 lovely Rainbows caught on a damsel nymph.
The mild temperatures are certainly helping things at the moment and breezy days mean that the fish are extremely active in the upper layers. Big dry flies fished into choppy water will be the most rewarding method to try, with daddies, hoppers and cdc F flies working well.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 21st October
The recent mild weather, coupled with overcast skies and windy days has ensured that the fishing has been exceptional, particularly the surface action. Tom Shead from Norwich enjoyed his most successful day to date on Saturday when he banked 8 Rainbows and a beautiful 3lb Brown trout. Tom was using a floating line with a long leader and a small Cat's Whisker. Adrian Bordianu from Taverham fished on Saturday evening and in just 2 hours landed 6 Rainbows all on small dries, such as Klinkhammers and Hoppers, fished into choppy water. Another mention must go to Carl Eke's feat of 2 Rainbows and an unbelievable 7 Brownies on Friday. The weather is predicted to remain the same for the coming days and, while not ideal for the anglers, the fishing will continue to be rewarding.
Monday 14th October
John Archer proved that the fish were still buzzer feeding last week when he landed 14 rainbows on tiny black buzzers. John was fishing a floating line and only allowing the flies to just sink under the surface before a jerky figure of eight retrieve which saw plenty of takes.
Roger Bobbin from Wymondham took advantage of the wind and choppy water on Thursday and fishing Daddy long legs patterns managed to bank 7 rainbows in a morning. Roger found dead drifting the flies slowly across the surface produced the most action.
With the rain and strong winds we've had recently the water is really in prime condition and the fish are feeding heavily throughout the day. Wake flies such as daddies, hoppers and sedges are popular on windy days, with small nymphs and buzzers working on calmer water. Minkies and fry patterns will start to become more successful as the water temperature drops and fly life is less abundant.
Just a note to anglers that we have stocked some big fish recently, so make sure leader/tippet is up to the job!
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Andrew Tink with a lovely 3lb Rainbow caught on Saturday
Monday 7th October
Despite unseasonably warm and sunny days, the lake has continued to fish well thanks to cool night time temperatures. Regular visitor Bill Moore fished RMF on Saturday. Using small dries such as klinkhammers, Bill had his most successful visit yet catching 8 Rainbows. Fly fishing beginner, Isabella McBride from Hingham had a lesson on Sunday and was soon casting like a seasoned angler. Isabella landed three Rainbows, her first ever solo effort, using a diawl bach nymph. Season ticket holder Patrick Larke had a very productive day on his most recent visit banking a total of 14 Rainbows. Patrick was using black klinkhammers and fishing the lodge end of the lake.
The fishing really is at its best at the moment and even on the brighter days, fish are still rising freely. Small dries or emerger patterns continue to be productive, with nymphs such as hare's ear or diawl bachs, fished very shallow on a floating line are another successful combination.
Monday 30th September
The recent return of warmer weather has certainly brought the anglers out and the cooler nights have ensured the fishing has been consistently good.
RMF regular John Archer had a great day last week fishing black buzzers just under the surface. John was rewarded with 11 Rainbows and a beautiful Brown Trout in the tricky conditions. Adrian Head from Shipdham fished RMF on Thursday. Using a variety of dry flies on a fast retrieve, Adrian landed 12 Rainbows from near the island in a short 4 hour session. A special mention to beginner Coral Eaglesham who was visiting from Andover in Hampshire. Coral had an hour's tuition on Sunday morning and despite the strong winds managed to catch three Rainbow trout - and on dry flies too!
Monday 23rd Septemeber
As the Autumnal weather continues, fishing has been consistently good with daddies and hoppers providing most of the action. RMF newcomer, Philip Sturridge, from Cambridge had a great first trip to the fishery on Friday. Using daddies fishe...d into choppy water, he managed 7 Rainbows and a beautiful over-wintered Brown trout estimated at 7lb. Mick Parker also fished on Friday and using both dries and CDC emergers caught a total of 13 Rainbows and 2 Brownies. On Sunday, local angler James Griffiths had a successful afternoon despite the sunshine. Using olive nymphs and a fast figure-eight retrieve just under the surface, James banked a total of 9 Rainbows in quick succession. With fish feeding throughout the day, particularly when it is overcast, dry flies or emerger patterns are a must. For more information or to book, please call 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 16th September
Although the weather is now starting to turn, the cooler winds have really turned the fish on to feed and last week was by far the most successful for anglers since the Spring. The rod average keeps increasing, with last weeks being 5.4/rod.
RMF member Geoff Peek from Stalham had one of his best sessions for months when he landed 10 rainbows in an afternoon. Geoff was using natural hoppers and fishing the lodge end of the lake.
Other notable captures include Nick Wale from Toftwood who banked 12 rainbows and a brown trout in a 4 hour session on Saturday morning. Nick caught all of his fish on dries, which included daddies, hoppers and cdc buzzers.
With temperatures continuing to fall, this will only improve the fishing. Dry flies should continue to work with drifted buzzers being used on the brighter days.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 9th September
As the autumnal weather approaches and water temperatures start to decrease, the fishing at RMF has really been given a kick start over the last week.
The rod average over the last week has been 5.7, a vast improvement from the heat of the summer days.
Newcomer Bruce Mount from Thetford had an enjoyable first session at RMF, catching 10 Rainbows in an evening. Bruce was using CDC emergers and small Hares Ear Shipmans buzzers and fishing the lodge end of the lake.
RMF regular Ken Whitton fished a day session on Friday and was rewarded with 6 rainbows and a lovely overwintered Brown, Ken was using fiery brown hoppers and Damsel Nymphs during bright spells.
Anglers can expect a really productive couple of months ahead. As temperatures start to drop and fish really start feeding before the winter, things are looking promising after such a long, hot summer.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Nick Wale from Toftwood with a fin perfect Brown trout
Monday 2nd September
Much cooler temperatures at night have really started to help the fishing over the last few days. On overcast days, fish will take dries throughout the day, with black gnats, hoppers and cdc emergers working well recently. When the sun breaks through, Hare's ear nymphs and olive buzzers are a better option. Roger Bobbin from Wymondham enjoyed a morning session on Sunday and banked 8 rainbows using black gnats and hoppers from the island. Many thanks to everyone who attended the end of Summer BBQ at the weekend. With a nice breeze, anglers enjoyed some great dry fly action before the afternoon's BBQ.
Monday 19th August
As temperatures have continued to drop and there have been more overcast days, we have seen a great improvement in the fishing here at RMF. Season ticket holder, Richard Mainprize from Wymondham banked a total of 10 Rainbows using both nymphs and dries on Saturday. Another RMF regular, Paul Rogers from Taverham, fished on Sunday morning. Paul landed 7 Rainbows, using small black Klinkhammers. Fish are rising all over the lake at the moment and readily taking small dry patterns. With temperatures set to dip a little lower next week, the subsequent effect on water temperature will continue to encourage feeding.
Monday 12th August
Slightly cooler temperatures and some overcast days have really effected the fishing recently. There have been really good rises throughout the day and the majority of fish are being caught on drys. A good example of this was on Wednesday evening when Rhys Hunt from Great Yarmouth had 7 Rainbows in quick succession. He was using CDC emergers and black hoppers on a floating line. On Saturday, Richard Mainprize from Wymondham, had a total of 5 Rainbows on a combination of pheasant tail and damsel nymphs. With more cool and cloudy days on the horizon conditions are set to return to those more favourable for trout and fishing will continue to improve.
Monday 5th August
Anglers have seen slight improvements in the fishing on the cooler days, in particular when thundery showers and overcast skies are present. A point proved by James Smith from Old Buckenham, who managed to land 7 rainbows and a Brown trout on such a day. James was using a floating line and small black gnats to tempt the fish which all came from under the trees on the island.
We really do need significantly reduced temperatures to make a real difference as water temperatures are still quite high.
As we proceed into Autumn we should find that things get better and better, with stock fish more inclined to feed straight away.
For more information contact James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 29th July
With slightly more unsettled weather recently, the fishing has improved. Responding mainly to dries such as black gnats and klinkhammers, most fish have been taken off the top or just under the surface on emerger patterns. Adrian Bordianu from Taverham enjoyed a quick, spur of the moment evening session last week and was thrilled with his total tally of 9 rainbows. Adrian was fishing various dry flies, but found the klinkhammer was favourite. The fishery is still at its best in the evenings and will continue this way until we get some lower temps or a good thunderstorm or two..
Monday 22nd July
The recent scorching temperatures have meant that early starts or late evenings were the most productive sessions but the overcast and cooler weather over the weekend instantly perked up the daytime fishing.
Nick Wale from Toftwood fished on Saturday and saw immediate results with a claret hopper. Nick was rewarded with 8 Rainbows in total all from near the island. Paul Rogers also fished on Saturday and, in just a couple of hours, banked 5 Rainbows and a Brownie on a mixture of klinkhammers and daddies. With thunderstorms set to freshen the water up in the coming few days, we can expect similar results especially when temperatures drop. For more information or to book, please call James on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 15th July
The summer weather means that fishing is at its best first thing in the morning or during the evening. Fish are within a foot of the surface but difficult to catch during the day. With an abundance of Damsel flies present, both rainbows and Browns have been feeding heavily. Damsel nymphs will work, as well as Olive Hares Ear nymphs.
Try an olive buzzer emerger in the evening or a grey duster.
Monday 8th July
Geoff Hardcastle, who travelled from Harlow to visit us, had a great day on Tuesday. Fishing hare's ear nymphs just under the surface, Geoff banked a total of 7 Rainbows. Colin Brown from Lowestoft had a sensational day on Wednesday. Stalking the margins with small dries rewarded him with a staggering 5 Brown Trout all over 5lbs. Colin also landed 5 Rainbows using the same method. A special mention this week goes to one of our oldest anglers, Pat Curtis from Poringland. Pat fished on Thursday using a floating line and dry flies and banked 5 Rainbows and a Brownie. With the British summer set to continue (for the mean time at least!) it's all about dry fly fishing at RMF. If you would like more information or to book a casting lesson, please call James on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 1st July
Summer weather recently has meant that mornings and evenings have been fishing extremely well, with dry flies such as daddies, hoppers and small olive klinkhammers all taking fish. Damsel nymphs mid day will be the best bet when the sun is at its highest or try small olive buzzers fished almost static on a floating line.
Colin Brown from Lowestoft had one of his best days at RMF to date when he landed 3 consecutive Brown Trout all over 4lb, with the biggest being 6lb. Colin also banked 5 rainbows and all on dries from the margins.
Nigel Etteridge from Attleborough fished an evening session on Friday and using small Damsel Nymphs and Cats Whiskers managed 10 Rainbows from the middle of the West bank.
A special mention must go to 10 year old Hannah Good from Gunton. After a lesson with James, Hannah soon found herself casting perfectly and, using a mayfly dry caught her first ever Rainbow Trout, shortly followed by another! Well done Hannah.
Expect more of the same if the weather continues, with larger dry flies working in the windier, choppy conditions.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 24th June
While the disappearance of summer may disappoint some, the drop in temperatures and periods of rain has meant the conditions for fishing have been more favourable. Tham Evans, from Thetford, braved blustery winds and heavy downpours on Sunday to return 7 Rainbows and 1 Brownie. Tham was fishing the West bank using a floating line and daddy long legs pattern. Holidaymaker Tom Stevens from Durham banked 11 Rainbows and 2 Brown trout on Thursday. All on a mixture of damsel nymphs and buzzers. The last week has seen some fantastic evening rises and, with the weather remaining largely unchanged, this looks set to continue.
For more information or to book, please call James on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 17th June
The continued unsettled weather has meant buzzers and nymphs have ruled supreme at RMF this week. Rocklands Mere regular Paul Rogers had a spectacular evening's fishing on Thursday. He banked a total of 12 fish using a floating line, pheasant tail nymphs and small dries as the evening progressed. Andrew Tink, from Lowestoft, fished through the rain showers on Saturday and was rewarded with 7 rainbows. Andrew was using damsel nymphs on a floating line from the lodge end of the lake. A special mention must go to Ryan Halls who caught his first brown trout on Sunday using a Mayfly - no mean feat given how famously fastidious they are!
Monday 10th June
A cold weekend saw lots of anglers trying their luck, hoping the lack of sun would encourage some rising fish. Bernie Nunn from Wymondham fished a morning session on Sunday and landed 6 Rainbows in total. Bernie was using a home tied pheasant tail buzzer in black and was fishing just under the surface.
Visiting angler Tom Philpot, on holiday from Cornwall proved it was worth packing his rods when he landed a 6lb+ Brown trout. Tom was fishing the margins of the North bank and using a small olive Hares Ear nymph and sight fishing to feeding fish. There have been a few remaining Mayflies hatching off, but the damsels are now really starting to show, so expect damsel nymphs to be in abundance shortly. For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 3rd June
A warmer weekend, particularly on Sunday afternoon, saw a few remaining Mayflies coming off at the North end of the lake. Brown trout were feeding very close to the bank so stealth was required to tempt them into a take. Alan Blake from Brandon, had a spectacular evening's fishing on Saturday. Fishing the North end of the lake with a Mayfly pattern, Alan landed 6 rainbows and 2 Brown trout. Paul Rogers from Taverham had an equally successful evening resulting in 8 rainbows and a Brown trout. All were caught on a floating line and a home-tied, size 18 pheasant tail nymph from the windward bank. The weather is set to get warmer in the coming few days and the fishing will no doubt result in some fantastic rises.
