What’s happening in the world of game-fishing
FIFTY UP
Fly-fishing thrives on the backs of passionate individuals, as demonstrated by Solihull Flydressers club and its ever-present chairman, John Lane. The club was formed in 1974 by John (pictured) and a few friends in response to demand for fly-tying tuition in the West Midlands and has grown to 80 members. In its 50th anniversary year, the club wanted to pay tribute to John’s long service.
Fishing section organiser Andy Miller describes the club as a “A group of lovely people —and that’s mainly down to John. He has been the driving force and many people have benefited from his knowledge and experience. He is a very good communicator, organiser and leader [with] natural charm. He also has a great deal of patience, which is useful as a fly-tying instructor.” At a time when clubs struggle to maintain memberships, what can be learned from John and Solihull Flydressers’ success?
Locating the club in a pub is a splendid idea. The Tom ORawton in Rowington hosts the fly-dressers every Monday evening from October to April, setting out tables and extra lighting. The club ties basic and advanced trout flies, and salmon and sea-trout patterns. Social events include a Burns night, skittles evening, fishing breakfasts, reservoir and grayling trips, a summer BBQ, Christmas and monthly evening meals with guest speakers. A newsletter is published every two months. There is even a Cock-up Trophy, awarded to a deserving member. After the club had been going for about 25 years, it acquired fishing at two local lakes and a mile or so of brook fishing for wild trout.
None of this happens without stalwarts like John Lane. Our congratulations to him and other hard-working members. If your club is marking a milestone in 2024, please let us know: troutandsalmon@fieldsportspress.com
HILL TO STREAM
The winner of the Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust’s first fly-tying competition is veteran gillie Mick Charlton, who works on the River Oykel in the Highlands.
Tyers were challenged to dress a salmon fly in the GWT’s colours: heather, bluebell and yellow iris, reflecting the uplands, lowlands and rivers managed by keepers, guides and gillies. Entries were judged by John Anderson, the longest serving gillie at the Tulchan Estate on the River Spey, and Ian Gordon, the well-known instructor and guide at Speyonline.
The winning fly combines traditional and modern hairwing styles. Mick said, “I didn’t want to try a bright blue fly because they don’t catch fish, so I tried a blend of blue arctic fox with magenta arctic runner and then used yellow cock as the dominant colour in the wing as it always looks better. The blue guinea fowl and red cock hackles won’t drown out the other colours.”
Mick, who worked on the Tweed for 20 years at the Lees and Middle Pavilion, tied the fly on a single hoo
