Inverness Angling Club’s fly tying classes continue tonight (Wednesday) with experienced and novice tyers refining and developing their skills with the help of tutors Mike Campbell and David Mateer. The classes are open to all, meeting each Wednesday evening from 7 pm in the upstairs conference suite of Dow’s Bistro in the shopping centre at the junction of Old Edinburgh Road and Balloan Road, Inverness. Tools and materials will be available for beginners.

Next Wednesday (November 14) the class will welcome Ali Hutchens, of the Partridge Hooks and LTS rod Pro teams, who will demonstrate his own style of tying Intruder salmon flies.

The annual general meeting of Inverness Angling Club will be held in Raigmore Hospital Recreation Hall on Thursday, November 22, at 7.30 pm. As required by the club’s constitution, members who wish to submit notices of motion to be considered at the meeting must deliver signed copies to the secretary 10 clear days before the AGM, ie by Monday, November 12. 

Annual general meetings are important events in the life of any organisation. They give members the opportunity to receive detailed reports on the progress of the club, to question office bearers on club matters and play their part in electing officials who will manage the club’s performance over the next few years. Consequently, all members are encouraged to make the effort to attend.

The Scottish Government has announced proposals for the grading of salmon rivers in 2019. They suggest that the entire Ness system, including the River Moriston SAC, could be increased to Category 1. In 2017 and 2018, the Ness System was graded Category 3, increasing to Category 2 from July 1. This was to protect spring fish running to the Moriston, Oich and Garry. The proposals are subject to consultation which seeks comment by November 23. Contributions can be made online to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Full details of the proposed gradings can be found at  Scotland - River gradings 2019

Tonight (Wednesday) will see the second session of IAC’s close season fly tying classes. Experienced tyers will be challenged with patterns presented by instructor Mike Campbell. Inexperienced and novice tyers will continue to build their skills on versions of the Stoat’s Tail.

The classes are open to all, meeting each Wednesday evening from 7 pm in the upstairs conference suite of Dow’s Bistro in the shopping centre at the junction of Old Edinburgh Road and Balloan Road, Inverness. Instructors will tackle a wide range for flies for salmon and trout. Tools and materials will be available for beginners.

The first month of the IAC Winter Trout League is fast drawing to a close so anyone who has not yet fished their October session should get up to the Achagour Fishery in the next few days. Sunday would seem to offer the best weather conditions of the weekend, with sunny intervals and a gentle forecast. Light rain with a gentle breeze is forecast for Monday to Wednesday.

The mandatory annual catch returns are now required from IAC members who should lodge the tear-off card from their season tickets by October 23. Note that these returns are in addition to any returns made during the season and that NIL returns are also required. Cards can be placed in the boxes in Grahams sports shop in Castle Street and in the club huts at the Little Isle and Mill Stream. These returns are crucial to retaining our current classification under Scottish Government rules. And making returns on time will save members money when renewing membership in 2019.

From opening day on February 1 Category 3 (mandatory catch and release) applies to protect spring salmon running to the rivers of the upper Ness system, particularly the Moriston which is a Special Area of Conservation. From July 1, the Ness moves to Category 2 which allows the taking of two cock fish under eight pounds per season. Higher catches generally indicate a healthy stock, hence the crucial role that accurate returns play in categorisation.

Beginners boosted attendance at the inaugural session of Inverness Angling Club’s close season fly tying classes last night (October 17). Experienced tyers capable of producing the most attractive and enticing of salmon flies were joined by five novices who passed the introductory test of tying a Stoat’s Tail pattern with flying colours. They will continue a programme designed to build their skills and test them in tying more intricate patterns. The next session (October 24) will see them tackle versions of the Stoat’s Tail. 

The classes are open to all, meeting each Wednesday evening from 7 pm in the upstairs conference suite of Dow’s Bistro in the shopping centre at the junction of Old Edinburgh Road and Balloan Road, Inverness. Instructors will tackle standard salmon flies and tubes, together with trout flies.

Inverness Angling Club’s close-season fly tying class begin on Wednesday evening (October 17) when all interested - members or non-members - are welcome to attend. The classes are being held in the upstairs conference suite of Dow’s Bistro adjacent to the junction of Old Edinburgh Road and Balloan Road, starting at 7 pm. Access is by the side door on the left of the building.

Novice, intermediate and experienced tyers are all welcome to join instructors Mike Campbell, David Mateer and Peter Easton. During the sessions, there will be visits from professional tyers Graham Nichols and Ali Hutchens. Tools and materials can be provided for those starting out on this fascinating hobby.

Big water continued to curtail angling activity towards the end of last week and today (October 15), the last day of the Ness salmon season. But it’s been a good season overall. Subject to final returns being collected - returns, including nil returns, must be submitted by October 23 - catches on the club water totalled 232 salmon and grille, 64 more than the 2017 season. While the last day saw a few club members on the water, it was more craic than cast, especially at the Little Isle where anglers congregated to swap stories and look forward to the 2019 season.

A further rise in Ness water levels discouraged some club anglers from venturing out today (October 8). The diehards did go for a cast - with at least one getting very wet! But another found it worthwhile. Derek Proctor repeated Saturday’s success with a fish of around 10 lbs from the Weir Pool. It was taken on his favourite black and orange Devon and safely released.

A three-inch black and orange Devon minnow secured success for Derek Proctor on the Mill Stream today (October 6). His five pound coloured fish, safely released, was the only fish reported from the club fishings today in fairly heavy water that is likely to rise even further with rain forecast in the west.

The fly tying classes being organised over the close season by Inverness Angling Club have received some valuable help from an award-winning North Yorkshire fly fishing supplies company. The Essential Fly, based in Selby, have contributed a selection of fly tying materials which class organiser Alan Scott says will help instructors build the skills of students, particularly those starting out in fly tying. The company’s products and services can be viewed at https://www.theessentialfly.com The classes will run weekly on Wednesdays in the conference suite of Dow’s Bistro, starting on October 17 at 7 pm.

IAC anglers, families and friends celebrated a successful year’s fishing and the approaching end of the season with a brilliant BBQ at the MacIntyre hut on Saturday (October 6). With good grub, a few drinks, salmon hot smoked on the spot by Mike Campbell, and dry, sunny weather, it was a most enjoyable occasion. Members were particularly pleased to welcome the club’s honorary president, Jack Fraser, who has not been in the best of health recently. And an amazing raffle raised over £600 towards the costs of maintaining the club huts.

