Cinder Hill Trouting Syndicate

Report 09/2008

A final report from me at least, for 2008. I have attached the monthly returns for September and October, as they cannot be accessed by other means. As you will see the improvement was not particularly dramatic. Overall the first four months of the season were very good with returns at times of 2+ whereas the second half was poor to average. The overall catch rate was 64.5% which compares well with many other similar fisheries. No doubt, Peter Neaves, our stocking coordinator, in his report for the year, will highlight the highs and lows.

The lakes have received a fair flow of fresh water since the end of the season with one flood causing concern overflowing the top and bottom dams at Cinder Hill. To avoid further damage to the bottom lake we have had to remove the grill during the winter. Hopefully, not too many trout will disappear downstream.

Whilst a fair number of Brown trout were stocked towards the end of the season, only small numbers have appeared on the returns. Some discussion took place at committee as to whether we should have any catch and release at all. Your comments on this constant topic, to Rod Yuill, please.

Our constant threat, the cormorants have been in attendance, but they are regularly discouraged.

On a personal note, many may know that I have decided to stand down as Trouting Syndicate Organiser, from the end of this year. I have found that I have spent increasing amounts of time at the fishery to the detriment of my other fishing experiences.  When asked by clients, what other fishing is available, I find that I’m very limited in my knowledge of other fisheries in the south. Whilst I will remain a member of the syndicate and offer my services on the committee if wanted, I hope to extend my teaching and fishing experience in the future. I have served on the committee since 1994 and have been increasingly involved in the development of Cinder Hill Trouting Syndicate for the past 12 years.

From the comments above you will realise that we are looking for a new Trouting Syndicate Organiser. The role and title may be slightly different but the job entails; liaison between the syndicate and estate owners, working with the committee, informing the members, enforcing the rules, planning future development, organising ongoing maintenance work, including working parties and welcoming new members. It may suit someone recently retired or unemployed. You might like to have a chat with Rod Yuill our chairman or Robert Nathan our Treasurer.

Our next big event is the AGM, which is usually held in early February. On this occasion our committee and Syndicate Organiser are appointed. If you would like your say, please attend.

Seasonal greetings to all, tight lines

Brian Raw           09-12-08