The courses are during the school holidays. Each session will cover different aspects of fly fishing and will include the following:- The tackle, "tackling up", common anglers' knots, the Roll Cast, the Overhead Cast, Fly Tying, Pond Dipping and Fly Fishing.

Places are limited so please ring Marton Heath Trout Pools on 01260 224 231 to reserve your place.

The cost of each session is £10 and this includes all instruction, tackle hire and fishing costs. This fee is payable on booking.

Dates of each course:-
Friday 8th June 9.00am - 12.00pm
Friday 24th August 9.00am - 12.00pm
October 1/2 term TBC

The courses will consist of a mix of short theory sessions in the lodge, followed by, practical sessions at the Waterside to allow you the chance to put the theory into practice. During the casting and fishing sessions you will be guided by members of The Salmon and Trout Association.

Please come suitably dressed for the weather, this may mean a fleece, wellies and waterproofs! Please ensure that you bring a hat and glasses. It is also advisable to bring a snack and a drink.

We hope that you will learn a little, catch a fish or two and hopefully...... take up the fascinating art of Fly Fishing.

For further details please contact Andy Taylor tel. 07736 453873 or email andy_g_taylor@yahoo.co.uk
www.flyfishingtuitioncheshire.co.uk

UK Marketing Manager Andy Charlton said;

"Only a handful on anglers in the UK have landed so many landmark fish, and we are absolutely delighted to congratulate Darren on his achievement. We hope he can notch up a 20th in the not too distant future!"

Commenting on the capture Darren said;

"This was my sixth night on the pit this year, and despite fish showing in front of me, nothing happened for the first 24 hours. I decided to stay put, as I knew fish were in the area, and boy was I glad I did!

"At around 10pm that night I received a screaming take that resulted in me sliding down the bank to my rod, due to the recent rain. I then had to jump into the lake as the fish decided to kite into a bay to my right! After a very hard fight of over 20 minutes she was in the net. I was soaked, covered in mud, but over the moon."

Darren was fishing over 3 kilos of 20mm cell boilies using the new Rigmarole Skinfull hooklink, free fall lead system, and Greys 3.25lb TC Torsion rods.

Andy Bell and John Parkinson tied for second place with 4lb 10oz, and Scot Lister was fourth with 4lb 9oz - in a very tight match.

Most of the leading weights were made up with bonus Skimmers caught on feeder tactics, although there were a few fish to be found on the long pole. Dave Coster caught a near specimen sized Roach of 1 lb 12oz on the pole as part of his 3lb 9oz 5th place bag.

League Placings:

1: Malcolm Wilkinson, 38 points

2. Dave Coster, 32 points

3. Scot Lister and Andy Bell, 29 point.

Now, I would class myself as quite normal (although I know plenty that wouldn't!) in the fact that a lot of my fishing is based around quick nights, sessions of maybe 12 hours fitted in around work commitments, so my views on bait are going to differ greatly from someone who has time to fish longer sessions of a few nights at a time.

Generally I like to keep it simple and for the most part I am using straight boilie. Now just a quick tip here... if you are just getting into your Carp fishing something that I see way to many people doing is buying a different bait week in week out, especially if they don't catch on it during the first session. Baits WILL catch fish and the way I look at it is you are best to pick a bait, do a bit of research beforehand, and maybe ask at your local tackle shop to find a one that suits you and the waters you are fishing.

Stick with your bait. This will help you in so many ways. First is the fact that you build confidence in the bait and once you have caught a few fish it's one less thing to worry about - you know it works so you just need to focus your efforts on finding the fish. Secondly you have the added bonus that if you are targeting a single water for the season, by staying on one bait you're steadily building the fishes confidence. Finally, once you have decided on your bait you can actually save a fair bit of money by buying in bulk, either directly from the supplier or from your local shop. Working in a tackle shop I see just how often anglers end up confusing themselves by changing bait all the time.

So back to my baiting approach at this time of year. I will always try to find the fish and as time is limited on these short sessions I want to get as close to them as possible. The last thing I want to do is turn up and whack 5 kilos of boilies on their heads or spod it to death, as on most waters they are not going to hang about!

So assuming that I have found a couple of fish showing and dropped in a swim where I can cast to them, I will keep the baiting to a minimum as I'm looking to get a bite as quickly as possible. The fish are already there so you shouldn't be looking to attract them into the area. You just want them to spot a light snack nearby and in situations like this every freebie out there is reducing the odds of your hook bait being picked up. I usually start with 20-30 baits in the area - a nice spread with a throwing stick - which I see as just enough to create a bit of visual impact, but not enough so they can be too fussy about what they are picking up.

I always try to bait up when I'm leaving in the morning, because this is where you can really improve your chances for later when you return. If you have caught it definitely pays to get some bait out there to hopefully keep them visiting the area, and build their confidence, so when you are next fishing you stand a much better chance. It's exactly the same as when people are fishing long sessions and rest the swim... you have bait down there but no lines in the water so the fish can feed freely throughout the day. I like to look at limited time as a bit of an advantage over long stay anglers.

Fishing like this you can really make the most of a short session. Your bait is working for you whilst you are away and you can build a swim up over a few days. If you haven't caught during the night there is always the chance to prime another likely looking area to give you a starting point for your next session.

Another option on short sessions is single hook baits, and generally these will be bright and smelly to attract attention. I'm sure you will have your own personal ‘blank savers' that always get chucked out for the last couple of hours if you haven't caught.

One method that proved to be quite successful last spring, on a club water close to home, was fishing food baits as singles. At first it was something that took a bit of getting used to as a fairly dull boilie in the middle of nowhere doesn't sound the most likely way of getting a bite. But if you think about it there will be literally thousands of single stray boilies finding their way into lakes, whether it be a poorly aimed bait with a throwing stick, spod spill, or a flicked hook bait in the edge at the end of a session. The fish will come across these little tidbits all the time, so a single food bait will be quite a natural occurrence. On pressured waters the bright ones are often more readily taken.

That pretty much covers my spring baiting. The emphasis is on finding the fish, keeping bait levels low, and fishing for a bite at a time. If I have a quick look in my bait bucket now there is a couple of kilos of 16mm Edge boilies, as I'm going to be putting a bit in at the end of the session. A tub of matching cork ball pop ups, a couple of tubs of bright pop-ups in various colours, and a tin of tigers just in case! Not loads of bait but a couple of different options for hook baits if I want to have a bit of a change around.

As a side note I have just returned from a short overnighter and the tactics outlined above proved successful. My right hand rod screamed off at 4am, fished with 20 baits scattered around with a throwing stick. The result was a chunky common of 31lb 15oz.

Richard Chapman

Find out more about academy member, Richard Chapman.

Read more from Mark Holmes

What's the most thrilling way to fish you can imagine? For some it would be free-lining a bait to large Carp at close quarters; others would picture a float cast among bubbling Tench, or the sudden rush of a Pike hitting a lure. Like many other anglers, it's sight fishing that gets me every time. To spot a fish and trick it before your very eyes- now that's exciting stuff. It's heart-stopping enough with bait, but have you ever considered casting a fly into the mix?

For too long, we've been fed the same old bull about flyfishing. It's a fussy art form, enjoyed by rich old men and the bloke from that stupid Yellow Pages advert, reserved for exclusive Trout and Salmon Waters, right? This is of course, (as JR Hartley would almost certainly not put it- even if he were a real person) complete and utter rubbish. Fish of all species will take an artificial fly. It's a refreshingly simple, subtle and deadly way to fish. Anyone can do it and it's awesome fun.

The only mystery is why we don't already cast flies for Carp and Chub, Roach and Dace on a more regular basis. We take great trouble to wean the fish onto our baits- and yet their natural diet is all around us. From the most featureless little pond to the biggest river, fish gorge naturally on bloodworms, midges and mayflies; shrimps, snails and nymphs. Anyone who has looked across the surface of the water on a mild evening will have seen those telltale rises and swirls. The fish are not, contrary to belief, doing this to wind you up; they're just doing what comes naturally. You can curse them as you sit twiddling your thumbs- or grab a box of flies!

With a fresh approach and some suitable artificial flies, a new world opens to the coarse angler. A more intimate world, where our clues come from the water itself and you get that addictive buzz of tricking fish into mistaking your offering for a living thing. And that's just the take itself- nothing bends quite like a fly rod and even a modest fish will show its strength and agility to the full.

Starting Points

The chances are there are already plenty of waters near you that will respond to the fly. But where is the best place to start? 'Flyfishing for Coarse Fish' has been quite an adventure- and you'll even find species such as Tench and Sander in its pages. It's all possible, all good fun- and probably enough to make some of the godfathers of fly fishing turn three-sixties in their graves. Or perhaps not? Look through the history of the sport and anglers from Izaak Walton to Dick Walker knew all about the deadliness of flies for the species we tend to target with maggots, pellets and floats. It's hardly rocket science that coarse fish eat nymphs, bugs and flies. They weren't just sat there waiting for you to dump in half a stone of pellets or boilies.

Some fish are easier than others however. I would make no hesitation to recommend a light outfit (say something in the 8-9 foot range, in a 4-6 weight class) and a crack at one of the smaller, free rising species out there. You'll catch even on murky day ticket pools when the fish are browsing near the surface- but clear, natural waters are better.

Roach and Rudd would be right near the top of the list for some excellent, accessible sport. Many Trout flies are rather big, but try small dry flies or nymphs in the 14-18 size bracket and you'll find both these species willing takers. Make things easy for yourself at first by finding visible fish and casting where you can see the action as it happens. It's great fun to watch a fly stolen off the surface, but slow sinking wet flies fished in the top two feet can be deadlier still. Try small spiders or light buzzers.

Chub are another obliging species. You could try running weighted nymphs through those swims you might usually trot with maggots- but the real highlight is warm weather sport with bushy dry flies. Provided you can get at the fish without spooking them, a well placed hopper, sedge or even a daddy longlegs will be snaffled by a big mouth in an instant.

It might be slightly less natural, but the other alternative is to tackle Carp with 'bait' flies resembling mixers or bread. Purists might scoff, but it's great fun- rather like free-lining, but even more versatile and entertaining.

It's Easy to Fly!

It amazes me how many anglers still assume you need fancy kit, weeks of casting practice or a knowledge of insects to rival David Bellamy in order to fly fish. You don't need a £500 rod - and in fact many perfectly good tools are available for a small fraction of the price (a 4 or 5 weight rod in the Greys G-Series range, ideal for Roach, Dace and Chub, could set you back less than £65 for example). A basic floating fly line, some leaders and a handful of suitable flies and you're away.

The casting itself takes a little getting used to, but with a little practice anyone can do it. After all, you didn't cast effortlessly with a fixed spool reel the first time now did you? It can help to go with a more experienced friend though- or book a guide for half a day to get you started on the right foot.

The flies themselves need hold no fears either. Yes, it's helpful (and hugely rewarding!) to discover the world of bugs and insects living in and around the water. But with a few tried and trusted all-rounders you'll soon be getting takes, and with this in mind, the book contains a huge range of favourites, old and new.

In fact, many of the basics you already know from your existing fishing also apply to fly tactics: find the fish, don't spook them and present something that looks worth eating in a natural manner.

Before you know it...

The more you think about it, the more fly fishing makes perfect sense for tempting coarse fish. Unlike an exclusive game river, it's cheap. It's stealthy too and you can travel extremely light (if you're used to bringing the kitchen sink, you'll be overwhelmed by a new sense of freedom!). It's also something subtle and different; don't be too surprised if you get that guilty pleasure on your local waters at the discovery of a deadly method hardly anybody else is using.

Ok, so I'm biased- but a book like 'Flyfishing for Coarse Fish' is long overdue. The aim is to take the mystery out of the whole process, with stacks of helpful tips and over 60 tried and trusted fly patterns. Virtually all your favourite species get their own individual chapter, with tackle, tactics and inspiring pictures.

That said, there is massive scope for adventure and discovery. Even in our current age of information overload, this is genuinely fresh and exciting territory. It's not about fashionable baits or readymade rigs, but an utterly absorbing way of getting to know the waters and fish species more intimately. Who knows where it might lead you? From giant Perch and snail-crunching Carp to the bordering-on-insane efforts of Bob James to land a catfish on the fly, it's all there to discover. You can try for any species and copy virtually any living prey item. Fly fishing is no longer for rich boys and exclusive game waters only- everyone is invited and the only limit is your own imagination. Let's fly!

Domonic's book, 'Fly fishing for Coarse Fish' is out this May from Merlin Unwin Books (RRP £20). This full colour hardback is packed with beautiful photography, unique flies and a wealth of information on all the major coarse fish species. For more info, articles and fishing exploits from Dom Garnett, visit www.dgfishing.co.uk

Why cast a fly for coarse fish?

-It's great fun! The action is ultra visual, and the fight of even a modest fish is terrific on fly tackle.
-It's naturally deadly. Fish already know exactly what flies and nymphs are. And with no floats, leads or feeders to spook them, you can trick wily fish.
-It's light. Are you tired of carting about loads of gear? With just a rod, a net and a handful of basics, you're free to roam.
-It's cheap. Once you have a basic set up, there are no bait costs and fishing for coarse species is usually far cheaper than trout or salmon.
-It's personal. Get to know the life in your favourite waters better. From the different nymphs, flies and bugs present to the habits of the fish themselves, there's so much to discover.

At this time of year we're all waiting for the Tench to turn on. The winter hiatus comes to an end, air and water temperatures star t to rise, and this triggers a thrust of spring feeding from a multitude of fish. In previous years April and May have always been the 2 months I've experienced the best Tench action, and the change from dormancy to frenzy can be as instant as flicking a light switch. Nevertheless, there are a few general weather conditions to look for that should help you optimise the time you spend targeting these beautiful creatures.

I'm a firm believer that wind direction and barometric pressures have the greatest effect on whether or not fish feed properly. A settled period of weather will ultimately lead to the best chances of catching, with my preference being westerly winds accompanied by a stable or rising barometer. As long as the conditions remain unchanging you're in with a great opportunity to catch. On a recent trip to Norfolk's Kingfisher lakes the air temperature changed from 14 to 5 degrees in the space of 50 road miles, the wind direction moved by the hour, periods of cold rain were followed by shorter, warmer periods of serene calmness, and the Tench simply disappeared. It was hard to believe there was a single fish in the lake.

Presuming that conditions are good I'd hope to see fish on targeted water. Tench like to roll, and this is often a sign of them feeding. Early morning is usually the best time to witness this, although it can happen right through the day when they are ‘on'. As with all specimen angling it really is a case of location, location, location - if you can find the fish you are far more likely to catch them. Try to fish into the wind if possible, because the Tench like to follow it, and don't be afraid to change swims if you're there for a couple of days and things aren't happening.