Two fish were landed from the Ness club water today (Friday). Donald Cameron had a fly-caught grilse of over five pounds from the Little Isle while Andrew Fraser caught a similar sized fish from the Braes on a zebra Toby. Both were released. The total catch from the club water is now around 230, over 60 up on last season.

All anglers are invited to IAC’s annual end-of-season BBQ at the MacIntyre Pool hut tomorrow (Saturday). It’s always an enjoyable occasion with fine food, cheery craic and a chance to win a prize in an extensive raffle.

Fly tyers always seem to collect an array of tools and materials, some of which are rarely - if ever - used. Well, here’s a chance to clear your tying station and help others starting out on the tying trail. Inverness Angling Club’s fly tying classes, which re-start for the close season on October 17, have already received valuable donations of materials from members. But we are short on tools for those starting out, especially essentials like bobbin holders, dubbing needles, hair stackers and tube fly attachments. If you have any to spare please text some detail and your address to Alan on 07785 287995 and he will be happy to collect.

Weather conditions have discouraged anglers this week as high winds threatened to put hooks into people rather than fish. One catch was reported on Monday (October 1) to an unknown angler. Ali Ross from Ullapool had a bit on excitement that day on the Red Braes. A fish of some five pounds came off at the edge of the net. “Hands free catch and release,” said Ali.

Andrew Fraser had fish of five pounds from the Braes and 12 pounds from the Weir on Tuesday. Both were taken on a zebra Toby and released. Donald MacPherson Jnr returned to catching ways with a seven pounder on the fly from the Braes.

IAC’s enjoyable end-of-season barbecue will be held at the MacIntyre Pool hut this coming Saturday (October 6), starting at 1230 hours. While there will be no direct charge for this event, we do ask that you buy a few raffle tickets, donate a prize or both. Raffle income supports the costs of delivering free teas and coffees at the club huts throughout the season.

Members of Inverness Angling Club, and visitors to the club water, are reminded that annual catch returns - including nil returns - should be submitted by October 23. Such returns are mandatory and must be made, on membership cards or visitor permits, in addition to catch returns submitted during the season.

If you’ve noticed that there’s been no news on the web site for the past couple of weeks, it’s because your scribe has been taking a break in the sun - as if we haven’t had enough of that in the Highlands this year! But here’s a catch up, with the help of our esteemed president Graham MacKenzie…..

In week commencing September 17, the club had its first blank days since July. Two fish were landed on the Monday, one of the Tuesday but none were reported for the rest of the week. That’s the week the water was very high and not many anglers were about. 

Week commencing September 24 was better. Ten fish were reported, the biggest being Derek Proctor’s 17.5lb coloured specimen landed from the Weir Pool on a black and orange minnow and safely released. All the other catches were between three and 10 pounds with a 50/50 split between fresh and coloured. While high water and wind continues to affect results, last week concluded in fine fashion on Saturday with Murray Richardson releasing three fly-caught fish of five, six and 10 pounds from the Red Braes.

Catch reports from the Ness club fishings today (September 14) included a six pound hen fish landed and released by Neil Fraser. The fish was hooked in the Red Braes, always a good place to be when the water is up and at the back end of the season. Donald Cameron increased his tally with a fly-caught grilse of six pounds landed and released at the Little Isle.

Even with good levels, the club water of the Ness produced just one fish today (September 13). But it certainly brightened up a chilly day for long-term Hull-based member Walter Ridley. The four pound grilse, taken on the fly, was a second fish of the season for the cheerful chappie. Hopefully, he will continue his regular visits to catch many more.

Well, it happened - the 200th fish of the season was caught and released today (September 12). It was taken on the Silver Wells, one of the top producing pools of the year, by one of the top two fish catchers of the year. The fish, a five pound grilse, fell to a Toby wielded by Davie Dyce who, along with Chris Bruce, is on some 30 fish for the season. Weather conditions, with strong, blustery winds and rain showers, discouraged many anglers from venturing forth. But at least water levels have risen and may put fish on the take once newcomers have settled into the river.

September 12 will be a potentially exciting day on Inverness Angling Club’s Ness fishings. It will be the day on which fish number 200 of the season so far should be caught. What will it be? - another of the big grilse runs of this season or one of the bigger two sea winter fish which should be more prevalent in the river at this time of year. And who will catch it? - one of the top two ‘catchers’, Chris Bruce and Davie Dyce, who have landed some 30 fish each this season. Or will it be one of the visitors who, increasingly, are getting to know the attractions of the Ness? Watch this space!

Nic Smith of Leeds is another UK angler who makes regular pilgrimages to the club waters of the River Ness. Following his most recent visit, Nic wrote: “I would like to thank all the members again who were so accommodating and courteous to a out of town angler. I travel from Leeds as much as i can to fish Scotland, but always seems to treat the Ness as my home water. 

“I have fished the Ness for 37 years on and off and always love the place as it is where it all started. You have a great club, fantastic water and a great set of members.”

Nic concluded by offering a few items for the annual BBQ raffle which is used to help fund the running costs of the club huts. Many thanks Nic. We look forward to welcoming you back next year.

Fresh water did arrive on the River Ness today (September 11) following heavy rain throughout the district. While it produced fish there were not so many as might have been expected. Three were caught on the club water with Davie Dyce landing fish of five and 12 pounds on a Toby from the Red Braes. Down on the Little Isle a blue and silver Toby fished by Eric MacLeay accounted for another 12 pounder. All fish were released. 

Heavy rain forecast for the upper areas of the Ness system could increase water levels in the River Ness over the next few days. Fish continue to show in the pools but are reluctant to take, so fresh conditions may stimulate them into taking mood. Despite current stale water conditions, one fish was landed and released today (September 10) - a six pound grilse to the (unbroken) rod of Chris Bruce from the tail of the Little Isle.

Entries have been slow in coming in for the 2018/19 IAC Winter Trout League. There is still time to get your entry in, through the web site or by e-mail to Alex Elliott or Jim Jarvie - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. There is another strong reason for raising the entry. This will be the tenth anniversary of the league and will continue to be sponsored by international tackle company, Snowbee, who have supported it from inception. Please get your entry in as soon as possible.

