STILL WATER FLY FISHING. How and Why. Intermediate Lines for Trout.

[@777-david-p9l]

Hi Shaun. Like many others I wondered what was going on for you. Very sorry to hear about your news and all that it means on all levels. Thinking about you mate and hoping that life become a little easier again soon. Take care Shaun. :) Ps David from Norway

[@shaunfishes101]

Hi David, at this moment we are going through solicitors. As to where I end up I am not sure. All my money has been invested into our home. Its nothing elaborate. But as an idea my half, and if I can get a mortgage puts me back to competing in the first time buyers market. Then I have the issue of my age. I am now 61 and struggle to get much in the way of a mortgage. I am now working as hard as I can, and will have to for some time. So at this moment I struggle to find much free time. I will have to make a few changes. I really do not want to give up on the channel. I have got to know some great people like your self. My biggest problem is my concentration and memory problems. This problem makes editing a very long process. I am doing my best to find a way, or a method to speed this up. Not doing as much fishing due to work. But we are looking at getting some footage on a reservoir. Then it will be left to me to find the time. Don't get your hopes up. This is a trial. As for my self, well its a few ups then a down. Trying to get your head around certain thoughts is difficult. I think I will always question myself and wonder why. I am learning so much about myself. But all of this is to late to save our marriage. We were together for 40 years.

[@johnowen6775]

I hope everything is OK with you and that Portugal was a good break. Best regards

[@shaunfishes101]

Hi John great to hear from you. Portugal was great. Worked hard and got the job done in time. For myself I am struggling. I remain as positive as I can. But face a hurdle every few days. I am none the wiser as to where I will end up. But I hope it will all become clear soon. I am trying so hard to make every thing fit in this new life. How I am going to do this I have no idea. I have done some fishing, but its nothing like it used to be. I was only asked the other day. Have you any ideas on a new pattern. The answer is no. All my inspiration comes from the water. If I ain't on the water enough, then there is no flies. Mind I struggle to find the time for tying flies. I know you should never wish time away, especially at our age. But this is exactly what I am doing now. I just want it over, and to move on. Hard to believe you can most of your life with a person only to find out they are really nothing like you may have though. Being fair and honest just does not come into it for her. I find this very difficult and upsetting after all we have gone through over the years. A positive. 😯We are looking at doing a video. Not sure when it will be out. But we are looking at doing a big water. The boys are very supportive and we are all looking forward to this trip. Which we have no date yet. But soon. Thanks again for getting in touch John. Shaun.

[@johnowen6775]

@@shaunfishes101 Hi Shaun, I contacted you as I know how difficult a time it is for you and I thought you might like to take some comfort that someone is concerned, I expect many of your followers feel the same. I didn't expect you to be making any videos for a while and I expect that many would wish you well, no doubt when things get a little more settled, you'll get back on the water. All the best to you.

[@shaunfishes101]

@@johnowen6775 Thank you so much John. However only you and a few others are aware of my situation. I have no idea how to approach this on the channel. And for most they will never know. What I would hate is for people to start supporting me due to the situation. I would rather gain support on merit and achievements. Unlike many who would put it out there to gain for there own benefits. Bit like doing a give a way on the channel just to gain subs. I understand there are times when things are not going to work, regardless of what we do. But I cannot help feeling like this is a fail. I will learn to live with this and become a better person. There is always something to learn. For me at this moment its to late. But when I think of her. I wish her well. But I do believe we can never be friends. At this moment it feels so false. We had quite a complex relationship. I will find a balance some time. Thanks for your support John. Shaun.

[@johnowen6775]

@@shaunfishes101 Hi Shaun, I'll be at Tan y Myndd next week if you are available to meet up for a spot of fishing & chat

[@shaunfishes101]

@@johnowen6775 Wish I could. But at the moment. Never been there, but looks a great water. One day. Have a great time John. Take care mate. Shaun.

[@stephenlovell1352]

What can I say the best time ever with 2 top blokes. The fishing was good 👍 top water and excellent place to stay. The last night of fishing was the best think I had 6 or so to the net on a small black nymph. O yes and Sam tangled us because he was into a fish as I was casting. Cant wait to book for next year. Jamie is very helpful and runs a lovely place nothing to much trouble.

[@shaunfishes101]

Spot on mate. Looking forward to it myself already. Great water.

