Fly fishing off a SOB

[caz]

Hi All, 
I have recently joined the forum. Very interesting and clearly some very knowledgeable fishermen and kayakers out there.
To introduce myself. I have been fly fishing for several years on rivers and lakes in North Wales. A couple of years ago I decided to venture further by attempting fly fishing off a Sit on board off the Lleyn Penninsula, Morfa Nefyn. It did not take me long to realise that my target species of Mackerel and Bass on the fly, off a SOB was unrealistic due to Bass and Mackerel in that area is caught mid tide in rough waters. I,m sure you experienced guy's can imagine the state of this middle aged guy desperately trying to control a kayak while trying to haul cast a fly rod into the surf while panicking about being smashed into the rocks. Funny now but it was a serious lesson learnt.
Since that time, I have done very little kayaking, let alone fishing off a kayak. So I'm looking to start again but likely to target large lakes to try and develop some experience. I do love my fishing, so I was wondering whether anyone with more clout at Brenig has ever approached the subject of Kayak fishing the lake. I asked at the Brenig shop but the staff had never heard of the method. I also emailed the water authority who own Brenig regarding this but I fail to get any response.
Has anyone tried this method of fly fishing for trout and if so at which lakes?
Has anyone tried Brenig or Bala lake?

[izzetafox]

Did you consider anchoring?

I have lure and bait fished from the kayak. drifting, trolling and fly fishing. I have fished Trefor, Porth Dinllean, Nefyn, Aberdaron, Abersoch, Pwlhelli areas.

I mainly coarse fish and recently have been fly fishing for pike with success. Deerphil is a regular in the area catching bass and pollack on the fly. He will no doubt be along soon, you could have no better advisor than Phil. Look for his catch reports, you WILL be impressed. On top of that he is a really nice guy.


Terry

[caz]

Thanks Terry. I did try anchoring but the area I was trying to fish is very sandy, although in honesty I think the problem was my inexperience and trying to run before I could walk attitude.
I also think I should broaden my horizons regarding location and methods.
i believe Llanddulas on the North Wales coast is meant to be good for trolling spinners and fly fishing, it's closer to me and I should make more effort in getting out there to gain the experience.

Thanks again 
Caz

[izzetafox]

Are you using a grapnel anchor? Try having a metre or so of decent chain attached. This helps the anchor lay and grip better. Use an anchor warp of at least three times the depth of water, again this helps the anchor to grip.

Terry

[deerphil]

Hi caz

As you say , there are some great guys on this forum and looking back through
many many posts will give you some great advice. There is so much to take in when
you first start kayak fishing. The main thing of course is stay safe , stay well
within your capabilities and build up skill and confidence slowly - there's no rush.

Morfa Nefyn is as good as anywhere to start , I have caught plenty of mackerel , pollack
and bass from there within 100 metres of the shore and when it is calm too. Don't be in
a hurry to use the fly. I would go trolling with small shallow diving plugs first and get
used to your yak.

Lakes are good for this and Bala is easy launch and you can pay for fishing and parking/launch
at the car park near Bala village. I have found the fishing hard but usually get a pike or two
just trolling and enjoying the scenery, Brenig I have fished a few times from the boats - often
thought what a great water it would be for kayak fishing , but I have never enquired. Barnsfold
trout fishery near Preston allows flyaking for trout. Plenty of waters in the Lake District too, but
I would get used to your yak first with occasional cast of spinner or plug. River Dee at Eccleston
would be close for you, from there to Chester free to yak and fish I think.

The main thing is , take your time ,Enjoy , build up skills slowly and fly fish later.
Go trolling on flat water and on this site for good info from all the great lads on here.

Feel free to PM with anything specific, If I can't help someone on here will be able to.

Good Luck

Phil