Today (September 7) saw an indication that the two sea winter fish may be on the way. With catches light, and the fly bringing no offers, member Lawrence Deans turned to the minnow for a cast at the top of the Little Isle Pool. His decision was a good one as it brought a fresh fish of some 13 lbs, safely released.

Just one catch was reported from the club water today (September 6). Fishing the top of the Little Isle Pool, member Andrew Fraser landed and released a fine 10 lb salmon on an Ally’s Shrimp. Perhaps some more double figure fish will run the river soon.

The River Ness has suffered another pollution incident as heavy rain caused the infamous Bught Road drain to overflow, pouring a mix of waste water and sewage into the pristine waters of the Little Isle Pool. Following complaints from the club and other interested bodies, Scottish Water officials have made a series of visits to the site but action has yet to be taken to rectify the problem. Repeated incidents highlight the urgent need for action.

Lots of Scots anglers have experienced the delights of fishing for sensational sea trout in Argentina. Today (September 5) it was the turn of Ness anglers to welcome three Argentinian anglers to the club water of the Ness. Sadly, as far as we know, their visit to the Ness was fishless but we wish them well on their tour around Scotland’s piscatorial paradise. This includes visits to the Spey and Dee. Tight lines compadres!

After a day of relative inactivity on Tuesday, the club waters returned to form with Davie Dyce landing and releasing grilse of four and five pounds from the Palace Pool and Chris Bruce getting a fish of similar size from the Silver Wells. Martin MacLeod made a successful visit to the Red Braes, landing a four pound grilse.

Reports suggest that plenty of fish are coming in on the tides but tend to hold in the lower pools, especially the Legion, Palace, Castle and Silver Wells. And grilse continue to dominate the run. There is little sign of the two sea winter fish we would expect at this time in the season.

With no other catches reported for Tuesday (September 4), James Thomson’s fish from the Weir Pool saved the club water from its first blank day for a while. James, an associate member from Tain, said: “Beautiful 6lb bar of silver….on a size 8 Cascade about an hour and a half after high tide just as the light was fading. Gave a good fight for the size of it.”

Road closures for the Loch Ness Marathon will affect angler access to the Little Isle later this month. For logistical and safety reasons the weekend closure begins on Friday (September 21) at 1330 hours, and continues through to Sunday. Significant logistical movements will also take place around the Little Isle car park on Wednesday, September 19.

During these closures, club members and visiting anglers should park in the RNI car park when possible. Disabled members, and those with limited mobility, will be given access towards the Little Isle car park where, depending on weather, they will be directed to park on the Bught Park. Access will be via Ballifeary Lane/Ness Walk junction roundabout. Permits and disability passes should be shown at this junction. The site manager will co-ordinate this movement.

On Friday (September 21) from 1330 hours, and all day Saturday (September 22), stewards will be briefed that use of the Little Isle car park will be possible by showing permits at the Ballifeary Lane/Ness Walk roundabout.

Four fish were reported from the club water today (September 3), including a very special one for member Gary Goddard. Fishing a size 10 Castle Shrimp, he landed a seven pound fish from the Mill Stream. Gary reported: “Just caught my first of the year after blood, sweat and toil. Fish safely returned with a massive smile on my face.”

George Cassels had a five pounder while Donald Cameron continued his recent success with a fly-caught five pounder from the Little Isle. Up on the MacIntyre Pool, a small minnow accounted for a five pounder for Peter Easton.

Local anglers also boosted club catches of salmon and grilse today (September 1). On the Red Braes, Peter Eason had a nine pound fish and the HIS rod landed a four pounder. Chris Bruce further increased his total with a six pounder from the Silver Wells.

Participants and supporters all voted the first Ladies Day staged on the River Ness today (September 1) as a huge success. The event was organised by FishPal and the Highland Hospice, supported by Inverness Angling. Ladies with a range of angling experience, from beginners to competent, fished the club’s pools with the support of instructors Scott MacKenzie, David Mateer and Frank Durdle, assisted by club coaches. The day was made even more special with the success of Sam Mutters of Edinburgh landing and releasing a 10 lb salmon from the Silver Wells. Her success was captured on film by Trout and Salmon magazine photographer Craig Somerville.

Inverness Angling Club has surpassed its 2017 catch of salmon and grilse on the River Ness fishings with six weeks of the 2018 season to go. The achievement comes at a time when salmon rivers throughout Scotland are suffering very poor catches, partly as a result of low water conditions.

 Club president Graham MacKenzie said: “Up to August 31 members and visitors reported catches of 179 salmon and grilse, exceeding last year’s total of 168. August alone saw 153 caught. It’s been good to see so many happy faces on the river.  And it’s a credit to our anglers that most are choosing to release their catches. Only 28 of the 179 have been retained - a release rate of over 80 per cent.

“The level of the catch and the high release rate is crucial to the River Ness retaining its current Category 2 status in the conservation regulations set by the Scottish Government, in consultation with local interests. We managed to secure an agreement which allows our anglers to keep two cock fish of under eight pounds for the season. 

 “None of us would like to see the Ness plunged back into Category 3 which would mean mandatory catch and release - or worse. Some countries have closed their rivers to salmon angling because of diminished returns. I appeal to anglers to report all salmon or grilse caught, through the simple procedure outlined on permits. This will deliver the catch totals that will help maintain the river’s current conservation status.” 

Inverness Angling Club and FishPal will host 19 lady anglers on Saturday (September 1) for a special Ladies Day on the Ness. And one of the ladies got off to an early start today (Friday) with the help of leading club angler Davie Dyce. Casting on the Little Isle Pool, with Davie giving her expert advice, Mandie Reed from Newcastle hooked, played, landed and released a sparkling five pound Ness grilse. On hand to record the event was photographer Craig Somerville who has been commissioned by Trout and Salmon magazine to cover the activiies of he club, its members and visitors, and the ladies day, for a major magazine feature.

Just three fish were reported from the club water today (August 30). Visitor James Black caught and released a silver eight pound hen fish at the Mill Stream while associate member Andrew Fraser of Lossiemouth had two - a five pounder from the MacIntyre Pool and a seven pounder from the Little Isle.