[@samgriff7271]

I couldn’t help that tangle, the fish decided he wanted the fly there and then, you didn’t say “casting” at the right time 😂 can’t wait for next year.

[@twitchst3nsta23]

Watching in school lol, me and my mates spoke to you when their. Very excited to watch

[@shaunfishes101]

Really great to hear from you. Hope you don,t get into trouble watching while in school. It was really nice to meet you all. The standard of your fishing was well up there, and certainly for your age. And in trying conditions. Well done. What ever the conditions on a water it is important to keep your confidence on a high. Thank you so much for the comment and watching. Shaun.

[@samgriff7271]

I’ve only now seen that the video is out, what a week, we didn’t need the fishing, was a great laugh and think the three of us needed that, can’t wait for nexts years trip. I’ll be out with you up hayscastle soon.

[@djl0stit]

Great video Shaun!! Was nice to see you again and looks like you had a decent trip. You boys did some next level shopping there…I think you may have invented a new Olympic sport…the pizza discus 😂

[@shaunfishes101]

Thanks so much Tom. Sorry we did not see you on the video. Jamie,s fault. By the time he replied it was as good as done. But it was nice to hear you was OK with this. As regards Hayscastle. Give it a bit of time before a visit. During the last two weeks while I was in Portugal. The water has had a burst of weed due to the conditions. Its not bad, but could be better. I will do a bit of work on the water in a few weeks. Will give you a shout. Thanks again mate. Shaun.

[@Caithnessflyfisher]

SHAUN!!! my good man... I actually started thinking where you were on here just a couple of days ago... So I've come onto your last upload and have seen one of your responses... Mate... I'm so sorry to hear your going through this horrible time... Obviously I don't need to know the full ins and outs, but it's apparent your going through a rough rough time.. Just want to say you've been missed on this platform... I thought you were probably still working away in Portugal or something... I hope your OK.. Hope the health's OK... Take care buddy.. Ross 🍻

[@shaunfishes101]

I really appreciate your comment Ross. Such kind words. Portugal was a space I had to go. Staying here was killing me. I know you can't run forever. I am now in the middle of the grinder. And it could well be that I am going back to square one. I have had no say in this matter, and it hit me like a brick. 35 years and nothing. Its going to be a good few months before I will actually know what I have left to my name. But what I do know, it is not going to be easy. There is no fancy house to divide, or fancy car to sell. I am lucky to have so many people watching out for me. The boys have been very supportive, and mentally I am getting on top of it. The channel is coming back, and this is for the people who support this channel. these people are amazing. They are the only reason I will continue. OK its a real struggle at the moment, as I can not find time to do much other than work, house and solicitors. Its not all bad mind. One good thing I enjoy cooking. Or learning cooking. I am eating better than ever. Funny thing is mind, I have lost a load of weight. I will be honest with you Ross, I have not done much in the way of watching anything on youtube for a long time. But you are totally embedded in my thoughts now. Thank you for chasing this up and getting back to me. Your mate. Shaun.

[@simongumn3154]

Was just thinking the same that I hadn't seen anything from you in ages. Thought I may have accidentally unsubscribed... Really sorry to hear about your probs Shawn. Wish u all the best and really hope everything sorts out... Had some great days on the wye and elan valley on some of the few nice days we had in this poor excuse for a summer... take care of yourself and whenever un decide to upload I will be ready to watch! All the best

[@shaunfishes101]

@@simongumn3154 Trying really hard to sort my life out at the moment Simon. I am not a man with lots of money. I have put every thing into our home. But now after 36 years she decided she wants something new in her life. So we have to split every thing. Which means selling our home. What I have left takes me back to square one. There are quite a few complications in moving forward due to my age, and that I was semi retired. Putting so many hours into working and all house hold duties limits very little time for editing as I like. I have been working on a video which should be out soon. And really hope to get some sort of something going soon. Thank you for your comment. I really appreciate you taken the time. Take care Simon. Shaun.

[@mikejames663]

Well done Shaun, good venue, good mates, can't beat it, top rod too.

[@shaunfishes101]

Hi Mike. Sorry for delay. Portugal went really well. Did find water, but the job did not allow the time required. But we will be going back to do other work out there. So I will have another opportunity. I know we don,t travel far for this trip, but its more about the time together, being boys. Great fun. Take care Mike, and thanks. Shaun.

