Chairman's Report 2017
From the 2017 AGM Minutes -
The season started reasonably well, spring salmon and some
large sea trout being caught but it never really got going due
to low water conditions during the year and fishing was, once
again, challenging.
When rain did come, intermittent runs of
small grilse and sea trout occurred on both main rivers but the
back end of the year did not bring a winter run of large fish.
Fowey counter numbers were down on the 10-year average but large sea trout still arrived in the upper reaches of the system in good numbers and a large number of redds were evident from mid-November onwards.
No heavy winter spates
occurred so hopefully the eggs will have developed well and
will not be as vulnerable to attrition as they develop and hatch
this year.
Predation at sea, lack of food sources, global warming are all
taking their toll on our fish stocks – but what is critical is the
survival of smolts and their return to the sea. Without these
there will be no run. If we do not send smolts back to sea they
cannot come back.
This brings me to some good news. We
are now lucky to have two hatcheries operating in our area –
the Lynher and Fowey Hatchery. I will let others update you
on their excellent progress later in the meeting.
It was obvious upon walking the banks up in the spawning
sanctuary of the upper Fowey that the majority of the sea
trout redds appeared in those areas where volunteers had
been working – testament to the effectiveness of these
efforts.
The work of Chris Janes and his small band of
volunteers is gratefully recognised.
There is also excellent news in that the FRA has now
managed to purchase the Draynes sanctuary – so we will
have these sanctuaries in perpetuity. It will now be important
to keep them in good condition.
We must also maintain our excellent efforts in catch and
return – this can only benefit the overall spawning success
and ensure the viability of future stocks. It also demonstrates
to our riparian owners and Regulatory Authorities we care
about our fishing and are committed to its conservation.
I
must also stress to all the importance of careful handling of
fish as you return them. Much can be done to ensure their
survival after the enjoyment and privilege of catching them.
The Chair took to opportunity to thank, on behalf of the Club members
- The Secretary for once again producing an excellent
annual newsletter and for his efforts on behalf of the
club.
- The Treasurer and his auditors for all their hard work
during the year
- The Club Wardens.……..noting that if anyone
wishes to step forward to look after any of our stretches
they should approach the Chairman later.
Finally, the Chairman thanked the Committee Members for their continued support and hard work in the last year.
In closing he wished members a successful 2017 season.
Featured essays
Members beware
Please be careful out there - many beats have new hazards due to all the rain - not confined to rabbit holes on the path, fallen branches and dangerous trees - Please take care and be safe at all times. more
LDAC Trophy keepsake
At the recent LDAC AGM - winners of Trophies were given their cup for the year - but also these rather nice keepsake LDAC Paperweights - very nice. moreClub Trophies
The LDAC Club Trophies were awarded at the AGM. See details and download the Trophies History list back to 1951 here moreLDAC Members discount at Orvis, Exeter
I am pleased to confirm that LDAC members will now be entitled to receive 10% discount on all fishing related goods at the Exeter Orvis Store… moreBarbless hooks before 16th June
BARBLESS HOOKSThe LDAC Committee asks that all members follow the following guideline Before June 16th in any season:Barbless Hooks Only on all rivers"This will help to preserve salmon stocks and aid successful catch/release before June 16th of each moreFRA Newsletter 2017-18
Click here to download the Fowey Rivers Association 2017-18 Newsletter more
LDAC 2017 Newsletter and updated forms
Dear MemberPlease find attached the 2017 Newsletter, Catch Return and Membership Application formWishing you a Merry Xmas on behalf of the CommitteePaul Jordan Download the Newsletter 2017 & Forms from the Downloads Page moreIMPORTANT : New 2018 LDAC Club Rules now in force
Please read the following update to the LDAC Club rules - for 2018 season (onward)You can download a copy of this information hereAt the LDAC AGM on 13th February 2018 the LDAC Committee announced that a new set of fishing rules had been approved for the… more
Lures with single hooks / Catch & Release information
Please find some useful information about adapting your fishing tackle to single hooks - download a copy here more