Andy Massari paid a visit to his favourite Red Braes Pool today and was rewarded with a five pound grilse taken on a Lukki. Downstream, on the Mill Stream, Kevin Elliott had a four pounder on the fly. A quiet day - unless some late reports come in!

Inverness Provost Helen Carmichael will lead 19 ladies from as far apart as the Highlands, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Newcastle to the River Ness on Saturday, September 1, for a Ladies Day organised by angling marketing agency FishPal. It is being promoted in association with Inverness Angling Club, with the cost of the day’s fishing going to the Highland Hospice. The ladies include experienced anglers, those with some experience and novices. Coaching will be led by three times world Speycasting champion Scott Mackenzies and instructors David Mateer and Frank Durdle, supported by qualified coaches from IAC.

Members of Inverness Angling Club, and visitors to the club’s Ness fishings, are reminded that the two-month worm fishing period closes at the end of this month. Rule 3.2 of the club’s Constitution and Rules specifies: “As part of the Category 2 Ness conservation policy agreed with the Scottish Government, worm fishing is only permitted between July 1 and August 31.”

Tain based associate member James Thomson reports that he found a fishing net at the Weir Pool. To arrange for its return, the owner should send a description of it to James at his e-mail address - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

It’s been a busy day (August 28) on the club water of the River Ness as three successful anglers increased their tallies. Davie Dyce had grilse of three and five pounds from the Legion Pool and one of four pounds from the General’s Well, boosting his season total to 22 salmon and grilse. Meanwhile, Chris Bruce was up on the MacIntyre Pool landing a six pound fish which pushed his total into the upper twenties.

Kirkintilloch associate member James Buchanan had two of eight and six pounds from the Little Isle, increasing his season total fo eight. Club member Geraldine Connah came down with the net as James hooked the eight pounder. Said James: “I handed the rod to Geraldine who expertly played the fish and I netted it. Geraldine safely returned the fish to the river.” Liam Gallacher, visiting from Glasgow, had a seven pound fish from the MacIntyre Pool while Edinbutgh visitor James Black landed a four pounder from the Little Isle. Donald MacPherson Snr continued his success on the Cross Hedges with a four pound grilse and Colin Fraser had a fish of around five pounds on the General's Well.

Anglers from all over the country have enjoyed the benefits of associate membership of Inverness Angling Club. Today (August 27) James Buchanan from Kirkintilloch proved that membership offers real value for money by catching two fish on the club waters. James released both fish - a 4.5 pounder from the MacIntyre, kept, and a five pounder from the Silver Wells, released. Both were caught on a Toby and boosted his catch for the season to six. Don Mackay had a four pound grilse from the Braes.

Inverness Angling Club will hold its hugely popular and free annual members’ barbecue on 

Saturday, October 6. As always, the venue will be the MacIntyre hut with a 1230 start. 

It is said that there is no such thing as a free lunch and the same applies to the barbecue. While there will be no direct charge for this event, we do ask that you buy a few raffle tickets, donate a prize or both. 

The barbecue is self funding with the raffle covering expenses. Raffle tickets are being sold by committee members. Gifts of prizes will be greatly appreciated and may be given to any committee member. Come along and enjoy a great afternoon.

FishPal visitors continue to praise the Ness fishings of Inverness Angling Club. Ewan MacGregor from Falkirk and Anthony Smith of Moray didn’t catch any fish on their visit but both described the value for money as ‘exceptional’. Ewan said: “The local anglers were very sociable and imparted river knowledge freely, which was most welcome. I caught no fish but had a lovely day.” Anthony said: “Excellent fly water, great value.”

Just three fish were reported from the club water up to close of play tonight (August 25), all on the fly. During the day, Chris Bruce had a fish of five pounds from the Silver Wells and one of six pounds from the Black Stream, a strong fish which gave him a feisty fight. The same was true at the right bank tail of the Little Isle in the darkening, when Alan Scott had an exciting battle with a five pound fish, eventually netted and released.

Ken McKie is a regular visitor to Inverness Angling Club’s water from his home in Carlisle, and this morning (|August 24) he got just reward. Fishing down through the Mill Stream into the top of the MacIntyre Pool right bank, Ken hooked and landed a magnificent 7.75 lb cock salmon on the fly. On the same side, Pete Murray from Munlochy also had a good tussle with an 11 lb hen fish, duly released. But the day really belonged, once again, to George Macdonald who landed his first ever salmon at the Little Isle on Thursday. The Little Isle today delivered again for George - a fly caught six pounder from the top of the pool. A two pound grilse fell to the rod of Tommy Paterson.

After fishing through the MacIntyre Pool without result, Donnie Cameron moved down to the General’s Well where he met success in the shape of a five pound grilse. Chris Bruce landed another two from the Black Stream, weighing in at four and seven pounds, while Donald MacPherson Snr had a fish of four pounds from his favourite spot at the Cross Hedges.

Thursday (August 23) was a good day on the Ness club water, although light on numbers. Davie Dyce raised his season’s total to 19 salmon and grilse with a cracking 13 pound fish on fly which gave him a merry dance on the Silver Wells. George Macdonald got his first salmon, a 7.5 pounder taken on the fly from the tail of the Little Isle. The isle also produced a four pound grilse for David Crerar and two fish of four and six pounds for Jim McDowall.

Another reason to be happy was that Scottish Water had to be called in to repair the waste water and sewer pipe at the Little Isle when it was broken by gas contractors installing a new main on Bught Road. Hopefully, the repair will reduce overflows and the resultant pollution during heavy rain.

The Little Isle Pool of the River Ness produced three of the six salmon caught on the club water today (August 22). Davie Dyce had a fish of eight pounds on a black and orange minnow from the tail of the pool. Bill Byers had a grilse of four pounds on a silver stoat and Alistair Scott had a five pounder, also on the fly. Ally Henderson had a fly-caught fish of seven pounds from the Legion Pool and Dereck MacAloney landed a grilse of three pounds. A black and orange minnow also accounted for a seven pound fish for Willie Clark from the Mill Stream.

