The recent fall in water temperature and the water clarity is proving a hit at Rescobie Loch. Limit baskets are the order of the day for most anglers with some good evening rises to tempt the purists. Gows Fish of the month looks like being taken by Norrie Cargill (Arbroath) whose 9lb 8oz rainbow knocked Alistair Fraser’s (Brechin) 9lb fish off the board. G. Burnett (Dundee) had one at 6lb 12oz, an unnamed angler with Discovery A/C had one at 10lb 6oz, J. Yule (Kirrie) had one at 7lbs J. Elliot (Stirling) had a brown of 6lb 4oz and S. Forgan (B’ Ferry) had a brown of 5lb 14oz. Buzzers still account for a lot of fish but slow fished lures are doing well although one angler was seen to do very well on the Roly Poly ! The amount of weed this season is restricting the bank anglers to certain areas but they are still catching fish. D. Nicol (Arbroath) had 3 for 6lbs, R. Clark (Arbroath) 3 for 6lb 8oz, P. Hogan (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 2oz, S. Thomson (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 12oz, P. Laing (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 12oz and K. McIntosh (Forfar) 4 for 8lbs. From the boats, J. Myles (Dunfermline) 4 for 12 lbs, A. Derick (K’caldy) 4 for 9lb 2oz, G. Alexander (Dundee) 4 for 7lb 4oz, W. Adams (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 8oz, D. Coull (Forfar) 4 for 9lbs, A. Paterson (Brechin) 4 for 10lb 12oz, D. Blythe (Lour) 4 for 13lbs and G. Burnett (Dundee) 4 for 8lb 8oz. 09 08 10 Some really good fish have been coming off Rescobie of late. D. Watson (Brechin) had one at 8lb 12oz in his 4 for 14lb 12oz, N. Cargill (Arbroath) 1 at 7lbs in his 4 for 18lbs, R. Smith (Arbroath) 1 at 9lb 12oz in his 4 for 17lbs, M. Low (St Andrews) 1 at 6lbs in his 4 for 14lbs, R. McIntosh (Forfar) one at 9lb 12oz in his 4 for 16lb 8oz, and C. Nicoll (Arbroath) one at 10lbs in his 4 for 19lb 4oz. Despite that, A. Wood) Forfar nearly held on to July’s Fish of the Month with his 10lb 14oz rainbow but was pipped at the post by J. Campbell (Brechin) who had a rainbow of 13lb 14oz in his basket of 4 for 21lb 12oz. The fish are working just under the surface and Intermediate or Midge Tip lines are working well with buzzers or various lures. Damsels, Cormorants, Black Dancers and Minkies all get a mention. Fish are still being taken from all over the loch, weeds allowing, but the favourite areas appear to be off the Church or the Greenbank. Some recent bank successes were, F. Keith (Dundee) 4 for 11lb 8oz, P. Hogan (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 10oz, M. Heenan (Arbroath) 4 for 9lbs, S. Thomson (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 4oz, and G. Higgins (Montrose) 4 for 8lbs. From the boats, D. McPhail (Edzell) 4 for 7lb 12oz, D. Robertson (Brechin) 4 for 8lbs, R. McLaren (Blair) 4 for 10lb 12oz, A. Davidson (Forfar) 4 for 9lb 12oz, S. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 13oz, C. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 12oz, G. Dunbar (Arbroath) 4for 8lbs, S. Ford (Dundee) 4 for 9lb 4oz and J. Craig (Brechin) 4 for 12lb 8oz. 19 07 10 The water temperature at Rescobie Loch has dropped back to a more respectable level and the fish are on the move again. Some spectacular evening rises have been witnessed but the fish, once hooked, are proving difficult to hold on to. Competition for Gows’ Fish of the Month has hotted up somewhat with the 6lb rainbow of G. Smith (Arbroath) being knocked off the leader board by M. Jarrett’s (Arbroath) 7lb 4oz brown which was then beaten by G. Southam’s (Brechin) 8lb 4oz rainbow. G. Alexander (I’gowrie) had one at 10lbs but, being a non member, doesn’t qualify. On the leader board at the moment is A. Wood (Forfar) who had a 10lb 14oz rainbow and a 6lb 8oz brown in his 4 for 22lb 8oz. Floating lines and buzzers continue to be the favourite tactic but for those with less patience, slow sinkers and lures such as the Yellow Dancer are also taking fish. Some recent bank successes were, S. Lorimer (Carnoustie) 4 for 12lb 8oz, J. Moncur (I’gowrie) 4 for 9lb 12oz, G. Young (Carnoustie) 4 for 8lb 2oz, A. Burnett (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 8oz which included a 5lb 4oz brown, F. Keith (Dundee) 4 for 9lbs, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 8oz and S. Forgan (B’Ferry) 4 for 9lb 12oz. From the boats, A. Paterson (Brechin) 4 for 8lb 4oz, R. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 14lb 2oz, A. Lumsden (Forfar) 4 for 10lbs, K. Dicken (Montrose) 4 for 11lb 4oz, R. McLaren (Perth) 4 for 9lb 10oz, D. Robertson (Brechin) 4 for 8lb 4oz, T. Hay (Aberdeen) 4 for 10lbs and A. Turner (Forfar) 4 for 9lb 4oz. 05 07 10 It was no great surprise that Jock Yule’s (Kirrie) 14lb 6oz brown held on to take Gows’ Fish of the Month for June at Rescobie Loch but it was a close thing. G. Hawkins (Arbroath) had rainbow of 13lb 6oz in his basket of 4 for 23lbs and S. Thomson (Arbroath) had one at 13lbs in his 3 for 17lbs. On the leader board at the moment is G. Smith (Arbroath) with a 6lb rainbow, having beaten his own 5 lb brown ! The recent hot weather put the fish down a bit and most anglers reverted to slow sinkers. Buzzers continue to catch a lot of fish but Diawl Bach, Damsels, Dancers, Dennis the Menace and Daddies get a mention in the returns book. Some recent bank successes were, P. Laing (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 4oz, J. Owens (Auchmithie) 4 for 11lb 4oz, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 4oz, S. Forgan (B’ Ferry) 4 for 12lb 8oz and G. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 17lbs. From the boats, M. Jarrett (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, A. Turner (Forfar) 4 for 9lb 4oz, C. Thornton (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 12oz, N. Cargill (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs, J. Henderson (Montrose) 4 for 12lbs, C. Laird (Forfar) 4 for 14lb 12oz, D. Blythe (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 8oz and J. Moncur (I’gowrie) 4 for 16lb 8oz. 21 06 10 Despite the recent bright weather the fish at Rescobie Loch continue to feed high up in the water and buzzers continue to be the most popular method but the Yellow Dancer, Damsel and mini lures are also accounting for their fair share. Competition for Gows Fish of the Month has been fierce. J. Henderson’s (Montrose) 9lb 4 oz rainbow didn’t last long. It was beaten by W. Taylor (Brechin) with an 11lb rainbow which was beaten by J. Hampton (Forfar) with one at 13lb 4oz but that in turn was beaten by J. Yule (Kirrie) with a brown of 14lb 6oz. Some other nice fish were, C. Williamson (Forfar) with an 8lb 2oz rainbow in his 4 for 15lb 12oz, an 8lb brown for D. Thain (Forfar), a 5lb brown for I. Goodlet (Forfar) a 7lb brown for R. Carlin (Dundee) and a 5lb brown for A. McIntosh (Forfar). Some recent bank successes were, F. Keith (Dundee) 4 for 12lb 8oz, W. Massie (Forfar) 4 for 10lbs, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 12oz, C. Munro (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 8oz, w, Smith (Birkhill) 4 for 9lb 8oz, S. Thomson (Arbroath) 4 for 8lbs and W. Mudie (Birkhill) 4 for 7lb 8oz. From the boats, J. Shepherd (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 12oz, D. Robertson (Brechin) 4 for 8lbs, D. Murray (B’Ferry) 4 for 8lb 12oz, M. Low (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 4oz, M. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 12oz, D. Watson (Brechin) 4 for 9lbs, H. Gauld (Arbroath) 4 for 8lbs, D. Milne (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 12oz and J. Westland (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 8oz. Trout Fisherman Magazine has done it again!! Several years ago Trout Fisherman Magazine printed the Association secretary’s home number instead of the boathouse number. It took a long time but eventually nearly everyone trying to contact Rescobie dialled the correct number, 01307 830367. Much to the secretary’s wife’s annoyance (he’s never at home to answer the phone) they have done it again!! 07 06 10 Big browns continue to provide excellent sport at Rescobie Loch with one at 13lb 14oz taking Fish of the Month for May. It was caught by S. Thomson (Arbroath) while fishing off the Greenbank. Some other nice browns to come off were, G. Milne (Arbroath) one at 6lb 12oz, W. Johnston (Blairgowrie) one at 6lb 4oz in his 4 for 14lb 8oz, R. Smith (Arbroath) one at 8lb 8oz, S. Peters (Forfar) one at 6lb 8oz, F. Keith (Dundee) 2 for 16lb 12oz, R. Gray (Birkhill) one at 6lbs, C. Thornton (Montrose one at 5lb 4oz in his 4 for 15lbs and D. Watson (Brechin) one at 6lb 12oz in his 4 for 15lb 12oz. On the leader board at the moment is J. Henderson (Montrose) with a 9lb 4oz rainbow. Buzzers continue to account for a large number of fish but Damsels, Cormorants and black and green Fritz are taking their fair share. The fish are still quite high in the water and floaters and intermediates are most popular. Some recent successes from the bank were, G. smith (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 8oz, G. Knox (Dundee) 4 for 9lbs, J. Leith (Dingwall) 4 for 12lbs, J. Moncur (I’gowrie) 4 for 9lb 12oz, J. Lindsay (Glamis) 4 for 9lbs and G. Lamond (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 8oz. From the boats, A. Beattie (Forfar) had 4 for 11lbs, D. Robertson (Brechin) 4 for 9lbs, T. Hale (Forfar) 4 for 10 lb 4oz, S. Dargie (Inverurie) 4 for 9lb 8oz, M. Low (Forfar) 4 for 12lb 4oz, C. Thornton (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 2oz, G. Milne (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 8oz and B. Murchie (Erroll) 4 for 10lbs. The Maggie Centre Charity competition takes place this weekend and there are presently three boats left for the Saturday session. To book your place, phone Ron Hampton on 07971596433 or call the boathouse on 01307 830367. 