Monday 27th May
With the perfect bank holiday weather came some of the best Mayfly hatches the fishery has seen in a long time.
Increased temperatures on Sunday meant that the trout were once again fixated on the hatching duns and gorging themselves.
Buzzers fished below the surface, or the emerging variant still produced fish, but it was large mayfly patterns which really got the fish's attention.
Numerous lessons over the weekend saw many newcomers catching a trout for the first time. Ryan Halls from Thetford was thrilled with 3 rainbows on his first ever session. Other notable captures included 4 fish in just a short 1 hour session for Simon Easthope from Caston. Simon was using a small green buzzer fished just under the surface.
Monday 20th May
The infamous Mayfly has begun to make it's annual appearance at RMF. Sunday afternoon saw a spectacular hatch at the North end of the lake, with an incredible number of Mayfly coming off and the trout were literally gorging themselves! Any imitative pattern would produce results. Nick Wale, from Toftwood, caught 15 fish in total, a good number of these were on Mayfly dries. Andrew Tink, from Lowestoft, had his best day ever since starting the sport earlier this year. He managed to land 12 fish in total from the lodge end using klinkhammers and black gnats. As was the case last year, we can expect 2 weeks of Mayfly activity as long as temperatures don't drop too low. The obvious Mayfly patterns will produce takes as well as klinkhammers and don't neglect buzzers fished sub-surface on the brighter days.
Monday 7th May
With buzzers in abundance over this last week and plenty of rising fish, both during the day and in the evening, it has been a very productive week on the banks.
Whether fishing just under the surface with the likes of epoxy buzzers in black or olive or on the surface with dry flies such as klinkhammers or small black gnats, the fish have been positively gorging themselves and taking advantage of the fly life present on the water.
Newcomer Thomas Hewett from Hempnall fished an afternoon session on Sunday for his first time and was duly rewarded with 4 rainbows to the bank. Tom was using an Olive buzzer on a floating line fished very close to the surface.
Luis deSouza from Gt Ellingham enjoyed some spectacular dry fly action on Monday evening, when in a three hour session managed 9 Rainbows. Luis was using various small dry flies and sight fishing to rising fish.
As long as this warm weather continues expect more of the same over this next week, with a few hawthorns now starting to show themselves slightly larger flies such as hoppers fished into the ripple will undoubtedly produce results.
Monday 29th April
It has been a busy week at RMF, no doubt thanks to the beautiful sunny weather! James has had lessons all weekend and its great to see so many young people looking to get involved in the sport. Afternoon rises have been a daily occurrence and buzzer hatches are prevalent. Paul Chipperfield, from Norwich, had a great day on Friday afternoon, landing 15 Rainbows in total. Paul was using a floating line with a small foam black beetle on the surface and buzzers fished subsurface. On Saturday, Chris Bonner from Attleborough, took advantage of the afternoon buzzer hatch and banked 8 Rainbows. A special mention to Miles Contreras Brown, from Great Hockham, who had his first fly casting lesson on Sunday. 14 year old Miles took to it like a duck to water and caught 3 Rainbows on a small olive buzzer.
Monday 22nd April
Spring has definitely sprung and the fish are now really responding to the abundance of fly life at RMF. Hatches of Buzzers throughout the day, particularly in the afternoon, has meant we are seeing some excellent rises. Buzzers, fished sub-surface, or the emerging variant, fished on the top, will both produce results. The Brown Trout are also much more active and can regularly be seen in the margins chasing fry. Ben Wyer from Wells landed 10 rainbows on Sunday. Ben was using Emergers in the morning, fished just under the surface and, in the afternoon, small black Hoppers. Newcomer Josh Fisher from Norwich banked 7 Rainbows and 2 fin perfect over-wintered Brown Trout using Buzzers and Hoppers.
Monday 15th April
Last weekend saw a dramatic rise in temperature, which in turn saw the busiest weekend of the year so far at RMF. Rising fish meant that buzzers were in abundance and despite the strong winds on Sunday dry flies fished into the choppy water produced really spectacular results. RMF Regular Jon Brooks landed 5 Rainbows and a huge overwintered Brown trout estimated at 6lb using a small black buzzer on a floating line fished just under the surface.
Colin Brown fished a day session last week and was thoroughly rewarded with 16 rainbows. Colin was using mainly small dries all day and fishing the windward bank in choppy water. Expect more of the same as the weather improves, with good evening rises on the warmer days.
Monday 8th April
Spring has finally made an appearance and the sunshine ensured a busy few days at RMF. Rob Turrell from Diss had a productive 4 hour evening session, landing 7 Rainbows and 2 over wintered Brown Trout. Rob was using a small olive copperhead nymph on a floating line and slow retrieve. Other notable catches from last week include Roger Bobbin from Wymondham who, on Saturday, landed 9 Rainbows and a Brown Trout. All on a Buzzer, fished static on a floating line. Sunday saw an afternoon hatch of small black buzzers, resulting in sporadic rising fish - Spring really must be here!
Tuesday 2nd April
A huge thanks to all those who braved the cold and attended our Easter event last weekend. The hot smoked trout demos and fly tying tuition were a huge success, with many anglers trying both for the first time! The fly fishing competition also proved a great success, with lots of entries. The cold North-Easterly wind made things tricky but small black buzzers, copper John's and bloodworms all proved successful when fished on a floating line. Despite the unseasonable weather, many anglers reached double figures and, in the afternoon sun, even dry flies produced takes. The competition was won by Adrian Bordianu who caught 15 Rainbows to clinch 1st place. 2nd was Nick Wale and 3rd, Kevin Knights. The prizes were a guided day on the River Glaven with our instructor James Harrold, the new Vision Vipu fly rod and Rio fly line.
Monday 25th March
With the changeable weather recently and the onset of yet more winter weather, the few brave souls that have withstood the conditions have been rewarded with some great fishing. Strong winds have actually helped in some ways with various methods being more successful due to a good chop on the water. Floating lines with buzzers have still accounted for most fish, but wake flies such as small muddlers and hoppers have taken the odd fish when twitched through the ripple. Weighted nymphs such as small goldhead Hares Ears in natural or olive are, as usual, still the go to fly in most conditions. Tony Eagling and Andrew Wright withstood an onslaught of freezing cold winds on Sunday afternoon but managed to land 7 fish between them, including a lovely over wintered Brown trout. Black Buzzers were the order of the day. Remember the RMF open weekend at Easter for fly tying displays, smoking & filleting demos and fly fishing competition.
Monday 18th March
Even with just slightly increased temperatures over the last few days, the fish have really started to respond well to small buzzer and nymph tactics.
A great example of this was on Sunday, when Paul Rogers and Jon Brooks enjoyed a fantastic afternoon's sport. Both using tiny nymphs and buzzers and fishing floating lines just under the surface. With over 20 fish between them, including Jon landing a large resident Brown trout, braving the far from Spring-like weather can pay dividends! Rocklands Mere Fishery Open Weekend March 29th - April 1st. For more information, please call James on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 11th March
With the onset of yet more wintry weather, the fish, which freely rising during the day, are now slightly deeper due to the cold winds. Colin Brown and Andy Cunningham fished on Wednesday and between them caught 10 fish, Colin with 6 including a Brown Trout well over 5lbs and Andy had 2 Rainbows and " browns. All on floating lines and tiny buzzers just under the surface. Nick Wale and Paul Brunton fished on abismal Saturday morning in the freezing cold and rainbut were rewarded with 9 fish, again on buzzers. A special mention must also go to father and son, Tim and Robert Parker, who was visiting from Southampton. They braved the cold and rain to catch a rainbow a piece before admitting defeat to the elements.
Rocklands Mere Fishery will be holding it's Spring Open Weekend at Easter. The 4 day long event will have all the usual RMF hospitality alongside a fly fishing competition with fantastic prizes. For more information, visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk or call James on 01953 483971.
Monday 4th March
Although night time temperatures are still only just above freezing, it is starting to feel a little more Spring like over the last few days at RMF.
With the first noticeable hatches occurring in the afternoons, anglers are now starting to enjoy some really exciting dry fly action as the buzzers start to appear.
Newcomer David Ellis from Trowse had a memorable first visit to RMF on Saturday when he landed 7 rainbows in a morning session. David was fishing the far bay and took all his fish on a bloodworm buzzer.
Similarly, Matt Fisher did the same on Friday, landing 8 rainbows on nymphs.
Gin clear water at present means that smaller flies are tending to work best, with Hares Ear nymphs in Olive or small buzzers fish almost static on a floating line producing takes. Dry flies such as cdc buzzers, emergers or shipmans working later in the day when slightly warmer.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 25th February
An indredible day last Wednesday saw Paul Humphrey from St Albans bank a total of 17 fish, 15 Rainbows and 2 Brown Trout. Paul was using a combination of methods, the first being a buzzer under an indcator and the one which worked later in the day was a small white lure. With many anglers experiencing their rod rings freezing up over the last few days, the wind chill is still siginficant and the fish maybe slightly deeper. Despite this and with gin clear water, buzzers on a floating line have and will still account for most fish. For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 18th February
The promise of Spring in the air recently has woken the fish up from their winter slumber. Even though it is still cold at night, there have been frequent mid-afternoon buzzer hatches on the warmer days. Small black buzzers fished within 18" of the surface have accounted for most fish and Nick Wale from Toftwood caught 7 Rainbows in the bay nearest the lodge using this method on Saturday. Stuart Marshall from Norwich had 4 Rainbows and 2 Brown trout over 3lbs in an afternoon session last week using a small cats whisker. Since the thaw, rod averages have been surprisingly high for February at 3.2 per angler. Keep an eye on our website www.rocklandsmere.co.uk and in the EDP for details of our 2013 Season Open Weekend. For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 11th February
The anglers that have braved the weather recently have mainly only fished short sessions, but have been rewarded for their efforts with some spring like fishing. Buzzers have now started to catch fish and with the occasional afternoon hatch on the "warmer" days things are starting to look up as we head towards March and hopefully some warmer temps.
Andrew Harrison fished a short Friday afternoon session and despite the adverse conditions, noticed that a few fish were rising. Using a small Klinkhammer, Andrew managed to land 5 Rainbows in total. All fish last week were caught on floating lines and most fell to buzzers or emerger patterns.
For more information call James at the Lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 4th February
With the lake now totally thawed out after the cold snap, anglers are enjoying some surprisingly good sport for the time of year.
Paul Rogers from Taverham defied the odds and had his best session to date on Saturday, when even in the cold wind managed to land 9 Rainbows in total.
Paul was using a floating line and small nymphs such as Hares ears and Pheasant tails...Well done Paul!
With night time temperatures expected to stay above freezing over the next few days there should be no risk of the lake freezing and with milder daytime temps upon us the fish should start to wake from their winter slumber.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 21st January
Given the recent volume of snow and continuous freezing temperatures, the lakes are currently frozen and we are closed for fishing. We are hopeful that, as the weather is set to warm, we will be thawed by next week. If you are wishing to fish or use the tackle shop, please call first to check on 01953 483971.
Monday 14th January
With a cold snap upon us, it is clear that the fish are slightly deeper, although certainly not hugging the bottom as you may expect this time of year. Buzzers left to go down on a long leader have still been working well but patience is key and don't be afraid to have a rest between casts. RMF newcomer Nick Benton landed four Rainbows on Saturday using this method. With the weather staying cold and consistent overnight frosts expected, it is advisable to call James in advance to check the status of the lake on 01953 483971 www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 7th January
Nick Wale enjoyed a Spring-like day session on Saturday, when he landed 12 Rainbows. Nick was using a floating line and small black buzzers and takes were coming at no more than 2ft deep. With the mild weather and overcast days, there have been periodic buzzer hatches during the day, but with such gin clear water, the smaller the selection the better. Cats Whiskers and any small lures will also work if buzzers are refused. For more information or to book, please call James on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 31st December
With so much rain and mild weather recently it has been hard to know which tactics to apply. With some days seeing temperatures into double figures and choppy water, dry flies have taken fish, with buzzers and small nymphs doing equally well. On colder days, or with persistent rain and howling winds, small lures such as appetisers and cats whiskers will be a safe bet. Fish have been taken at no deeper that 3-4 feet and have been seen rising frequently in the afternoons, so it really is a lottery in terms of tactics at the moment.
I'd like to take this opportunity to wish all our customers a Happy New Year and tight lines for 2013.
Monday 17th December
Last weeks cold snap seemed to send the fish down in the water slightly, with most being caught at between the 3-4 feet mark.
The weekend saw lots of anglers, with Saturday fishing the best. A gently breeze made the difference between the two days and fish were even caught on dries! RMF member John Archer managed 12 rainbows in total, most caught on Cats Whiskers, while Andrew Wright landed 4 rainbows in an evening session, two caught on dry flies just before dark.
Mild, wetter weather is expected over the next few days which should keep the fish actively feeding, but if we get any substantial frosts expect lures and deeper tactics to work best.
For those of you who I don't see beforehand, have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk.
Monday 10th December
Firstly, a big thank you to everyone who attended our Christmas Open weekend. Was great to see so many old faces and a few new ones too.
Although most were sitting in front of the fire watching fly tying demos in the lodge, those that braved the cold were rewarded with some great sport. John Archer caught 17 rainbows and a brownie, and Joe Burroughes having purchased a new rod in the shop the day before, Christened it on Sunday with 3 rainbows in 4 casts... Well done Joe!