Entries for the IAC Winter Trout League can be made electronically through documents posted to this site. Please click on the appropriate links below. Juniors (under 16s) should note that their entries must be made on the junior form.  Please click the relevant link below

IAC Winter Trout League 2018/19 Entry Form

IAC Winter Trout League 2018/19 Junior Entry Form

IAC Winter Trout League 2018/19 Rules

It’s good to see the fishery board camera showing fresh fish entering the Ness system, but catching them is another matter. Seven fish were reported from the club water today (August 21) by anglers who always seem to get their quarry. Early on, Ally Henderson landed a grilse of five pounds and Mike Campbell caught a four pounder, both on the fly from the MacIntyre Pool. Davie Dyce had a four pounder from the Little Isle. All the fish were released. Later, Davie maintained his catch rate with a three pound fish from the Castle Pool and a five pounder from the Legion Pool, both on a Toby. Murray Richardson ventured out in the evening and was rewarded with two fish of seven and nine pounds.

An angler lost a valued fly box while wading just below the Holm Bridge on Monday night. If you come across it, please report it to Graham at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Five fish were reported from Inverness Angling Club’s fishings today (August 20). The heaviest was Andy Massari’s seven pounder taken on a black and orange minnow from the Little Isle. On the MacIntyre Pool, Martin Nelson had a fly-caught five pounder and Ally Henderson had fish of four and five pounds. Donald MacPherson Snr landed and released a four pounder at the Cross Hedges.  This quiet period can be in the nature of things at this time of year when grilse predominate but should herald the arrival of two sea winter fish.

The 2018-19 IAC fly tying classes will be launched on October 17, running weekly on Wednesday evenings from 1900 to 2130. There will be a break for the festive season on December 12 with the classes restarting on January 16 and closing on February 27. The venue will be the conference suite of Dow’s Diner on Balloan Road.

Expert tutors and qualified club coaches with Disclosure Scotland clearance will run the classes. They will be open to non-members and a particular effort is being made to attract under 18s. A parent can accompany juniors so that they can develop a new skill together, and broaden their angling experience. Please pass the word to all seniors and juniors you feel could be interested. Charges, to defray room hire costs, will be £2 for seniors and £1 for under 18s. Tools and materials can be provided from donations kindly given by club members. Registrations should be made to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., giving full name, membership number (if applicable) and contact details.

It may seem a bit early to promote close-season activities, but the end of the 2018 fishing season is fast approaching. IAC activities will start with the popular Winter Trout League at Achagour Trout Fishery from October 1. Entry forms will be available from the Little Isle hut from Monday,  August 27.  Entries can also be made by e-mail or text to Alex Elliott or Jim Jarvie, noting name and IAC membership number. All entries must be submitted by Friday, September 21. The league final is set for Saturday, May 25, 2019.

Saturday (August 18) saw just three fish caught on the club water of the Ness, a poor return by recent standards. Chris Bruce landed two grilse of around three pounds from the tail of the Leaven Trees and the Black Stream. Gordon MacAloney, visiting from Kirkintilloch, had a four pound fish from the MacIntyre. But catch or no catch, visiting anglers continue to enjoy the experience of fishing our streamy pools. FishPal fisher Anthony Smith from Moray posted high praise after his visit, rating the booking facility and value for money as exceptional and upkeep of the fishery as very good. He commented: “This is town water but it fishes very well. The members I met were very friendly and helpful with their advice. Highly recommended although car parking a little problematic but still excellent value for money.”

The River Ness produced nine fish for club anglers today (August 17), all but one released. Chris Bruce sustained his success with a five pounder from the Little Isle as did Davie Dyce who had two - a five pounder from the Little Isle and a seven pounder from the Back Stream. Kevin Elliott had a five pound grilse from the Silver Wells. The top score of the day went to Donald MacPherson Snr with three fish - two of five pounds and one of four pounds from the Cross Hedges. On the MacIntyre Pool, Donald Cameron had fish of five and seven pounds.

Jim McDowall was the star on the Little Isle Pool of the Ness today with three fish. His first, a three pound grilse safely returned, was followed by one of four pounds, which was kept, and one of five ponds, also released. Angus Mackinnon and George Mackenzie each caught seven pounders on fly from the Little Isle while Lewis Thomson from Tain had a five pound fish from the Weir Pool, making it six for the day.

The section of Bught Road, from the mini roundabout at Ballifeary Lane to the Little Isle anglers’ car park, will close for some five weeks from August 21 to allow contractors to lay and connect a new gas pipe. For the duration of the works the only access to the Little Isle will be from Glenurquhart Road on to Bught Drive, then left on to Bught Road (at the General’s Well). Reverse the route to exit.

As gusty winds made it difficult for fly fishers on the Ness today (August 15), just one fish was reported from the club water. On his return north, Kirkintilloch visitor James Buchanan and his trusty Toby landed and released a 4.5 lb grilse at the Little Isle.

Today (August 14) will be one to remember for two anglers fishing the River Ness club water. IAC member Geraldine Connah landed her first ever salmon using a monkey fly on the Little Isle pool. It weighed in at under eight pounds. Also in the Little Isle, visitor Ray Edgest from Stoke was rewarded with a hen salmon of 15 lbs which was safely released after a strong tussle.

Delight: Geraldine with instructor David Mateer

Magnificent: Ray's 15 pounder

Feisty: This grilse gave Thumper Sutherland a real tussle on Monday

Inverness Angling Club has made strong representations to Scottish Water about repeated pollution incidents at the Little Isle. During heavy rain the drain at the Bught Park entrance opposite the Little Isle car park overflows, pushing a disgusting mix of rain water and sewage over the road, footpath, car park and, finally, into the river. It’s been a very long term problem with no sign of any action being taken, despite vociferous complaints from club officials. The following pictures, taken today (August 14), illustrate the problem only too well.

Disgusting: Polluted, smelly water spreads over the road, footpath and car park.....

.......and into the pristine waters of the River Ness

Catching your first salmon is an experience that will last a lifetime. And that’s the event that a 13-year-old Falkirk lad experienced visiting the club water of the River Ness today (August 13). Fishing the Mill Stream with a gold Toby, Nathan Campbell landed a four pound grilse - much to the delight of his Dad and friends fishing with him. A gold Toby also delivered for Stephen MacAloney, landing and releasing grilse of four and six pounds from the Mill Stream and the MacIntyre Pool, where Chris Bruce continued his success with a five pounder.

