We stocked the Tarn yesterday (eventually!) with some super looking rainbow trout.  These are fully finned and fighting fit specimens that left the stocking net like torpedoes.  There is a mix of weights with most coming in at around 2lb and a handful approaching 3lb.  Members may well find a few smaller (1.5lb) fish as these were already in the grading tank at the farm and we got them for nothing.  They do make a good individual serving for those with a smaller appetite.

Judging by the behaviour of the pen there will soon be cygnets at the Tarn.  She is now refusing to leave the nest even for a slice of bread, a sure sign that the eggs are about to hatch. The two survivors from last year's clutch of eggs were last seen heading down river towards Preston.

We need a rain dance.  The river is now looking as sad as it did back in the summer of 2006 with virtually no flow through many of the runs and riffles.  There is still water in the deeper pools, but the trout fry and salmon parr must be having a trying time with so much of the shallow margin cover denied to them.

Can I repeat the plea I made earlier in the week for the return of a landing net to the hut.  Please do check your gear carefully and if you find a net that you don't recognise bring it back.  You will find your net still hanging on the hook by the door.

Ian