10 05 10 They must be a hardy breed of fly at Rescobie Loch. Despite the cold weather they continue to hatch, bringing the fish high up in the water. Those the fish fail to intercept provide feeding for the returning migratory birds who, once again have taken up residence in the boathouse. Such are their numbers that the Boathouse is now known as the Swallow Hotel. The fish are well spread over the loch but, on occasion can be difficult to locate. Once they are located black and green continue to be the favourite colour. First on the leader board for May’s Fish of the Month was G. Gall (Arbroath) with a brown of 7lbs but that was soon beaten by S. McGregor (Arbroath) with a rainbow of 10lb 3ox. Some other noteworthy fish were D. Balfour (Forfar) 7lb 8oz brown, J. Mawhurt (Montrose) 6lb 8oz rainbow, S. Laird (Lochgilphead) 7lb 11oz brown and J. Shepherd (Forfar) 6lb brown. Some other catches were, from the bank, S. Lorimer (Carnoustie) 4 for 10lbs, D. Murray (B’Ferry) 4 for 9lb 8oz, R. Gray (Montrose) 4 for 11lbs, C. Williamson (Forfar) 4 for 10lbs, G. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, S. Thomson (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 14oz and J. Anderson (Redford) 4 for 8lbs. From the boats, L. Anderson (I’gowrie) 4 for 11lbs, R. Storrier (Dundee) 4 for 9lb 12oz, J. Henderson (Montrose) 4 for 13lb 4oz, N. Cargill (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 12oz, C. Thornton (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 3oz, S. Boag (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs, J. McCafferty (Newburgh) 4 for 9lb 12oz, S. Morrison (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 4oz, G. Southam (Brechin) 4 for 11lbs, M. Low (Forfar) 4 for 9lb 4oz and P. Nicol (Forfar) 4 for 10lbs. 26 04 10 Big brownies have continued to feature in the returns at Rescobie Loch over the past couple of weeks. J. Myles (Arbroath) had one at 9lb 8oz, H. Gauld (Arbroath) 6lb 4oz, D. Robertson (Brechin) had one at 7lb 12oz in his 4 for 15lb 4oz, D. Blythe (Forfar) had one at 13lb 4oz in his 4 for 19lb 12oz and Gilbert Cheetham (Monifieth) had one at 7lbs in his 4 for 15lb 9oz. C. Thornton’s 9lb 14oz rainbow was eventually knocked off the Gows Fish of the Month leader board. On his first outing of the season, R. Fraser (Letham), took his first for the season from off the Greenbank. Weighing in at 10lb 6oz it is presently Fish of the Month. Unfortunately for J. Ramsay (Perth) who had one at 11lbs in his 4 for 18lbs, J. Allison Forfar 11lb 8oz and D. Blythe Snr (Forfar) who had one at 10lb 14oz in his 3 for 15lb 8oz non members do not qualify. The fish are still reasonably high in the water with Intermediates or slow sinkers fairing best. Hairs Lug, Bloodworm, Buzzers and Damsels appear regularly in the Returns Book. Some bank successes were, P. Hogan (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 2oz, J. Campbell (Brechin) 4 for 8lb 8oz, S. Lorimer (Carnoustie) 4 for 10lb 8oz, I. Goodlet (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 12oz, and G. Airth (Arbroath) 4 for 12lb 3oz. From the boats, W. Whittle (Friockheim) 4 for 13lbs, M. McGovern (Alloa) 4 for 17lb 8oz, P. McMillan (Kirrie) 4 for 15lb 6oz, J. Falconer (Kirrie) 4 for 9lb 8oz, N. Cargill (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs, R. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 15lb 4oz, J. Hill (Banchory) 4 for 14lb 4oz , J. Malloch (Letham) 4 for 13lb 8oz and G. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 13lb 4oz. 05 04 10 Given the weather condition at Rescobie Loch over the past few weeks one would be forgiven for thinking that it would be pretty hard going. Not so, limit baskets have been commonplace with some exceptional fish being weighed in. At the start of the season the fish appeared to be all holed up in Boathouse Bay, then it was Drimmie’s turn but over the past weekend Doc Millar’s was the hotspot. Anything with green and black in it appeared to do the trick, fished on an intermediate or slow sinking line. Competition for Gows’ Fish of the Month has been fierce with several brown trout in contention. W. Johnston (Blair) had one at 5 lbs in his 4 for 18 lb 12 oz, G. Burnett (Dundee) had one at 6 lb 4 oz, T. Lamont (Dundee) 7 lb, G. Milne (Arbroath) 5 lb 8 oz and 7 lb 12 oz, S. Flynn (Dundee) 8 lb 8 oz, R. Buick (Arbroath) 6 lb 5 oz in his 4 for 13 lb 13 oz, J. Malloch (Letham) 7 lb 12 oz in his 4 for 17 lbs and S. Morrison (Arbroath) 7 lb in his 4 for 16 lb 4 oz. From the bank, J. Mosley (Arbroath) 6 lb 14 oz in his 4 for 13 lb 12 oz, G. Young (Carnoustie) 5 lb 4 oz, G. Cheetham (Monifieth) 6 lb 9 oz, C. Munro (Forfar) 5 lb 4 oz, G. Irvine (Forfar) 6 lb, P. Laing (Arbroath) 6 lb and S. Lorimer (Carnoustie) 5 lb 8 oz in his 4 for 25 lb 8 oz. On the rainbow front, V. McLean (L’kirk) had one at 7 lbs in his 4 for 15 lb, D. Yule (Arbroath) 10 lb