Downstream on the Castle Pool, Davie Dyce was able to entertain a busy city centre by landing and releasing a seven pound fish from the Castle Pool - with Flora MacDonald looking down approvingly from Castle Hill!. Is Davie her new Prince Charlie? Ian Jennings had another grilse from the Leaven Trees while John Ralph really got in among the fish with two of five and six pounds from the Little Isle. Visitor Derrick Harris released a five pound at the General's Well.

One of two: Grilse for John Ralph

Proud: Nathan with his first ever salmon

FishPal bookings provide valuable income for Inverness Angling Club, moderating membership fees and helping to keep the club afloat. And they provide welcome feedback from those who use FishPal’s booking system. 

Recent comments include those from visitor William McDonald of Buckie who described the description of the fishery, booking facility, value for money, general upkeep of the fishery and condition of the huts as good. Importantly, he added that he found members of IAC to be “very courteous, friendly and helpful.” Dingwall visitor Mark Czerniakiewicz described value for money and general upkeep of the fishery as very good.

Two of Inverness Angling Club’s most enthusiastic and skilled young anglers took the week’s catch to 51 salmon and grilse on Saturday (August 11), boosting the season’s catch so far to 84. On his day off from working as a ghillie on the River Spey, Jordon Grant landed two fish - a five pounder from the Black Stream, which was released, and a six-pounder from the Castle Pool, which was retained. Upstream on the General’s Well, Donald MacPherson landed and released a five pound grilse. The Well was also the scene for Donald Cameron’s fly-caught six pound grilse. Older heads continued to use their knowledge of the river to attract fish. Davy Dyce had a fly-caught seven pounder from the Legion Pool, lifting the week’s total to 53.

Bright: A silver grilse for Donald

The sandwich box left at the Mill Stream by visitor Melville Macdonald has been found and will be returned to him by president Graham MacKenzie. Meanwhile, a net has been found on the river bank. To claim it, contact Graham on 07831 745394 with a description of the net.

Ian Jennings’ summer visit to the Ness from his home in Wolverhampton proved successful on Friday (August 10) with a fly-caught five pound grilse from the MacIntyre Pool. The Legion Pool delivered again with Davie Dyce landing a seven pounder and Chris Bruce catching and releasing two grilse of six and two pounds. Donald MacPherson had three fish - four and six pounds from the right bank of the Little Isle and a five pounder from the Cross Hedges. Andy Massari paid a visit to his favoured Red Braes and landed a six pounder.

Nice one!: Ian's MacIntyre catch

Appeals are out for two items of lost property - a mobile phone left at the Mill Stream and handed into Mill Shop staff, and a green Stanley lunch box left on the memorial seat at the Mill by visitor Melville Macdonald. The person who has misplaced the phone should contact the Mill shop. The finder of the lunch box should telephone president Graham MacKenzie on 07831 745394. Melville says of the lunch box: “It is an old friend and has been fishing with me for 20 odd years.”

As reported, Inverness Angling Club’s water enjoyed a really successful day on Wednesday (August 8). And club president Graham Mackenzie has been quick to congratulate anglers. He said: “A fantastic day…with 15 salmon/grilse reported and confirmed as caught. Great credit to those who had success as all 15 were returned. Absolutely brilliant that the majority of members appear to be happy to return fish, something that was considered outrageous not many years ago.”

The grilse run has been particularly good but, as always, these fish come with ups and downs. Today (Thursday) catches went down - just six were caught although fish were still showing in the pools and some bigger specimens were landed. Davie Dyce had three, including a 10 pounder on fly from the Black Stream and a 12 pounder from the Legion on a Devon. Up on the Weir Pool, Scott McCarthy had a cracking fish of 13lbs on the fly. Chris Bruce got in among them again with two five pounders from the Silver Wells. Visitor James Buchanan had another from the MacIntyre before returning south.

A cracker!: Weir success for Scott

Another busy day on the Ness club water saw 15 fish being caught with Chris Bruce outperforming everyone by landing seven fish - three from the MacIntyre, three from the Silver Wells and one  from the the Mill Stream. A busy boy indeed! His fish ranged in weight from four to seven pounds, all of which were released. Donald MacPherson had a double, an eight pounder from the MacIntyre and a 3.5lb fish from the Mill Stream. Visitor James Buchanan also made it two for the day with fish from the Little Isle and the Silver Wells.

Local angler Jamie Urquhart, fishing on a day ticket, was a happy laddie with a three pound grilse from the MacIntyre while long term club member Martin Nelson had a four pounder from the same pool. Walter Ridley, an associate member from Hull who spends a fortnight on the river each month of the season, opened his account with a three pounder from the Little Isle. His natural smile will be even wider now! Tony Quinn had a five pounder from the Legion Pool. The biggest fish of the day were nine pounders caught and released by Chris from the MacIntyre and James Buchanan from the Little Isle.

Safely released: Chris sends a seven pound salmon on its way

Careful now!: Bill Byers prepares to net Walter's fish

Early risers got results on the IAC beats of the River Ness today (August 7). Ally Henderson had two fly-caught grilse of three and five pounds from the Silver Wells. But the story of the day was not Ally’s double. It was the six pound salmon landed on the worm by his three-year-old son, Finn. Up on the MacIntyre Pool, another double of five and six pound fish fell to the rod of Kevin Macdonald. Later in the day, Davie Dyce added to his tally with a three pound grilse from the Silver Wells. Scott McCarthy had a nine pounder from the Weir Pool.

Here we go!: Ally gives Finn a little help

That’s my boy!: Finn with a proud Dad

Ten years is a long time to wait for a salmon but ‘Fifer’ Bill Hunter broke through the barrier to land a nice grilse form the Little Isle Pool of the Ness on Monday (August 6). Bill, one of the club’s many popular visitors, has travelled from Fife to spend four weeks on the Ness.

His catch was one of a reported ten fish landed from the club water. These included Bill’s fish and a four pounder released by Ally Henderson from a very busy Little Isle; Chris Bruce made it eight for the season with a four pounder from the MacIntyre, where Murray Richardson was also successful; Davie Dyce landed and released two grilse of around four pounds from the Silver Wells and the Legion; Melvin Smith and Willie Clark had grilse from the Weir Pool; and a grilse fell to the rod of a free day angler.