[@davidwilliams9296]

It was nice to see you down Garnffrwd I was there on days you were fishing and I highly recommend the place it has its challenges and makes you work for your catch but if you look at your surroundings and read the water it has it’s rewards

[@shaunfishes101]

You are absolutely on it. Nothing wrong with the fishing there. So many have had it a bit easy, with over stocked waters, and hammering fish after fish all day long. Put on many different patterns and fish many methods without fail can be fun at times. But for the boys and myself want to feel that we are fishing. And having a bit of a challenge suites us very well.

[@DFomalley]

Great video again Shaun, thanks for sharing.

[@shaunfishes101]

I really do appreciate your comments, and like every body on the channel. I wish I could do more for you all. May be one day I will be able to do so. Thank you so much for the support and comment. Sorry for the delay. Just got back from Portugal.

[@777-david-p9l]

Boys will be boys Shaun. ;) That's the price you have to pay for having friends, mate. Other than that some good tips/considerations when using sinking lines. Also the use of mends when fishing with floaters. Thanks for the upload Shaun and video quality. Brilliant as always. Take care mate :)

[@shaunfishes101]

Hi David hope your keeping well. Yes these pair are something else. They never fail to bring a smile to my face. Great to be with and to listen too. It would be great if every body had a pair like this in there lives. Only got back from Portugal last night. Hence the delay on the comment. Thanks for everything David. Take care Mate. Shaun.

[@graymain]

Glad you had fun my friend you deserve it after what you've been through ,

[@shaunfishes101]

Thanks so much mate. Portugal took me out of it for a while. But now reality is back. Catch up soon. Thanks for everything and your support. Shaun.

[@JonFisher-ql6xe]

Fantastic watch ,well 8n you guys .very well in 😁🎣👍

[@shaunfishes101]

Hi John sorry for delay, but I have been away working. Going on a trip with these boys is something I much look forward too. They really are great fun. Thanks for the comment John. Shaun.

[@stuartmcmillan2518]

Brilliant as ever Shaun

[@shaunfishes101]

You are so kind. Thank you. Sorry I took so long to reply. Got back from Portugal yesterday. Did not have a chance to fish. But may have a chance again, as we have taken on another project. Won't be for a while. But I am already looking forward to it. Take care mate, and thanks. Shaun.

[@markjones8025]

Excellent vid...informative shaun, thanks

[@shaunfishes101]

Thanks so much Mark. Sorry for the delay on the comment mate. Just got back from Portugal.

[@Caithnessflyfisher]

Another great video mate... Thats a proper lads holiday is that.. Staying at a fishery for a week sounds awesome... Some lovely looking fish too... The buzzers up my way are starting to hatch in drips and drabs, we'll be on the dry flies soon I hope .. Still a bit cold just now but the floating line washing line rig has been rather successful this week.. I've had over 30 fish in my last 3 sessions... Outfishing a lot of other anglers who've not switched onto the washing line yet.. Look forward to your next installment buddy Cheers for now.. Ross 🍻

[@shaunfishes101]

Buzzers here are hit and miss. But the dries are a great bet for most of the time at the moment. I don't fish washing line that often. But on the day its lethal. Got onto the water for the first time today, following the Portugal trip. Which I got home from last night. Some great fishing on floating lines with various nymphs with a bit of pace. And this was mainly for the morning. By midday they seem to go off. But down here with the longer daylight and the warm weather has seen the weed burst into life. Before going to Portugal all was fine. Now I have a load of work to sort the water. Just one of the down sides of an established water in summer. Thanks for the comment Ross. Take care mate. Shaun.

[@mrintresting256]

Cracking video Shaun…great advice as always. How lucky are you to have a whole week at Garnfrwdd! I’ve found that slowing my retrieve down to almost nothing (other than keeping in touch with the flies) has helped a lot as the weather remains changeable and mostly cool at Llyn Fawr. A washing line with a sink tip…..orange Fab on the point and two buzzers and letting them drift with the wind gets fish when the going gets slow. Doesn’t suit me as I like a fast figure of eight normally but I’m learning it’s not all about me! Tight lines 🎣

[@shaunfishes101]

To be honest we do this trip at the cheaper period. Plus Jamie charges for a weeks fishing which works out a lot cheaper. But even if it was costing us a load more, we would still do it. We have such fun. What is surprising, is that even though we have a whole week, does not guarantee fish. As every day can be so different. We all learn every day. Love hearing from you mate. Sorry for the delay. Got back from Portugal yesterday.