Damsel Nymphs, Olive Gold Ribbed Hares Ears or Small lures have all been successful, but not fished too deep. A few more frosts will see the fish moving into the deeper water, but for now they all seem to be within 3-4 feet of the surface.
For more information, to book, or for Christmas gift vouchers or ideas call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 26th November
Buzzers and Bloodworms in various guises have accounted for most of the fish over this last week. Fished on a floating line and takes coming no deeper than two feet shows that the fish are still actively feeding even during the colder spells recently and have not yet sulked into the depth in readiness for WInter.
RMF member John Archer landed 16 Rainbows on Friday all of which were successfully returned to fight another day. Apps bloodworms and small black epoxy buzzers were his flies of choice with most fish coming from the far end of the lake.
Just a reminder that the annual RMF Christmas Bash will take place on the weekend of the 8th & 9th of December. There will be drinks and nibbles served on both days, with exclusive weekend only discounts on tackle and season tickets as well as fly tying demonstrations. Open to anyone, but anglers wishing to fish on either of these two days is advised to book to avoid disappointment.
For more information call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 19th November
Paul Chipperfield enjoyed his first time back at RMF for a while with a memorable afternoons fishing. Paul banked 6 Bainbows and an overwintered Brown trout. Pauls favourite tactics regardless of the time of year, buzzers on a floating line showed that they can work equally as well in cold wintery conditions as in the Spring. Fish were taken just under the surface.
Until we start getting consistant frosts and low temperatures, the fish will remain fairly active and feeding in the upper layers. Buzzers and small nymphs, as well as dries have all still been working really well, but with crystal clear water ensure they are small. Lures such as cats whiskers or appetizers are also catching fish as they switch on to fry feeding at this time of year.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 12th November
It's been more of the same at Rocklands Mere this week. Damp and cool weather means the fishing has been consistently good. Kieron Harney from London had 2 Rainbows and 2 Browns one of which was estimated at over 10lb and was returned safely. All were caught off the top on dries in perfect conditions. As always, finding a ripple has been the key for dries this time of year. We are still getting some remarkable rises throughout the day when the weather permits. On colder days when the fish are less likely to be rising, or before the surface warms up enough, nymphs or lures will catch fish that are not yet switched on to surface activity.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 5th November
With the colder weather now settling in for the winter, the fishing over the last week has been pretty predictable. Plenty of fish being caught, with nymphs and sub surface flies working better than dries as the water temperature decreases. We are still getting the occasional late hatch and sporadic rise during warmer spells, but generally the fish have switched to fry feeding as they are now chasing nymphs and lures rather than the smaller, more scarce offerings.
Nick Wale enjoyed his first ever visit to RMF on Saturday and was rewarded with a fantastic days sport. Nick was using a floating line and a variety of flies, including small white minkies, cats whiskers and yellow dancers and landed 12 fish in total, his last being a superb Brown Trout.
Expect much of the same as the temperatures continue to plummet as we head into winter. Gin clear water as always at RMF means that lures and fry patterns will now work, but keep them small..!
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 29th October
I always say, the worse the weather for human beings, the better the weather for trout. My case was proved correct on Sunday morning when Roger Bobbin and Bernard Nunn from Wymondham had their best days fly fishing ever. In only a 4 hour session and braving the rain, cold wind and threatening skies the two managed to bank 23 Rainbows between them, Roger with 12 and Bernie with 11, his best catch to date. Both were using a combination of dry flies, such as Hoppers and Deer Hair Sedges or lures when surface activity slowed down, small Cats Whiskers doing well just under the surface.
This should remain the case at least until the first regular frosts reach us, with the fish readily feeding in the upper layers until temperatures and food source dictate that deeper water offers more of a sanctuary.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 22nd October
With heavy rain and windy days recently, the trout have really been in their element, even if the anglers have not! Plenty of fish being caught on all manner of flies, with dries still working really well at all times of the day. Large sedges are still showing on the warmer days, so hoppers, elk hair caddis or walkers sedge fished on a good ripple have been successful. I hate to say it, but even lures are now starting to take fish! With more and more brown trout coming to the bank, the biggest recently weighing 8lb and caught by Tom Connor from Ireland, it is proving that this colder weather really does induce the fish to feed. It should remain this way for a good few weeks and as stocking is continuing right throughout the winter expect some great sport even on the coldest of days.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 15th October
With a few ground frosts recently and night time temperatures just above freezing, you would have thought the trout would be starting to slow down a little, this is not the case.
Although rising fish are a little hard to come by first thing in the morning, as soon at the sun has been on the water for a couple of hours its just enough to encourage the fish to feed and they usually last all day. The weekend saw some late hatches of upwings, buzzers and of course big sedge so anything fished on the ripple would generally see some interest. There has also been a distinct increase in the number of Brown Trout caught recently. Characteristically marginal dwellers, they have also been caught over deeper water, another sign that they are really filling up ready for the scarce pickings winter has to offer.
Chris Efstratiou from Norwich managed 8 fish in total on Saturday, 7 Rainbows and 1 Brown estimated to be well over 4lb. All were caught on a simple hares ear dry fly on a long leader.
Until we get consistent ground frosts at night things should remain pretty much the same, with fish feeding actively on the slightly warmer days.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 8th October
Consistent figures in the catch returns book means that the fishing recently has really come into its own. Both rainbows and browns have been stocking up ready for winter and the surface action has been a sight to behold, even on brighter, sunny days. With an abundance of sedge and upwings still hatching off, fly selection has been tricky. The fish are certainly not deep and anything fished more than two feet from the surface will usually be ignored. Nick Spriggs from London had an enjoyable first visit to RMF last week when he fished an evening session. He landed a total of 8 fish including 2 Brown trout averaging 4lb each. Nick was using a size 14 RMF tied sedge pattern and casting to rises, takes were coming as soon as the fly landed.
All manner of flies have been working recently with any small dries worth a punt, failing that, natural or olive hares ear nymphs and crunchers being the next best thing.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 1st October
As expected, the fishing over the last week has been extremely good for those willing to brave the weather. Breezy, overcast days at this time of year are a godsend to the fly fisherman with the majority of the trout looking up. Larger dry flies such as hoppers, small muddlers and sedge patterns have all been extremely successful and as long as they are fished on to a good ripple they should always produce results. A Costessey Bush Angling Club corporate day on Saturday was a resounding success, with many of the guests relatively new to the sport of fly fishing. After tuition and guidance from James they were all soon catching fish, all rainbows and most on muddlers or black cormorants just under the surface. With a spectacular evening rise happening most nights it is hard to see how things can improve, water temp is dropping all the time, so the fish should become more determined to feed in readiness for the winter months.
Monday 24th September
With some proper Autumnal weather now upon us the fishing over the last week has never been better. Cooler temperatures has meant that the fish have really woken up from their Summer slumber and a sudden increase in late season fly life has seen them gorging on Sedge and Daddies throughout the day, with a distinct increase in activity during the last couple of hours of daylight on warmer, brighter days. Adrian Bordianu and Chris Efstratiou from Norwich picked the perfect evening on Saturday and were rewarded with some of the best dry fly action seen all year. Both had over 10 fish, including some over wintered Brown trout. Flies used were based on sedge imitations, with elk hair caddis and F flies working well and the last half an hour before dark seeing the lake really boil with rising fish.
Thanks to everyone who attended our BBQ by the lake last weekend, it was a huge success and nice to see customers out of their usual angling attire!
Just to remind everyone that we have a Corporate event on Saturday so the fishery will be closed for the day.
For more information or to book, please call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 17th September
With significantly cooler temperatures both at night and during the day, coupled with a persistent light breeze, the fishing over this last week has been consistently spectacular for everyone on the bank. Water temperatures are dropping like a stone and the fish are really responding, with a distinct increase in rising fish right throughout the day, particularly at the lodge end of the lake and along the new West bank.
Father and son Mike and Matt Bradbeer fished a day session on Saturday and were treated to some non stop sport right throughout the day. Both using a floating line, flies varied between dries and nymphs with tiny hares ears accounting for a good number of fish for both. As well as numerous rainbows, Matt landed 5 Brown trout all averaging around the 3lb mark.
Over the last 2 weeks the rod average had nearly doubled, the main influencing factor being the weather and cooler temperatures. Expect this to continue right through the autumn, with Sedge hatches as well as the infamous Crane fly presence to add some really exciting dry fly action to the day.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 10th September
After an autumnal feel to the start of last week and a couple of extremely hot days at the weekend, fishing over the last 7 days has been mixed. Plenty of fish are being caught, but the methods vary dramatically depending on weather and conditions. Wednesday and Thursday evening saw some incredible evening hatches of Sedge and small upwings. The subsequent rise that followed was a sight to behold, especially late in the evening just before dark. Peter Slight enjoyed a 4 hour session on Thursday and ended on a total of 8 Rainbows and 2 Browns. Peter was using small spider patterns fished just in the surface film and Klinkhammers. The weekend was significantly hotter and the trout were less inclined to rise, especially in the middle of the day. Morning and evening numbers were good, with most anglers having a well earned "long lunch" and waiting for early evening when things picked up again. Steve Blackburn and Dave O'connor fished on Sunday and between them caught 9 Rainbows, most before midday and on a mixture of Klinhammers and buzzers fished slightly deeper.
As we draw into Autumn, water temperatures start to drop and fish become much more inclined to pack on weight before the winter. Expect some of the best fishing all year during September and October with Daddies and late evening Sedge hatches becoming more prolific.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 3rd September
With an Autumnal feel to the last few days, dropping temperatures, especially at night means the water now starts to get back to something a little more bearable for the trout. The last couple of days in particular have seen plenty of rising fish right throughout the day, with increased spells of activity on cooler, overcast days. Huge hatches of Sedge in the evenings as well as olives and Damsels have meant that nymphs fished just under the surface have showed real success. Dries have been by far the best choice in the evenings. James Hilton from Hethersett banked 6 Rainbows on an Olive Shipmans from the North end of the lake showing that olive emergers are on the menu at the moment.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Tuesday 28th August
With an abundance of Damsels still present it is not surprising that Olive Nymphs have been the fly of choice recently.
The inlet bay, being slightly shallower and with good weed growth has been a haven for trout as they gorge themselves on the nymphs prior to them hatching into adults.
Peter Collett proved this theory by landing 4 Rainbows and 2 Browns from this area using unmeighted damsel nymphs.
Dry flies are working too, with Dale Gardiner from Great Ellingham fishing on Saturday morning and landing 6 Rainbows and a Brown Trout. All were taken off the top on an Olive Klinkhammer.
For more information or to book call James at the Lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 20th August
With water clarity back to its usual crystal clear state, fishing last week has been very good. An abundance of Damsels means that the fish are in spritely form and willing to chase anything resembling the adult or the nymph. Surprisingly, there has been no need to fish at any depth, which is usually the case this time of year. Floating lines and long leaders will suffice. John Collins from Elveden fished at RMF for the first time last week and was rewarded with 9 Rainbows in total. Using a small olive hopper, John had to be fishing choppy water to ensure takes. Another mention must go to relative newcomer to the sport Terry Getley from Great Ellingham. Fishing last week, Terry landed 7 fish in total including his very first Brown Trout. At over 3lb in weight and in beautiful condition the fish made Terry's day! It was caught on an Olive hare's ear nymph just under the surface from the lodge end of the lake.
Flies worth a try are olive hare's ear nymphs, Damsel nymphs or olive buzzers and on overcast days/evenings try olive hoppers or small gnat patterns such as a Griffiths.
Due to a very busy last couple of weeks it is advisable to book if wanting to fish to avoid dissapointment. 01953 483971
Monday 13th August
Prolonged spells of hot weather recently has meant that the fishing is starting to become tricky after midday. Morning session have seen far more fish caught than during the day, especially when the sun is at its highest. Fish will still be caught, but at slightly deeper depths and with larger flies such as Damsel Nymphs or goldhead Daddies.
There has been a definite decrease in surface activity as the day goes on, with some quite spectacular morning rises taking place until about midday when conditions allow.
Newcomer Warren Barwick from Thetford fished at RMF for the first time last week and landed 6 Rainbows. Warren was using Damsel Nymphs and Bloodworm buzzers on a floating line and fishing from the lodge end of the lake and West bank, Warren commented on how well the fish fought for the time of year.
The water is clearing from the recent storms and is getting back to its usual standard, this should particularly please dry fly anglers.
Monday 6th August
Heavy thunderstorms over the last week has meant that even during hot, sunny spells the fish are still feeding near the surface and making the most of the cool, well oxygenated water. Clarity is not as good as usual, but small dries will still catch fish. Spiders, buzzers and nymphs all taking fish just below the surface.
RMF member David Scott Miller from New Buckenham fished a black and peacock spider during a morning session and landed a total of nine rainbows. David was fishing from the lodge end of the lake. After a beginners casting session with James, newcomers to the sport David and Karen Simonds from Banham came to RMF for their first evenings fishing last weekend to try and catch their very first trout. Using a Damsel nymph and fishing from the lodge end, Karen soon found herself attached to something huge. Taking her well into the backing and after a series of long powerful runs the elusive fish slipped the hook, leaving James in no doubt that this was almost certainly the biggest fish in the lake, the 13lb Brown trout last caught in April...What an experience for Karen!
