In search of Sewin
In search of SEWIN
Fancy trying your hand at sea-trout fishing? If so, head for Wales where, with the right equipment and good conditions, you should be in for some fine sport
Although widely spread throughout the British Isles, it is in Wales that the sea-trout - or sewin takes pride of place as the most sought-after game fish. Major rivers, such as the Twyi, Teifi and Dyfi, consistently produce both the largest runs and best specimens in the country, but smaller waters such as the East and West Cleddau, Nevern and Dysynni, can also give excellent sport. For the visiting angler, accessibility is very good much of the water is available on daily or weekly tickets through local clubs and associations, and some private beats can be leased at reasonable rates. The internet is a good source of information about where to fish.
Although fish will begin to run the larger rivers as early as April, the main runs are from late May through into August, with the bigger fish generally arriving first, followed by the larger shoals of smaller-sized school fish. As most summer sea-trouting takes place early or late, the angler with a family to consider may well be able to combine some fishing with the annual seaside holiday.
Fishing through the hours of darkness can, of course, be productive, particularly in low, clear water and settled weather conditions. Given a little more water colour, however, a couple of hours at dawn or dusk can be just as successful, and fit well with the demands of the rest of the family.
As for tackle requirements, a 10ft rod rated for #7 line would be an excellent all-round choice, with a good quality disc-drag reel capable of holding at least 100 metres of backing. A large arbor version helps keep in contact with fish that run towards you, especially important at night when loose coils of line can lead to disaster!
To obtain the best sport under varying conditions, a range of lines may be necessary floating, sink-tip and sinking. Leader choice should be related to the size of the fish expected and the size of the fly to be fished, but sea-trout tend not to be very leader-shy, especially in low light, so err on the side of caution. You can be sure that fresh fish in particular will fight "above their weight" and there is always the chance of hooking a bigger than expected fish, even on the smaller rivers.
For early and late fishing, take a selection of wet flies such as Silver Stoat, Teal, Blue and Silver, Alexandra, Squirrel and Silver and Black Pennell in sizes 6-12. Fishing on into the night will require a selection of lures in black and black/silver, slim tubes or Waddingtons up to two inches and a couple of surface lures or Muddlers.
Wading in Welsh rivers can vary from easy gravel beds to downright dangerous rock ledges, so, if in doubt, dont! In more rocky rivers, felt or studded soles are essential and, while you may not need to wade deeply in many cases, breathable chest waders are comfortable to wear and, teamed with a lightweight wading jacket, will keep you dry both in and out of the river.
If you intend to fish into the darkness, a preliminary visit to the water in daylight is essential. Make a careful note of the route to and from the car, where to enter and exit pools, wading lines, position of stiles, etc. Things look very different at night. Unless you know the water really well, fish with a companion and remain within earshot.
A large, easily carried net, a spare pair of clear, protective glasses and a small torch plus a spare should be carried. Practise casting in the dark in advance and arrive in plenty of time to set up your tackle and allow your eyes to adapt as night falls. Summer nights can get surprisingly cold, so be sure to have suitable layers of clothing available, together with a hot drink and some food. Try to avoid use of the torch, as far as possible, as it will hinder your night vision.
Above all, dont take risks in the dark. Falling down a steep bank or stepping off a shelf into deep water will not make for an enjoyable experience.
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The Company