Once Tench start to feed they really aren't too difficult to catch, but there are a couple of baits I would never be without. Casters are my first choice with live red maggots coming a close second. Be prepared to go through a lot of bait if the fish are feeding well. It's very easy to go through a gallon or more of bait during a busy Tench session.

To start a session I like to have a quick feel around with a marker float to look for any bars or patches of gravel - this is often where the fish will patrol and feed - but don't overlook the marginal shelf, particularly on gravel pits, because Tench love to feed close in. I put out 7 or 8 spods to start with, using a mixture of caster, hemp and frozen red maggots. Freezing maggots is a great tip... just pop them in a sealed freezer bag inside your freezer. I use frozen maggots as feed because they don't move or bury themselves into silt. The next time you are fishing drop a handful of live maggots into the water and have a look after 10 minutes have passed... they will have all but vanished!

I use 1.25lb Prodigy TX Specimen rods with 12lb mono mainline, bite alarms and indicators. In-line 2oz maggot feeders are my usual approach, but I also like to experiment by using a straight fixed lead fished bolt-style. Hook lengths should be short - 3 to 6 inches of 10lb braid or mono with feeder rigs, and 6 to 12 inches with the fixed lead approach. I use size 10 hooks to which I hair-rig fake casters or fake maggots, both of which help to critically balance the hook. If I'm fishing a feeder it's filled with live maggots, but with the fixed lead rig I like to attach a small PVA bag of casters or hemp to the hook before casting.

It's important to re-cast every 20 or 30 minutes when using live maggots inside a feeder. Once the feeder has emptied it's stopped doing its job and it's up to you to make it work again. I also like to top up the swim with a couple of spods of casters every now and again - this can often act as a dinner gong, pulling fish into the swim. Bites are usually pretty decisive, and the fish mostly hook themselves.

Get out during the next few weeks, follow these fairly straightforward tactics and you should be guaranteed some great Tench action. Good luck!

UK Marketing Manager, Andy Charlton said;

"We've been looking for a talented young angler to join the ranks, and Richard fitted the bill perfectly. He's on the bank 3 nights per week and works really hard at his fishing. We are delighted that he has joined, and we look forwards to learning a trick or two from him!"

Richard was born in 1991 and has been Carp fishing since he was 12. He's based in Burton On Trent, where he works in a tackle shop. He's currently targeting a Nene Valley syndicate water that holds fish to over 40lb's, and has recently land a new PB mirror of 39lb.

Richard has already been featured in Total Carp, Advanced Carp, Crafty Carper, Big Carp, and The Session.

Check out Richard's blog.

Ian commented:
"This is not a casting movie, its a fishing movie also, I cover simple fishing tactics using some graphics to highlight key points in reading and fishing a salmon pool."

Click here to watch the trailer for Blue Charm the movie

The movie will be available to buy in July.

It has been sent to customers, included with leading fishing magazines and is now available as a download or online format from our website.

Don't forget to check the back page of the catalogue for an exclusive competition. 

Click here to find out more. 

This time the team compared 4-weight rods, they were looking for something quite particular, as Yellowstone's George Anderson explains:

"They must be versatile rods, capable of fishing a variety of techniques and flies. By no means am I a dry fly purist, so a good 4-weight rod is going to have to serve its duty doing a good amount of nymph fishing, and even chucking a leadeye or cone head streamer when conditions dictate such vile and desperate moves in order to catch nice trout.

"What I am looking for is that "Perfect 4" - a rod that can do it all, but above all, a rod that excels in accuracy and delicate presentations. The perfect 4 must be a great rod at distances from 15-20 feet right out to 60-70 feet, and be strong enough to handle windy conditions as well as have the backbone to chuck split shot or moderately large and heavy streamers when needed."

The Hardy Zenith 8'6 4wt came out on top, scoring an impressive 99 out of a possible 100 points. Here's  a short selection of comments from the review:

"This rod has a nice soft tip and this make it very easy to make short cast with just a flick of my wrist with little arm movement...I had complete confidence where the fly was going on every cast. The rod is so light that false casting all day would be a pleasant, effortless experience.

"At long range I could power up, using a double haul and throw extremely tight loops, even with the Trout taper line. The rod tracks so well that accuracy was superb. I also noticed that my cast timing with this rod was very quick. When you power this one up, it really zings them in there"

You can read full details of the Shoot Out methodology, along with detailed comments from the Yellowstone team on all the rods on test at the Yellowstone website. 

Tackle theives can often be caught at the point where they try to sell on the goods - if you have any information, or if you see reels at 'too good to be true' prices, especially in the Central Scotland area, please get in touch with Central Scotland Police or call  Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) to give information anonymously. 

This is the third year the magazine have asked experienced casting instructors Jim Curry and Gary Champion to test double-handed rods. During the test on the River Wharfe at Bolton Abbey, Jim and Gary cast with short and long strokes, and in the Spey and overhead styles.

They were looking for rods that were an all-round Salmon rod and offered a real alternative to a 15ft rod - including the ability to roll up a full sinking line.

The Hardy Zenith, Hardy Marksman2 T-Series and the Greys XF2 S-Series were all given a "Recommended" stamp by the testers.

In concluding the test results, Champion commented that "the line ratings printed on Hardy and Greys blanks were a very welcome and useful addition" and recommended the Hardy Marksman 2 T-Series as a great all-round 14-footer that is a joy to cast with and would be a pleasure to own."

Curry added that "the boys from Hardy & Greys have really hit the mark" and the Marksman 2 T-Series "felt like a trout rod in my hand, but threw long casts when required with pin-point accuracy - it's the most user friendly rod on test".

But it was the Hardy Zenith that really impressed Curry: "Casting it was like turning up with a gun to a knife fight! It has left a big impression on me: It's seriously powerful and capable - in the right hands - of staggering line speed."

To read the full test results including detailed comments on all the rods, download the PDF.

Hosted at the Hilton Dunkeld House Hotel in Dunkeld, Perthshire the course is structured to suit all levels of Speycasters from the absolute beginner to more advanced anglers.
Delegates will also get to fish, casting for late spring Salmon, on the exclusive 2 mile beat of the River Tay.

Anglers can either use their own equipment or Gary can supply Hardy tackle at no extra cost.

Total cost for the course including Tuition, Fishing and 2 Nights Dinner B&B in the Hilton Dunkeld House Hotel is £499 per person. Extra nights and rates for non-angling partners are available. Please ask for details.

For more information or to book, please contact:
Tel: 07736379104 email: sjpfurniss@btinternet.com

Read more

As well as working closely with our product development team, Ian runs a salmon fishing agency, using his extensive knowledge of the Spey, Dee, Deveron and Findhorn to acquire and arrange top quality salmon fishing on some of the best and most famous waters, with a focus on managing both the time and expectations of anglers.

With over 30 years Experience, Ian specialises in:

• The provision of bespoke fishing packages focusing on the requirements and expectations of his customers
• Providing detailed information on when, where and how to fish Scottish Rivers
• Unsurpassed Fly-Casting and Salmon Fishing Instruction
• Your corporate events

Ian has availability for single and multiple rods during the following weeks:

River Dee

3 Days Fishing & Casting with Ian - Lower Invercauld March 26th - 28th.
4 Days prime spring fishing - Lower Blackhall River Dee 28th - 31st March.
3 days Hosted fishing with Ian - Lower Invercauld 12th 14th July
3 or 6 days Hosted fishing with Ian - Lower Invercauld W/C 23rd July
3 or 6 days Hosted fishing with Ian 10th - 15th September - Monaltrie and Lower Invercauld

River Spey

2 days fishing - Beat 2 Brae Water 20th - 21st April
3 days fishing on the Brae Water - 14th - 16th May
3 or 6 days hosted fishing with Ian - Brae and Gordon Castle 30th July - 4th August
3 days fishing Gordon Castle Water 13th - 15th August
3 days fishing Brae Water 13th - 15th August.
5 or 2 days fishing with Ian - Gordon Castle 27th - 31st August
3 days fishing Brae Water 20th - 22nd September

Find out more an book now - visit www.speyonline.com

Read more

------------- 17 Jan 2012 ---------------

Exclusive fishing, art and tackle is available in the WILD TROUT TRUST CHARITY eBay AUCTION 2012, including a limited edition Jubilee reel.

The Wild Trout Trust's annual eBay and postal auction will take place between March 5th and March 15th 2012.

The money raised in the auction supports the Wild Trout Trust‘s excellent work in delivering practical advice and habitat improvement projects with clubs and owners, as well as programmes such as Trout in the Town and sea trout projects in East Anglia and on the South Coast.

The auction is packed with around 200 exciting lots to suit all pockets and interests, including shooting, artworks, books and tackle as well as fishing. Guide prices start from £15.

The star lot is a Hardy Jubilee reel. One of a Limited Edition of 250 reels commemorating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, the 140th anniversary of Hardy Bros., and marking 100 years since the introduction of the ‘1912 pattern check'. The funds raised from the sale of this reel will be used to support the restoration of the River Dibney in Northern Ireland via the River Dibney Conservation Trust, a community-led group committed to involving young people in caring for and restoring their local river.

Fishing lots range from the very best of the Wessex chalk streams to wonderful wild trout fishing in rivers and lakes throughout the UK. Much of the fishing is exclusive and donated by private clubs and syndicates and amny lots include guiding by professional guides, river keepers and fishing writers or by enthusiastic and knowledgeable club members.

Lots donated by Hardy & Greys Academy members include:
Jeremy Lucas, River Eden
Howard Taylor, Hampshire chalk streams
Ian Hockley, casting lesson and fishing at private lakes in Oxfordshire
Stevie Kennedy, fishing on Strangford Lough.

The fishing extends beyond the UK to sea trout fishing in Patagonia and bone fishing in the Caribbean.This is a superb way of booking your perfect fishing break and donating to an excellent cause.

Unique collectable lots include a prototype hexagraph salmon rod, developed and owned by Hugh Falkus, an an exquisite image of trout head in pewter, gold leaf and brass by artist Sam McDonald and flies tied by Oliver Edwards and John Goddar.

For the auction catalogue, postal bid form and link to the eBay auction, visit www.wildtrout.org
For a paper catalogue call 023 9257 0985 or email the Wild Trout Trust office

PICTURED:

Hardy Limited Edition Jubilee Perfect (Face)

Secret Stream: John Pearson

Trout head in pewter, gold leaf and brass by artist Sam McDonald

Upper Itchen in May

Hardy Limited Edition Jubilee Perfect (back)

Wild Trout Trust Logo

The book covers strategies for reading the fish, choosing effective flies for each situation, selecting the right tackle, honing your casting and presentation techniques, tricks for feeding the fish, critical advice on how to set the hook, the secrets to fighting tarpon efficiently and quickly.

The book also features plenty of stunning photography and in depth interviews with renowned professional tarpon guides and rabid anglers-a veritable "who's who" from the world of tarpon fishing.

This epic volume would grace the coffee table of any angling enthusiast and has already caused great excitement among those who've read it, with comments including:
"This book is the most technical and up-to-date book about how to catch giant tarpon with a fly rod. It is a master class with no short cuts. Andy's knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for the sport shine brilliantly." -Lefty Kreh

Andy Mill first became world-famous as an Olympic downhill skier known for his speed and daring. For eight years, Mill created and produced the Sportsmen's Journal television series for the Outdoor Life Network. A lifelong angler raised in the Colorado Rockies, the author has spent the last two decades in furious pursuit of tarpon on the fly. He has applied his stamina and grace as an athlete, his intense ability to focus, and his exceptional instincts as a hunter to reach the pinnacle of this exciting sport. Mill has won a record 11 tarpon tournaments-and is the only fly fisher to ever win a tarpon, a bonefish and a permit tournament. He divides his year between Aspen, Colorado and Boca Raton, Florida. This is his first book. Andy is also a consultant for Hardy & Greys helping with product development and testing, and was a key influence in the development of the Hardy SINTRIX Proaxis high performance saltwater fly rod. 

Andy is a passionate predator angler who travels all around the country for his predator fishing fix. He can be found Jigging for Zander on tidal Rivers, ledgering for Pike on the Fens, or even chucking Pike flies on the reservoirs.

Marketing Manager, Andy Charlton said;

"We are delighted to officially announce that Andy Black has joined our existing Coarse Academy to help us push the predator focused Greys Prowla brand. Andy brings a huge wealth of knowledge to the table and I'm extremely excited by the prospect of working with him".

Read more about Andy

Along with the new Marksman2 rods, the full range of Zenith Sintrix rods will be on display (and available to try before you buy) including the much anticipated Zenith double handers.

All this along with great offers, casting competitions and many more activities make this a weekend not to be missed.

Find out more at the GAC blog

This course is designed for both newcomers to the sport and those who taken it up recently and need to learn more about fishing for Salmon. If you have never done it before or you have trouble covering the river effectively this is course for you.

We will be covering a range of Salmon topics over the 3 days and you will be fishing the river with all the casts we will show you.

Download the attached Word document for full details.

You will also find Stevie at the meet and greet area with angling personalities incusing TV's most famous angler John Wilson.

Alongside the casting demos, the show will feature talks, the Interactive Youth Zone, cooking demos, top fly tying demos, and free casting and fly tying lessons from APGAI-Ireland. There's something every angler and angling enthusiast.

Hardy, Greys and Chub fishing tackle will be available via the show's trade stands.

Find out more about the show on the Ireland Angling Show website. 

Stevie was among only two Europeans asked to give a fly casting clinic at this high profile event and was interviewed by Argentine T.V and sampled the fishing on the World famous Rio Grande River. The other was top caster Danish caster Henrik Mortensen. The show was a great success with Stevie showing fly casting with Hardy rods and reels which the local guides and anglers also tried and enjoyed. Stevie would like to thank all involved with this marvellous event and hopes he can return.

The second part of his trip Stevie stayed at The Estancia Despedida lodge, hosted by Danny Lajous and Ozzie, this is where Stevie landed his biggest ever Sea Run Brown Trout which tipped the scales just over 24lb, taken on a fly given to him by his show interpreter and now friend Jorge Luis Calvo Laubli or Tato for short.The deadly pattern was a Black & Red Articulated dressing.

Stevie tells us the Despedida Lodge is "lavish and relaxing" set in a beautiful wilderness with not only fishing on the Rio Grande but also the beautiful rivers Rio Menendez and Rio Mc Lennan. Stevie said Danny and Ozzie are the ultimate lodge hosts: "Their kind nature coupled by a rich fishing knowledge made me feel right at home. As the only owner-operated lodge on the Rio Grande, Despedida has the comforting feel of staying with your fishing family.