More unsettled weather is certainly welcome, overcast, stormy days make for great surface action and rising fish during the day are hard to come by this time of year...
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 30th July
With much higher temperatures last week, the fish were slightly deeper in the water, with deep nymphs and buzzers working again for the first time in weeks.
A storm on Sunday afternoon meant that this dramatically turned around for the better, with Roger Bobbin and Bernard Nunn taking advantage of this. After braving the rain and a coffee break from the thunder and lightning they went back on the water and were rewarded with some spectacular action. Damsel nymphs fished just under the surface with a quick figure of eight retrieve saw plenty of takers, with Roger landing seven Rainbows and Bernard six.
Well worth a mention is Thomas Watts from Thetford who returned a 7lb Brown Trout last week. Caught on a 4wt rod and light leader and using a fry pattern in the margins, the fish took 10 minutes to land.
More unsettled weather forecast for this week should see things return back to normal, overcast skies and cooler days will have fish to the surface again.
Monday 23rd July
Heavy rain last week didn't seem to affect the fishing in the slightest, in fact if anything it cooled the water sufficiently and meant that dry flies and emergers were again the weapon of choice for most anglers. After a short break from fly fishing, Gary Ireland from Attleborough enjoyed his first session for over 2 years and was rewarded with 11 Rainbows in total. Gary was fishing small Olive nymphs just under the surface on a day when Damsels were hatching off in abundance.
Newcomer David Lincoln had a great first day at RMF landing 8 Rainbows and a monster Brown Trout estimated at 7lb. David was using olive parachute dries and stated that fishing choppy water was essential.
With a dramatic turnaround in the weather this week and our first glimpse of Summer expect even more Damsel hatches, with the best fishing being during the afternoon or evening when the sun is a little lower in the sky with things returning to normal again with more unsettled weather forecast for next week.
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 16th July
With Spring like weather rather than Summer at the moment, the fishing has been pretty constant over the last week. Buzzers have started catching fish again, static olive or black buzzers accounting for more fish than dry flies, probably due to the heavy rain. Darren Smith from Suffolk took 4 fish and released a further 11 on Saturday. All were caught on small buzzers on a floating line from the far end of the lake, black and olive being the preferred colour. Big brown trout have also been showing up, particularly when fishing the margins, fish of 4-6lb are common and are generally caught within 4-6 feet from the bank. For more information or to book, please call James at the lodge on 01953 483971.
Monday 2nd July
Quite unexpected catches have been recorded for this time of year, with increased temperatures usually meaning the fish find solace in the deeper water with the cooler mornings and evenings ensuring the predictable dry fly action. However, surface sport has been prolific throughout the day with very few fish being caught on anything else.
Small olive or natural hares ear hoppers, grey dusters or cdc buzzers will all take fish, a good ripple being crucial with such clear water. Newcomer Daniel Good from Gunton was back after his lesson last week and after being kitted out with a rod was soon catching fish on his own. 5 Rainbows in total and all caught from the lodge end of the lake on a floating line and small nymphs just under the surface.
As long as we keep having these autumn feeling days the fish should respond best to dry fly tactics....the smaller the better!
For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 25th June
Last weeks fishing at RMF has been pretty predictable, with strong winds and overcast skies meaning that most fish caught have been done so on dry flies.
Brothers Richard and John Slaughter managed 13 fish between them, with Richard landing 7 and John 6. All were caught on small Grey Wulffs.
Season ticket holder David Long from Norwich fished a 4 hour evening session and was rewarded with 5 fish in total. David found that stepping down in fly size produced more takes and eventually settled for a sz18 black midge pattern. Looking through the book at last weeks records shows that only 5 fish were caught on something other that a dry fly, with small nymphs fished just under the surface making up the numbers. Although not much like summer, the weather at the moment is pretty much perfect for our sport, dare I say it, long may it continue! For more information or to book call James at the lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 18th June
Strong winds and overcast skies made for some excellent fishing at RMF last week.
Although difficult for anglers, strong winds on warm, overcast days saw a feeding frenzy of surface activity, particularly on Friday and Saturday.
Geoff Peek from Stalham took advantage of this and in an evening session managed to land 12 Rainbows. Geoff was fishing from the West bank and using a combination of Black Shipmans buzzers and klinkhammers. Strong gusts at the weekend, coupled with warmer temperatures meant dry flies such as small hoppers in fiery brown or black, or black shipmans were all working well. Elk hair caddis or deer hair sedge patterns fished as a wake fly on the choppy water also made for some spectacular action.
With an unsettled forecast for this week expect much of the same, with the fishing becoming better the stronger the wind!
For more information call James at the fishery lodge on 01953 483971
Monday 11th June
Generally in June, fishery managers are starting to worry about increased water temperatures and excessive weed growth and the measures to overcome it.
So far June 2012 is not one of those Junes..With much lower than average water temperatures and cool, overcast days the fishing this past week at RMF has been exceptional with the majority of fish free rising and on Sunday in particular, with overcast skies and slightly warmer air temps the fish were in their element.
Adrian Bordianu from Taverham fished an early evening session and in quite remarkable circumstances landed 8 Rainbows. Adrian was using a size 16 olive hares ear nymph fished on a floating line and just beneath the surface almost as an emerger. Adrian commented that Olive was the key, with a standard grey hares ear nymph producing no interest at all. With the water continuing to be crystal clear, small flies will still be the order of the day in the coming weeks. Try small olive nymphs, buzzers and tiny comparaduns or parachute dries when fish are consistently rising. For more information or to book call the fishery lodge on 01953 483971 or visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk
Monday 28th May
With the dramatic turnaround in the weather, there have been mixed results at RMF recently. Throughout the week there have been large hatches of Mayfly, predominantly in the evenings, but the odd spell during the afternoon. Some incredible buzzer hatches throughout the day, ensure the water is a natural larder for the fish and make it difficult when choosing imitations. Coupled with the crystal clear water really makes the anglers job a challenging one, but when the right pattern is found and presented properly some amazing sport can be had.
Kevin Knights from Poringland fishing a morning session at the lodge end of the lake last week and using small sz14 olive buzzers landed 10 Rainbows, fishing just under the surface and using a floating line and fine fluorocarbon tippet to aid presentation. Geoff Peek from Stalham fished the new West bank, which always produces rising fish in the evening due to the shade of the trees and was rewarded with 8 Rainbows on Dries. Small Mayfly patterns and black gnats accounting for most of the fish.
If the weather continues as it has in the coming week, expect much of the same, with presentation being key. Small flies and light tippets in such clear water really will be essential with deeper tactics for the midday sun.
Monday 21st May
The dry fly fishing at RMF over the last 7 days has been pretty spectacular, if not a little inconsistant due to the weather and cold winds . With an abundance of terrestrial flies present at the beginning of the week and some truly spectacular and quite unexpected hatches of Mayfly over the last few days, the surface activity has been well worth observing and remeniscent of a chalkstream rather than a stillwater!
Chris Efstratiou from Norwich and Steve Langley from Tasburgh fished during such a Mayfly hatch and were rewarded with some great sport.
Chris totalled 10 Rainbows and 3 Brown Trout and Steve, fishing an evening session landed 4 Rainbows and a beautiful overwintered Brown trout of well over 3lb.
All were caught on Mayfly patterns, including Green Drakes, Grey Wulffs and Reel Wings mayfly immitations.
Bibios, black hoppers and tiny shipmans buzzers have also been taking fish as well as olive buzzers and small hares ear nymphs.
The rod average last week was 5.6. For more information or to book call the fishery lodge on 01953 483971.
Tuesday 15th May
With an abundance of Hawthornes, Alder and of course buzzers, the fishing at RMF this last week has been pretty visual as you can imagine.
Much warmer temperatures, coupled with persistant winds and overcast skies means that conditions for dry fly fishing have been absolutely perfect.
Roly Flynn from Spixworth fished a 4 hour evening session on Tuesday in such conditions and caught 9 rainbows, all of which were returned to fight another day. Roly was using size 14 RMF cdc buzzers in either olive or black and fishing the new West bank. Mick Parker from Wymondham fished on Sunday and from the North end of the lake managed 14 rainbows, again on dries, this time black hoppers, hawthornes and alder patters accounting for his fish. Expect much of the same this week, with the addition of the odd Mayfly hatch which have been present at the fishery during the warmer periods of last weekend.
Tuesday 8th May
Bodie breaks Brown Trout record
With slightly warmer temperatures and a little less rain on average than the previous week, things are starting to feel a bit more Spring like at RMF.
Buzzer hatches become quite prolific if the rain and cold winds hold off for a couple of hours, with Hawthornes and Alder flies present when the sun graces us with its presence.
The bank holiday weekend was busy, with many anglers fishing afternoon or evening sessions to make the most of the improved conditions as the day went on.
Philip Bodie from Heckingham fished an afternoon session on Monday and although the wind was keen, it provided a good ripple on which to float a dry fly. Philip caught 21 rainbows in total and ended the day on our biggest Brown Trout since opening in 2005, a 13lb monster and a new personal best for him! The fish went back to fight another day.
Size 14 black gnats and comparaduns were Philips flies of choice and most of the takes cames from the north end of the lake close to the windward bank.
Last week also saw an increase in the number of overwintered Brown Trout caught with many averaging 6-7lb. The rod average was 5.8
Monday 30th April
The fishing last week has been as changeable as the recent weather we've had. Cold windy days have put the fish down slightly with longer leaders and weighted nymph or Damsels working best. However, slightly warmer temperatures towards the end of the week and at the weekend meant that even in the wind and rain the fish were free rising and taking dry flies or buzzers just beneath the surface. Hoppers or small wake flies fished on choppy water have been doing very well with olive or black buzzers taking fish just beneath the surface.
A corporate event on Sunday proved less than perfect for fly fishing, with strong winds and horizontal rain making it a challenge to say the least. The fishing on the other hand was incredible. With many of the group being newcomers to the sport after tuition in the morning and a little help they had all soon caught their first trout and were well and truly hooked on fly fishing. A mention must go to Karen, Becky and James for persevering in the awful weather! Anthony Deane caught the most fish of the day with 14 rainbows in total, Anthony was fishing into the wind with a green damsel nymph. Anthony's partner, Bex Thompson certainly showed she could keep up with the boys and as well as landing 4 overwintered rainbows, managed 2 huge Brown Trout. Olive nymphs accounted for all of her fish.
With warmer temperatures forecast this week and a little less wind and rain, the fishing should get even better, with buzzer hatches occurring later on in the day.
Monday 23rd April
The fishing this week has been fantastic despite the weather. The buzzer hatches in between the rain showers have been a sight to behold and the rising trout that followed have been spectacle for even the most seasoned of anglers. RMF is pleased to announce that a new lake record Rainbow trout was caught last Thursday weighing 12lb. Pat Curtis from Poringland hooked the fish at the north end of the lake and after a 20 minute battle was cradling the magnificent specimen in the water. Pat was using a floating line and damsel nymph fished just below the surface. The fish was returned to fight another day. This beats the old lake record by 5lb which was held by Andy Platten at 7lb 2oz. Over wintered specimen Brown trout have also been landed recently with newcomer David Brunton releasing a fish estimated at well over 5lb from the inlet point. With more unsettled weather predicted this week it is always worth ensuring your dry flies are never far away, as cdc buzzers, klinkhammers and small black gnats or griffiths gnats will always take fish during warmer spells. The rod average last week was 5.3
The trout lake will be closed for the day on Sunday 29th due to a corporate booking.
Wednesday 18th April
Apologies for the delay in putting up the weeks report, but its been a busy few days.
Our son William Peter Harrold was born at home on Saturday 14th April and weighed 9lb 1oz.
Olive or Black buzzers fished almost static on a floating line have been extremely successful recently, with dry fly versions such as CDC buzzers or Klinkhammers working at early morning or into the evening on warmer days. Roley Flynn from Spixworth took 9 fish on Monday, one of which was an overwintered rainbow of well over 4lb. Roley was using black cdc buzzers.
RMF regular Chris Efstratiou from Norwich landed 11 fish on Saturday. Chris was fishing a floating line and using a combination of olive buzzers and elk hair caddis dries, all were returned to fight another day.
Expect more of the same over the next few days with warmers temperatures bringing more fly life on to the water and the trout feeding closer to the surface.
A customers eye view of the new facilities at RMF by Steve Beckham...
Saturday 7th April,
Rocklands Mere Fishery has just held 2 open weekends to celebrate the new season start but also a change to their lake.
At the end of 2010 fly season, James Harrold the owner, decided to increase the lake size to give his fish more swimming room and to offer them more places to hide, giving them a better quality of life.
During the winter the work was carried out to extend the lake and the club lodge and also build a new larger shop.
Plans to open the new lake for the 2011 season met a problem due to low water levels. Low rain fall through February followed by a spring and summer meant James had to keep the fishery closed for that season….
This was a shame as I know how hard James worked to provide a well liked fishery.
My Father-in-law and I have had many enjoyable fishing days at Rocklands Mere Fishery and James and family have always provided a lovely welcome.
This past week I had the opportunity to visit the fishery and enjoy the new facilities on their second opening weekend. Something I had been looking forward to.
I was not disappointed – James and his wife have not only retained their friendly fishery, but gone on to improve things as well.
As you enter the new well stocked shop, James and staff are there to welcome you. Providing good old fashion customer service – something more businesses should provide!