and 9 lb 8 oz in his 4 for 24 lb 5 oz, T. Greig (Dundee) 9 lb 12 oz in his 4 for 17 lb 12 oz. Mr Joe (Dundee) 10 lb 8 oz in his 4 for 18 lb 8 oz, S. Lorimer (Carnoustie) 11 lbs, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 11 lb 7 oz in his 4 for 18 lbs, P. Laing (Arbroath) 11 lbs in his 4 for 18 lb 8 oz, S. Thomson (Arbroath) 12 lb 4 oz and D. Heenan (Arbroath) 8 lbs. Fish of the Month went to D.M. Smith (Arbroath) whose 12 lb 12 oz rainbow knocked Dod Milne’s (Arbroath) 12 lb 8 oz off the leader board. Brown trout continue to feature as candidates for April’s Fish of the Month. C. Munro (Forfar had one at 5 lb, A. Wood (Forfar) 5 lb 12 oz, B. Geddes (Arbroath) 6 lb 4 oz, G. Cheetham (Monifieth) 6 lb 8 oz and G. Hawkins (Arbroath) 6 lb 12 oz. However Chae Thornton (Montrose) is on the leader board at the moment with a 9lb 14 oz rainbow. 15 03 10 Rescobie Loch’s season kicked of on Monday. Thankfully the ice, which had covered the loch for some considerable time, melted in time for Opening day. That being said, the water temperature was very low, not really conducive to fish being in the mood to feed as the anglers soon found out. First fish of the day fell to K. Gall (Arbroath) fishing the Boathouse Bay. He had only been on the water a few minutes when it took but that proved to be his one and only touch of the day. It was some consolation that it weighed in at 6lbs. The only angler to bag up on the day was D. Yule (Arbroath) who had 4 for 21 lb 10oz. The biggest weighed in at 10lb 3oz and is presently Gows’ Fish of the Month. L. Anderson (Invergowrie) had one at 11 lb 11 oz but, not being a member didn’t qualify. B. Robertson (Montrose) had a lovely brown of 4lbs, R. Clark (Arbroath) a rainbow of 6 lb 5 oz and A. Paterson (Brechin) had 3 for 16 lb 4 oz. 03 11 09 Well, that’s it for another season at Rescobie Loch. Closing day was Saturday past and, for a change the weather was kind to those lucky enough to get a boat. The fishing wasn’t too bad either. Gows Fish of the month for October went to W. Whittle (Friockheim) who had one at 10lb 2oz in his four for 17lb 8oz. Other contenders were, A. Fraser (Brechin) with one at 8lb 8oz and C. Thornton (Montrose) with one at 8lbs. None members B. Robertson (Montrose) had one at 9lb 12oz in his 4 for 17lb 12oz and G. Ewart (Kirrie) had one at 7lb 4oz. Some bank successes were, J. McFarlane (Kirrie) 4 for 9lbs, W. Mudie (Birkhill 3 for 8lbs, P. Hogan (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs, K. Savage (Montrose) 4 for 9lbs, W. Smith (Birkhill) 3 for 11lbs, G. Farquarson (Edzell) 4 for 9lb 8oz, R. Beedie (Brechin) 4 for 12lbs and G. Gall (Arbroath) 4 for 12lb 2oz. From the boats, A. Davidson (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 4oz, S. Graham (Perth) 4 for 12lb 8oz, J. Campbell (Montrose) 4 for 12lb 6oz, G. Woods (Montrose) 4 for 10lbs, J. Malloch (Letham) 4 for 12lb 4oz, M. Jarrett (Arbroath 4 for 9lbs, K. Davidson (Dundee) 4 for 9lb 12oz, A. Paterson (Brechin) 4 for 9lb 4oz and K. Dickson (Dundee) 4 for 9lb4oz. 05 10 09 Now that the ‘Tattie Mornings’ are with us the water temperature at Rescobie Loch is dropping considerably. That, and the improving water clarity have seen an increase in the number of limit catches for both bank and boat anglers. With the last two Gows Fish of the Month prizes having to be shared, D.M. Smith (Arbroath) somehow got it into his head that it was obligatory so he topped the leader board for most of the month, having weighed in a 10lb fish on two different outings. All was going well until the last week when A. Paterson (Brechin) weighed in one at 10lb 8oz. Some other large fish to come off were, one at 8lb 8oz for A. Turner (Forfar) in his 4 for 15lb 8oz, one at 9lb 7oz for A. Lorimer (Carnoustie) in his 3 for 14lbs and a member of the Balbeggie A/C had one at 10lb 10oz in their 57 for 160lbs. Some other recent catches were, from the bank, J. McFarlane (Kirrie) 4 for 10lbs, W. Smith (Birkhill) 4 for 10lb 8oz, C. Munro (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 8oz, R. Clark (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 8oz, P. Lock (B’gowrie) 4 for 8lb 8oz, B. Murchie (Errol) 4 for 10lbs, S. McGregor (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 8oz and G. Armstrong (Montrose) 4 for 13lbs. From the boats, J. Tarbert (Scone) 4 for 12lb 8oz, K. Mawhurt (Montrose) 4 for 15lbs, G. Milne (Arbroath) 4 for 12lb 8oz, A. Forsyth (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 12oz, A. Melville (Ainster) 4 for 12lbs, L. Anderson (I’gowrie) 4 for 12lb 8oz, G. Alexander (I’gowrie) 4 for 10lb 8oz, S. Ford (Dundee) 4 for 13lb 5oz and B. Cox (Dundee) 4 for 12lbs. 07 09 09 The tea and coffee supply at Rescobie Loch has taken a battering of late as, day after day, prospective anglers cowered in the boathouse willing the rain to go off. Those who did pluck up courage to brave the elements were well rewarded. Fished