"Danny's son Tommy and his friend Jorge are fantastic guides with an uncanny ability to find big fish that will take. Ozzie's entertaining conversation at the dinner table ranged from Argentine history to rock, Jazz and blues music to world affairs. Chef Oscar served excellent four course meals with elements of Argentine and European cuisine that were well-matched with best Argentine wines"

Stevie definitely will be back hopefully as a guest again to the show and also Despedida Lodge have asked him to promote and host trips to this wonderful destination to U.K and Irish anglers, so anyone interested in sampling this magnificent part of the world and its great fishing contact Stevie Munn by email

Read more

November was a quite a busy month for competitions at Woodford Fly Fishery. First up we hosted a fund raiser competition in aid of the TAFI Northern Ireland Commonwealth Fly Fishing Team, to help with the costs of travelling to Tasmania to compete in the Commonwealth Fly Fishing Championships in February 2012. This is the first year that a team from Northern Ireland has taken part in the Championships. A total of thirteen anglers made the day and rose over £600, including a kind donation from Lee Beverland of Otterburn Trout Farm. Top rod on the day was Huw Morris with 5 fish for 205cm; Huw received a Greys GS2 fly rod which had been kindly donated by Greys Fly Fishing, Alnwick. Dundalk angler David McCabe was 2nd and received a Hardy Fleece donated by Campbell Baird, team captain.

Next up we had the Ulster Stillwater Bank Fly Fishing Championships. This would be the third year of the Championships and it is growing in popularity. This year had nineteen anglers competing to make the 6 man Ulster team. The fish where feeding very high in the water making the top tactic on the day size 16 dry flies! The crown of Ulster Champion went to Darren Haggan with 8 fish for 6760 points, in 2nd place was Brian Kerr with 7 fish for 5980 points, 3rd Campbell Baird with 5 fish 4720 points, 4th Stephen Allison with 5 fish 4520 points, 5th Gareth Morris with 4 fish 3740, 6th Gary Crothers with 4 fish 3620 points, reserve Harry McAteer jr. The team will compete in the Inter Provincial in Leinster for the chance to make the TAFI Ireland Team to compete in next years Four Nations International hosted by Wales.

To end the month we held Round 2 of the Woodford Greys Winter League. Twenty-eight anglers from across Ireland turned out to battle with the windy freezing conditions, with the changeable weather over the past week the fishing had turned a bit hard, meaning that the competitors had to work for their fish and a dropped fish would turn out to be very costly indeed. Most of the competitors started off on floating lines but within 30 minutes they had nearly all had changed to intermediate or fast sinking lines to try and find the feeding fish. As the day progressed the wind eased a bit and a few fish started to be caught but nobody was running away with it and by the final whistle no one had bagged up with their five fish limit but none of the competitors threw the towel in and gave up everyone of them fished to the whistle! Top tactic for this round was a black lure fished slowly on an intermediate line. Best bag on the day was three fish and only five anglers out of the 28 didn't catch including round ones winner. Five anglers had three fish with the best going to last years Champion Brian Kerr, 2nd Eamon McGoldrick, 3rd Lenny Magee, 4th John Kellegher, and 5th Joe Hughes.

Winter League Table Top 5;
1st Brian Kerr, 8 fish 327cm
2nd Joe Hughes, 8 fish 301cm
3rd John Kellegher, 8 fish 285cm
4th Ciaran Mellon, 7 fish 298cm
5th Lenny Magee, 7 fish 275cm

Over £1,500 was raised by the Northumbria branch of the Salmon & Trout Association (S&TA) at their annual dinner, auction and raffle on Friday 18^th November.

Hardy & Greys attended the event, held at the Britannia Hotel in Newcastle, and donated a Hardy Uniqua Rod as a raffle prize.

Following the dinner, International Fisheries Consultant, Peter Gray gave an informative speech prior to the raffle and auction.

Although the total amount raised at the event is yet to be fully confirmed, it is likely to be over £1,500 and will be used for the Associations' junior fishing days.

Hardy & Greys Marketing Manager, Steve Peterson said;

"The Salmon & Trout Association is a fantastic organisation and we are pleased to be able to help support them and our local branch."

On day 1, Cathal fished both pole and feeder from peg 7 on Rooves Bay to win the day with over 22kgs of Roach and Skimmers.

Peg 2, again on Roves Bay, was a favourable draw for the second day and Cathal made no mistakes. After a slow start on the feeder, he decided to concentrate on the pole where he caught over 320 Roach for over 20 kilos which was enough to win the day again.

Cathal's total weight of 43kgs was enough to win the two day match followed by Tommy Lawton in 2nd position with 33kgs and Charlie Greeves in 3rd with 28kgs.

Cathal said;

"This was my first time seeing this place and what a brilliant venue this is. Seemingly, two years ago there were very few Roach being caught and now the place is stuffed with them. In a couple of years the match weights are going to be phenomenal. The matches are very well run and you are made very welcome. Sincere thanks must also go to Duncan Lennox for sponsoring the event."

Amble SAC competition secretary Mr. Jim French said "We are very pleased that Greys are now the Amble Open sponsors. This has always been a very family friendly competition with juniors and ladies very welcome and the association with our local tackle company Greys will help us attract anglers to the area from far and wide."

Competition HQ and registration will be held at the Radcliffe club in Amble. Registration will open at 7:30am. Fishing from 10:00 am to 3:00pm.
Entry fee is £12 for all classes.

For more information, contact Amble Sea Angling Club

Visiting anglers to the show will have the opportunity to see some of the greatest Fly dressers from around the world practice their art , while champion fly casters will be available to demonstrate and advise on fly casting techniques and fishing tactics.

Last year's Irish Fly Fair was a fantastic success with over 3,000 visitors to the show, and the feedback was exceptionally positive, with many saying it was the best game angling show they have ever been to!

The tackle trade will be well represented at this year's event with even more trade stands than last year. Mara Media's Grace McDermott said:

"Building on the success of last year's show, where business was brisk, the 2011 show has attracted trade from all over Europe who are keen to come to Galway and exhibit to the market... vast amounts of tackle, outdoor clothing and fly tying gear...something for everyone!"

Returning to the show are angling celebrities Hywel Morgan, Glenda Powel, Stevie Munn, and Peter O'Reilly who will be demonstrating and advising on all aspects of fly fishing! We also would like to welcome our new fly casters, World Champions, Hans-Ruedi Hebeisen and Scott Mackenzie.

We also have tuition from APGAI-Ireland who will give free casting and fly tying lessons during the two day exhibition. Experts from the Inland Fisheries Ireland, The Wild Trout Trust, Dr Ken Whelan and many more will be hosting talks and seminar on various angling related topics.

New to the show, will be a "Youth Fly Tying Competition" giving the kids a chance to show the "Pro Fly Dressers" what they can do!

The Irish Fly Fair has already been hailed as one of the finest shows of its kind in Europe, a great weekend to meet up with old friends and make new ones! This show is a must for all Angling enthusiasts. Special rates for angling clubs and accommodation can be arranged.

For more details visit www.irishflyfair.com or http://anglingclassics.blogspot.com

Anglers can learn about Grayling and fly fishing for Pike, in this two day course which includes tuition and fishing on private waters in North Wales.

For more information or to book, please contact Gwilym direct (contact details below)

GRAYLING AND PIKE FLY FISHING WEEKEND WITH GWILYM HUGHES AND STEVE JAMES
TO BOOK PLEASE email ghughes2@btinternet.com or call 01490412731 or 07889423986

ITINERARY:

Friday 25th November 2011
Arrive at Dolgadfa for 5pm on Friday
Evening meal at 6pm followed by whiteboard presentation and flytying.

Saturday 26th November 2011
Breakfast 8.30am
9am Fishing Dolgadfa Private beat for Grayling.
12 30pm Packed lunch.
1pm Fishing Dolgadfa Private beat for Grayling.
4.30pm Dolgadfa
7pm To ‘Caerau Uchaf' for evening meal debrief re Grayling and discussion all things Pike fly fishing related.
11pm Return to Dolgadfa

Sunday 27th November 2011
8.30am Breakfast and vacate Dolgadfa
9.30am Pike Fly Fishing on a Private Mountain Lake ‘Caerau Uchaf'
12 30pm Packed lunch
4pm End of Course

Pricing structure:
4 Persons (Minimum) £270 per person all inclusive
5 Persons £246 per person all inclusive
6 Persons £220 per person all inclusive

 

Recently the Lexus Team final was held at Rutland water. John Horsey sent us this report:

The 2 days were very testing for the 126 anglers as we had cool winds and sun - always the hardest conditions for fly fishing for trout on our major stillwaters.

No fish were stocked into Rutland's 3,400 acres for 2 weeks prior to the Event, so "stockies" would not play a part in proceedings.

There were dozens of full International Anglers who had represented their country, and if there were fish to be caught; they would be the boys to catch ‘em!

We fished to a 4 fish limit, then all subsequent trout were landed and released unharmed - all released fish would count as 2lbs each.  Top individual rod on Day 1 was Martin Barrett who caught 10 trout.  Blagdon Flyfishers from the West Country were the top team on Day 1, with local experts Rio Masters 2^nd and Alba Orvis Flyfishers from Scotland 3^rd.

Day 2 was even harder, with Iain Earle of the Ospreys taking the Individual honours with just 5 fish.  The same 3 teams jostled for position on the 2^nd day, but this time, Alba Orvis Flyfishers topped the pile, with Rio Masters 2^nd - again! And Blagdon Flyfishers 3^rd.

When the results were analysed,  checked and then combined, the new Lexus Team Champions for 2011 were Alba Orvis Flyfishers, with Rio Masters 2^nd and Blagdon Flyfishers 3^rd.

Typically my own fishing commences on bread and butter waters such as canals, drains and slow rivers. Quite often these are Pike infested, but they can be fairly unappetizing on first glance. On the Somerset Levels, for example, you often find enough of a jungle beneath the surface to keep Tarzan himself happy. Thus the Pike still have plenty of cover and you could be looking at as much depth of weed as water. No need to panic however, a lure teased just above the salad is often enough to get a murderous response.

Fly fishing is another good option, especially if the Pike are slightly cagey. A floating line set up is best where weed dominates shallow to medium water. My own favourite patterns for the job are not too weighty, often incorporating buoyant deer hair so as to sink only slowly. This not only helps beat the weed, but you can allow a waiting Pike adequate time to have a go at the fly. The sight of a Pike fly hanging and twitching over shady holes and weed beds is a tantalizing one for both Pike and angler. If the heavens really open and kill the water clarity however, you may find yourself reaching for the bait freezer earlier than you thought.

I love to rove good distances in autumn, just as at any time of the year, for Pike. But this doesn't exclude the use of dead baits. Indeed, if the water carries some extra colour or you find it festooned with floating crud, a gently drifted bait can be exceptionally useful. For the past few seasons it has been a real eye opener just how deadly a suspended deadbait can be. Using a nice visible float such as the Prowla Supa Sight Dart, you can drift or trot a bait to cover lots of suitable territory.

First choice for this method would be a 4-6" Roach dead bait- although when the water looks less appetizing a smelly and brightly dyed sprat or other smallish sea deadbait can produce. Set the bait to fish mid water, just above weed growth. On a river, you can use the current- but a breeze or healthy tow will do just as nicely on canals and drains. The bites are instant and should be struck immediately. In fact, I often like to use just one fairly large treble for the task, the bait hooked through the back. A red bait flag passed onto the hook helps prevent losses, as well as adding an extra dash of colour.

Two things quickly dawn on you when drifting a deadbait suspended in midwater. Firstly, the Pike have no qualms about intercepting a bait fished well off the bottom (on a weedy drain this might be little more than 18" below the surface). Equally, you find that as the bait travels with the tow, you avoid much of that floating autumn debris which collects so readily on a static line. If you do want to try a more static approach however, it would be sensible to pop up the bait to keep it visible.

One final note is to keep an open mind and make full use of the time you have at your disposal. Once the days shorten substantially it becomes tricky to sneak out for a couple of hours morning fishing, but evenings can also see the Pike go on a killing spree, and it can be well worth trying an hour or so into dark after work. The Pike are often still lean and angry, having not had time to fatten up yet. But make no mistake, they'll be hungry. And with long range forecasters predicting a positively Siberian winter, it's time for fish and angler alike to make the most of autumn while it lasts. Happy fishing!

For more articles, photography and Dominic's lively blog, Crooked Lines visit www.dgfishing.co.uk

The culmination of the Hardy Tyne Fishing Festival will be a dinner on the evening of the Fishing Festival, Sunday 25 September 2011, at 7.30pm at the Hexham Mart function suite.  The dinner is not confined to those fishing on the day; indeed, it will be an opportunity for everyone including those who have not been able to fish to take part in the event.

For those who have been fishing festival rods, or on other parts of the river, we hope you have a fantastic day and that you are able to come to share your experiences.  Please bring your digital photos, as we have been given some wonderful prizes by our sponsors Hardy's of Alnwick for achievements on the river that day.  It will definitely be an entertaining evening, where like-minded folk can get together and discuss the day over a glass of wine and a nourishing dinner.

Our guest speaker is Professor Malcolm Newson, Director of the Tyne Rivers Trust, who will tell us all something of the science of the Tyne system and the work that the Tyne Rivers Trust does for this great river. 

Tickets excluding drinks are £35 per head, and tables are available for up to ten.  There will be a pay bar. The event is in support of a fantastic cause and we do hope that you will be able to come and support the Tyne Rivers Trust.

To confirm your attendance and the number of people attending, book your tickets through FishPal

The recent level of investment into the fishery and the site generally bucks the current trend which has seen many fisheries struggling and even closing due to the economic climate. Curley's is going from strength to strength.

For more information, visit the Curley's Fishery website or call 01204 691199 Alternatively you can email mike@curleysfishery.co.uk

Mike Roden is a full time, professional fly fishing instructor and river guide operating in the North West of England. Mike has been a fly fisher for the best part of 25 years before becoming qualified (, turning his passion into a full-time business.

Mike offers tuition for complete beginners to the more experienced of any age. Lesson content can be anything from learning to fly fish for the very first time or learning particular casting techniques for both single and double handed rods, to guided day excursions and mini-breaks, exploring the wonderful fly fishing opportunities in stunning countryside.

Read more on Mike's Academy page.

Hardy & Greys Team England recently took part in the Rivers International in Ireland. Team Manager Mike Tinnion sent us this report...