The old smaller shop is now the main seating area for us to enjoy a nice sit down after catching or not catching those illusive fish. It provides a very comfortable place to get warm and have a break.
What of the changes to the Lake? The old one although smaller, still made for a great fishery, but the new one is fantastic! James idea to provide a great environment for the fish has worked. The lake is full of water and increasing the size gives them a rest up if they need it.
I enjoyed my day catching 5 fish and enjoying a 2 ¾ lb one to take home….
All in all, the new fishery is a great day out and if you were looking for that place to go – then this is the place.
I love all my fishing around the country but I still always seem to enjoy Rocklands. It’s a great place and when I leave I usually can’t wait to come back.
I would recommend it to anyone!
Monday 9th April
The fishery has gone from strength to strength since re-opening at the beginning of the month. An abundance of hatching buzzers throughout the day means that surface sport has been pretty spectacular, even on the days when the weather isn't conducive for such methods. Most of the fish spooned have been full of large olive buzzers, so obviously an imitation fished on a floating line has resulted in plenty of takes. Other flies to try which have also proved successful are cdc buzzers, scruffy seals fur buzzers and Hares ear nymphs.
Notable returns include a spur of the moment hour long session for RMF member Andrew Rix from Hingham, who returned 9 fish in total, all caught off the surface on black cdc buzzers. John Baskerville and Rob Turrell fished an afternoon session on Thursday with spectacular results. Rob caught 7 fish in total one of which was an overwintered resident rainbow of over 3lb. John went one better and caught 8 fish in total, 5 of which were beautifully conditioned Brown trout. A mixture of black buzzers and hares ear nymphs accounted for most of the fish.
Although we arent surprised, it is nice to see how much fly life there is present at the fishery at this still very early stage in the year. Expect the surface sport to get better and better as the weeks go on and get ready for the hawthornes in the last week in April!
Monday 2nd April
The opening weekend at Rocklands Mere Fishery was certainly one to remember for all those who attended.
The weather on the Saturday was perfect for top of the water fishing, with a slight wind and overcast skies, most fish fell to dry flies such as cdc buzzers and olive buzzers fished just below the surface. Notable returns included Kevin Knights who landed 7 fish in total, one of which was returned at 5lb+ and Pat curtis who also had 7 fish, including 2 large over-wintered Brown Trout. Richard Mainprize from Wymondham fished an evening session and was rewarded with "his best evenings fishing ever". Richard caught 13 fish in total, all released to fight another day and all caught from the inlet point on a mixture of pheasant tail nymphs and emergers.
Trevor Hagger from Newmarket enjoyed his first ever visit to RMF on Sunday and landed 12 fish in total. A combination of small buzzers and damsel nymphs accounted for all of his fish, which also included several large over-wintered Rainbows.
A total of 27 anglers fished over the 2 days with the rod average being 7.4
Gin clear water and an abundance of fly life means that things should continue this way for weeks to come, with small buzzers and dry flies accounting for the majority of the fish.
I would like to thank all those who came along and showed their support on the opening weekend.
Wednesday 28th March
With just 3 days to go before the start of the new season the excitement is building as RMF prepares to welcome its first anglers on Saturday morning. First cast is at 8.00am, but anyone wishing to arrive earlier may do so, breakfast will be available as well as a celebratory tipple should anyone be brave enough!
Photographs & Video will be taken on the day for various Newspaper articles and magazines as well as for in house RMF media and the websites. A short video will also be compiled of opening weekend.
Just a reminder that we are fully booked for the Saturday, with 2 spaces left on the Sunday of opening weekend.
Monday 19th March
With under two weeks to go until we open again on the 31st March there are still quite a few jobs to do before we open the gates to anglers. A fortnight of warm weather and sunshine would help my job enourmously, as we really could do with the new banks firming up and the grass having a growth spurt.
The slightly warmer weather over the last couple of weeks has meant that the fish have certainly been higher up in the water, with some quite impressive rises and not just in the evenings. Yesterday morning at about 9.00am the fish were seen all over the lake sipping buzzers from the surface.
I will update the news page next week with more details and a full report will appear after opening weekend.
Monday 5th March
The final stocking before we open on the 31st took place last Wednesday, with both Rainbows and Browns being introduced of varying sizes. These fish will join the "resident" fish, some of which you need to see with your own eyes to appreciate just how much a year off from fishing has benefited them, not only in terms of size, but the overall condition of the fins and tails makes them look like steelhead or sea trout...Cant wait for you to see them on opening weekend! All platforms are now constructed and work on getting the place looking smart is now in full swing, with little luxuries for the anglers taking priority.
Don't forget, the RMF Tackle Shop is now fully operational and we've had the pleasure of seeing many of you on a weekly basis to stock up on essentials in readiness for the 2012 season. Just to let you know that Katie and myself are usually here 7 days a week, so if you're ever in the area, don't hesitate to pop in for a coffee and browse our extensive range of fly fishing tackle in our new shop.
The list of jobs is now down to 29...
Monday 27th February
Spring is finally here.. (we hope!) Saturday saw the first real action on the lake since filling up a month ago, with a fairly substantial buzzer hatch in the afternoon and subsequent rise soon after, lasting about an hour. Very small black buzzers were apparent and the trout soon switched on to them. Quietly observing the fish reminded me of how much a year off has benefited them, with all being in prestine condition and sporting immaculate fins and tails, something which is typical of a well managed catch and release fishery. It was a sight for sore eyes and something which fills me with confidence and excitement for the forthcoming season.
The last stocking before opening takes place this week, giving the fish plenty of time to acclimatise before the 31st of March.
The list of jobs to do before opening is now down to 36...
Tuesday 14th February
Great news from RMF this week.. The lake is now full to capacity!
After exactly a year of being closed we can now safely say that our gates will open on Saturday 31st March to the first anglers of a new era both at RMF and for fly fishing in East Anglia.
The snow has all but gone and hopefully with the onset of Spring just round the corner we can expect warmer temperatures to spring things into life for the end of March.
The water is still extremely clear and should only get clearer as we near the opening date.
As I have already mentioned bookings are now being taken for the first few weeks at RMF, it is vital that people call and book if wanting to fish a weekend as these are obviously more popular than weekdays.
Monday 30th January
Since announcing the date for the opening weekend last week, the phone has literally been ringing off the hook with people booking a place at RMF for the first time in over a year.
With numbers being limited, we are now full up on the Saturday and have only 2 places left on the Sunday. We have also started taking bookings for the second weekend in April (7th & 8th) for those that cant make the first.
The water level has risen quite dramatically over the last week, with the water level about 18" off the optimum level for the lake. The EA consent is now being processed and stocking will take place within the next couple of weeks. The stocking policy for the relaunch is a secret, at least until opening weekend!
Anyone still wishing to book a place for the first couple of weeks can do so by calling the fishery office on 01953 483971 or email rocklandsmerefishery@gmail.com
Monday 23rd January
The big news this week is that we now have an official opening date for the new facility at RMF.
Saturday March 31st will see RMF open its gates for the first time in over a year, since its redevelopment last February. Numbers will be limited for both Saturday and Sunday so anyone wishing to fish on either day is advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
There will be food and drink available throughout the day as well as the usual RMF hospitality, so if the weather is kind and the fish are rising it should be a memorable day for all concerned.
Anyone wishing to book for the opening weekend can contact me at the office or on my mobile, alternatively, drop me a line to rocklandsmerefishery@gmail.com.
Stocking the new lake is also due to take place shortly.
Monday 16th January
The lake has risen 8 inches in the last 7 days and is continuing to do so even without any recent rainfall. If we get a few drops as they forecast on Wed/Thurs then it can only speed up the process. As it stands at the moment we are extremely optimistic about being ready for the start of the new season on April 1st and are currently planning the events for the first week at the fishery. There is likely to be an opening day celebration BBQ or similar for those fishing, as well as over the first weekend (7th & 8th). Places are obviously limited so those wishing to attend can book in advance nearer the time. Full details to be released in a couple of weeks.
Monday 2nd January
More rain during this past week means that the lake is still on the way up.
We now have quite a substantial flow from the stream and if we get whats forecast for tomorrow we should see a significant change in the water level....pictures to follow!
I have created another youtube video showing the progress throughout the year, if you have a youtube/google account you can subscribe to our RMF channel by clicking here
Wednesday 28th December
I hope you all had a great Christmas and dont feel too cheated that its all over already! As you can see from the picture above, we now have a flow into the lake and the water level is starting to rise quite rapidly. Without any real substantial rainfall, we have seen the level increase by 6 inches in under a week, with the coarse lake now full to the limit and a potential emergency supply if needed before the Spring.
RMF now has a youtube channel. with the first video being uploaded last night.
We will eventually add to this to create a designated channel for everything RMF related, from fly tying vids to tours of the fishery, casting compilations and guiding clips.
The fly in the above video link is tied using a new product, developed by a good friend of mine from my school days, "Reel Wings" are a life-like imitation insect wing. RMF is fortunate anough to be the first retailer to stock this product over here in the UK, so if any of you fly tyers are interested check out this link
Monday 12th December
Still no change in water levels this week. We have had some heavy downpours but nothing lasting more than about 20 mins, so not long enough to do any good.
Our shop is now fully stocked and open to the public 7 days a week, so if any of you are ever in the area pop in for a coffee and a chat, or treat yourself to an early Christmas present!
Nothing much more to report this week except that everyone that purchased season tickets on the open weekend, they are due to be sent out to you all on Wednesday.
Oh.. and Frank P...your flies are ready for collection (cant find your phone number and e-mail keeps bouncing back!)
James
Monday 5th December
The weekend, saw the opening of the new lodge at RMF. An event was held over both days to showcase the new lodge, shop and facilities and was a real success.
70 people made the effort to visit over the course of the weekend and it was really great to see some old faces, and meet some new ones! With a real buzz of excitement over next season and the fact that the facility as a whole offers so much more, we are getting just as excited as the anglers. There was an overwhelming interest in season tickets for the 2012 season as well as the opportunity to have a look round the new lake and all the changes that have taken place over the last year.
I personally would like to thank everyone that came and supported us and promise to do everything I can to ensure that 2012 is a season never to forget at RMF.
Thanks
James
Monday 21st November
The weekend of the 3rd & 4th of December sees the launch of the new tackle shop at Rocklands Mere Fishery. Join us to celebrate the re-opening of the lodge which, after months of hard work, is now fully completed and stocked full of premium brand fly fishing tackle. Our biggest and best range yet.
The weekend will not only include a preview of 2012 tackle but also discounted season tickets, fly tying demonstrations and an exclusive insight into the 2012 season at Rocklands Mere Fishery.
On top of all this the RMF catering department has been enrolled to knock up the usual festive treats throughout the weekend.
RMF is now one of the biggest fly fishing outlets in East Anglia, stocking more product lines and brands than ever before. We cater for all tastes, budgets and abilities and offer a unique try before you buy service, with expert advice always on hand. Not only do we have a full range for the fly fisherman or women, we also have a comprehensive fly tying section and are proud to add the Hunter Boots brand to our inventory.
As many of you will know, RMF has undergone a transformation within the last 12 months making 2012 a hotly anticipated season. Not only has the lake been significantly extended, RMF now has more to offer than ever before. The old lodge has now been converted into a dedicated area for visiting anglers to enjoy, whether it be a quick break at lunchtime or a warming cup of tea next to the woodburner after some winter fishing. Toilet facilities have been upgraded and a permanent on-site office is now in place, ensuring someone is always available to make your day at RMF a memorable one.
Although the trout lake is not yet open, the launch weekend will give anglers the opportunity to discuss the details of the forthcoming season, including stocking strategies and in house events. Anyone wishing to sign up for the 2012 season can do so, all season tickets purchased at the weekend will recieve a 10% loyalty discount.
For more information visit www.rocklandsmere.co.uk, or alternatively call the fishery office on 01953 483971.
I Hope to see you all on the open weekend, for those of you who I dont, have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.
James
Monday 14th November
Not much has changed on the water level front over the last couple of weeks. We have seen a slight rise in the water levels in the new lake but only about an inch, so nothing very dramatic!
We are still frantically trying to get ready for the open weekend on the 3rd and 4th of December. Its the little details in the shop which take the most time!
Monday 24th October
Plans for the opening weekend on the 3rd/4th December are starting to take shape and the lodge is now having a final blitz before we prepare for opening.
Details of what is to be expected will be made clear nearer the time, but the usual food and drink will be available all day, being easier now we have a kitchen and fridge!
Anyone wishing to attend is very welcome to bring wives/partners etc, but guests will be limited to one per entry...Yes, we are hoping for a big turn out!
Details of tickets prices & season tickets for next year will be available for anglers to take with them and/or sign up.
Monday 10th October
Well Autumn is here! Windy, yet still fairly warm for October. There is no change in water level in the trout lake, but it is looking promising for the next few weeks and the sky is looking greyer every day!
We now have a state of the art intruder alarm and cctv system as well as exterior security lights at the lodge to dramatically improve security.
Nothing much more to say this week, just trying to get everything ready for the grand opening!
Monday 3rd October
The recent spell of unusual hot weather this last week has done nothing for the water levels in the trout lake. We are currently using the borehole to top up the one remaining lake which is open for business, the old Mere coarse lake.
The alarm and cctv system are to be completed this week which will be quite a milestone in the developments at RMF and will allow me to sleep a lot better at night!
