Tackle Advice
"Be it fishing, guiding, instruction or running workshops, in one form or another, I'm pretty much by the water most days of the week. Obviously this allows me ample opportunity to thoroughly test tackle and various related items. Standing up to constant abuse, the list below comprises of kit I have utmost confidence in"
Orvis Helios ZG 104-4 fly rod
A progressive action enables this rod to deliver accurate, effortless casts with the finesse that today’s river fishermen demand, yet it is sensitive enough to protect fine, delicate tippets. The extra length facilitates line control during casting and line mending, resulting in improved presentation. Be it dry fly, nymphs or spider fishing, my first choice for river trouting these days... view online
Orvis Western3 104-3 fly rod
Available in a matt finish and ideally suited to close range fishing those on a budget will find this Western3 model fits the bill... view online
Orvis Battenkill LA II Reel
Loaded on a large arbor, not only do fly lines cast with ease the superior retrieval rate helps gather line at an increased speed. Over the years many questions were asked of the Battenkill LA No II. Dependable as ever, it’s been with me all the way and tamed some pretty tenacious trout.... view online
Superfine Wonderline G3
Orvis Wonderlines offer a definite advantage when it comes to connecting with shy, lightning quick trout. With a slick, supple coating and improved front taper the Superfine presents a fly with a high degree of delicacy.... view online
Mastery XPS Fly Line
Available in a neutral grey shade the XPS boasts a delicate front taper, making it my first choice for delivering small nymphs, spiders or dry flies. Conforming with conflicting currents, a supple core allows the line to literally snake across a river’s surface, which in turn go some way to addressing the issue of drag.
Frog Hair Freshwater Tapered Leaders
With a progressive profile these leaders really do take some beating when it comes to uncompromising performance. What’s more, you can choose between a “stiff butt” section (to cope with breezy conditions), or a “soft butt” section that provides delicate turn over for precision dry fly work or targeting nervous fish.
Orvis Hy-flote tapered leaders (7½ft & 9ft leaders)
Hy-flote tapered leaders not only provide a clean, swift lift for either casting or striking fish, at close quarters they mend easily, allowing line and leader to actually be manipulated around tricky currents thus presenting a fly more naturally... view online
Orvis Superstrong tippet material
 When it comes to tippet material there’s always a balance in finding a low diameter material that aidspresentation yet is strong enough to prevent breakages. Supple to give a fly unhindered movement whilst capable of absorbing the rigors of struggling fish, Orvis Super Strong meets all demands. “I was amazed to find my leader still intact, considering the abuse that marble/brown hybrids inflicted on my 3.5lb 6X tippet section during a recent visit to Slovenia”... view online
Orvis Dropper Box Rig
For consistent results, it’s vital to remain flexible when spending a day on the river. One minute, heavy bugs search out deep lying trout the next dimpling rises require a delicate dry fly. Both scenarios call for two very different leader set-ups. This system allows me to effectively arrange my leaders, keeping them close to hand and ready for use. A range of pre-tied leaders stored on dropper rigs means I can switch tactics in moments & keep in touch with the ever changing moods of a river... view online
Orvis Ergonomic Snips
Trimming monofilament has never been easier than with these Ergonomic snips. Their true worth is realized during winter, or when wet weather chills fingers. These board snips locate easily in the hand, encouraging you to take out unwanted wind knots or revise leader tangles quickly, which always seems to happen on the coldest of days... view online
Orvis Adhesive Hook Hone
Easily overlooked this little gadget can be attached to any number of the items that litter our fishing vests. For me, it fits snuggly on the back of Orvis ergonomic snips so it’s constantly to hand for touching up dull hook points... view online
Orvis Wonderfloat Gel
It’s important to have faith in a floatant especially if casting into turbulent water or during low light levels when it’s unsure whether the fly is floating or not. In an easy to apply bottle that eliminates wastage this no fussy gel can be trusted to keep the fly afloat when it matters most... view online
McLean Short Handle Weigh Net
Simply the best net on the market, especially where trophy trout are concerned. With a decent sized frame and deep net the Mclean weight net will cope with some pretty large fish. I've easily landed salmon to 9lb in my net. Once your fish is safely netted, a quick check on the scales housed in the handle can be carried out before carefully returning the fish... view online
View some of my fishing tips
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