This year's home international was hosted by Ireland on the River Agivey, a tributary of the Bann. It proved to be the perfect venue for this type of event with lots of wild trout just about everywhere on all of the beats. With heavy showers rolling though all week the river changed in height every day but still fished extremely well.

Friday, the day of the match, saw the river at probably its lowest level of the week. A tight competition ensued as is often the case. With fifteen minutes of an hour and a half session left on "A" beat in the afternoon saw all 4 anglers with the same number of fish so one or two fish in the last 10 minutes really can make all the difference between that 1^st spot and a 4^th place.

 With the Ireland claiming first place, just pipping Wales, this was a popular result on home waters. England also just beating Scotland for 3^rd. Kieron Jenkins got a magnificent four first placings to take the Individual winning place, to crown this he also took the Mike Childs Trophy for the biggest fish home with him.

Once again, this proved to be a fantastic event fished in the true spirit of fly fishing and with all four nations winning this competition within the last 5 years it will be anyone's match next year when it moves to the mighty Tay in Scotland.

Read more about Hardy & Greys Team England

Pictures above:

John Emerson wading

Mike Tinnion netting a fish

Mike Tinnion with his catch

Ben Bangham and Scott Nellins with fish

Hardy & Greys team England are well into the free practises stage of the preparations for the 2011 World Fly Fishing Championships held in the Italian dolomites .

Although still high and coloured by snow melt caused by the unseasonable high temperatures that are reaching in excess of 40 degrees daily, the rivers are still producing good numbers of brown and marble trout as well as the occasional grayling.

Although challenging the rivers are productive and despite several duckings in the freezing blue water the team's spirits are high and all are looking forward to the final few days of free practises prior to the official start of the championships.
 

The Yellowstone Angler team pitched the Hardy Zenith against the Sage One in a new head to head test. Bottom Line: The Hardy Zenith, 2011 5-weight shootout winner, is still the champ! 

Here's what Yellowstone's George Anderson had to say:

 "In our latest 5-weight shootout for 9 foot 4-pc. Rods, the Hardy Zenith walked away with top honors in every single performance category and won handily over the second place Sage Z-Axis.  

At the time we were doing our 5-weight shootout, we had heard about the new Sage One, and we desperately wanted to get it into our shootout, but it was just impossible to get a production sample at that time.   We knew that any rod that was going to replace the terrific Z-Axis line must be good, but how good?  About two weeks ago we got our hands on a new Sage One in the 9 foot #5 model, that was headed to Labrador and big brook trout, but we were able to keep it for a couple of days.  

 We were anxious to cast the rod, but more importantly to be able to have enough time to do a little mini-shootout and make a direct comparison with both the Hardy Zenith and the older Sage Z-Axis the One will replace.  After an hour of casting all three rods head to head out on the lawn, we had some answers..."

 To read the full story, and find out the results, head to http://www.yellowstoneangler.com/SageOnevsHardyZenithandSageZ-axis5weightminishootout.asp

Due to a cancellation, Hardy & Greys Academy Member Finlay Wilson has availability for two to four rods to join party of 4 for a hosted trip to the beautiful Hebridean islands of Islay and Jura, off the west coast of Scotland.

The trip is Sunday August 21 - 28 for full week, or taking a part week (3-4 days) is also possible. The trip offers guided wild trout fishing in one of Europe's most remote areas in the north west corner for Jura, sea trout and salmon fishing in a spate river and loch and much more. Highlights will include a boat trip across Loch Tarbert then off in the gators to the north west of of the island where herds of wild goats, golden and sea eagles can be seen, to cast a line for quality wild trout in the countless, rarely-fished lochs there. We will also be trying for mullet on the fly in Loch Tarbert. To read more about what's posssible you can read a Trout & Salmon feature written by Finlay about Jura here: http://www.sportinglets.co.uk/pdf/JURA.pdf

Prices on request, anyone interested should contact Finlay Wilson on 01721 760 241 or 07791 696 129 or email finwilson@fishwild.co.uk

Find out more about Fish Wild www.fishwild.co.uk 

Click here to watch a video introduction from Hardy North America's Jim Murphy. 

The over all point champion will receive a Commemorative 100th anniversary C.C. de France hand crafted by Hardy master rod makers, Tom Moran and Callum Gladstone. Second and third place finishers will receive a Hardy classic fly reel. The winning caster's name will be engraved on the Tiffany designed "Hardy Bros. Cup" that will remain on display in the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum. An award ceremony will take place at 6:30PM on Saturday, August 6, at a complimentary barbeque hosted by Hardy at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum.

This annual event has been designed to share in the pleasures of casting bamboo fly rods. No fee or advanced registration required.

For complete details on scoring and handicaps, please visit www.cffcm.net

For one day only, the owners of fishing on the River Tyne have donated rods for anyone to take on 25th September. They are available through an auction on the Tyne Fishing Festival website and the money raised will go to The Tyne Rivers Trust. Given the time of year, the guaranteed water and the incredible run of fish Tyne has enjoyed in the last few years this has to be the best chance to buy a day's really productive fishing.

Some of the most exclusive and normally unattainable fishing on the Tyne has been made available and Countess Park (The Duke of Northumberland's water), Beaufront (Hexham Anglers Association) and Bywell are a few of the incredible beats offering fantastic fishing for the festival. There are lots that simply don't get offered on a commercial basis and this really is the only opportunity to take them for one perfect day.

If you had to pick a date for Tyne fishing then the 25th September is the peak of the peak. The busiest weekend of the year in catch terms it produced record numbers of salmon and seatrout in 2010. The fish will be backed up throughout the river from top to bottom; it is without doubt the key weekend. Furthermore there will be water. Northumbrian Water have guaranteed a release from Kielder Reservoir if required, effective that day.

The Tyne Rivers Trust is the research charity that works with all stakeholders to ensure that the Tyne catchment continues its meteoric success in terms of sustainable, environmental management for the benefit of the river.

There will be a dinner held on the night with prize giving and a gathering of like minded and hopefully story filled attendants. Further details will be available shortly.

Salmon fishing is, as we all know, about being in the right place at the right time. So give yourself the best chance. The place is Northumberland the time is 25th September 2011. For all information check out the website.

Want to tweet this? Use the hashtag #HardyTyneFest Tweet

The Advent rods are a collection of boat rods, with something to appeal to every boat angler, from the advanced Advent TE Multitip down to the Advent Boat. There are Jig and Bass rods too. 

Preview the Advent Boat range here

• Meet members of Team England and the Hardy & Greys Academy, who will be on hand to answer your questions and share tips on casting, fishing and of course tackle.
• See how a Hardy Bros split cane rod is made at our Cane Workshops - with master rod builders Calum Gladstone and Tom Moran.
• Bring along your Hardy or Greys reel for a free Mini Service
• See and try the latest products from Hardy & Greys, including our Hardy SINTRIX rods, and the Greys XF2 range.
• See casting demonstrations and take part in our casting clinic

For the non-anglers there is plenty more to see, with gundog and falconry exhibitions, gardening, conservation and nature, food and cookery demonstrations, 4 x 4 driving, and many family orientated features including quad biking, mountain boarding, aerial trekking, laser combat and many other fun activities can be enjoyed.

Advance tickets offer discounts on all categories of entrance tickets. Children under 10 and parking are Free. Special rates for groups, Senior Citizens and juniors up to 19 years. Tickets can also be bought on the gate (excluding Group).

With so much to see and do there is also heavily discounted tickets for multi day entrance. There's even a Caravan and Tent park for those who want to make a weekend of it.

For tickets and more information visit www.gamefair.co.uk and follow the Game Fair Bear on Twitter to keep up to date.

The next trip is in October 2011, and offers the opportunity to fish the mighty Fraser River, which constitutes the back-bone of one of the world's great salmon-yielding systems, comprising countless tributaries that have been spawning sites since time unknown.

Amid breathtaking scenic beauty you'll find yourself fishing the region's local rivers - the Fraser, the Chilliwack, the Vedder, the Harrison and the Chehalis - for Chinook, chum, Coho, pink (running every other year, including 2011) and sockeye salmon plus steelhead, trout and the massive sturgeon (the latter being catch/tag and release only).

There are few places left where you can genuinely be surrounded by superb fishing and stunning scenery. The legendary Fraser River system, which to this day remains un-dammed throughout its 850 mile course, ranks as one of the world's last great salmon producing rivers and still has no rival in its migratory salmon runs. There is no doubt about it sturgeon of all sizes are exciting - most adversaries leap upon feeling cold steel and 60-180lb. specimens are everyday catches on the Fraser and Harrison Rivers.

To find our more about this exciting opportunity, or to book, visit the Angling Classics website or email Stevie Munn.

 Normal Itinerary

This Year we are offering a deluxe trip with all meals but dinner.

• 5 days guided fishing, 8 night's accommodations, 10 day trip, Airport Transfers.
• Lunches for your fishing days,
• Return flights from UK/Ireland
• Accommodation Breakfast at hotel.
• 5 x 8hr day jet boat guided fishing
• Shuttle to and from fishing
• Rest day or fish the Vedder River
• Any tuition needed
• Most people like to bring their own gear but tackle can be hired at $20 per day

Advantages

• Fully qualified instructor
• Local knowledge of the area and river.
• Discount on all tackle for your trip bought at www.anglingclassics.co.uk
• Flyfishing guides on all boats
• Meeting like-minded anglers
• Breakfast at hotel & Lunches for your fishing days are included, most trips don't do this or charge extra
• Best Hotel in Area
• HAVING A GOOD TIME

Your angling adventures can also include
Improve on your fly casting techniques
Double Hand Traditional Spey and Skagit casting techniques
Single Hand Casting techniques
Tackle talk, the basics required
Learn how to tie fly leaders and attach flies
Importance of fly selection
Top Salmon fishing & Sturgeon fishing

Top Class Salmon Fishing With Top Class Guides, Hosted By A Top Class Instructor. The fishing is spectacular. The thunderous roar of the mighty rivers fills your ears, as you gaze up towards the sky you are greeted with breathtaking mountain views and towering formations of chiselled rock. Known as... The Great Outdoors!
Located just 1 hour east of Vancouver offering visitors a liberating and exhilarating experience.

Stevie Munn is a proud member of the Hardy Greys Academy, and The Game Angling Instructors Associations which comprise of instructors from around the UK and Ireland, who actively promote the best instruction service for anglers wanting to improve their technique. Stevie has been teaching game angling for many years and are devoted to fly angling at its best.

Testimonial:
"I can't say enough. You gave me the best fishing trip I have ever had. I can't thank you enough"
Robert Hayes

We use Registered Top Canadian Guides in compliance with Canadian Law

The rescheduled Hardy Fishing School Grayling Course went ahead the weekend of the 12th / 13th March 2011 just to end the winter Grayling season off. The four participants accounted for 25 fish in total to hand, 23 Grayling and 2 Brown Trout, all taken on Bugs the 'Peeping Caddis','Pinky' and the 'Rat', accounting for most of them, except one, which succumbed to a well presented dry 'Iron Blue Dun'.

On both days there was a show of Olives around lunchtime, and if it were not for the gusty cold wind accross and down the pools on both days, some more fun could have been had on the dries. All the participants fished well under sometimes difficult conditions. Of particular note is Arwel Thomas' catch of two Grayling, together on the same cast, two 'Rats' ifront of a dry fly,I doubt if Arwel will ever forget the event.

They took a good ten minutes to subdue before netting, and the new 9'6" 5# Greys Streamflex 2 Plus, played a vital role, the subtle give in the blank throughout the battle dealt with the task incredibly well, both hooks on the flies were almost straightened when the fish were netted !

Read more and see all the photos from the weekend at Gwilym Hughes' website. You can also find out about upcoming events and courses. 

The next course is 'DRY FLY / NYMPH COURSE'
The next course will be based on Dry Fly and Nymph fishing is scheduled for 1st / 2nd / 3rd July 2011. Places will be limited to 4 persons to ensure quality of instruction. Welsh National River's Champion Iwan Lewis will be running the course alongside Gwilym.
Based at ‘ Dolgadfa', Crogen Estate with the fishing on three ‘Private Beats' in the Upper Dee Valley. All enquiries to: Gwilym Hughes, E mail: ghughes2@btinternet.com

Pictured: Hirst Park Trout Ticklers junior members Alfie Comber, Kacey O'Grady, Jade Dixey and Harley Dixey receive the ADB Clubmark certificate and Greys GRXi 8' 6" #4/5 rod from Steve Peterson, Hardy Greys game and sea fishing marketing manager.

For more information visit the Hirst Park Trout Ticklers website 

The two AAPGAI instructors will also be joining AAPGAI Master, Stevie Peterson at Hardy & Greys Alnwick HQ where they will be teaching members of the Club various technical skills as well as performing casting demonstrations on the casting pool.

Fishing For Everyone Ladies Fishing Club Founder and Chairman, Lucy Bowden said;
"These guys are some of the best at what they do and we are privileged that they offered to hold an event for us. The ladies are all very excited about this event and I am sure it will improve both their skills and knowledge of fly fishing."

Stevie Munn is a Professional Angling Instructor/Guide from Co. Antrim in Northern Ireland. He has won many fly fishing competitions on Stillwaters and Rivers over the years including The Co. Antrim M.A.S Master Angler, seven times (a local record!). Stevie can arrange instruction and guiding and also packages in Ireland and Canada including the popular Hardy Academy fly fishing schools. Find out more.

Stevie Kennedy runs the Strangford guiding company, on his beloved Strangford Lough, Co.Down, which is Irelands largest sea lough. He guides and instructs in all aspects of saltwater flyfishing and is the third generation of the Kennedy family to have fished the fly in the salt water. He is a specialist in Seatrout but enjoys all saltwater species on the fly including Mullet, the Irish bone fish. Stephen can arrange instruction and guiding packages in Ireland including a flyfishing school on the Famous River Drowes and Lough Melvin. Find out more.

The Fishing For Everyone Ladies Fishing Club was founded in 2008 by Lucy Bowden and has since grown from strength to strength. The Club hold events all over the UK covering all angling disciplines and are dedicated to encouraging and promoting females into angling by holding all events in a safe and supportive environment. Find out More.

For more information on the show visit Hooked.ie or see Hooked Ireland's page on Facebook

Glasgow Angling Centre is having one of its famous open weekends on the 4th, 5th, and 6th of March 2011.  It's a time when they throw open the doors of their 30,000 square ft superstore and invite anglers from all over to check out all the latest modern fishing tackle,  and to rub shoulders with the most famous people in the sport.  

