July 2008

The 9th July saw the first real summer flood for 15 years on the Torridge. As a consequence beats throughout the system enjoyed excellent salmon and sea trout fishing. Amongst fish caught immediately after the flood were two salmon of around 8lbs at Brimblecombe and Brightlea, with two more lost  at Madeira and Junction on the same day. A salmon of around 10lbs and four sea trout to 3 1/2 lbs were caught by Paddy Gillies on the middle river. The next day (14th July) John Churston had a nine pounder from the same beat. Two fish of 9lb and 6lb were caught at Madeira and Chapel on the 17th July with four sea trout to 4lb taken at Sheepwash. Other notable sea trout included a five pounder from Brimblecombe.