[@johnowen6775]

Very good video, were you able to recover the files we talked about? I'll be at Llandegla for a week at the weekend, so if you're in the area pop in and I'll treat you at the cafe. Hope all goes well in Portugal.

[@chrismoss9487]

Love your vids Shaun. Thank you. You posted a video about your new rod. Which brand model do you use?

[@shaunfishes101]

Thanks so much Chris. We use a lot of rods, but are now focused more on mid action rods. This is mainly down to how we are fishing and how fishing is changing. Over the last few years we are seeing more fish, or resident fish feeding on the smaller stuff. So with the more powerful tip action rods we are restricted on tippet strength. Presenting smaller patterns with a lighter tippet is best done on the softer action rod. One great rod which Justin has, and I am saving up for is the sage LL. But for my main rods at the moment which are great for a lot of the times. As we tend to fish in high winds for most of the time. Are Loomis IMX 7# which is used when on the intermediate. A very light and comfortable rod with loads of power and accurate. Loomis Asquith 6# even lighter and very powerful. Great casting rod and very accurate. This rod creates great line speed when needed, and tight loops. I use this rod most of the time on the floating lines. Mackenzie Graphien 6# a great rod with plenty of power. Again light in the hand. I purchased this rod a few years back and very pleased with it. But now this same rod is half the price. Which I think makes it a great bye. If you are looking to purchase a high end rod, we really should talk to Justin. He has so much experience with rods. But also owns most of them. But most of all I would always try before you purchase. There are so many rods out there but not suited to every one. I have certainly fished with a lot of lower end rods and they have served me well. But most of all it will be more about what you fish. What conditions you are more likely to fish. And how long your average session could be. Fishing with a lump of a rod all day can be hard going. Need to find out any more on rods let us know. But ultimately it should be your choice as to what suites you better. Thanks for the comment Chris. Take care. Shaun.

[@FishingNOutdoorFun]

wow great sharing

[@shaunfishes101]

Thank you so much. Sorry for the slow response, but I have been away in Portugal for the last few weeks. Thanks again. Take care. Shaun.

[@Robin-pe8js]

Thanks Shaun. Going back to your braided leader vid. Snowbee have stopped producing their furled leaders and I haven't found another maker of intermediate ones. Any suggestions please?

[@shaunfishes101]

So sorry Robin I have just found your comment unanswered. Yours and another one. Been very difficult times for me over the last 5 months and have not been able to do much with the channel. Its a shame that they have stopped doing the braids. Thing is they last for so long, so sales may not have been great. Roman Mosser do them. Not sure if it is spelt correctly. Not the same as Snowbee, but have heard they are quality. Intermediate is all I use now. I have been surprised as to how many people have now considered making there own. Again sorry for the delayed comment. Thank you. Shaun.

[@Robin-pe8js]

@@shaunfishes101 thank you for replying Shaun. Sorry to hear about your last few months and hope you will have a better rest of the year. I have learnt a lot from you. I’m in my early 70s both have only been fly fishing for a few years. Take care and God Bless you

[@shaunfishes101]

@@Robin-pe8js 👍

[@50Squirrel]

Hi Shaun, some time back you & the boys were testing the Rede River fly line. I keep forgetting to message you to find out which of their lines were you happiest with?

[@shaunfishes101]

Oh heck that was a while. One of there earlier lines, think it was long haul. Great and easy to cast. But need to consider what your fishing. If you do more of the bigger stuff, such as lures. Great. If you are fishing more smaller patterns as we do now. Then this line could be a bit to aggressive. Great for most who love the idea of making a cast with ease. Its mainly down to the front tapper. a bit short for the smaller stuff. Plus I think the price has increased, which puts it into another market. I would guess you are considering a new line. This is so difficult. We have gone through so many lines, top end and low. For Justin and myself we are fortunate as our casting skills are above average. So we do not have to consider lines that aid casting, and generally are heavy or aggressive. A lot will depend on, as I have said, what you fish. But also what rod you fish. I have been considering the Barrio lines again. This is more for the fast action rods. The barrio lines are great, but they have quite a bit of stretch. But matched with a fast action rod this could balance out. Another line I am considering going back to is Cortland Peach. I have as said gone through a lot of lines over the past year or so. Quite a few have been fishing and casting really well. But never last. One of which is the Rio Single Spey. We have gone through 3 of these in a matter of 6 or 7 months. Asking and checking with most I meet on the waters, when I see a good line for memory. Which is very important to me, more than the cast. Due to fishing more naturals. A lot of people are fishing the Cortland Peach. A line I fished most, years ago. This is why I am considering this line. This is a bit long winded, You sort of got your answer. But I have a feeling I have just made choosing your next line more confusing. Sorry. I think the truth is there is no perfect line. But as we all have different rods, cast and fish differently. Line choice will always be different. Really nice to hear from you. Hope you get the line that suites you. Shaun.