The Open Weekend is also a fantastic opportunity to learn loads by attending the many workshops and demonstrations which will be free for people to take part in.  Glasgow Angling Centre is also proud to announce that  David Bell and John Henderson of Hardy & Greys will be attending to help  and inform you about all the latest Hardy and Greys gear.  Ian Gordon, one of the Uk's finest Spey casters (and a Hardy & Greys Academy member), will also be attending and will be doing some spey casting demonstrations with the new Hardy SINTRIX range of rods.

So you won't want to miss that fantastic chance grab a bargain, mix with like minded anglers, learn loads from the best in the sport, and generally have a great day out at one of the UK's best fishing tackle events.

To find out more, visit Glasgow Angling Centre's Fishingmegstore website.

The Ireland Angling Show will be held on 12^th-13^th February 2011 National Show Centre, Swords, Dublin

This year's Ireland Angling show will be the first opportunity for Irish anglers to see and actually cast the eagerly awaited Hardy Zenith SINTRIX™ fly rods.

The Zeniths use Hardy's revolutionary new SINTRIX™ material which provides rods which are up to 60% stronger and up to 30% lighter. The SINTRIX™ or Silica Nano Matrix provides a medium fast yet silky smooth casting action which gives superb casting performance at extreme or short distance.

Cleeres Angling Centre from Clane Co. Kildare  are  an appointed Hardy  SINTRIX™ stockiest and will be attending and showing the range.

Hardy & Greys territory sales manager and Irish International fly fisher Tom Doc Sullivan and academy member Stevie Munn will be on hand to demonstrate and give advice on all Hardy and Greys products.

Also at the show will be the new Greys XF2 rod range which features the latest Stillwater, light line and even predator fly rods.

The new Greys GX500 and GX700 reels with their unique fly line identification system will also be on display.

For coarse anglers Hardy & Greys academy member and Irish International Cathal Hughes will be demonstrating his skills in the theatre and rig clinic.

Other Hardy and or Greys dealers attending include -  Ballina  Angling Centre, Belfast Angling Centre and Outdoor Experience from Portadow.

For more information visit the show website: http://www.irelandanglingexpo.ie/visitors/

Described by organisers as a "fantastic day out for everyone interested in The Great Outdoors", the event formerly known as the Spring Fly Fair will be held at Newark Showground,and is your chance to meet fly fishing manufacturers and retailers, and see world class flytying demonstrations.

There are alseo accessories and outdoor clothing, game and conservation specialists, big game fishing, bushcraft and safaris, alongside the thousands of shotguns and rifles on display.

Visit the Hardy & Greys stand to see and try all our new products including the Hardy Zenith and the Greys XF2 range, and get advice on everything from flies to casting from our expert team.

Advance tickets come at a discount and include priority parking. Visit the British Shooting Show website for more details and to buy tickets online, or call 01472 241 43.

Show features include: Flyfishing Arena, Gunmakers Halls, Airgun City Arena, Gamekeeping Hall, Arms Heritage Show, Gun Dogs & Scurries and a Clay Shooting Line.

Lots in this year's auction include Fishing trips across the world, Shooting trips and food hampers and other miscellaneous items. 

AST's Chief Executive Tony Andrews commented: "The thing about our new e-bay style auction is that the bidding really hots up in the last 5 days. The auction closes on St Valentine's Day and we want everyone to get involved in that 'feeding frenzy' of last minute bidding!"

Find out more and register to bid: http://www.atlanticsalmontrust.org/auction/ 

Greys Consultant, John Bailey has updated his Blog following a fishing trip to India.

Matthew Hill, from Gloucestershire, Andreas Schaefer, from Germany, Ian Lockett, from South Yorkshire, Dave Wilkinson, from Leeds, and James Slaughter from Hartlepool all correctly answered our question and were lucky enough to be picked out of the hat.

They were followed by Shane Samson, from Canada, who won an Angel Smuggler, and John Forbes, from Aberdeen who won a Marksman River rod and reel.

Our latest competition was won by Marko Seppänen whose Hardy LRH Lightweight rod and Featherweight reel are on their way.

If you've missed out here's what you need to do - register with our website (or log in if you're already registered) by clicking 'My Account' above. Make sure you tick Flyfishing as an interest, and then tick the box to let us send you email. Once a month, around the 20th, we send our Fin & Fly ezine as an email and this email has bonus content - including a link to our latest competition. We launch a new one almost every month...

Ever wanted to cast that little bit further or learn a new technique like Spey casting or the Double Haul? Why not use the expertise of the Hardy & Greys academy instructors on one of their casting and fishing courses in 2011.

Courses and venues have been chosen around the UK to provide not only excellent teaching facilities but great fishing also.

Numbers will be limited on each course to suit each venue and to ensure plenty of individual tuition from your instructors. Bring your own equipment or Hardy & Greys will provide all tackle required for the day. So whether your are a complete beginner , improver or just want to try a new type of fishing with some expert guidance the Hardy & Greys academy will be pleased to help and provide a great day out in some of the most beautiful parts of the country.

The Hardy & Greys Academy uses only experienced instructors qualified by the main instructor bodies including AAPGAI,GAIA and FFF.

Prices for the courses are yet to be finalised, but will range from £100 - £225 depending on the date and venue chosen.

For more detail and to book, please contact:

Steve Peterson, Marketing manager Game and Sea

Tel: 01665 511505

Mobile:  07730620416

speterson@hardygreys.com

Grace McDermott from the show's organisers (Donegal based company Mara Media) said that over 3,000 visitors came to the show over the two days, and added that feedback from visitors, exhibitors, casters and fly tyers has been exceptionally positive.

Business was brisk for the exhibitors, with reports of good spending on the products by the highly selective visitors.

Plans are already afoot for next year's event and Stevie Munn has been flooded with positive feedback, on his and Mara Media's ability to launch and run the first ever fly fair in Galway. See feedback at the Irish Fly Fair wesite.

Mara Media are now turning their attention to Ireland Angling Expo 2011 (www.irelandanglingexpo.ie), which is the national angling exhibition,covering, Game, Sea & Coarse fishing. This will be held at the National Show Centre in Swords on Feb. 12 & 13, 2011.

Pictured: Mayor of Galway City Michael Crowe opens the show, along with the David Dinsmore, editor of Irish Angler magazine, well know Anglers Charles Jardine & Stevie Munn, and model and actress Jenny Dixon.

From when the doors opened on the Saturday morning there was a steady stream of anglers visiting the Hardy & Greys stand to try the rods and find out more about the new technology.

Marketing Manager Steve Peterson said:

"As usual this show attracts some of the keenest and most knowledgeable fly fishers and I was very pleased to see the amount of customers who had already heard all about the new SINTRIX technology and were very eager to test cast the new rods."

Customers were all impressed with the balance and feel of the rods, general comments included light, fast , smooth. Many also commented that they thought the rods would be more expensive than their price tag and wanted to buy there and then!

Zenith freshwater rods will be available from February next year and the Proaxis saltwater from March in selected Hardy stockists.

SINTRIX™ is the trade-marked brand name for Hardy & Greys new composite rod material. The material was initially developed by 3M in the USA for the aerospace industry. 

SINTRIX™ is carbon fibre held together with a resin impregnated with silica nano spheres. This technology is brand new and produces a material that is significantly stronger and potentially lighter than traditional carbon fibre.

Read more at the Hardy SINTRIX Preview page

The GRX-S and Greyflex-S rods have become firm favourites among sea anglers looking for quality, power and a good price. Sea Angler's Paul Fenech brings you up to speed on why they are so good... 

Download the PDF to read the full review. 

Visit the Sea Angler Magazine website

This will be the first chance for the UK consumer to try the Zenith and Proaxis ranges which use the revolutionary new SINTRIX™ material which provides rods which are up to 30% lighter and up to 60% stronger than standard carbon. This huge advance in technology has resulted in rods with amazing feel and casting performance and is exclusive to Hardy & Greys Ltd.

The SINTRIX ™rods will be available from selected Hardy retailers in early 2011 but demonstrator models will be available to try from the Hardy & Greys stand.

From the newly extended Hardy cane rod building department Tom Moran and Calum Gladstone will be on hand to show and discuss the latest Hardy cane developments. Calum and Tom have combined sixty years experience in hand built cane rod and component manufacture. If you have yet to experience casting a cane rod or are already an enthusiast this is a great chance to talk to the experts.

Greys new XF2 rods will also be on display. This comprehensive range includes XF2, XF2 Streamflex, XF2 Streamflex Plus and XF2 Carnivore models.

In addition to rods, the new Greys GX300, 500 and 700 reel series will also be on show. The GX500 and GX700 cassette spools have Greys new line identification system.

More information on the BFFI

Hardy & Greys are pleased to be supporting ‘Fishing For Heroes' a charity that helps military veterans suffering from emotional or psychological problems relating to them having been involved in active service. The Fly fishing courses offered are a proven way to provide respite, relaxation and support that can help develop life skills which enable the veterans to help themselves in the future.  Fishing For Heroes intends to help show them that they are not alone and that their service for us was, and still is, appreciated.

Any veteran from any of the three armed forces, of either sex, can apply for help. Although the current campaigns are foremost in people's minds, veterans from any era or conflict are eligible.

Hardy & Greys are involved with the sponsorship of the Fishing For Heroes 2010 UK Still Water Trout Fishing Championship alongside principal sponsor Fly Fishing & Fly Tying Magazine. A series of nine regional competitions and a Grand Final, to be held at Lechlade Trout Fishery on the 21^st November 2010, are aimed at raising both awareness and funds for the charity.

For more information please visit the website http://www.fishingforheroes.net/index.php

Two days were held at Highgate Farm and items covered included safety, pond dipping, fly tying, knots and casting practice on grass. The third day was held at Tuddenham Lakes by kind permission of Norfolk and Suffolk Fly fishers Society.

Four fish were caught on the day in testing condition. In all eleven children took part with ages ranging from 7-14 years and judging by the feedback everyone had a great three days.

The participants all received a Greys GS2 rod, reel and line on completion of the course and a certificate. Hats, glasses, flies and nylon were donated from Carrilon and fishing tickets from Norfolk and Suffolk Fly fishers.

Mike's wife Lesley provided meals for the instructors and helpers over the three days.

Mike beat 469 anglers, to take the amazing prize of a 19' lake boat, Honda 15 hp outboard, boat trailer and 10' Marksman Drifter rod.

Mike is a qualified Instructor S.T.A.N.I.C. in single-handed casting and fly dressing.

Mike's speciality is Stillwaters and fishing the Loughs of Ireland. He is renowned throughout Ireland as one of the leading Anglers in this field and is expert in all methods for catching wild Irish Brownies

In a year of drought stricken rivers, The Tees at Middleton proved to be a Fantastic Venue for the 2010 Rivers International. Compensation water kept all five beats fishable and a 9^" lift of water on the match day made things "interesting" to say the least! The four countries caught and returned a total of 310 trout over the four ninety minute sessions,

At the end of the day Hardy /Greys Team England were emphatic winners with 125 Trout, in a fantastic overall team performance every team member had at least two first places out of a possible four. And Individual winner Simon Robinson had four 1sts to win him the Moc Morgan Trophy for the 2^nd time. With a total mix of up to six different methods covering a lot of water quick was the key to success, along with, the indispensable reserve Bernie Mayer, looking for unfished water and rising fish for the bank. Against a very strong field of Anglers from the other 3 nations Hardy/Greys Team England took the 1^st 4 individual placings in what has been dubbed the ‘Friendly International'.

Results Team

(Geoff Clarkson Trophy)        England

                        2^Nd                   Wales

                        3^rd                    Ireland

                        4^th                    Scotland

Individual

(Moc Morgan Trophy)

1                    Simon Robinson (Eng)

2                    Phil Dixon             (Eng)

3                    John Tyzak            (Eng)

4                    Howard Croston   (Eng)

5                    John Maclennan    (Sco)

6                    Allen Hughes        (Wal)

7                    Brian Russel          (Ire)

8                    Philip Jehu             (Wal)

9                    Ian Greenwood     (Eng)

10                Joe Winder            (Ire)

Largest fish

Mike Childs Trophy - Philip Jehu (Wales)

Team England members placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 8th individually with Simon Robinson lifting the trophy as top individual and narrowly missing out on the largest fish award as well.

A sudden change in weather conditions saw localised rain on the fells suddenly put the river into a small summer flood from the low clear conditions the teams had practised on.

England adapted well, changing tactics rapidly as the levels rose and then stabilised and started to fall back rapidly - all in an 8 hour period.

Winning tactics included a diverse mix of dries, nymphs and even small streamers fished in the River Tees abundant pocket water.

Take a look at our Team England pages to see profiles of the guys, and come and see us at the CLA Game Fair for your chance to meet Team England Anglers

Celebrities from the world of TV, business and sport came out in force on Wednesday 23^rd June at Sweethope Lough, Northumberland, supporting a unique charity event in aid of Grace House Children's Hospice North East.  Fishing with the stars now in its second year is the idea of Game Fishing Supplies of Morpeth and Hardy & Greys Ltd.

After a hearty breakfast provided by Rob Tait of Sweethope Fishery the draw for boat partner was announced and anglers commenced the mornings fishing. Sunny conditions ensured that the fishing was challenging for all anglers, hampering the choice of fly lines and fly.

Most anglers opted for floating lines, but the majority returned with no fish caught. During a BBQ lunch anglers had the opportunity to talk fishing tackle, flies and tactics with the stars and representatives from Hardy & Greys.

Boat partners changed for the afternoon session. Conditions had improved significantly with the weather perfect for success and rods were soon bending with fish caught close to the surface taken on dries and lures. A selection of wild brown trout and hard fighting rainbow trout were caught by all.

The day finished with prizes donated by Game Fishing Supplies and Hardy & Greys Ltd for the most fish caught, and the most donations collected.

Matthew Peckford from Cumbria came 1^st winning £1,000 of Hardy & Grey vouchers. Matthew has been fly fishing for only a short time, this is the first competition he has entered and won. Matthew also collected the most donations.

Richard Wood from Northumberland came 2^nd winning £700 of Hardy & Grey vouchers. Richard has fished since he was 3, and at the age of 18 is currently the youngest qualified coach in the UK.

John Morton came 3^rd winning £300 of Hardy & Grey vouchers. John who has fished all his life is a well known competition angler and travelled from Ayr to support the event.

