FishPal Journal
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Chasing the Lady of the Stream: Grayling Fishing Opportunities Across the UK
As the salmon season draws to a close and autumn colours fade into the chill of winter, a new chapter begins for anglers who refuse to hang up their rods. The arrival of the grayling season marks one of the most rewarding times to be on the river — crisp mornings, low clear water, and the chance...
Fishing the Seasons: Autumn Edition – A Guide to Autumn Salmon Fishing
Autumn salmon fishing presents exciting challenges. Learn effective strategies and important considerations to get the most out of your fishing at this time of the year.
Is 2025 a Sea Trout Surge?
Header image: Courtesy of River Don 2025’s Standout Story So Far has been the sea trout - with droughts, extreme heat, and mixed forecasts constantly teasing, the sea trout seem to percolate through regardless. Last year, sea trout runs were nearly non-existent in many parts of the country,...
Transitioning Fly Fishing Tactics: Welcoming Summer on the River
As we bid farewell to the brisk breezes (and the drought) of this spring and welcome the warmth of summer, the tactics and equipment we use for fly fishing must adapt to suit the changing conditions. Both salmon, brown trout and sea trout react differently to the warmer waters, longer days, and...
Enchanted by the fishing at Ballynahinch Castle
You cannot fail to be awed by your arrival at Ballynahinch Castle Hotel & Estate. It’s a magnificent stately pile in beautiful grounds. The welcome is homely and warm and we were soon huddled around the fire with a coffee talking with Kieran Laverty, the Activities manager, who has been at...
A South West Gem: Wild Fishing and Legendary Hospitality at the Arundell Arms
Discover prime spring fishing in the South West at the Arundell Arms. From wild brown trout and sea trout to rich angling history and top-tier guiding, this iconic hotel offers 22 miles of exclusive river access and an unforgettable fly fishing experience.
New on FishPal: Linked Accommodation for a Seamless Fishing Getaway
Picture the scene: you and a few friends are planning the annual fishing trip. The WhatsApp group is buzzing, ideas are flying, but one hurdle always slows things down—who’s booking the fishing, and who’s sorting the accommodation? What beats have decent places to stay nearby? Is it available? Cue...
Big Laxa: All You Need to Know to Fish One of Iceland’s Premier Rivers
Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking rivers in the world, and Big Laxá (Laxá í Aðaldal) in the north of the country is a dream destination for anglers seeking thrilling salmon action and dry-fly perfection for wild brown trout. If you’re thinking about planning a trip to this...
FishPal users raise over £27K for conservation and young anglers
Anglers using FishPal to book their fly fishing permits and accommodation have donated more than £27k to leading conservation and angling charities. Their biggest donation was over £8,000 to TweedStart, which gives young people hands-on experience in fly fishing, conservation and river stewardship...
The Allure of Spring, dreaming of Large Dark Olive Fishing
Written by: Stevie Munn “Character like a photograph, develops in darkness.” — Yousuf Karsh. At the time of writing, it is winter, the snow is battering against my window and my disposition at times like the passing days can be dark. Perhaps I do truly suffer from SAD or seasonal affective...
Opening Day on the Dee
The Dee shines again for 2025 with a fabulous turnout and opening Springers on the 1st Feb! Alisdair Ker of FishPal writes how his phone buzzed in his wader pocket to learn of the first fish. This year, I was lucky enough to be fishing opening day at Woodend, situated just upstream from...
1st February 2025 Tweed Opening Photo & Film Essay
We (FishPal) attended the Tweed Foundation's formal opening ceremony in Kelso on Saturday the 1st of February. The event was full of excitement, "bringing together anglers, conservationists, and the local community in celebration of this world-renowned river." Something only days like these can...
Tay Opening 2025: FishPal Photo Competition Announcing the Winners! 🎉
We’re thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s FishPal Photo Competition, showcasing the beauty, joy, and unforgettable moments of fishing across the UK and Ireland. After hundreds of incredible entries and some tough deliberation, we can now reveal the photos that captured the hearts...
Going for a Winter Wander: Rediscovering Your Local River
By Craig Somerville. There’s something magical about a winter wander along your local river before the fishing season begins. It’s a time to reconnect with the water, to breathe in the crisp, frosty air, and to let the anticipation of the season ahead build as the river reveals its secrets. Winter...
Fishing Season Dates: Celebrating the Start of the Salmon and Sea Trout Seasons Across the UK and Ireland
Discover the fishing season dates for salmon and sea trout in the UK. Adhere to these dates to avoid fines and contribute to the conservation of these amazing fish.
Explore Iceland’s Premier Fishing Destinations with FishPal
Iceland’s stunning landscapes and world-class fishing make it a bucket-list destination for anglers worldwide. Now, FishPal is excited to bring you an array of incredible fishing destinations in Iceland, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable catches. Whether you’re after big brown...
We’ve joined forces with Elveguiden! 🎣
FishPal and Eleveguiden are joining forces with immediate effect. We are delighted to announce that FishPal and Elveguiden are joining forces with immediate effect. The merger brings together the leading providers of online bookings and data for fly-fishing in the UK & Ireland, Norway, Sweden,...
River Spey 2024 Season: A Mixed Year for Salmon and Sea Trout
The Spey Fishery Board has released its 2024 season catch report, revealing a year of mixed fortunes for one of Scotland’s most iconic rivers. With a total catch of 5,341 Atlantic salmon and grilse, the season exceeded the five-year average of 5,009 and came close to the ten-year average of 5,333....
Q&A with FishPal Ambassador Lewis Hendrie: Journey, Tips, and the Future of Fly Fishing
We’re delighted to introduce Lewis Hendrie, the latest FishPal Ambassador. A seasoned fly fisher with years of experience and a deep love for the sport, Lewis has competed on the international stage, guided countless anglers, and is committed to conservation. We sat down with Lewis to learn about...
Fishing for Grayling at the Arundell Arms: A Timeless Angler’s Retreat
Nestled in the picturesque Devonshire countryside, the Arundell Arms Hotel offers not just a stay, but a full immersion into the art of fly fishing. As one of England’s premier fishing destinations, the Arundell Arms provides access to over 20 miles of pristine riverbanks, with grayling as the...