just under the surface, Dabblers, Dunkelds, Daddies, Damsels, Dancers and Daiwl Bachs all feature in the returns book For the second time this season, the prize for Gows’ Fish of the Month had to be shared. July’s prize was shared by J. Henderson (Montrose) and J. Malloch (Letham) with 8lb 5 oz rainbows. The prize for August has to be shared between W. Johnston (B’gowrie) and A. Fyall (Arbroath) who both had fish of 12lb 4oz. Some other nice fish to come off were one at 11lb 4oz for P. Edmonson (Chorley) in his 3 for 18lb 14oz and one at 9lbs for A. Lumsden (Forfar) in his 3 for 13lb 4oz. J. Balneaves (Forfar) was on the leader board momentarily for September with 8lb 8oz but that was beaten by A. Munro (Forfar) with 9lbs, taken from off the Condor Pier on his first cast of the day. Some other recent successes were, from the bank G. Gall (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 2oz, B. Murchie (Errol ) 4 for 10lbs, W. Mudie (Birkhill) 3 for 6lb 8oz, A. Donald (Brechin) 4 for 13lbs, D.M. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 8oz, and J. Moncur (I’gowrie) 4 for 10lbs. From the boats, T. Hale (Forfar) 4 for 14lb 10oz, B. Cox (Dundee) 4 for 9lb 12oz, A. Paterson (Brechin) 4 for 8lbs, M. Jarrett (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 4oz, G. Southam (Brechin) 4 for 7lb 8oz, G. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 14lb 4oz, S. Thomson (Letham) 4 for 11lb 4oz and D. Mackie (Forfar) 4 for 12lb 4oz. 24 08 09 The Greenbank at Rescobie Loch is fishing well at the moment, both for boat and bank anglers. Some regulars of that area were somewhat relieved on reading the last Rescobie report to learn that the tsunami type wave that threatened to swamp them was the result of Ron McBean’s involuntary dip and not of climate change as they had feared. On the leader board for the Greenbank trophy at the moment is G. Airth (Arbroath) whose 11lb 4oz rainbow beats C. Munro (Forfar) by two pounds. Despite the water colour the fish are responding well to floating or Midge tip lines with buzzers still doing well. The Gows Fish of the Month so far is a 12lb 4oz rainbow taken by W. Johnston (B’gowrie) in his 4 for 21lb 8oz. Some other nice fish to come off were, A. Wood (Forfar) one at 7lb 8oz in his 3 for 12lb 8oz, J. Westland (Montrose) 11lb 4oz in his 4 for 17lb 8oz and I. Thomson (Forfar) 8lbs in his 4 for 16lb 12oz. Some bank returns were, S. Lorimer (C’noustie) 4 for 12lbs, G. Armstrong (Montrose) 4 for 11lb 8oz, C. Williamson (Forfar) 4 for 12lbs, G. Hawkins (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 12oz, G. Cheetham (Monifieth 4 for 16lb 4oz and S. Thomson (Letham) 4 for 11lb 4oz. From the boats, A. Beattie (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 12oz, D. Mackie (Forfar) 4 for 12lb 4oz, A. Donald (Brechin) 4 for 12lbs, L. Scott (Tayport) 4 for 8lbs, M. Hines (S’haven) 4 for 9lb 2oz, T. Hay (Aberdeen) 4 for 7lbs 12oz, and A. Barrowman (Portlethen) 4 for 9lb 6oz. 10 08 09 The transfer of batteries from boat to bank is proving increasingly hazardous at Rescobie Loch. The latest to fall victim to the laws of gravity was Big Ron McBean. The day he chose for his dip saw the largest accumulation of green algae in the boathouse for many a season. Fortunately Ron suffered no ill effects although he does suffer flashbacks every time he hears "Ho Ho Ho, Green Giant" John Henderson (Montrose) and John Malloch (Letham) shared the Gows’ Fish of the Month for July with their 8lb 5oz rainbows. They caught their fish whilst fishing together on the same session. On the leader board so far this month is Gordon Armstrong (Montrose) with an 8lb 4oz rainbow taken from off the Greenbank using a Stick Fly. The fish are still being taken reasonably high in the water and there are frequent excellent evening rises although tempting them is another matter. For those with patience, buzzers are deadly and for those ordinary mortals fish are still coming to traditionals and lures. Some recent successes were, from the bank, A. Burnett (Arbroath) 3 for 9lb 2oz, W. Smith (Birkhill) 3 for 8lb 2oz, D. Watson (Brechin) 4 for 10lb 8oz, P. Laing (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, D.M. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 12oz, G. Hawkins (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs and G. Armstrong (Montrose) 3 for 13lb 4oz. From the boats, N. Husker (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, K. Savage (Montrose) 4 for 9lb 8oz, H. Gauld (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, D. Blythe (Forfar) 4 for 9lbs, G. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 8oz, R. McLaren (St Martins) 4 for 9lbs, J. McCafferty (Newburgh) 4 for 10lbs. S. Cargill (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs and C. Thornton (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 4oz. 20 07 09 The return to typical Scottish summer weather has had a beneficial effect on the fishing at Rescobie Loch. With the water temperature down to a respectable 16 degrees the fish are back on the feed. Small flies and buzzers are doing well just under the surface and one or two anglers have reported success on dries. The roadside bank and the Stumps are proving very popular. It was a case of "anything you can do" for Messrs Malloch and Henderson last week. First cast for John Malloch saw his rod snap in two whilst his boat partner’s first cast saw him land a rainbow for 8lb 5oz. After a trip back to the car park for the spare rod John proceeded to catch and land an identical 8lb 5oz rainbow. They then had quite a good day, both weighing in 4 for 15lbs. The only thing that separated them was; John Henderson didn’t break his rod. At the moment they share pole position for Gows Fish of the Month. Some other successes were, from the bank, J. Moncur (I’gowrie) 4 for 12lbs, K. Savage (Montrose 4 for 9lb 8oz, W. Taylor (Brechin) 4 for 10lb 12oz, N. Husker (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, J. Campbell (Brechin) 4 for 11lb 8oz and C. Williamson (Forfar) 4 for 11lb 8oz. From the boats, H. Gauld (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, M. Wilkie (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 8oz, R. Mason (Dunkeld) 4 for 9lb 4oz, A. Wood (Forfar) 4 for 11lb 4oz and A. Turner (Forfar) 4 for 13lb 8oz which included 2 browns for 9lbs. B. Main (Aberdeen) had 4 for 10lb 2oz, A. Lumsden (Forfar) 4 for 9lb 8oz, C. Thornton (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 4oz, M. McCrum (Montrose) 4 for 11lb 8oz and M. Low (Forfar 4 for 11lbs. 06 07 09 With the water temperature at Rescobie Loch in the low twenties of late, anglers were finding conditions quite trying at times - although members of a Fife club on a recent visit used a more colourful description. The fish are well down and not being particularly co-operative but perseverance can pay dividends. No particular method has been really successful; it just appears to be down to luck. Those fishing the deeper water in the middle of the loch had the upper hand on their bank side compatriots. Just about every fly ever invented has had a mention in the returns books as anglers rang the changes in search of a successful pattern. The Gows Fish of the Month for June went to G. Cheetham (Monifieth with an 11lb 7oz rainbow. Some other good fish weighed in were, non member T. Pettigrew (Montrose) 1 at 12lb 5oz, C. Williamson (Forfar) 1 at 7lbs, D. Stanley (Guthrie) 1 at 7lb 4oz, G. Smith (Arbroath) 1 at 9lb 9oz and G. Alexander (Forfar) 1 at 5lbs. Some of those who overcame the conditions, whether by skill or good luck were, from the bank, D. M. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 16lb 12oz, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 8oz, J. Campbell (Brechin) 4 for 12lb 8ozS. McGregor (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs and K. Stewart (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 4oz. From the boats, D. Paton (Friockheim) 4 for 9lb 4oz, G. Austin (Errol) 4 for 10lb 4oz, B. Geddes (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs, S. Robertson (Brechin (4 for 13lb 8oz, C. Warden (Arbroath) 4 for 11lbs, A. Donald (Brechin) 4 for 12lbs, J. Yule (Kirrie) 4 for 11lbs and J. Craig (Brechin) 4 for 11 lb 8oz. 08 06 09 "He swims with the fishes" took on a new meaning at Rescobie Loch last week. Stan Morrison (Arbroath) was having quite a good day just off the Kirk. When the fish he was playing threatened to go under the engine he leaned out just that bit too far and landed in the water. Undeterred, he hung onto boat, rod and fish, weighing in 4 for 12lb 8oz! Floating lines are doing well but most people are using sink tips or Intermediate Lines. Damsels, buzzers, blobs and small traditionals all get a mention in the returns book. Condor- end and Drimmie continue to be favourite. Not surprisingly, Ron Gray’s (Montrose) 14lb 4oz rainbow held out to take Gows’ Fish of the Month for May. Despite several other large fish coming off, the nearest contender was A. Davidson (Forfar) with one at 10lb 4oz. The leader board for June is tied at the moment with G. Southam (Brechin) and R. Hampton (Forfar) both weighing in 9lb 8oz fish. Non-member F. Keith (Dundee) had one at 11lb 4oz in his 4 for 21lbs, C. Stewart (Leith) one at 7lbs, G. Milne (Arbroath) one at 6lb 8oz in his 4 for 14lbs, S. Davidson (Motherwell) had one at 8lb 8oz, G. Hawkins (Arbroath) one at 6lb 8oz and R. Smith (Guthrie) one at 8lbs in his 3 for 17lb 8oz. From the bank, E. Whyte (Tayport) had 4 for 22lb 8oz, G. Gall (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 4oz, P. Laing (Arbroath) 4 for 8lb 12oz, G. Patullo (Forfar) 3 for 16lb 4oz, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 8oz and T. Whyte (Tayport) 4 for 8lb 8oz. From the boats, T. Hale (Forfar 4 for 10lb 4oz, J. Yule (Kirrie) 4 for 11lb 8oz, R. Birrell (Dundee) 4 for 12lbs, D. Birse (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 12oz, A. Woodrow (Montrose) 4 for 10lb 8oz, D. Murray (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 12oz and A. Fyall (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs. 18 05 09 A prospective angler made the mistake of enquiring of some of the local worthies at Rescobie Loch what flies were currently doing well. The answers were many and varied: ‘Buzzers, Damsels, Diawl Bach and onything black ‘n green.’ On enquiring if any particular buzzer was better than any other our angler’s ears were assailed by yet another barrage of one liners. ‘Traffic Lights’ said one. ‘Holographic’ said another. ‘Onything black ‘n green’ said yet another. Our intrepid angler left the boathouse, tied on a Humungous and had a great day! On the Gows Fish of the Month board Ron Gray (Montrose) is presently in the lead with a 14lb 4oz rainbow. Other contenders were, G. Gall (Arbroath) 11lb 4oz, G. Southam (Brechin) 9lbs, A. Brewster (Forfar) 9lbs, N. Anderson (K’buddo) 8lbs 12oz, C. Stewart (Brechin) 9lbs, K. Savage (Montrose) 8lbs. Junior member J. Shepherd (Forfar) had one at 9lbs and non member A. Middleton (Pitlochry) had one at 12lb 8oz. Eck Burnett (Arbroath) thought he had it all wrapped up until he got his catch to the surface. It turned out to be a 24 lb pike. Some other successes were, from the boats, J. Yule (Kirrie) 4 for 14lbs, S. McGregor (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, N. Husker (Arbroath) 4 for 12lb 8oz, J. Henderson (Montrose) 4 for 13lbs, P. Wilkie (Banchory) 4 for 13lb 4oz, G. Hawkins (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 12oz J. Malloch (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 12oz and D. Young (Monifieth) 4 for 11lb 8oz. From the bank, J. Campbell (Brechin) 4 for 9lb 11oz, D. Watson (Brechin) 4 for 12lb 12oz, P. Laing (Arbroath) 4 for 12lbs, B. Murchie (Erroll) 4 for 9lb 12oz, C. Munro (Forfar) 4 for 10lb 12oz, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 12lbs, J. McFarlane (Kirrie) 4 for 10lbs and I. Goodlet (Forfar) 4 for 12lb 12oz 04 05 09 Now that the evening sessions have started at Rescobie Loch there should be less pressure on the weekend boats but it is still advisable to book to avoid disappointment. It should be noted that the Boathouse telephone number is 01307 830367. Some people still appear to be possession of older publications which erroneously list the secretary’s home number for the loch’s. This became more apparent recently when that gentleman’s efforts to kick start the Spanish brandy industry whilst appreciating sun bronzed bodies on Mediterranean beaches was frequently interrupted by people wanting to book boats. Those who did book were handsomely rewarded as the loch continues to do well. The fish are at varying depths, but never too deep it would appear as few have yet had to resort to ultra fast sinkers or boobies. All the normal patterns are working and the favourite areas are the Roadside Bank, Condor and Doc Millar’s. Les Dickson’s (Montrose) 9lb 4oz fish was unable to hold out for Gows Fish of the Month for April. He was pipped at the post by brother Stan with one at 11lb 6oz. Some recent successes were, from the bank, G. Hawkins (Arbroath) 4 for 12lbs, L. Shepherd (Arbroath) 4 for 11lb 12oz, A. Westland (Perth) 4 for 17lbs, P. Laing (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 8oz, C. Munro (Forfar) 4 for 11lbs with one at 5lb 4oz, W. Whittle (Friockheim) 4 for 11lb 8oz and J. Campbell (Brechin) 4 for 9lbs. From the boats, D. Blythe (Forfar) 4 for 17lbs with one at 8lb 8oz, G. Soave (Forfar) 4 for 12lbs, S. Morrison (Arbroath) 4 for 13lb 4oz, B. Geddes (Arbroath) 4 for 17lb 8oz with one at 7lb 8oz, N. Cargill (Arbroath) 4 for 12lbs, A. Taylor (Guthrie) 4 for 11 lb 8oz with one at 5lbs, A. Beattie (Forfar) 4 for 16lb 4oz, P. Lock (Blair) 4 for 16lb 2oz with one at 8lb 8oz, I. Webster (Blair) 4 for 14lb 2oz with one at 6lb 8oz and young Gavin Campbell (Hillside) again beat father John with 4 for 12lb 4oz against 4 for 11lb 4oz. 13 04 09 It has been an interesting couple of weeks at Rescobie Loch quite apart from the fishing. Firstly Norrie Cargill of Arbroath adopted what can only be described as a novel approach to electro fishing. As he was transferring his boat battery to the pier the laws of gravity took over. He released his grip on said battery just as it settled on the bottom of the loch, emerging from the water a wetter if not a wiser man. At the weekend the loch hosted a practice day for the Scottish Junior Team in a friendly competition against some Association members. Determined to show the youngsters that he was not as long in the tooth as he looks, Dave (Coach) Milne swung himself gracefully onto his boat only to discover it wasn’t where he thought it was. The Association went on to beat the Juniors by one fish amid claims that