A great day was enjoyed by all with over £2,000 raised for the charity. The day can be summerised by England International Scott Nellins "It's my pleasure to lend support to such a worthwhile charity. To have a children's hospice in the North East is so important for the children of the region and their families"

Vicky Bell co-organisor said "fishing with the stars really embodies the Grace House charity, although there's a serious message behind the day, everyone can take part no matter what level of fishing experience or ability and fish with a variety of celebrities from TV stars to England's World & European Fishing Team"

For further information please visit www.ian-woods.co.uk

There's something for everyone at the Game Fair, so any non-fishing friends and family won't be bored. Attractions include a 4x4 driving course, a fashion show, traditional crafts, art and artists, nature exhibits, and a family dog show ring. 

If you're attending the Game Fair then please come and see us, to see all our latest products and even have a cast with the latest rods. We'll be in the Flyfishing area, opposite the lake, stand G0470. 

More show information

Last weekend the Irish International Fly Fair was held in Killyleagh, County Down.

Held over two days the charity event saw fly tyers and the fly casting elite from around the world gather together to raise money for the Dibney River Conservation Trust.

Hardy & Greys Ltd are proud to be one of the sponsors of the event.

Hardy & Greys Ltd Marketing Manager, Steve Peterson said;

"At Hardy & Greys Ltd we are very proud to be part of this very special event. We have been coming to Killyleagh for the last three years the Fair has been running and every year we meet more of our customers and make new friends.

"This year in particular saw a terrific line up of casters and fly tyers from around the world. Special thanks must go to Stephen Kennedy from the Hardy & Greys Academy who is one of the organisers of the Fly fair which raises funds for  such a worthy  conservation cause and, which also introduces many newcomers to fishing . Stephen has some great ideas for next year's event and we are very much looking forward to returning to Killyleagh in 2011."

We are very pleased to announce that the 2010 Greys fishing catalogue is now available from your local Greys dealer or as a download from our website.

The one hundred and seventy seven page catalogue features all the current Greys product from the fly, spinning, coarse, predator, carp and sea ranges.

In the fly fishing section, along with stunning photography from the UK and around the world the catalogue features all the latest fly fishing products for 2010 including the three superb new fly rod ranges GS,GS2,and GRXi+ and also Greys best fishing clothing yet, the GRXi Xtreme.

In the fly rod category new rod flex explanations have been introduced which include each rod's loading point, recovery rate, the rod stop and the flex characteristics. This detailed information is designed to make it even easier to choose the correct Greys rod.

In the sea fishing section detailed descriptions complement the rod ranges giving information on casting styles, rod actions and best fishing applications. To complement the rod range the G-Mag reels are also featured along with the ever popular shore and boat rigs and Apollo luggage and clothing.

New in the Coarse category are the stunning Prodigy TX & VX rods - a superb range of Float, Barbel & Specimen rods. Another key product in the Coarse range are the highly acclaimed Klip Lok bait boxes.

Our Greys Prowla range of Predator fishing tackle has been received amazingly well by retailers and consumers alike. Featured in the catalogue are the hugely popular Platinum Bait & Jerk bait rods along with all the luggage and terminal tackle.

A further evolution in Greys rods sees the new Spod and Marker Plus rods. Built upon the success of their predecessors these rods are a must have piece of kit for any angler.

Angler Thayne Morgan (on left) with Captain Craig Brewer (on right), won the 2010 Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament in Islamorada, Florida on June 24. Thayne captured the title fishing prototypes of Hardy & Greys SINTRIX Proaxis one piece #11 and #12 fly rods and the Fortuna X4 Big Game fly reel.

Thayne said, "Andy Mill gave us this new tackle from Hardy & Greys to test. I have fished the SINTRIX rods exclusively for three weeks and they are the finest rods I have ever fished. There is only one problem. Now I have to buy a new set of fly rods!"

Captain Craig Brewer knew that these prototypes were really something when Andy Mill told him to "just fish them, you don't have to worry. For six months I have been abusing monster fish with these rods. Trust me. Just fish them."

Jim Murphy, President of Hardy & Greys North America said, "We knew that when we got our product development team at Hardy to work with Andy we would access the most challenging and thorough tackle testing process we could find. Andy has handed out dozens of prototypes to the most experienced and successful guides and anglers. The tackle has been deeply bent inside out, well beyond normal use. They have been proven to destroy big fish in minutes. Now they have helped to win the most coveted fly fishing tournament in the world.

Andy Mill said when he heard the news, "Our new Fortuna X reel is just as revolutionary as the SINTRIX rods and together we can say with complete conviction that The Game Has Changed."

To read more about what makes SINTRIX technology different, and to see videos of the prototypes in action, visit the official SINTRIX Facebook page.

In conjunction with Renvyle House Hotel, Hardy and Greys Academy ran a weekend fishing course in May on the splendid grounds of this 4 star hotel which is situated on the Atlantic shores in wildest Connemara, Co. Galway on the West Coast of Ireland.

The event was designed for beginners and experienced fly-fishermen and over the course of the weekend covered a wide range of topics of interest to anglers.  Participants got a chance to try out their skills on the Hotels private 40 acre lake which held some hard fighting brownies.  The latest in Hardy & Greys fly-fishing product was there for people to try out for themselves

Attending from the Academy were Stevie Munn and Mike Keady, Jackie Coyne who is also in the Academy was present there in his role as the hotel's own resident fly-fishing instructor. Tom Doc Sullivan, Area Manager of Hardy Greys in Ireland made up the team.

The event was well attended and on the Saturday everybody got to go through a wide range of tactics from river fishing for trout and migratory fish, lough-style fishing from boat and bank-fishing.

Casting clinics were held to help those from all levels. The group was split up into groups which made for much better tuition.

John Stanley, from Gerard Stanley and Sons of Clifden, who is the Hardy& Greys dealer in nearby Clifden Town, came along in the afternoon thereby giving the opportunity for the attendees to purchase any of the outfits that were on show at the event.

The evening saw some fly-dressing demonstrations before some first class music and entertainment in the lounge that evening.

Sunday gave the chance for all those there to give the lake a go and after some demonstrations in the morning, everybody got to fish proper.  The lake came up trumps and all those present caught fish which was the icing on the cake to what proved to be an excellent weekend.

The feedback from the guests was very positive with everybody saying they had come away from the event having learnt something.

The Hotel really looked after everybody superbly and must be commended for doing and an excellent and highly professional job.

The organisers hope to repeat the event in 2011 so look out for news on that. 

News just in from Poland... 

John Horsey of Hardy & Greys Team England managed to overcome rapidly changing water conditions in the 2010 World Fly Fishing Championships, to yet again to prove his determination and versatility in challenging conditions and break into Bronze medal position within the last session of the Championships.

Following solid early performances on both a low clear River sector fishing micro nymphs and a session win on the large Reservoir sector also plagued by changing water levels, John again adapted rapidly in the final session on the river San switching to Streamers fished upstream on a DI3 to scratch out enough fish in a rapidly rising river to secure Third position and a bronze medal.

Congratulations John! 

An unfavourable river draw, and difficult conditions during practice meant Hardy & Greys Team England were unable to retain their 2009 World Championship title, placing 11th overall. 

Poor practice conditions and a lack of practice water leading up to the final proved very limiting for many of the top teams in their preparations. 

Meanwhile, the England Ladies Fly Fishing Team, captained by Hardy & Greys Academy Member Sue Sissons won Gold at the 2010 International Championships this weekend. 

In the run up to the competition, the fishing had gone hard as the fish had turned on to the pin fry and weren't really eating as the weather was hot, sunny and at times not much wind.

The England team did manage to come up with a few fly patterns and lines that seemed  to work, a Plan A and Plan B.

The match day arrived and the fishing looked as though it was going to be hard again, but after a team talk by manager Paul, the team were all very positive.

At the weigh in it was very close with England having 33 fish, Scotland 28, and Wales 27. But how much did they weigh?

Team captain Sue Sissons picks up the story:

"They announced it in reverse order, when they announced the winner was England I'm sure the whole lake shook, we were cheering, jumping up, and down, hugging one another and crying at the same time - WOW we had done it we had WON! It is very difficult to describe how we felt but it did feel pretty brilliant

Sue added that they had a great team with great team spirit and all worked together to secure the victory, and that the Welsh hosts and organisers made everyone feel very welcome.

Hardy & Greys Academy Member Appointed England Team Captain

Susan Sissons, one of three female members of the Hardy & Greys Academy, has been chosen to captain the England Ladies Fly Fishing Team (ELFA) for the Home International in June.

The competition will be held on Llandegfed Reservoir in South Wales and will feature teams from Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales.

This will be Sue's 16^th England cap and 11^th Home International for England ladies. Susan last captained the side back in 2005 winning the gold medal when the Home International was held on Lough Mask in Ireland.

Sue said:

"It's a great privilege to be appointed England ladies captain especially now as the captaincy is voted for by the other team members."

The event will be a family affair as Sue and the team will be assisted by Sue's husband Paul who has been appointed team manager.

Sue has been a qualified fly fishing instructor for 7 years and has been a member of the Hardy&Greys Academy for 4 years.

Only qualified instructors are appointed to the Hardy & Greys Academy which has members throughout the UK and Ireland.

Fish With The Stars 2010

June 2010 will see the return of the highly successful Fish With The Stars event being held at Sweethope Loughs.

Run by Hardy & Greys Ltd and Game Fishing Supplies (Morpeth), the event will be held on Wednesday 23rd June. Last year's event was a great success, with almost £6000 raised for the Grace House North East Children's Hospice Appeal, and this year's event is in aid of the same charity with organisers aiming to top last years total.

The event is now fully booked with 30 anglers set to take part. Participants' names will be put into a draw at the start of the day and picked out at random to share a boat and fish with a celebrity. A draw will then take place again at lunchtime so that most of the anglers attending get the chance to fishing with a celebrity.

Anglers and celebrities will compete to catch the greatest length fish, and competitors who chose to raise sponsorship money are competing for a prize for the person who raises the most sponsorship. The prize pot is a generous split of £4000 donated by Hardy & Greys Ltd and Game Fishing Supplies.

The celebrity anglers will again include Ashes to Ashes actor and keen fisherman Dean Andrews Sean Wilson (Martin Platt in Coronation Street), Jason Oakes (former Newcastle Falcons rugby player) and Paul Little, one of the top fly tyers in the world and AAPGAI Master Instructor.

Fish and Fly Ltd have, again, lent their support to the event, hosting online auctions of fishing and sporting related products to boost the fundraising effort.  The live auctions can be found here.

If you cannot attend the event but would like to make a donation, this can be done via the Just Giving page at http://www.justgiving.com/fishwiththestars2010

Read the review of Fish With The Stars 2009

The GRXi+ was the winner in the Under £200 category - outclassing its more expensive challengers.

The reviewers were looking for a true all round rod, that would cope with long line fishing with sinkers and lures, and shorter, floating line fishing with both wet and dry flies, and a range of casting styles. Rods were split into price brackets and awarded points for both performance and value for money. The highest scorer in each price bracket was awarded Best in Category.

The GRXi+ was summed up as a good rod for a beginner, and useful for both boat and bank fishing, and delicate enough to fish dry-fly accurately.

Peter commented that the rod felt light in the hand, handled floating and sinking lines with ease and has not lost any performance for being a 4-piece (its predecessor the GRXi was a 3-piece rod).

Andrew said:

"If you are looking to use only one rod on a reservoir, with which you can switch lines and maintain performance, this would be a good choice."

Visit the flyfishing rod product pages to read more.

Powered by a 500 hp Iveco engine, Greyfox is capable of cruising at 20 knots  with a top speed of 26 knots.  The boat is fitted with all the latest wreck and fish finding electronics and full galley facilities.

Greyfox will be used in the design, development and testing of the latest Greys sea fishing equipment.  Skipper, Mike Williams is a Greys Consultant and, with an unenviable record  of catches to his credit. Mike has regularly featured on Sky TV's Tight Lines program with Keith Arthur. 

Greyfox joins Mike's other Greys sponsored boat Firefox with both boats being based at Dover Marina. 

Greys Product Development Manager, Kevin Benham travelled to Dover for the launch and said;

"Greyfox is a fantastic looking boat and we are really looking forward to developing new products with Mike whilst fishing onboard once sea trials are finished."

Greys wish Mike every success for the future with Greyfox".

Woodford Fly Fishery, in Co. Antrim hosted a Winter League, in association with Greys. The 6th and Final Round was held on 28^th March 2010, and Woodford's Darren Wallace provided this report. 

The sixth and final round of Woodford's Winter League took place on the 28^th March, the early arrivals where greeted by the first Swallow of Spring flying up the lake, but this soon disappeared with the strengthening north westerly wind blowing down the lake.

Fishing in the first hour got off to a good start with Campbell Baird, Julie Gerry and Jim Fleming all picking up fish in the first 5 minutes, all fishing lures on sinking lines. On the move Derek McConville had a narrow lead with 2 fish, fishing a floating line and nymphs.

Into the second hour and Woodford regular Joe Hughes was weighing in the first big fish of the morning, a nice rainbow trout of 4.93kg, caught on a blob fished on a sinking line. It was not long before the next big fish was caught, a fine fish weighing 5.94kg, this fish fell for a #12 buzzer fished on a floating line by Lenny Magee. An hour later and Carrick angler Jim Fleming was playing a big fish, fishing the same peg where Lenny had caught his fish from only Jim was using a sinking line and lures, when the fish was landed and weighed it turned out to be the same fish that Lenny had caught and returned. Unluckily the 3 anglers could not catch their 5^th fish to complete their bag limit.

The third hour had Irish Ladies International Susan Brown finding her form and catching 3 fish in a row fishing buzzers and nymphs under an indicator on a floating line. Going into lunch Brian Kerr had a slim lead with 4 fish and 15 minutes after lunch Brian completed his 5 fish bag limit fishing lures with an intermediate sinking line, keeping the pressure on league leader Campbell Baird, who completed his 5 fish bag limit 10 minutes after Brian, again fishing lures on intermediate line. Just before the last peg move young Tipperary angler Nicholas Madden caught his 5^th fish, his best outing yet on only his 3^rd visit to Woodford, Nicholas had been fishing a clear intermediate line and lures.

Maynooth angler Roger Fowler needed just 10 minutes of the last hour to catch his 5^th fish, again Roger was fishing an intermediate line with lures. Not to be out done by the lads, Susan Brown stuck to the floating line tactics and completed her bag limit with half an hour to spare. Last fish of this year's league was caught by the 5^th round winner Alan McCartney, giving him 3 fish for this round.

At the final whistle young Nicholas Madden had top spot of the round with 5 fish weighing 3.78kg, in a close 2^nd place was Susan Brown with 5 fish weighing 3.75kg and in 3^rd was Brian Kerr with 5 fish weighing 3.38kg.