Today we are hopefully going to see the borehole in use for the first time since the lake has been extended. We now have power to the borehole and can run the pump daily to ensure the water level rise rather than continue to fall.
As well as getting the odd autumnal shower and the fact that we are nearing winter should ensure that the lake is full ready for the start of the new season in April next year.
The lodge is finished and is due to have the alarm/cctv system fitted this week.
There is to be an open weekend for the unvailing of the new lodge on the 3rd/4th December.
Everyone is welcome, with food and drink available all day. The event starts at 9.00am both days.
Monday 19th September
Water levels remain unchanged as expected. The fish are putting on weight and seem to be getting visably bigger every day. One thing I know for certain is that when RMF opens its gates for business once again, the fishing and the fish will be like nothing else. Not to mention the first class facilities now available!
Nothing much more to report this week, still adding the finishing touches to the lodge. The office is nearing completion and this weeks news is written from my new desk on site!
James
Monday 12th September
Water levels still remain the same, so fishing at RMF isn't expected any time soon.
We are (still) praying for some decent rain, as I hope you all are, so lets hope we get some soon so the new lake can look a little better than it does at the moment!
The extension to the fishing lodge is now finished. We have a landline (01953 483971) broadband, mains electricity and mains water, which will all transform the fishery and the day to day running of the business. We will also be MUCH more secure and appropriate security devices will be in place before we open our doors for business to ensure we dont have any more set backs like last summer.
I will of course keep this page updated as and when we have any change, if any of you are passing or want to chat about progress feel free to call on the new office number.
James
Monday 25th April
Waters levels have risen slightly, but due to an exceptionally dry March and April we will be unable to open the trout lake this weekend. The coarse lake, however, is fully open and fishing incredibly well.
Those of you who are in need of a fishing fix, visit us at the Rocklands Fayre on Sunday 1st of May. There will be fly tying demonstrations, casting lessons and tackle for sale.
Monday 4th April
The extension to the trout lake was finished on Friday and the sluice opened to begin filling it up. Apparently March was the dryest for 60 years, which helped when digging, but we really need some rain now! Depending on when and how much rain we get over the next few days will determine when the lake is able to be re-opened. I would like to think it is sometime this month.
Season tickets are now available for the forthcoming season and are priced at £265, they are valid until 31st March 2012 and are available on a first come first served basis.
Wednesday 23rd March
Monday 14th March
After a hectic day digging the extension, repairing water pumps and swearing a lot, we actually ended up having a fairly productive afternoon and cut a sizeable chunk off the lodge end of the lake. More to follow tommorrow with pics.
Depending on the weather, it is possible that we could be finished and open again by early April. Season ticket holders can e-mail (rocklandsmere@safe-mail.net) for details on the upcoming season and dates/prices etc, or alternatively wait for the newsletter in a couple of weeks detailing the format for the year.
Thursday 9th March
Monday 7th March
Derek Wagstaff from Norwich only managed to squeeze in a 2 hour session at the weekend, but managed to land 4 Rainbows and a 4lb+ Brown trout. Derek was fishing the far end of the lake and was using a floating line and black buzzer. Takes were coming at about 12" beneath the surface and static, casting to rising fish.
The lake is currently undergoing an extension to the West bank and will be closed until April.
Monday 28th February
Archie Johnson from Kings Lynn had a memorable day on Wednesday with a Brown trout that gave him 'the fight of my life!'. Archie had 7 fish in total, 2 Rainbows and 5 Brownies, all on a floating line and black buzzers and a white lure. Paul Chipperfield from Norwich had three sessions at RMF this week and was rewarded with 9 fish in total. All were taken on a black buzzer fished just a foot below the surface. The changeable weather has made fishing conditions tricky but anglers that have braved the cold and wind have enjoyed great fishing, both on dries and sub surface flies..
Monday 21st February
Alec Mcmanus from Perth, Scotland was visiting RMF for the first time whilst on holiday. He fished a day session on Saturday and was rewarded with 4 Browns and 3 Rainbows, the Browns were all estimated at well over 3lb with one being close to 5lb. Alec was using a floating line and a combination of black fritz lures and black buzzers. He was fishing very slowly with almost no retrieve at all. Most takes came close to the marginal shelf on the lift.
Monday 7th February
Mr Gibbons enjoyed a successful evening session last week when, despite the howling wind and extremely difficult conditions managed to land 3 fish. Black buzzers were working well fished on a floating line just under the particularly choppy surface. The fish have actually been rising recently and have favoured the margins near the island, especially on extremely windy days. The lake is still open even now work has started.
Monday 31st January
The stubborn cold spell continues but those willing to brave the chill have been rewarded. Mr Rosefrom Attleborough had 5 rainbows on Friday with fish still occasionally rising by the island. All were taken on Cat's Whiskers. Saturday saw Jason Kent from Norwich land 4 fish in his afternoon session, using both Black Buzzers and again Cat's Whiskers proving effective. Work on the lake will begin on Monday 7th but we will remain open for a few weeks after this date.
Monday 24th January
The cold snap over this last week has slightly affected the rod average, with it being just under 3 for the last 7 days. Cats Whiskers and Damsel Nymphs or Lures have still been the most popular flies to try, but skinny black buzzers and bloodworms have all still managed to take fish. On windy days fish have actually been caught on dries, although the margins have tended to be the hot spots for surface activity. The lake remains open but will close shortly due to bank maintenance and widening.
Monday 17th January
Things are starting to get back to normal now that Christmas is over. The cold weather has meant that fishing over the last 6 weeks has been pretty much non existent, but at last the ice has thawed and temperatures for this time of year are pretty high. John Archerwas the first to fish the lake after the thaw when he had a day's session on Tuesday. John managed ten fish in total with four being well grown on and reaching in excess of 3lb. John also landed two 3lb+ Brown trout. His fly choice was varied, with Black buzzers, apps bloodworms and cats whiskers all accounting for fish. Mr Fishburne landed 4 Rainbows on Saturday one of which was estimated at 6lb+. Cats whiskers were his favoured fly. Philip Bodie fished a morning session on Sunday and with extremely high winds making casting a bit of a lottery he managed to land 4 fish in total. 3 Rainbows and a Brown Trout. All had full tails and were well mended fish fighting extremely hard. Philip was using a floating line and Damsel Nymphs. The fish have been seen rising in the margins since the thaw, especially near the island. As temperatures recently have been pretty mild it may be worth trying large dry flies such as sedge patterns or hoppers to induce a take.
Friday 14th January
The lake is now totally free from ice and open for fishing as normal.
Early returns are good, with John Archer catching 10 Rainbows on Wednesday.
Sunday 9th January
The Lake is now fishable.....In Places. The far end of the lake is totally thawed and within a couple of days the rest of the lake should be totally free of ice.
Monday 3rd January
STILL FROZEN!.....But may be thawed for the weekend. Keep an eye on the news section for updates.
Monday 27th December
FROZEN!
Monday 20th December
Due to the recent bad weather and severe drop in temperatures, the lakes are still totally frozen over. There is no sign of an improvement this side of Christmas, so it looks likely to be the case for at least the next 2 weeks. As always, keep an eye on the site for updates.
Monday 13th December
Unfortunately the trout lake is still frozen due to the recent cold snap, although slightly warmer during the day, the night time temperatures have not allowed the lake to thaw enough to break the ice. With temperatures as low as -7 forecast for the end of the week it looks as though it will be another week of no fishing at RMF. Keep an eye on the news section of the site for updates.
Monday 6th December
The RMF open day this weekend proved to be an almighty success. Even though the weather all weekend was terrible, the fact that the lake was frozen solid made it even more of a success as we saw a total of 49 people over the two days. Made up of seasoned RMF regulars as well as newcomers to the sport, everyone enjoyed the fly tying displays, exclusive tackle sales and advice and guidance on all things fly fishing...as well as the mince pies and mulled wine! Winner of the RMF Christmas Raffle was Dale Gardiner from Great Ellingham who won the exclusive hand tied fly box set. The lake is still frozen solid but keep an eye on the website for updates.
Monday 29th November
RMF regular, John Archer from Litcham enjoyed one of his best days fishing to date on Thursday. John was fishing the far end of the lake and was using buzzers and bloodworms and totalled 8 fish in total including a whopping personal best Brown Trout estimated and nearly 5lb, another of 2.5lb as well as a 3.5lb rainbow and 5 other stock fish. The weather recently has been less than favourable and as of today, the lake is frozen over. The RMF Open day is still very much ON for this weekend. Although fishing may not be on the cards due to the weather, there will still be fly tying displays, tackle sales, demonstrations and tuition, as well as refreshments on tap all day for those attending.
Monday 22nd November
The last week at RMF has been pretty inconsistant in terms of fish caught and anglers through the gate. John Archer fished an afternoon session on Thursday and ended up with 6 Rainbows in total. John was using a floating line with size 14 home tied black buzzers. Friday saw 8 anglers in total, with the best results coming to Luke Collinswho had 5 fish within the first hour and 8 in total. All rainbows and all on black buzzers or bloodworms fished on a floating line at the lodge end of the lake. Due to the overcast, foggy days recently most of the fish have been readily taking dries, however due to the lack of wind presentation has been key, with well de-greased leaders and small flies working well.
The fishery is having an open day on the weekend of the 4th & 5th of December. Free tuition and refreshments will be available for those fishing on the day as well as fly tying demonstrations and a tackle sale in the marquee. Call James on 07900 004953 to book your place as numbers are limited.
Monday 15th November
Geoff Peekfrom Stalham had a day to remember on Thursday when in cold, wet and windy conditions he managed to land 5 Rainbows and a 3.5lb Brown. Geoff was using a floating line with buzzers and diawl bachs fished slowly at the far end of the lake where the fish were surprisingly rising throughout the day. The weather recently has seen the majority of fish caught on dries, or sub surface flies such as black buzzers or small nymphs fished just under the surface. Another angler to enjoy success was Matt Fisher, who only had a couple of hours before dark but managed 3 rainbows and a 3.5lb brown trout. Matt was again using a floating line and a mixture of small buzzers and dries to tempt his fish which were feeding just under the surface from the inlet bay and lodge end of the lake.
Monday 8th November
The wet & windy weather recently has meant that the anglers who braved the conditions were rewarded with some really excellent top of the water action. Large dry flies such as hoppers, muddlers and snatchers in a veriety of colours have all been taking fish. With a chop on the water a fairly erratic retreive has seen some really exciting takes with some of the original resident RMF Brown Trout coming out at over 5lb. Tim Cooperfrom Norwich had an exciting morning on Friday with 7 Rainbows and 2 Browns. All falling to a fiery brown hopper fished on a floating line from the lodge end of the lake. Tim commented on how hard the fish fought for thier size, which averaged just over 2lb. The rod average this week was 3.8.
Monday 1st November
A mild week and relatively warm evenings have produced some really excellent surface action at RMF recently. Season ticket holder Chris Efstratioufrom Norwich fished on Saturday afternoon until dark and was rewarded with 8 Rainbows and 3 Browns. Conditions were perfect for Chris, with a good breeze and a ripple on the water the fish were feeding confidently from the surface. Chris was using a home tied variation on a Griffiths Gnat in a size 16, fished very slowly, almost static and at range as the fish seemed to be coming from the deeper water towards the middle of the lake. Many anglers have been successful on dries recently with the rod average being 4.2. For conditions less suitable, small black buzzers fished almost static have been working well, as have Hares ear nymphs and Diawl Bachs.
Monday 25th October
Last week saw some plummeting overnight temperatures and the odd ground frost in places. Because of this the fish have been extremely active over the last few days and with the right conditions, have been feeding right throughout the day. On overcast days the best flies by far have been dries. CDC buzzers in black or olive, claret or black hoppers and klinhammers would be a good bet, with black buzzers, Diawl Bachs & Hares ear nymphs worth a try on brighter days. Mr Collierfrom Thetford fished a day session on Sunday and was rewarded with 12 fish in total, 3 of which were Brown Trout and released, estimated at over 4lb. A mixture of flies accounted for the fish, with Small black hoppers used when overcast and Diawl Bachs taking fish in brighter periods. The lodge end of the lake has been producing the best sport due to the wind direction in recent days.
Tuition & Guiding days with James are available throughout the half term week...please book in advance.
Monday 18th October
Costessey Bush Angling Club Corporate Event
A corporate event on Saturday saw 12 members of the Costessey Bush Angling Clubvisit Rocklands Mere Fishery to try their hand at fly fishing. Arranged by their President NevilleHibberd& predominantly a coarse & sea fishing club, most of the members were trying fly fishing for the very first time. Luckily the weather was on thier side and after a group lesson with James, they were soon all catching fish, with Nigeland Johncatching 5 rainbows each on only their first ever session! With John winning the CBAC Presidents trophy for man of the match.
All fish were caught on floating lines and a whole array of flies! From damsel nymphs to small cdc buzzers on the surface. The majority were caught from the lodge end of the lake which has been the case recently due to the prevailing wind.
RMF would like to lastly like to wish their president Neville Hibberd a happy 80th Birthday on Thursday...Happy Birthday Neville.