the old boys had an advantage as Dave had first hand knowledge of what was hatching under the surface. Despite the occasional off day, usually weather related, the loch has been fishing very well. The usual mixture of flies has been doing the business, Damsels, Dancers, Minkies and buzzers fished on floaters to fast sinkers. The area near the Church has been proving productive as has the Condor End. Some successful bank anglers were, D. Watson (Brechin) with one at 6lb 8oz and another at 8lbs. G. Airth (Arbroath) had one at 8lbs in his 4 for 17lbs. C. Munro (Forfar) had one at 9lbs and N. Husker (Arbroath) had one at 7lb 8oz in his 4 for 15lb 10oz. A. Burnett (Arbroath) had one at 7lbs and M. Slight (Edinburgh had 4 for 15lbs. From the boats, M. Hayes (Forfar) had one at 9lbs, I. Regester (York) 11lb 12oz, M. Napier (Arbroath) 7lbs, M. Young (Montrose) 6lbs in his 2 for 8lb 8oz, K. Oran (Dundee) 11lbs, S. McGregor (Arbroath) 9lbs, J. Doyle (Montrose) 8lb 4oz, D. Shepherd (Dundee) 7lb 8oz. A. Fyall (Arbroath) had one at 7lb 4oz in his 4 for 14lb 8oz and C. Thornton (Montrose) one at 6lb 4oz in his 4 for 15lb 9oz. On the leader board for Gows Fish of the Month is L. Dickson (Montrose) who had one at 9lb 4oz in his 3 for 14lb 8oz. 30 03 09 After the exceptional opening day at Rescobie Loch one would have expected things to tail off a little but no, the rest of the week continued in the same vein. Fish were throwing themselves at whatever was put in front of them and limit bags was the order of the day. Fish continued to show all over the loch with Drimmie and Condor still proving the most productive. Black and green lures, traditionals, Dancers and Minkies all got a mention. From the bank, P. Hogan (Arbroath) had 4 for 12lb 4oz, D. Watson (Brechin) 4 for 13lb 12oz, C. Elder (Panmure) had one at 8lb 4oz in his 4 for 15lb 4oz, A. Burnett (Arbroath) 4 for 22lbs, J. Wright (Guthrie) 4 for 12lb 8oz, D. Milne (Arbroath) 4 for 16lbs and K. Savage (Montrose) 4 for 10lbs. From the boats, G. Southam (Brechin) had 4 for 12lbs, S. Thomson (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 12oz, J. Barr (Forfar) 4 for 14lb 7oz and J. Manzie (Tayport) 4 for 17lb 12oz. S. Dickson (Montrose) had one at 8lbs 4oz in his 4 for 15lb 8oz, C. Thornton (Montrose) one at 7lb 8oz in his 4 for 14lbs, G. Ferguson (Edzell) one at 8lb 8oz in his 3 for 14lb 8oz, J. Campbell (Hillside) one at 7lb 8oz in his 3 for 12lbs, V. McLean one at 7lbs in his 3 for 14lbs and P. Fraser (Forfar) one at 9lb 8oz in his 4 for 16lbs. All that is academic of course because, by the end of the week the weather stepped in and bitingly cold winds put the fish down and the anglers off ! However, all good things come to an end. By the end of the week the weather stepped in and practically put a stop to the sport. Cuttingly cold winds put the fish down and the anglers off. 16 03 09 Last season’s opening day at Rescobie was the best anyone could remember - and there are quite a few anglers at the loch with exceedingly long memories! However, opening day 2009 beat it hollow. The weather was pleasant with just a gentle breeze to create the perfect ripple and the fish were practically throwing themselves onto the hooks. This year the bank anglers appeared to have the upper hand on their boat counterparts. Fish were taken from all over the loch with Drimmie and Condor fishing particularly well. Intermediate lines were the order of the day and the fly didn’t seem to matter. Lures, buzzers and traditionals all did the business. Heaviest basket of the day was weighed in by A. Taylor (Guthrie) with 4 for 22lb 8oz. Several good sized fish were taken, including one at 7lb 4oz by G. Young (Carnoustie), 7lb 12oz by G. Armstrong (Montrose) and 7lbs by A. Innes (Forfar). G. Cheetham (Monifieth) had one at 7lb 4oz in his 4 for 17lb 4oz, R. Giacchetto (B’ Ferry) had one at 10lbs in his 4 for 16lb 4oz, R. Hampton (Forfar)had one at 7lb 4 oz in his 4 for 15lbs, C. Walls (Monifieth) had one at 7lb 8oz in his 4 for 14lb 12oz, On the leader board is Darren Heenan (Arbroath) with one at 10lb 8oz. Some successful bank anglers were, W. Adams (Forfar) 4 for 10lbs, G. Smith (Arbroath) 4 for 19lbs, R. Bullions (Blair) 4 for 10lb 2oz, J. Myles (Arbroath) 4 for 9lbs, D. Nicoll (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 8oz, D. Milne (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 4oz, B. Geddes (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, W. Mudie (Birkhill) 4 for 9lb 8oz, A. Keith (Arbroath) 4 for 10lb 5oz and S. Lorimer (Carnoustie) 4 for 8lb 8oz. From the boats, J. Malloch (Letham) 4 for 10lb 4oz, B. Cox (Dundee) 4 for 10lbs, G. Burnett (Dundee) 4 for 12lb 12oz N. Husker (Arbroath) 4 for 9lb 6oz, R. Henderson (Arbroath) 4 for 10lbs, A. Wood (Forfar) 4 for 8lb 6oz, I. Goodlett (Forfar) 4 for 9lb 8oz and K. Shepherd (Forfar) 4 for 10lbs. Words © Ron Fordyce Photographs © David Ashe  Click to enlarge |