Inverness Angling Club ladies did well in both the senior and junior distance casting competitions at the Highland Field Sports Fair at Moy on Friday and Saturday (August 3 and 4). Jane Muspratt celebrated her birthday by taking top place in the senior competition, with casts up to 29 yards. But it is to the credit of junior caster Cheyenne Stronach, a regular participant in the club’s Casting Clinics, that she matched that distance to take top place on both days of the fair. Cheyenne's Mum, Tracy, took second place in the senior ladies competition. The senior men's competition was won by Jordon Grant, IAC club member, Spey ghillie and member of the UK team for the World Casting Championships.

All smiles: Jane with vice president Alex Elliott (left) and president Graham MacKenzie

Winners: Alex presents prizes to junior winner Cheyenne Stronach (above) and senior winner Jordon Grant (below)

Chris Bruce continued his run on the Little Isle Pool on Saturday (August 4), landing and releasing a grilse of five pounds and raising his catch total to seven. Fishing the same pool, George Macdonald made contact with a good grilse but it came off after some feisty runs. Later in the day, Peter Easton took a five pound grilse from the Little Isle while Murray Richardson released an eight pound fly-caught salmon on the Red Braes Pool. That made 18 fish for the week, a considerable improvement down to fresher water, cloudier conditions and increasing angler activity. It’s a good time for more members and visitors to get out for a cast, with a real chance of a fish.

Nice one!: Peter nets a grilse

Moy Hall was the place to be for most country sports enthusiasts today (August 3) for the opening day of the 2018 Highland Field Sports Fair. Inverness Angling Club personnel were once again on hand to organise and present Anglers’ Corner, where experienced snd novice fishers could participate in casting competitions and receive coaching from skilled instructors.

Anglers’ Marquee: Waiting to welcome their first customers are (left to right) Billy MacKenzie,

John Ralph, club president Graham MacKenzie and casting instructor Frank Durdle.

Competition: Participating in the two-handed salmon rod casting contest.

(Pictures by Walter Ridley)

IAC member Chris Bruce was all over the place today (August 3) - but it stood him in good stead. After landing and releasing two grilse yesterday, he added another three today - a 6.5 pounder from the General’s Well, a 5.5lb fish from the Little Isle and a five pounder from the Black Stream, taking his season total so far to six.

Catch: Number six for Chris

Two of Inverness Angling Club’s hardest fishers got further rewards for their time on the river today (August 2). Davie Dyce released a fly-caught five pound grilse on the MacIntyre Pool. Downstream, on the Silver Wells, Chris Bruce released another fly-caught five pounder. Later in the day, Chris caught and released a 4.5 pound fish on the Legion Pool and played but lost another two.

Grilse run: Another for Chris

While water and overhead conditions were perfect, it was a quieter day on the Ness town fishings today (Wednesday). Just one fish was reported - a wee grilse of three pounds caught on the worm in the Silver Wells by Davie Dyce. It was safely released.

IAC members and visitors to the Ness fishings are reminded that all catches of salmon and grilse must be reported within 24 hours - see Rule 5.2 in the permits which also gives guidance on how to make these reports. The easiest way is via the club web site. Please give all the details requested, including the pool of the catch, method, species and weight in pounds. A picture of the fish would also be helpful. Go to http://www.invernessanglingclub.co.uk/report-catch

Accurate annual returns will help the club to maintain or improve the conservation status of the Ness. Currently, this stands at Category 3 (mandatory catch and release) for the period from January 15 to June 30, to protect spring fish running to the Moriston SAC. Category 2 applies from July 1 to October 15 when anglers may retain one fish in any given week, and a maximum of two per season. All hen fish of any size, all cock fish over eight pounds and all coloured and unseasonable fish must be released.

Today (July 31) saw at least four fish added to yesterday’s tally on the IAC fishings, confirming that the rise in water levels had brought more fish into the river. Davie Dyce had a four pound grilse on fly from his favoured spot at the Silver Wells while the worm produced a similar fish for Donald MacPherson Snr at the Cross Hedges. Two fish were caught on the MacIntyre Pool - a five pounder to the fly of Chris Murchison and a four pounder to Peter Easton, which was released.

The Little Isle Pool of Inverness Angling Club’s Ness fishings delivered again today (Monday, July 30). On a visit from Lossiemouth, associate member Andrew Fraser landed and released a grilse of five pounds on the fly. The encounter was just a little after the 1506 hours high tide of 4.2 metres - a good time to fish. Local member Tony Quinn also enjoyed success, taking a six pound grilse from the same pool on a small conehead Sunray fly. His fish was retained as one of two under eight pounds permitted for the season.

The upper waters of the club beat also did well. James Thomson, an associate member who visits regularly from his home in Tain, caught a five pound grilse on the Weir Pool on one of his own tied flies. Local member Murray Richardson went a wee bit better with a seven pound fish.

Tide fresh: A little beauty for Andrew

After weeks of baking sunshine, rain arrived over the Ness district on Friday night (July 27) - not a lot, but enough to inject a little energy into the reported hundreds of salmon waiting to run the river. Bill Byers enjoyed a bit of action, pulling three fish at the Little Isle on Saturday morning - but he is still looking for one to stay on. And Chris Bruce netted and released a nice wee grilse of 3.5 lbs in the same pool. With some more rain over the next few days, the river could finally produce the summer catches anglers usually expect.

On the negative side, the rain caused another flood at the Little Isle car park and an overflow of the compound sewer which has caused significant pollution over so many years. The incident - and any further occurrences - are being reported to Scottish Water and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency in a bid to stimulate action to resolve the issue.

A wee beauty: Success for Chris

The River Ness graces the City of Inverness, offering residents and visitors enjoyable walks along its banks and peaceful times in the famed Ness Islands. But there’s more to enjoy if you keep your eyes open - and only a few steps from the city centre. Here’s one river resident, often thought to be shy and shunning busy places - an otter, busy enjoying a meal on the stones at the base of one of the pillars of the Infirmary Bridge. 

Wildlife: A scene captured by club member Neil Fraser

Anglers at the Little Isle had to call out Scottish Water to a serious pollution incident today (July 20). It was a repeat of many previous incidents in which rain causes a drain adjacent to the Little Isle car park to overflow. Liquid and solid material spread over the car park and through a drain on to the riverside gravel. 