Monday 11th October
This week has seen some sensational fishing at RMF with nearly all anglers seeing some Brownie action. On Firday, Mr Ekereturned to Rocklands Mere after a previously successful day. He had 7 fish in total, four fin perfect Rainbows and 3 Brown trout on a Matuka. RMF season ticket holder Chris Efstratiou from Norwich had 19 in total on Saturday including two exquisite browns, all taken on a home tied dries. Stuart Malone enjoyed a great day on Saturday with four fish including yet another Brown Trout. Dale Gardiner from Great Ellingham had a fantastic day on Sunday catching one of the RMF 'big boys', a brownie on one of James' hand-tied buzzers. He followed this up with 8 Rainbows which fell to a variety of Klinhammers, Daddys and Buzzers. The water remains gin clear and the calm weather is providing some incredible Autumnal fishing.
Monday 4th October
RMF Regular Alan Robinsonfrom Thetford fished for the first time in a few months on Saturday and was rewarded with a total of 6 Rainbows. Alan was using a floating line and small green montana nymphs fished slowly. New RMF Member Dale Gardiner fished in torrential rain last week and proved that fish can still be caught on dries. Dale was using small Klinkhammers and fishing the lodge end of the lake, he caught 4 Rainbows in total...His best day since he took up the sport in the summer.
With Crystal clear water it is important to downsize everything. Flies and tippet should be matched and a de-greased leader is crucial if you are not to spook the fish.
Monday 27th September
Its been an amazing week for Rocklands Mere Fishery, with a royal visit. The nephew to the King of Spain & his family visited RMF for a fly fishing lesson from James. The royal visitor took two fish using a damsel nymph during his lesson. The lake is still gin clear. Best flies have been buzzers and emergers fished just under the surface.
Monday 20th September
Crystal clear water and the recent introduction of new fish has ensured averyone has reached their limits and carried on to release fish, with the rod average up to 6.2. Jon Brooks enjoyed an evening not to forget on Friday when he fished a 4 hour session and ended up landing 18 fish in total. Jon was using a floating line and home-tied skinny black buzzers, all were rainbows and came from the lodge end of the lake. The windy weather has made things a little difficult for casting, but small flies fished high in the water where there is a decent "chop" has seemed to be the best tactics. Because the water is so clear at the moment it is possible to see the bottom in over 15ft of water so presentation is crucial.
Monday 13th September
RMF Season Ticket holder Chris Efstratiou from Norwich was on top form again on Saturday when he landed 15 fish. All Rainbows and falling to a whole spectrum of different flies, including Damsel Nymphs, buzzers and dries, Chris was fishing a floating line and mainly fishing the inlet point. Another angler to enjoy success was Tom Leonardfrom Brandon, who, on his first visit to RMF on Thursday managed to catch a Brown Trout which was returned and estimated at over 5lb. Tom also banked 6 Rainbows...all in a 4 hour evening session. Tom was using black cdc buzzers and klinkhammers to tempt the fish and all came from the far end of the lake.
If the weather continues to cool down as it has been recently, expect the fish to come up from the lower levels and feed readily throughout the day. The evening rise should start earlier, with fish mainly feeding on small buzzers and the odd large sedge.
Monday 6th September
Roley Flynn from Norwich proved that an early morning start makes all the difference this time of the year when he fished a 3 hour session on Thursday. Roley, with his two young sons as spectators, managed to land 9 Rainbows in total. sz14 CDC buzzers in black were the ONLY fly which the fish seemed interested in. Roley caught all his fish from the lodge end of the lake, with the largest being a fin perfect 3lb+ over wintered rainbow.
Most fish caught recently have been taken on dries with some falling to buzzers just below the surface. The willow tree to the left of the boat platform has been a good spot, with fish using it for shelter on brighter days.
Geoff Peekfrom Stalham purchased a new rod and felt compelled to test it on the day, fished an afternoon session on Friday with great results. Geoff Ironically caught a fish on the very first cast and went on to catch 8 in total, releasing 4. All were caught on a small black Shipmans Buzzer. Geoff also commented that he "missed" several fish as the takes were fairly quick.
Monday 30th August
The surface sport this week has been fantatsic, especially on the gusty, overcast days of late. Due to the high winds and stormy weather, the fish have been congregating in the lodge bay and inlet bay on the windward aide of the lake. Small dries will still take fish, but due to conditions, a larger "wake" fly such as a hopper or small muddler fished across the choppy water has seemed to work well on such days.
RMF season ticket holder and newcomer to the sport Dale Gardiner caught his very first Brown trout last week whilst fishing an evening session. Dale caught the 3.5lb fish on a floating line and black buzzer. The fish took the buzzer on the drop just below the surface. Dale also banked two rainbows in the same session.
Mick Parker was on top form again last week, with 16 fish landed on Wednesday. All rainbows and all caught on a variety of flies/methods. Small dry flies and buzzers were the main weapons in Micks arsenal and generally the smaller the better.
Monday 23rd August
Since the onset of this wet and windy weather we have had recently, the fishery has transformed quite dramatically. Proving that the hot days of summer are less than ideal for our target species. Hampshire angler, David "bons viveurs" Eaglesham, enjoyed a short early morning session on Saturday and banked two Rainbows, releasing another at range. David was using a goldhead nymph on a floating line and targeting individual fish as they were showing near the surface, takes were almost instant.
RMF regular John Archer fished an evening session on Wednesday and was rewarded with some very entertaining sport. John was fishing a floating line and black buzzers, later changing to small home tied Black Gnats and totalled 9 Rainbows, releasing 8. Takes were almost instant and the fish were only interested if the fly was presented in the top 12" of water. RMF newcomer and now regular visitor, John Brooksfrom Ashill has fished numerous times during the last few weeks, his best session coming on Thursday when he landed a total of 10 Rainbows, releasing 8. John was fishing small Black Buzzers just under the surface on a floating line with a very slow retrieve. The far end of the lake which is slightly deeper seems to be more productive than the lodge end and small black or olive dries cast accuratly to rising fish seems to be the order of the day if dry fly fishing is your bag!
Monday 16th August
The fishing this past week has been very up and down, with fish readily rising on dull overcast days for hatches of tiny buzzers. Evenings have also been productive, with any angler staying until late in the evening taking fish on dries or buzzers fished just under the surface on a greased leader.
On windy, overcast days such as today it would be worth trying a small muddler fished on the surface into the rough water, or a larger "wake fly", such as a Daddy to induce a take.
Monday 9th August
Chris Efstratiou spent the day on Saturday experimenting with flies and tactics and totalled 16 Rainbows and 2 Browns at the end of the day, with the Brownies estimated at over 4lb. Most came from the far end of the lake and all fell to a floating line. Chris was mainly using dries but a handful of fish came to black and green buzzers fished on a greased line just below the surface. The largest fish was a Rainbow estimated at 4.5lb.
Michael Parkerfrom Wymondham also had a successful session, banking 6 rainbows in total. Buzzers and dries were the winning patterns and the end of the day seemed to produce the most action.
Monday 2nd August
Steve Leevisited RMF for the first time on Saturday to fish an afternoon session. Steve had'ntcast a fly for over a year but was soon looking like a seasoned pro and ended the session with a total of 10 fish. Steve who was fishing the lodge end of the lake and the West bank was fishing a floating line and "Pond Olive" dries.
RMF season ticket holder and newcomer to the sport Dale Gardinerfrom Great Ellingham fished on Friday morning andwas rewarded withperfect weather for a change. With a slight breeze andovercast skies, Dale fished the island point and manangedto tempt 3 Rainbows to a Bloodworm buzzer fished just under the surface with a very slow retrieve.
Monday 26th July
The fishery has produced some excellent sport during the past week. Challenging at times, but if weather and conditions are favourable the takes come thick and fast.
The furthest endof the lake has been by far the most successful, with Buzzers and small dries such as hoppers or black shipmans accounting for a number of fish.
RMF regular John Archer fished on Thursday evening and landed 5 rainbows in total.
John, who has recently started fly tying, caught the fish on his own flies. Black Buzzers and small dries were the order of the day.
Another regular to RMF, Simon Easthope enjoyed a spectacular days fishing on Sunday when he banked a Brown Trout of over 5lb. Simon released the fish to fight another day and went on to catch another 5 rainbows.
Newcomer to RMF, Paul Hackinghad a first day to remember on Sunday. Paul totalled 9 fish including two Brownies of 4lb each (returned). Paul was using a floating line and fishing cdc buzzers on the surface...Well done Paul!
Monday 19th July
Mick Parkerfrom Wymondham had "the best days fishing ever"! on Wednesday.
With a cool wind and scattered showers Mick took advantage of the changeable weather and the fact that it was not flat calm and Bright sunshine for once and could not go wrong when fishing from the far bay.
Mick had a total of 36 fish including two brown trout of over 4lb. He was using a floating line and varying his flies, from Lures to Small dries and buzzers.
Ironically, Mick fished the same spot with the same tactics a couple of days later when the weather had changed back to the usual hot & bright with no wind and only managed 4 fish in total.
Monday 5th July
It is with great sadness that I start the weeks report by announcing the death of Hubert "Jack" Frost. Always willing to lend a hand or give advice to a newcomer to the sport, Jack became a great friend as well as a very accomplished angler and a proper old country gentleman and will be greatly missed.
The fishing recently has started to improve, although still a little frustrating during the day.
Evenings are still the most productive time of the day, with many anglers catching the majority of their fish during the last 2 hours of daylight. Flies to try would be small black hoppers, cdc buzzers, F fly or daddies. Expect dry fly fishing to be difficult when flat calm, but deadly if a ripple occurs. Buzzers are still catching fish, but be expected to fish them static and fairly deep during the day. The rod average this week has been 3.9.
After loosing all of our stock from the robbery last week, RMF tackle shop is currently in the process of a re-vamp andafter deciding to carry on withthis side of the business, we are now re-stocking. Brands such as DanielssonFly Reels, Fishpond, Vision, Rio, Redington, Enigma, Mclean, Loon, C&F, Snowbee, & Airflo will all be available although as you would expect none of the tackle will be available to purchase on site at the fishery.
Our new online store is nearing completion and should be up and running by the end of the month, but in the meantime call or e-mail for tackle enquiries.
Monday 28th June
The fishing report this week has taken a backseat due to a burglary at the fishery.
The lodge was broken into on Saturday night, or the early hours of Sunday morning.
All stock was taken as well as my own tackle and many personal effects. As many of you will know, there was a considerable amount of tackle held in the shop, ranging from HTL leaders to Danielsson fly reels, including a box full which recently arrived from Sweden. These reels will be the most traceable items as RMF is the only dealer in East Anglia.
If anyone has any information or is aware of anything suspicious in angling circles please could you let me know or call the Norfolk Constabulary on 0845 4564567.
The police are investigating the matter and will hopefully be doing the best they can to recover the stolen items, which reach in excess of £20,000.
Monday 21st June
Due to the changeable and somewhat winteryweather we have had over the last week, the fishing during the day has improved considerably. Having said that, the best sport is still to be found in the evenings or early mornings.
Norman Brown and his son Geoff had a crash course in fly fishing on Saturday when they had a mornings tuition and an afternoons fishing. The conditions were less than favourable, with strong winds and torrential rain at times. Geoff managed to catch two rainbows and Norman one, their first ever trout! Both were using dry flies and fishing the far end of the lake. RMF regular Chris Efstratiou fished on the same day and ended up with 9 fish in total.
All were taken on dries, ranging from black hoppers to small cdcbuzzers. The wind providing a really good "chop" on the water which helps when the fish are being fussy.
The rod average last week was 4.1/angler.
Monday 14th June
The fishing this last week has been somewhat tricky during the day, meaning mornings and evenings have been electric and by far the best time for a session.
The first mention must go to Stuart Marshall from Norwich. Stuart fished an all day session last Tuesday and managed to bank 9 fish in total, the biggest being a 4.5lb Rainbow. Stuart was using a combination of Damsel Nymphs, buzzers and dries fished on a floating line.
Another angler on form last week was Philip Bodiefrom Norwich. Philip, organisor of a group booking from Architects Feilden & Mawson andsuffering from a few "battle scars" following a 100 mile charity cycle ride the day before, landed 18 fish in total, most of which came in the evening.
Philip kept downsizing his flies until he reached a small olive spinner in size 18, this seemed to be the only fly which worked on the day with everything else being either ignored or left at the last minute.
Monday 7th June
Tiny Buzzers, Corixa or Sedge
The water temperature has increased dramatically over the last week and the fish have been quite tricky during the day. As always an evening rise occurs during the last couple of hours in the evening, which is when the best of the sport is to be seen.
John Archer, now a seasoned RMF "veteran" enjoyed a frustrating, but exciting evening on Wednesday when he landed 9 Rainbows in total, all were caught on a Black buzzers fished on a floating line in the inlet bay and lodge end of the lake.
Another angler to perform well in these tricky conditions was season ticket holder David Scott-Miller. Who banked 5 fish in a morning session. David was fishing the West bank and caught all his fish on a Black CDC Buzzer.
Another RMF season ticket holder and relative newcomer to the sport, Frank Poppleton from Bury fished an evening session on Thursday and was rewarded with 4 Rainbows. This was Frank's best session since starting fly fishing and he was overjoyed with his success. All his fish fell to a size 14 Black Buzzer fished under a floating line and from the far bay.
The evenings have seen some truly spectacular hatches, mainly of buzzers, but Mayflies and sedge have been prominant on the warmer, less windy evenings.
Flies to try during the day are Corixa, Buzzers or small dries....with the emphasis on SMALL!
Monday 31st May - Sorry, not got time for full report today.
Simon Easthope - 11 Rainbows Bloodworms and Black Buzzers far end of lake.