The end of round 6 brought the league to a close and with the weights in the final placings could be worked out, with prizes for the top 15 places and Greys fly rod for the heaviest fish outside the top 15, there was also a Greys Platinum fly line for every finishing competitor.

Final Placings:

1^st Campbell Baird 25 fish 17.59kg, 2^nd Brian Kerr 25 fish 17.51kg, 3^rd Lenny Magee 22 fish 22.29kg, 4th Derek McConville 22 fish, 5^th Roger Fowler 20 fish, 6^th Harry McAteer Jnr 18 fish, 7^th Julie Gerry 16 fish, 8^th Ciaran Mellon 16 fish, 9^th Susan Brown 15 fish, 10^th Jim Fleming 14 fish, 11^th Alan McCartney 13 fish, 12^th Pat Noonan 11 fish, 13^th Joe Hughes 10 fish, 14^th Harry McAteer Snr 9 fish, 15^th Mel Campbell 8 fish, heaviest fish Michael Maher 1.08kg.

The tightest finish to the Winter League but Campbell had just retained the title winning him a Greys Platinum XD Competition Special fly rod and Greys Grxi reel, Brian received a Greys X-Flite fly rod and Greys Grxi reel, Lenny received a Greys Grxi+ fly rod with a Greys Grxi reel.

Darren at Woodford would like to thank EVERYBODY that took part, helped out, donated their time, sponsored the prizes to make this years Winter League a great success.

 Pictures:

Main picture: Winter League Champion Campbell Baird with Woodford's Darren Wallace

Picture 2: 2nd Placed Finalist Brian Kerr with Woodford's Darren Wallace

Picture 3: 3rd Placed Finalist Lenny Magee with Woodford's Darren Wallace

On Saturday 24^th April the GAIA ran an assessment weekend at Foxford on the river Moy.

The weekend was originally planned to deal with seventeen assessments but due to varying circumstances only three were eventually run.

Hardy & Greys Academy member, Mark Corps was one of the successful candidates, passing his APGAI Single Handed Fly Casting assessment. Mark is able to add this to the award he already holds from APGAI Ireland.

An angling advisor for the Central Fisheries Board (in the ROI), Mark guides and instructs all over Ireland, with Fermanagh, Donegal and Mayo being the areas he knows best of all.

For more information on Mark, visit his Academy profile, and for more on the APGAI series of qualifications, visit the APGAI website.

Hardy & Greys were among the prize sponsors for the Southside Angling Winter League Competition held in Dublin.

Anglers competed over the Winter in 4 heats in the Dublin area, to compete for places in the final, which took place at Rathcon Trout Fishery, Co. Wicklow, in February.

The top 5 rods from each heat qualified for the final.

Despite the recent cold weather, and very low water temperatures, the final turned out to be a great fishing day, and virtually all the anglers caught fish - and some cracking ones too!

The event was run on a catch and release basis, with the biggest fish caught on the day measuring 65cm. Dave Rohan's total of 6 fish caught and returned was enough to win on the day.

The event was organised and run by Karl O'Toole, Southside Angling's game angling expert who said;

"Thanks go to Rathcon for providing excellent facilities, and of course great fishing for the final."

Dave McBride, owner of Southside Angling added;

"I'm delighted with the whole event, it has proved to be very popular in its first year, and we'll be making it an annual competition."

Dave also thanked Hardy & Greys for their support.

The top 10 competitors at the final were awarded prizes, and Hardy & Greys sponsored the top 3 places:

1.       Dave Rohan won a 10' #7 Hardy Demon Rod

2.       Andre Kostechenko won a 10' #6 Hardy Uniqua Rod

3.       George Goodwin won a 10' #7 Greys Platinum XD Competitor Special Rod

Main image: Picture; left to right, Southside's Dave McBride, winner of the final Dave Rohan, Hardy & Greys' Tom Sullivan, Southside's Karl O' Toole

Image 1 - Competitors on the final day

Image 2 - Winner Dave Rohan claims his prize

Image 3- Second placed Andre Kostechenko

Image 4 - Third placed George Goodwin

The 5X60 scheme is a Welsh Assembly initiative to encourage younger people to get out and about and take part in active sports. The target is to get 90% of secondary pupils achieving 60 minutes of physical activity five times a week by 2020. Currently 99% of secondary schools are involved in the 5x60 programme.

This is the first time this group have been involved with fishing as a vehicle to get active, but angling is recognized as a great way of getting active in the outdoors, that anyone can take part in.

Providing links to clubs to allow young people to continue the activities they try through the scheme is a key aim for 5X60.

Those involved hope to further develop the angling programme, giving each school access to expert help to develop the fishing skills of the group members.

Mark said: "This is a great opportunity for young people to try fishing with some expert help, and maybe later they can venture out, fishing some of the remote lakes and Llyns , combining their new angling skills with hiking in the beautiful Welsh countryside."

For more information on 5X60 visit the Welsh Assembly page.

Trout Fisherman Magazine have reviewed the new range of Greys GS Rods.

Read the review

Read the review

Read the review 

Read the review

Both competing in June, the World Championship Team will compete in Poland and the Home International Rivers Championship Team will compete on the river Tees in the North of England. The European Championship Team will fish in Bosnia in September.

The World Team consists of Howard Croston, John Horsey, Simon Robinson, John Tyzak, Davey Parker and manager Ian Greenwood.

The Home International Rivers Team consists of Howard Croston, Simon Robinson John Tyzak, Ian Greenwood, Phil Dixon, Bernie Maher and Mike Tinnion.

The European Team consists of Scott Nellins, Mike Tinnion, Phil Dixon, Andrew Gooding, Alex Bobba, Tony Baldwin and manager Paul Page.

As well as this the entry fee has been reduced by £5 and new venues in England, Scotland and Ireland have been added.

For more information please visit www.johnhorsey.co.uk.

Other products to see from Greys include the new and much anticipated range of GRXi Xtreme clothing. Now with highly durable, waterproof and breathable fabric, the superior cut clothing comes in a variety of sizes from S to XXXL. Included in this range is the GRXi Xtreme full length Jacket, Wading Jacket, Bib and Brace and UV Shirts.

The Cod was caught by Anthony Bell from Northumberland on a fishing trip to Norway with his brother, Darran Bell.

Using the Greys 8" 30-50lb Excursion Boat rod and Norwegian Pirk as bait, Anthony said;

"The rod performed to perfection. I have never seen a fish that big in my life and the Greys Excursion did not let me down. This trip was one of a lifetime and was rounded up by the catch of a lifetime."

Anthony and Darran also landed a 42lb, 33lb, 30lb and lots of 20lb+ Cod.

Watch the programme.

Heats are being held across the country with the finals at Westlow Mere, Congelton Cheshire on 6th and 7th October 2012.

Competition Secretary Fred Bainbridge commented:

Individuals

We will be holding a total of 16 Individual Heats. This will allow for 48 Individual Finalists. The top 3 anglers from each heat will qualify through to the Final. A minimum of twelve anglers per Individual heat.

The top six finishers from the Individual National Final will have their details forwarded to the TEFF for ratification on eligibility to form the 2013 England Bank Team along with seventh and eighth place who will make up the reserves.
Entry Fee £20 (excludes fishing fees).

Team Event

The Greys Team Championships have been well supported by Greys again this year with some great prizes to be won! We will run 16 Team Heats. Unless specified Team Heats will take place alongside Individual Heats.

Entry Fee per Team £60 (excludes fishing fees). Includes Team goody bag of over £120.

Northern Heats

For an application form for any of the Northern Heats please go to the TEFF website alternatively contact your chosen fishery, or competition secretary Fred Bainbridge.

Lockwood Beck... Individual & Team... 14th April.
http://www.lockwoodfishery.co.uk/

Bessy Beck Fishery... Individual... 16th April.
http://www.bessybecktrout.co.uk/

Chatton Fishery... Individual & Team Heat... 7th June
http://www.chattontroutfishery.com/

Higham Lakes... TBC
www.highamlakes.com

Aldin Grange...Individual Heat & Team Heat 13th May
http://www.aldingrangelakes.co.uk/

Langley Dam.... TBC

Stonebridge..... Individual Heat 5th August.. Team 12th August.
http://www.stonebridgefishinglakes.co.uk/

Bank House..... Individual Heat 9th June.
http://www.bankhouseflyfishery.co.uk/bankhouse.htm

Midland Heats

Ellerdine Lakes.....Individual & Team.. 10th April.
http://www.ellerdine-lakes.co.uk/

Elinor Trout Fishery...Individual & Team...14th April.
http://www.elinortf.co.uk/

Press Manor.....Individual & Team. ... 20th April.
http://www.pressmanorfishery.com/

Seighford Lakes...Individual & Team ...5th May.
http://www.seighfordlakes.com/

Southern Heats

All Team + Individual together unless specified
For an application for any of the Southern Heats please go to TEFF website, alternatively contact your chosen fishery, or our Southern Organizer Alan Tonge 

Innis Fishery... Sunday 12th Febuary
http://www.innis-fly-fishery.co.uk/
Innis second Individual heat tbc.

Rib Valley Fishing Lakes... 21st April
http://www.ribvalleyfishinglakes.co.uk/

Walthamstow...22nd April
http://www.thameswater.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/corp/hs.xsl/6253.htm

Bushyleaze..... Individual & Team ..5th May
http://www.lechladetrout.co.uk/

Organisers:

Southern: Alan Tonge alan.tonge@agresso.co.uk

Northern: Fred Bainbridge  yorkshirefly1@yahoo.co.uk

Competition Secretary:

Fred Bainbridge yorkshirefly1@yahoo.co.uk

Malcolm Wilkinson came first with 2lb 9ozs of Roach caught on open-end feeder tactics. For the second match running Dave Coster was runner up, this time with 1lb 13oz of feeder caught Roach, while Scott Lister was third with 1lb 9oz of Roach.

Top 3 League positions:

Joint first: Dave Coster and Malcolm Wilkinson with 27 points
Third: Scott Lister with 19 points

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Read more from Lee and don't forget to sign up to On Coarse for all the latest direct to our inbox free.

Lee fished at 80 metres with his favourite Hardy Marksman 12ft Supero Extreme Feeder Rod, using a method feeder and the new Greys Prodigy BT-X Method Hair Rigs (size 14 tied to 6.5lb line). His catch consisted of Carp between 5 and 12 lbs, all falling to Bag ‘Em Fluoro pop up boilies.

Meanwhile, in the North East, Hardy & Greys Coarse Product Development Manager, Dave Coster took an early lead in the Greys sponsored Whittle Dene Spring League series. Dave used the more refined 12ft Hardy Marksman Supero Feeder rod to catch 2 late Simmers at 50 metres, to add to 3 Roach he had caught earlier. This was a rock hard match due to frequent sleet showers and an icy north wind. Paul Holt of Mary's Tackle won the day with 3 lb 6oz of small Roach but didn't enter the league, so Dave's 2 lb 6oz second place weight gave him maximum points.

Bagging rods offer more backbone to help you tame hard fighting fish, getting them under control and into the landing net more quickly, which in turn helps to build bigger weights. To put this into perspective, before commercial fisheries arrived on the scene a ton-up catch was a rarity for most anglers, often only achieved when fishing abroad in countries like Ireland or Denmark. Nowadays catching over 100 lbs is a common weekly occurrence in all areas of the country, while 200 to 300lb catches are that uncommon either!

Both float and feeder rods come under the bagging category. With float rods this generally encompasses models from 10 to 13ft long. Shorter, powerful float rods from 10 to 11ft are very popular for medium distance pellet waggler tactics, a method that scores big on most commercial fisheries. Short rods also help you to bag up faster, bringing hard fighting species to the surface within easier netting range. Stepped up 12 to 13ft float rods come more into play when fishing big loaded carp wagglers long distance, providing better casting leverage and faster line pick up when striking at far off takes.

In similar fashion to short float rods, shorter feeder designs help good sized fish to be playing into the landing net faster, while obviously longer 12 to 13ft models gain greater casting distance. The new breed of bagging feeder rods have extra power to deal with casting out heavily loaded method feeders, coming with a selection of quivertips, including stiffer 2 to 3 oz ones designed specifically for method fishing. The latter technique, where hook baits are buried in the feeder's load, or presented very close to it, is a prime bagging method on many day ticket venues.

Another important consideration that needs to be taken into account with modern rods is the size of fish they often have to deal with. The inhabitants of many commercials quickly pack on weight with all the rich fishmeal based grub they receive. There's a very good chance that next bite could be from a double figure fish, even a twenty!

Obviously at Greys we always keep in tune with modern trends. Under our fast growing Prodigy brand we have the delightful 10ft and 11ft TX Specialist Float Rods for busy methods like the pellet waggler, along with the much more powerful 12ft TX Specialist model - geared up to handle casting really big weighted floats and fish into specimen proportions. There's also the more refined Prodigy 13ft VX Specialist Float Rod that covers general float fishing and catching just about all species. On the quivertipping front we have our best selling 11 and 12ft TX Specialist Feeder Rods. These all-rounders can do anything from open-end to method fishing, having refined enough actions for fish like bream, combined with enough backbone to handle proper lumps.

Bagging rods are not just confined to the commercial scene by the way. The fish in our wild venues, particularly rivers, are also getting bigger. Pellets, boilies and fishmeal groundbaits are all commonly used for wild fish now, so it makes sense to use similar tactics for them, requiring rods with a bit of grunt!

Read more from Gareth Goldson

Carpin' On

"The Carpin' On show started slowly on Saturday, whether this was due to the mild weather or not is debatable, but Sunday was very busy, and more than made up for the Saturday lull. The entertainment on the central stage was second to none and the reduced footfall was very noticeable when the likes of Terry Hearn and Jim Davidson were talking to the amassed crowds.

The Big One

"The Big One at Farnborough caters for all forms of carp and coarse angling and, as a result is a bigger event than Carpin' On. The talks are in a separate hall so unfortunately I personally didn't get the chance to attend them because the interest on the Greys and Chub stand was phenomenal! Our retail partner, Davies Angling seemed as busy as us with plenty of Chub and Greys products exchanging hands.

"We had a lot of interest at both shows in our current product with the Chub Vantage clothing range being very popular. The most unusual question for me over the two shows was about where the iPod pocket was on the jacket, and I must admit it took me ages to find it with the multitude of zips and pockets that the coat has to offer, but we got there in the end!

"The Chub Neuron Bite Alarms were a big talking point and I a good number were sold. As always, there was the usual interest in the Rods and the amount of attention the Greys Stalking Rods received surprised me and I hope it indicates an upward trend in anglers starting to hunt their prey rather than adopting the usual sit and wait tactics.

