Game Fishing

Fishing for Trout, Salmon, Grayling and several other species (mostly abroad) is known as Game Fishing.

There are several methods which include fishing with: Flies, Lures and live baits.

I was introduced to Fly Fishing way back in 1984 at a large fishery called Peckham's Copse Fishery, which back then comprised of ten lakes. Two of these were given over to Trout Fishing (fly only).

Since then, I have fly fished for most British fish species including Trout, Salmon and Grayling. I much prefer fishing natural imitations that mimic the actual fly as realistically as possible.

Flies come in such an enormous and ever increasing range of designs. There are some basic types (see below) into which there are so many different categories and designs that it's impossible to show them all here. But I'll do my best.

Fly images, kindly provided by Flies Online

Salmon & Sea Trout Flies

 

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Trout Fly Types

 

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Spinners, Lures and plugs are also another highly productive method for game fishing.

Fished at all depths and speeds in still or moving waters including streams, rivers and estuaries.

Takes can be very aggressive followed by an explosive fight. These lures are also really good for Pike, Perch, Mackerel, Sea Bass and other predators

Lures and Spoons

 

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Also a very productive method for game fish is live bait. Worms, Prawns, Fish

Fished at all depths and speeds in still or moving waters including streams, rivers and estuaries.

Catching salmon with worms is a tricky thing to do. It's a skilful method that requires practice, and intimate knowledge of the water. Knowing how much weight to use and exactly where to fish your bait will make the difference between blanking and catching.
You need to add as much weight to just allow the worm to bounce along a little slower than the current. Using a bored bullet that can slide freely will allow a fish to take the bait with less resistance. Or a weighted jig-head can offer a very simple but effective rig.

Strong, sturdy hooks are required for salmon or you risk a straightened hook and some dodgy expletives.
Unwavering attention will make a difference too.

Cast upstream and once your weight has made it to the bottom, close your reel and hold your line in your fingertips. If you feel a stoppage of the weight, gently figure of eight the line. The weight will either free itself of the snag or you strike into your fish. Sometimes the bites are less subtle and a reel tap, tap can be felt.

Set the hook and you're off. Ensure your drag will allow for explosive runs. A good weight rod with a forgiving action will help. Don't be in too much of a hurry and don't give any slack line.

Hooking trout and other game fish are not so tough. You're far more likely to take a trout or greyling on worm than a salmon. All are great sport and you should use lighter rods, lines and terminal tackle for the gentler of the game fish.