John Goddard - 9 Rainbows, 2 Browns... Black hoppers & CDC buzzers lodge end.
Monday 17th May
Small dries or lures...?!
It seems that the anglers have been divided into 2 distinct groups recently. Every day last week saw near perfect conditions for rising fish and indeed, the fish played along. They were to be seen taking flies throughout the day, as well as the hatches that continued long into the evening.
"Seasoned" angler Don Juler showed the youngsters how to do it whilst fishing on Tuesday. Starting from the lodge bay, Don quickly caught his first of the day after only 10 minutes. He proceeded to bank 8 rainbows in total, most coming to small dries and taken from each end of the lake.
Michael Parkerfrom Wymondham showed that variety is key and when action on one particular fly dried up, he quickly changed to something totally different. He caught 19 fish on Wednesday, all rainbows and all caught from the West bank. The flies used varied from black buzzers fished static, to white "moth" dries and large nymphs, all on a floating line.
Alan Perkins fished a windy 3 hour session on Friday morning andwas rewarded with 3 Rainbows. Alan was using smaller and smaller dries to try to induce takes as the fish were gorging themselves on the huge number of buzzers hatching off at the windward bank. Alan fished a floating line and sz16 cdc buzzers as well as RMF tied emergers.
Keep an eye out for Mayflies this week, as there have been the odd hatch on warmer afternoons. Early Damsels have also been seen in the marginal reeds.
The key when fishing dries at the moment is a well de-greased leader and as small as you dare!
Monday 10th May
Rod Urquart from Thetford fished a 3 hour morning session on Tuesday and had "one of the best mornings fishing for a long time". Rod was using a claret buzzer fished on a floating line and took 14 Rainbows in total. Takes were coming after a steady retrieve and fairly high up in the water. Most of the fish came from the lodge end of the lake which is where the prevailing wind has been pushing terrestrials over the last few days. Rod was fishing for the first time this year, what a way to start the season!
Monday 3rd May
Hawthornes and Buzzers and you cant go wrong!
Ben Wyer from Wells fished 3 evenings on the trot mid week andwas rewarded with some truly spectacular action. A real dry fly enthusiast, Ben fished RMF tied cdcbuzzers into the wind from the West bank and landed over 20 fish over 3 evenings.
During the day Hawthorn flies have been in abundance and any immitation has been working well. Black hoppers or shipmans fished on the ripple at the windward bank has been most productive. Michael Parker from Wymondham had a perculiarweek last week. Now a seasoned regular at RMF, Michael fished 2 consecutive evenings with the first proving to be strangely unproductive. Although he had plenty of interest, Michael came away only having landed one rainbow. The next was quite different andusing the same tactics, a floating line with a static black buzzer he managed 12 rainbows in total...just goes to show that fly fishing is never predictable!
Monday 26th April
Crystal Clear Water = Tiny dries and Stealth....!
Last week saw temperatures increase and some slightly cloudier or overcast days with the occasional stiff breeze testing the anglers. Buzzer hatches were in abundance in the evenings, with several Alder and terrestrials starting to make an appearance adding to the selection for the rising fish. Small dries were the order of the day, fished on a long, well
de-greased leader with precision, ensuring not to spook the fish in the crystal clear water.
Andrew Wheating from Thetford spent Thursday evening fishing dries and to great affect. Armed only with a box of dries and a 4wt outfit, Andrew managed to land 8 Rainbows and 3 Browns, all of which were caught one after the other fishing in the margins at the far end of the lake. The Rainbows came from open water. All fish were caught on either a cdc "F" Fly or Black Shipmans Buzzer.
RMF newcomer Phil Ligood from Norwich enjoyed a successful day on Sunday. On his very first visit to the fishery and in only his first season of Fly Fishing, Phil managed to bank 4 Rainbows. All were caught from the West bank and on a floating line and GRHE Nymphs.
A mention must go to fishing buddies Roley Flynn & Steve Langley. The pair, who had not fished together since last summer, spent the evening at RMF on Saturday and with a lake full of rising fish just before dark, managed to catch a rainbow each from the lodge bay. Both on a small black hopper.
Monday 19th April
Buzzers and small dries have been by far the most successful flies recently. Many anglers having the most success during the last 2 hours of daylight when they are experiencing some really fantastic evening rises. RMF newcomer Michael Parker caught 9 fish in an afternoon session on Wednesday, all were taken on a size 14 black buzzer fished just under the surface on a floating line. Chris Efstratiouwaited until the evening on Saturday when he released 13 Rainbows, the biggest estimated at over 5lb. All were caught on a mixture of cdc buzzers, shipmans buzzers and small caddis patterns. Most of the fish were caught from the far bay. The rod average last week was 3.8. Cloudy skies and warm days are perfect conditions and will see the majority of the fish feeding in the surface. The smallest dries, such as shipmans buzzers and cdc's will be perfect for these conditions.
Monday 12th April
I am writing this from the Isle of Arranonthe West coast of Scotland having just scaled "The Sleeping Warrior"....Exhausted! Fishing tomorrow, so should gets some pics and vids..Anyway...
Newcomer to the sport Katie Williamsfrom Hingham enjoyed an incredible evening rise on Thursday night and, after a lesson in casting and presenting dries, she was soon targeting rising fish in the lodge bay. After a few missed opportunities she was soon playing her first Rainbow. Another 3 followed, all taken on a size 14 Black CDC buzzer, the biggest being 3lb.
RMF Seaon ticket holder David Long from Norwich caught his biggest RMF Rainbow to date on Thursday evening when he banked a 5lb 2oz fish. David was fishing the far end of the lake and caught the fish on a floating line and Green PTN...Well done David!
Monday 5th April
10 year old Josh Stephens enjoyed a successful, if not a little windy morning at RMF on Wednesday. Josh caught his first Rainbow from RMF on a black shipmans buzzer from the far endof the lake. Although very windy, with occasional rain showers, the fish were seen to be rising sporadically when the sun broke through the clouds...Well done Josh!
Even with the weather taking a turn for the worse and temperatures dropping, the fish are still tuned in to Spring. With fantastic buzzer hatches to be seen throughout the day as well as the usual "RMF evening rise", the trout are really starting to gorge themselves with many of the fish taken this week found to be brimming with buzzers of all sizes and colours.
Ben Wyerfrom Wells found the answer on Saturday as he caught 15 Rainbows throughout the day. All Bens fish came to a home-tied size 14 black buzzer fished on a floating line. Ben caught from every corner of the lake and takes were coming within 2-3 feet of the surface.
The captor of the biggest fish so far this season, Simon Easthope, once again proved that his luck really is in and whilst fishing on Monday caught 6 Rainbows, taking 4 and releasing 2, one of which was well over his biggest of 3 weeks ago and estimated to be closer to 7lb.
Simons fish all fell to a size 14 self tied black beetle fished slowly over deep water at the far end of the lake.
Monday 29th March
Spring is certainly upon us, with buzzers in abundance at RMF since the temperature rose into double figures. This has been proven with most anglers taking fish on, or just under the surface on buzzer patterns.
Season ticket holder Steve Beckhamfrom Beetley, landed 8 fish in total from the far bay on Wednesday, all were taken on black buzzers fished on a floating line just under the surface. The weekend saw changable weather conditions and slightly colder temperatures on Sunday, but overcast skies and a good breeze meant the fish were all up in the water and rishing freely throughout the day.
A Group booking on Saturday meant that 10 anglers, some complete beginners, were visiting RMF and fly fishing for the first time in years.
One of the guests, 14 year old Robert Youngs from Norwich had a truly memorable morning, landing 7 fish in total, 4 of which were released to fight another day. Robert was fishing a floating line and catching his fish on black buzzers suspended just below the surface over deep water at the far end of the lake. A tally up at the end of the day revealed that in total 24 fish were caught, with the average weight being 2.3lb.
Robert Youngs with 3 of his 7 Rainbows caught on Saturday morning
Good friends, Carl Heywood and Jon Price fished an evening session on Sunday and were rewarded with their best few hours fishing for a long time, catching 13 fish between them. Jon managed 6 with Carl landing 7, all from the West bank and all on black buzzers fished on a floating line over deep water.
Another angler to fish on Sunday was RMF regular Ben Wyerfrom Wells. Ben was mostly fishing the inlet and released 12 fish throughout the day. Most were caught on black buzzers, however Ben also managed to tempt a handful of fish on dries. Klinkhammers and Suspender buzzers accounted for these fish.
Monday 22nd March
Roy Woodsand Tony Boyle enjoyed a spectacular first days fishing of 2010 when they visited on Tuesday. The pair fished their first morning session since last year and couldn't have chosen a better day to dust off the rods, with Tony landing 4 fish and Roy 5, including a Rainbow of 4.5lb. All the fish came to a cats whisker fished on a floating line and both anglers were fishing the West bank.
Newcomer to the sport, Frank Poppletonfrom Bury St Edmunds caught his first ever trout on a fly this afternoon when he landed 3 Rainbows from the West bank. All 3 fell to a Red Montana nymph fished on a floating line. Frank had only fly fished once prior to today.
The appropriately named Ken Fish from Bury enjoyed a successful day's fishing on Thursday, when he landed 8 fish in total. A Rainbow estimated at over 4lb was released as well as a near 3lb Brown trout, along with 6 other Rainbows averaging 2lb.
Ken was fishing with the wind on his back from the West bank and using a floating line and a size 12 buzzer.
RMF Season ticket holder David Long fished his first evening session of 2010 and was rewarded with 5 Rainbows. David was fishing open water in the middle of the lake from the East bank and caught all his fish on a black buzzer teamed up with a floating line.
Another angler to fish for the first time since 2009 was Robert Eglington, who took advantage of the change in the weather to land 6 fish in an evening session.
Season ticket holder Luis De souzafrom Gt Ellingham was another angler to be drawn to the water as the weather turned and arrived on Thursday evening to be welcomed by some rising fish at the windward end of the lake.
Luis was fishing a floating line and a "Humpy" dry fly, which fish were taking just under the surface. Louis caught 6 fish in total, including a rainbow of 5lb+ which was released.
The weekend, which had contrasting weather on both days, produced some excellent sport at RMF. The Saturday was near perfect, as all the fish were up in the water due to a stiff breeze and overcast skies. Newcomer Michael Parkerfrom Wymondham landed 13 fish in total. Michael was fishing a floating line and various nymphs throughout the day.
Jason Newman from Brandon fished all day on Saturday using dries, and to good effect. Black Shipmans, Hoppers and Deer Hair Sedge accounted for a total of 9 fish, two of which were Brownies. Jason's fish came from the far end of the lake, which has seen the majority of the action recently.
Overall, a good weekend with a real "Spring" feeling. Temperatures of up to 15'c meant that the fish spent most of the time in the surface layers and were rising freely throughout the day.
Roy Woods with his biggest of the morning - 4.5lb
Monday 15th March
Last weekend saw the first big fish day of the season at RMF.
Fine weather greeted the anglers on Saturday morning as they prepared to do battle with some huge Rainbow trout.
All the anglers fishing on the day were rewarded with some of the best fishing they have had in a long time, with fish being taken from every corner of the lake.
Simon Easthopefrom Caston took an absolutely perfect, fully finned Rainbow of just under 6lb from the far bay. The fish took a sz14 black beetle fished on a sinking line and very slow retrieve.
Simon Easthope with his near 6lb Rainbow
Article written for "Town & About" Magazine - 20/12/09
Fly Fishing in Norfolk
As a county, Norfolk has all the ingredients for a truly spectacular day’s fly fishing. The benchmark must surely be found a little further north of us in the Scottish Highlands. We may not have the wild water, or the wild fish for that matter, but going without the wild weather is certainly preferable to most anglers!
Due to the increased demand on rivers and watercourses in the county, as well as the increased threat from the wild, such as cormorants and otters, the population of the wild brown trout has significantly decreased over the years and for fly fishermen, this is their quarry in its purest form.
Found naturally in rivers and streams and preferring fast flowing, crystal clear water, the rivers flowing through our county are a perfect habitat for such a species. The Wensum, Wissey, Tas, Nar, Bure and Glaven to name just a few are all rivers in which wild trout are present and, providing it is in season and permission is granted, there are some truly breathtaking stretches of water to cast a fly to.
For some people, particularly those new to the sport of fly fishing, the answer is foundin purpose built, stocked day ticket fisheries. From a coarse fishing point of view these are plentiful in this part of the world, however, if fly fishing is your chosen obsession it is a slightly different story with only a handful of Stillwater trout lakes available.
They may not have been around for hundreds of years, improving and evolving with time, but instead constructed following serious planning and effort to ensure that there is a sympathetic cohesion between the purpose built and the wild. They provide the angler with an environment of peace and tranquillity to enjoy their surroundings and the relaxing activity that is fly casting – catching a trout is a by-product and regarded by many as a bonus!
James Harrold – L2CCA & GAIA Fly Fishing Instructor
It's been more of the same at Rocklands Mere this week. Damp and cool weather means the fishing has been consistently good. Kieron Harney from London had 2 Rainbows and 2 Browns one of which was estimated at over 10lb and was returned safely. All were caught off the top on dries in perfect conditions. As always, finding a ripple has been the key for dries this time of year. We are still getting some remarkable rises throughout the day when the weather permits. On colder days when the fish are less likely to be rising, or before the surface warms up enough, nymphs or lures will catch fish that are not yet switched on to surface activity.
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