Jim Coates recommends a beguiling beat on the Findhorn
HAVE YOU FISHED THE Findhorn? I know a few who would argue it’s the prettiest in the country and fight their corner against all naysayers. I think it’s a cracking river, not very big, but its dark waters hold some surprisingly large salmon. If you’re ready for a change of scene, it might be just the tonic.
The Logie and Relugas beats begin about 9½ miles upstream from the tidal water and so very fresh salmon can be expected in a range of conditions. The Findhorn season kicks off in mid-February, however the Sluie Falls lie just below the bottom pool of the Logie beat. This is significant because the falls can pose a temperature barrier to migration in the early season. The traditional rule of thumb is that the water temperature needs to exceed 42 deg F for salmon to comfortably ascend the falls. This used to be anticipated in late April, however, with milder winters and warmer springs, it’s highly likely that salmon will be able to run earlier and earlier in the season, which is going to change the way the river fishes. After the exertion of the falls, the welcoming pools of the Logie water are open for business.
The beat is set in a dramatic wooded gorge. Not all the pools are suitable for the oldest or youngest fishers, and everyone should have their wits about them for the occasional scramble. The banks are often rock formations and there is no call for wading. You’ll find wellies or hiking boots are the most comfortable footwear. In many of the pools you have a vantage point, looking down into the water. This means that, although the Findhorn normally has a peaty tinge, it’s often possible to watch your fly tracking over a lie. In lower water when the light is favourable, you can spot and target salmon in their lies. There aren’t many rivers where you can do that, and it adds a new dimension.
You will learn a lot fishing with estate gillie Ewen Manson. Ewen’s a nifty fish-spotter, and he’ll stalk his way into a good position and direct your casting. When you’re striving to follow his commands, to get the swing just right, to cover the face of a specific rock, casting accuracy and delicacy assume new levels of importance. It’s possible to lose all track of time and become engrossed. Without so much as a touch on the fly you might raise an individual salmon three or four times, each time believing it’s really going to have the fly. If you get over-excited you might try to set the hook too soon, only to pull the fly away at the critical moment. It’s a humbling experience, especially if you bungle the j