[@50Squirrel]

@@shaunfishes101 Very much appreciated Shaun. I currently use SUNRAY PROLINE floating line but it has been discontinued (they have some inventory) so I’m looking for my next line. They have a new line coming out with floating line & backing already connected, no knots, we will see… I am disabled so I fish a stocked pond with rainbows from 2 to 10ish pounds. We fish mostly lures such as the humongous so delicacy isn’t really an issue. I’ll keep looking & watching.

[@StephenBrown-hk9bp]

Great Content Shaun. New to Flyfishing at Age 59 absolutely loving it. Confidence can take a dent at times. Any advice would be grateful mate?

[@shaunfishes101]

I have to apologise for missing your comment. Cant be nice seeing every body getting a reply and you have nothing. Things for me over the last 5 months have been very difficult, and I have been unable to track the channel as I would like. Things then go amiss. Its great to hear of your enjoyment. Its can be a great pass time, so long as we dont get caught up in all the goof. Just go out and enjoy the moment what ever the result. Just remember there is no such thing as a magic fly. Ever pattern has its day. Numbers to us boys mean nothing. Confidence is key. When you choose a pattern. You pick this out because it gives you confidence. Maybe somebody has recommended the fly, so you have confidence to use it. Confidence in every thing you do will bring some success. One thing to understand when starting out. Its about the waters you may fish, and how it works. For higher success. Fish the catch and kill waters. These waters have a greater volume of stock fish. Stock fish will take more readily on a variety of patterns. The stock in these waters will vary depending on popularity. More fish out. more fish in. Catch and release waters. These waters have a higher percentage of resident fish. These fish are going to be more difficult. More often requiring to match the hatch as they say. But you will learn a lot more about fishing on these waters. We don't always match the hatch, but to have something close in size or colour. Or even how it moves. We most certainly prefer fishing for the resident fish. But then we have been doing this for a long time. Starting out. Going for the stock ponds is great. More likely to catch. Build your fishing skills, and most important, start to build your confidence. Sorry this has taken so long to get to you. Hope there is something in this that helps. Thank you for your comment. Tight lines Stephen. Take care. Shaun.

[@johnowen4888]

Garnffrwd have announced that they need a chef at the cafe........Steve and Sam need not apply 🤣🤣

[@shaunfishes101]

Brilliant John. The boys did see this, and had a laugh. Take care mate. Shaun.

[@samgriff7271]

Mine and Shaun’s cooking was great for the limited bits we had, but steve tried cooking the pizza in the box in the oven as he was t busy fixing his net 😂😂

[@mikearnopp9458]

Great video, are you fishing this weekend?

[@shaunfishes101]

Sorry Mike I know its a bit late. But no. I was in Portugal mate.

[@mikearnopp9458]

You didn't miss much, very little fish caught

[@SheLovesMyLR-]

I’ve got a feeling that this trip will be your last after the way you threw all that food in to the cottage, very disrespectful to the owners and it shows how much you all care about other peoples property

[@shaunfishes101]

Great comment, and yes if this is how we would normally treat other peoples property we would deservedly get thrown off. But this was a set up for the video. The only damage done was to some of the food. I can assure you by the time we left they would not even require the cleaners. Like I said great comment. Its good to know people like your self understand respect. Thanks. Take care. Shaun.

[@SheLovesMyLR-]

@@shaunfishes101 great reply, but there’s no way that’s a set up for the camera, you can’t fake someone laughing that hard for the sake of a video

[@shaunfishes101]

@@SheLovesMyLR- The laugh was down loaded and edited in. The same as you would hear on the tv during a comedy sketch. I will take this as a complement for good editing. Thanks

[@SheLovesMyLR-]

@@shaunfishes101 I don’t mean the pathetic screech, you can clearly hear you all laughing