A Scottish Water clean up team responded to the report fairly quickly but were unlikely to be able to clean up all the material. Some liquid sewage entered the River Ness, so the incident was also reported to Sepa and the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board. For similar future incidents the numbers to call are: Scottish Water - 0800 0778 778. Sepa - 03000 99 66 99. The appropriate post code is IV3 5SQ.

Inverness Angling Club is once again seeking volunteers to help run Angler’s Corner at the annual Highland Field Sports Fair being held at Moy on Friday and Saturday, August 3 and 4. If you are available for one day or both, please add your name to either of the lists posted in the club huts at the Little Isle and Mill Stream. Alternatively, give your name to a committee member; their telephone numbers are listed in the membership cards.

As more anglers venture out on Inverness Angling Club’s Ness fishings, it’s a good time to remind locals and visitors of some key rules. They have been designed to make pools accessible for all and successfully tested over many years. 

Check paragraphs 4.1 to 4.4 of the rules which govern the order of fishing. Key elements of these are to start at a beat post and move down two yards at every cast, and come out at the next beat post if someone is waiting to fish. Please note that anglers should not start at a beat post if another angler is within 30 yards of the post. And at a time of low water conditions, anglers should also consider those fishing the opposite bank.

All anglers must observe the government conservation regulations which apply to the Ness system. From July 1 to October 15 only one cock salmon weighing eight pounds or less may be retained per angler per week, with a maximum of two being retained per angler per season. Crucially, this applies to the entire Ness system; for example, anglers cannot take two fish from separate beats of the system.

Please fish with consideration for others, enjoy your angling…..and tight lines!

Good example: Plenty of room means comfortable fishing

Good cast: IAC junior member Gordon Stronach on the Friar's Shott, puting into practise

the casting tips he received from club coaches at the recent casting clinics. Pic: Tracy Stronach.

Spey ghillie Jordon Grant returned to his home waters on the Ness on Saturday evening and landed a lively grilse from the Black Stream. The five pound fish took a size 8 double Cassley Shrimp.

It’s been a day laced with silver on the River Ness today (July 13) as members of Inverness Angling Club finally landed some fresh-run summer salmon. Arthur Ferguson had an astounding, hour long contest with what proved to be a massive 25lb sea-liced salmon attracted by a size 10 Silver Stoat. The fish was released and, despite the length of the struggle, swam away strongly. Said Arthur: “Friday the 13th is certainly lucky for some.”

Also on the Little Isle, Davey Dyce had the good fortune to hook and land a six pound grilse on a three inch black and orange Devon minnow. Hopefully, more catches will come as the intensity of the summer sun wanes and anglers welcome cloud and rain.

Delighted: Davey with his fish

Substantial debris has been removed from the top of the Ness Weir ‘spout’, thanks to the efforts of club members David Dyce and Donnie Allan. Tree trunks deposited at the weir in high water posed a potential blockage of the ‘spout’, which offers the main route for migrating salmon through the weir to the waters beyond. Further work is scheduled to remove tree branches from the top section of the weir.

A nice wee grilse of four pounds fell to the fly rod of club member Donnie Allan today (July 11). The location was the Black Stream where fish will find a little more dissolved oxygen than some other pools, and be more inclined to take given current weather conditions. Hopefully, more grilse will show up and some rain appears to be on the way.

Well done: Grilse for Donnie

New member Sandy Christie is seeking help to secure the return of angling equipment mistakenly left outside the Little Isle Hut this week. His gear is in a light grey backpack with blue trim and contains a reel with line, a spare spool with line, two black boxes with salmon and trout flies and a collapsible Scierra wading stick. 

Sandy left the river at about 10 pm on Tuesday night, leaving the gear under the seat at the hut. On realising that he had not taken the tackle home, he returned about half an hour later, but it was gone. If anyone can help return Sandy’s gear, they can pass a message through the club’s web site - www.invernessanglingclub.co.uk Go to club details, select contact and fill in and send the message.

Be aware….!

Rivers and lochs are potentially dangerous places - something that anglers all too often forget or ignore. It’s important for all of us to be aware of the risks and the needs of other water users, and to use waterways sensibly. The following document provides some useful advice for all water users: 

https://www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot/sites/soac/files/docs/using_inland_water_responsibly_-_guidance_for_all_water_users_0.pdf

Be safe….!

Ever had a bit of a slip when wading the river? Most of us have but few of us wear buoyancy aids to avoid potential disaster. Inverness Angling Club reminds anglers to wear buoyancy aids at all times when fishing. Failure to do so is at their own risk. 

Many of us feel that lifejackets interfere with casting, but modern versions are much less restrictive and are available from around £30. And if you do have and use a lifejacket, make sure you get it checked regularly so that it does the job it’s designed to do when you most need it.

The last of Inverness Angling Club’s annual series of Casting Clinics will be held at the Little Isle Pool of the River Ness from 7 to 9 pm on Wednesday (June 27). Over the last three weeks the clinics have attracted a strong attendance of young people and adults who have benefited from instruction by three times world Speycasting champion Scott Mackenzie and the club’s qualified coaches. 

Two handed and single handed casting will be covered, either on the river or, for novices, on the adjacent Bught Park. All are welcome. The clinics are free and open to non members from “a’ the airts.” Please bring your own tackle if you can. A limited amount of club tackle will be available.

Casting: Seven-year-old Connor Cadden from Farr has made great progress

A six pound grilse, caught and released in the Weir Pool of the River Ness club water, made a memorable outing for IAC member Lewis Thomson today (June 16). The salmon, attracted by a size 10 Cascade, was a first for Lewis. He said: “It was a good wee fighter and I’m absolutely delighted!”

Delighted: First for Lewis

Anglers came from as far away as Dornoch to get some tips at the first of Inverness Angling Club’s casting clinics at the Little Isle Pool on Wednesday evening. And the club’s aim to encourage more young people to take up the sport were rewarded with a strong attendance of youngsters from the age of six up to the mid teens. The clinics continue on Wednesday evenings throughout this month - June 13, 20 and 27. All are welcome and coaching is free of charge. Please bring your own tackle but a limited amount of club tackle is available.

Expert: World Speycasting champion Scott Mackenzie offers advice