New online guide will help autumn salmon anglers see the season out in style

Oct. 3, 2024 - PRLog -- The rains that succeeded the unusually dry and warm end to September in Scotland won't have been popular with most people, but they were welcomed by anglers travelling to Scotland looking to land a big Tay salmon before the close season.

Scotland's warm autumnal beginning meant lower water levels than normal and challenging conditions for anglers. However, the recent cooler temperatures and rain mean improved fish activity. A new online guide by angling expert Will Draper, Head of FishPal – the innovative service that enables anglers to book fly fishing permits online – reveals how anglers travelling to Scotland and locals alike can make the most of the remaining salmon fishing season.

Says Will: 'For wily experienced anglers and newcomers alike, autumn can be a memorable time. Sadly, the close season for salmon is already nearing. It's 15 October for the River Tay and lower beats of the Dee. However, the good news is that the season continues on other rivers and until 30 November on the River Tweed.

'Before then, there's the autumn to enjoy and our latest online guide will help even for the most experienced angler. With climate change, migration patterns of salmon may well shift. Some rivers might see earlier runs, while others may experience delayed arrivals. It's essential for anglers to observe these patterns closely and stay informed about the latest scientific research on salmon behaviour, for both the fishing and our love for these iconic fish.

'When a few resident salmon start to hold in a pool, they inevitably interact with new fish coming into that pool, which slows them down as they meet. Often, a resident fish will splash more regularly when fresh fish move into the pool and sometimes chase territorially. This is an exciting time for anglers because we know our chances have just got significantly better. For those that prefer angling for fresh fish, as opposed to autumn-coloured fish, observe the pool and wait for this moment – it's the time to get in and cast your line.

'Heavy flies for autumn, when water levels rise and temperatures drop, are key. Colour plays a strong part in many an angler's selection process. The deeper the red or purple, often the better, igniting a response of an aggressive nature.

'Autumn fishing for Atlantic salmon presents a thrilling chapter in your angling journey, whether you are a novice or a seasoned pro. The good news is that, so far, there are plenty of permits still available through to the end of November on the Tweed.

'FishPal's full guide to making the most of autumn salmon fishing is now online at: https://blog.fishpal.com/2024/09/25/autumn-salmon-fishing/