"The Chub Super Cyfish and Tri-Brid prototype Bivvies were also very popular and, if this initial interest is anything to go by they should sell quickly once they're released in the summer. I must admit I love the Tri-Brid and I hope there is one with my name on! But, by far the most popular product at both the shows was the Chub Black Precision Aluminium.

"All in all the shows were a huge success from a Greys and Chub point of view, which makes the six hour drive that the lads from Alnwick had to endure well worth it. From a personal perspective it was very nice to meet some of the guys that I have spoken to on Facebook and I had some interesting discussions from anglers that had read an article or two of mine about many aspects of angling.

"So, until next year, tight lines and happy angling."

Ed Betteridge

"This year's Big One show held at Farnborough was definitely the best yet, with both days being incredibly busy. Many major tackle companies were present, but more importantly so were a host of top retailers, allowing anglers to buy (or at least order) anything that caught their fancy. This format works really well, allowing potential buyers to find out everything they need to know about items of tackle, not forgetting baits, fisheries and angling holidays and then being able to make their purchase there and then. Combined with this, lots of top anglers were on hand to offer further advice, tips and answer anglers questions.

"Our Hardy & Greys stand received lots of interest, especially the award winning range of Hardy Marksman Supero Rods. These had a constant stream of admirers, even including people who work for other tackle companies! Greys Prodigy TX and VX Rods were also very popular, along with the new Compact Tackle Base Box, which quickly sold out on the Davies Angling stand which was positioned next to us.

"Personally I find shows like this invaluable, not only for meeting people who use the gear we design, but also for getting feedback about how it performs and the amazing catches anglers have achieved using it. I also get a chance to look at our competitors new products and to meet people I haven't seen for ages. I caught up with my old Essex county team mate, Bob Nudd, ex England Manager, Dick Clegg and match fishing legend, Dickie Carr. And, as I left the show I bumped into Tight Lines Show Presenter, Keith Arthur, who, as ever, was brimming with enthusiasm for the sport we both love. Keith and I go back a long way to another life when we used to fish the London canals. He won't thank me for saying this but it was before long poles were invented!"

The winner of The Big One competition held on our stand to win a Greys Prodigy Fully Loaded Compact Tackle Base and Coolstyle Roving Coolbag is Thomas Clark. Congratulations Thomas.

We would like to thank everyone who visited our stand at the show. We look forward to seeing you again next year!

Ed has risen within the ranks of named anglers thanks to his hard work on the bank, and string of notable catches including Choco at 49.12lb and his most recent 44.04lb common. His highly regarded articles have featured in most of the UK's top publications, and he writes regularly for various internet based media including The Session E-zine, and Korda.

Ed performs regular tips on rig applications, bait advice and video blogs on his YouTube channel (EdBetteridge1) and is currently taking his level 1 angling coaching badges.

Andy Charlton, UK Carp, Coarse and Predator Marketing Manager commented;

"I am delighted that Ed has accepted this position. He's been in the Academy for a number of years now, and has contributed greatly during his time here. He possesses a wealth of angling expertise, and brings a great deal of digital media experience to the table, something that we will be focusing on moving forwards."

Ed replaces previous Academy Manager, Jason Green, who has left to pursue other activities. We would like to wish Jason all the very best.

Find out more about the Greys & Chub Carp Academy. 

Read more from Tony Runnalls

Read more from Lee Taylor

Read more from Tony Runnalls. Plus, don't forget to sign up to our free monthly mail out, On Coarse, where in next month's issue, Tony talks all things Spring coarse fishing.

Read more from Gareth Goldson

Read more from Andy Black

Mark Holmes has updated his blog.

Read more from Mark.

Read the review

Gareth Goldson has updated his blog. Read more

Read more from John Bailey.

Read more from John Bailey.

Read more from John Bailey

Read more about Joh Bailey's fishing trip with Sam.

Some of the first pictures of Jason Green's 83lb 4oz monster. For a full write up from Jason on the capture subscribe to our monthly carp mail out, The Session today.

Watch a video of Jason's catch on our Official YouTube channel.

Watch the video on our official Chub YouTube channel.

(Note, this picture is NOT of the 80lb+ fish!)

Advanced Carp Fishing magazine review the Greys Distance Marker Rod.

Sam Richardson was the winner of the competition and joined John for two days at the Kingfisher Lakes Complex in Norfolk.

Coming soon in On Coarse, read a full report of the session. Don't receive the monthly mail out? Sign up now!

Read more from John Bailey

Read more from Matt Eaton.

Read more from John Bailey

Have you ever had an angling question you've always wanted to ask the legendary Bob James, well now's your chance...

Bob James is one of the most instantly recognisable characters in our sport and a Hardy & Greys Consultant. Bob has fished from the age of seven years old. Growing up in London none of Bob's family fished and so he taught himself - this turned out to be a great advantage for Bob and in 1965 he had his first fishing article published.

Most people will recognise Bob from when he co-starred in the highly successful, ‘Passion for Angling' which was shown in the early 90's across 19 countries.

Please send us your questions for Bob James and we will publish the best ones - and Bob's answers - in next month's edition of On Coarse.

Suscribe to our monthly mail out, On Coarse.

Read more from Gareth Goldson

Typically my own fishing commences on bread and butter waters such as canals, drains and slow rivers. Quite often these are Pike infested, but they can be fairly unappetizing on first glance. On the Somerset Levels, for example, you often find enough of a jungle beneath the surface to keep Tarzan himself happy. Thus the Pike still have plenty of cover and you could be looking at as much depth of weed as water. No need to panic however, a lure teased just above the salad is often enough to get a murderous response.

Fly fishing is another good option, especially if the Pike are slightly cagey. A floating line set up is best where weed dominates shallow to medium water. My own favourite patterns for the job are not too weighty, often incorporating buoyant deer hair so as to sink only slowly. This not only helps beat the weed, but you can allow a waiting Pike adequate time to have a go at the fly. The sight of a Pike fly hanging and twitching over shady holes and weed beds is a tantalizing one for both Pike and angler. If the heavens really open and kill the water clarity however, you may find yourself reaching for the bait freezer earlier than you thought.

I love to rove good distances in autumn, just as at any time of the year, for Pike. But this doesn't exclude the use of dead baits. Indeed, if the water carries some extra colour or you find it festooned with floating crud, a gently drifted bait can be exceptionally useful. For the past few seasons it has been a real eye opener just how deadly a suspended deadbait can be. Using a nice visible float such as the Prowla Supa Sight Dart, you can drift or trot a bait to cover lots of suitable territory.

First choice for this method would be a 4-6" Roach dead bait- although when the water looks less appetizing a smelly and brightly dyed sprat or other smallish sea deadbait can produce. Set the bait to fish mid water, just above weed growth. On a river, you can use the current- but a breeze or healthy tow will do just as nicely on canals and drains. The bites are instant and should be struck immediately. In fact, I often like to use just one fairly large treble for the task, the bait hooked through the back. A red bait flag passed onto the hook helps prevent losses, as well as adding an extra dash of colour.

Two things quickly dawn on you when drifting a deadbait suspended in midwater. Firstly, the Pike have no qualms about intercepting a bait fished well off the bottom (on a weedy drain this might be little more than 18" below the surface). Equally, you find that as the bait travels with the tow, you avoid much of that floating autumn debris which collects so readily on a static line. If you do want to try a more static approach however, it would be sensible to pop up the bait to keep it visible.

One final note is to keep an open mind and make full use of the time you have at your disposal. Once the days shorten substantially it becomes tricky to sneak out for a couple of hours morning fishing, but evenings can also see the Pike go on a killing spree, and it can be well worth trying an hour or so into dark after work. The Pike are often still lean and angry, having not had time to fatten up yet. But make no mistake, they'll be hungry. And with long range forecasters predicting a positively Siberian winter, it's time for fish and angler alike to make the most of autumn while it lasts. Happy fishing!

For more articles, photography and Dominic's lively blog, Crooked Lines visit www.dgfishing.co.uk

Typically my own fishing commences on bread and butter waters such as canals, drains and slow rivers. Quite often these are Pike infested, but they can be fairly unappetizing on first glance. On the Somerset Levels, for example, you often find enough of a jungle beneath the surface to keep Tarzan himself happy. Thus the Pike still have plenty of cover and you could be looking at as much depth of weed as water. No need to panic however, a lure teased just above the salad is often enough to get a murderous response.

Fly fishing is another good option, especially if the Pike are slightly cagey. A floating line set up is best where weed dominates shallow to medium water. My own favourite patterns for the job are not too weighty, often incorporating buoyant deer hair so as to sink only slowly. This not only helps beat the weed, but you can allow a waiting Pike adequate time to have a go at the fly. The sight of a Pike fly hanging and twitching over shady holes and weed beds is a tantalizing one for both Pike and angler. If the heavens really open and kill the water clarity however, you may find yourself reaching for the bait freezer earlier than you thought.

I love to rove good distances in autumn, just as at any time of the year, for Pike. But this doesn't exclude the use of dead baits. Indeed, if the water carries some extra colour or you find it festooned with floating crud, a gently drifted bait can be exceptionally useful. For the past few seasons it has been a real eye opener just how deadly a suspended deadbait can be. Using a nice visible float such as the Prowla Supa Sight Dart, you can drift or trot a bait to cover lots of suitable territory.

First choice for this method would be a 4-6" Roach dead bait- although when the water looks less appetizing a smelly and brightly dyed sprat or other smallish sea deadbait can produce. Set the bait to fish mid water, just above weed growth. On a river, you can use the current- but a breeze or healthy tow will do just as nicely on canals and drains. The bites are instant and should be struck immediately. In fact, I often like to use just one fairly large treble for the task, the bait hooked through the back. A red bait flag passed onto the hook helps prevent losses, as well as adding an extra dash of colour.

Two things quickly dawn on you when drifting a deadbait suspended in midwater. Firstly, the Pike have no qualms about intercepting a bait fished well off the bottom (on a weedy drain this might be little more than 18" below the surface). Equally, you find that as the bait travels with the tow, you avoid much of that floating autumn debris which collects so readily on a static line. If you do want to try a more static approach however, it would be sensible to pop up the bait to keep it visible.

One final note is to keep an open mind and make full use of the time you have at your disposal. Once the days shorten substantially it becomes tricky to sneak out for a couple of hours morning fishing, but evenings can also see the Pike go on a killing spree, and it can be well worth trying an hour or so into dark after work. The Pike are often still lean and angry, having not had time to fatten up yet. But make no mistake, they'll be hungry. And with long range forecasters predicting a positively Siberian winter, it's time for fish and angler alike to make the most of autumn while it lasts. Happy fishing!

For more articles, photography and Dominic's lively blog, Crooked Lines visit www.dgfishing.co.uk

Mark said;

"I have been fortunate enough this year to have had the time to dedicate fishing Lakeview consistently. This Carp is the 2nd 50lb+ I have had from Lakeview and represents a great pinnacle to my season. Contrary to popular belief the lake is fished by some very good anglers and therefore the Carp are very tricky to catch, especially now as they have grown bigger.

"After leaving the baited rig untouched for 48 hours, I was rewarded with a steady run on the last day. The Carp fought very, very hard as do all Lakeview fish and when I finally landed it, I knew it must be close to 50lb. To say I was elated with the fish was an understatement."

Mark's successful tactic was a slack line with inline drop off lead, size 8 hook using Greys 2.75lb TC Torsion rods. This is Mark's sixth UK 50+ and comes after a succession of good catches over the summer.

Read more from Mark Holmes

Read Cathal's latest blog 

Read more from Dave Springall

Read more

Check it out!

Also, don't forget to take a look at Carpworld this month for Ed's article on fishing Christchurch. 

Read more

"I had an excellent day. Best bit was learning a new knot from Matt." Kim Smith

"Just chatting and getting some of the guy's experiences from them has helped me look at my carping differently now and my little boy enjoyed every minute. Thanks to you all." Steve Howlett

"I'd like to say a big thank you to all the guys from the Greys & Chub Carp Academy who were at the Churchgate Lakes Open Day. It was nice to see them fishing, and to be able to spend time getting hints and tips from them, thanks again." Danny Everett.

We would like say a big thank you to everyone who attended our Academy Open Day at Churchgate Lakes on Saturday.

The event was the first of its kind held by us and, with hundreds attending we would especially like to thank Churchgate Lakes for hosting the event. The venue proved to be very successful with every academy member catching regularly throughout the day.

Greys & Chub Product Manager, Lee Collings said;

"What a fantastic day. I would personally like to say thank you to everyone who attended the event, tried out our gear and joined in the fishing. I hope this is the first of many similar events in the future."

We hope you all enjoyed the day and hope to repeat this event again next year.Don't forget you can now follow us on Facebook.

Read more

Read more from Gareth 

Read more from Mark

Read more

These rods will be available for purchase later next year.

Every month we will bring you a selection of interesting and informative coarse videos, features and competitions to win some top prizes direct to your inbox.

Featuring consultants such as John Bailey and Bob James and Academy members, Dave Coster, Tony Runnalls, Gareth Goldson, Lee Taylor and Cathal Hughes, we will bring you all the tips, tactics and new product information you could need to help you make the most of your time on the bank.

Keep  up to date with all that's new on our official Facebook fan pages:

Hardy Facebook Fan page

Greys Facebook Fan Page

Read more from Matt

Read more from Gareth Goldson

Read more from Matt Eaton

Read more from John Bailey

Read more from Mark Holmes

Read more from John Bailey

Myles Gibson has updated his blog.

Read more from John Bailey

The best fish of the series went to John Parkinson from Newcastle who hooked a 2.5lb Bream and was rewarded with a Hardy Marksman rod.

Final Match Results

1st - Graham Jones from Darlington Angling Centre landed a bag at 9lb 10oz which included Skimmers, Roach and Perch caught on open-end feeder.

2nd- Dave Coster from Hardy & Greys caught 7lb 5oz of Skimmers and Gudgeon. Dave was using the new prototype Hardy Marksman Supero 12ft Feeder Rod.

3rd - Steve Woods from Darlington Angling Centre landed a bag of Skimmers on the feeder at 5lb 12oz.

Final League Positions

1st - Scott Lister from Browning Quaker with 48pts won £150 plus a Hardy Marksman Rod

2nd - Graham Jones from Darlington Angling Centre wtih 44pts won £90 plus a Hardy Marksman Rod

3rd - Nick Jose from Mary's Tackle with 43pts won £60 plus a Hardy Marksman Rod

4th - John Parkinson with 40pts

5th - Dave Coster with 37pts

6th - Steve Wood with 36pts

Northumbrian Water can confirm they have been monitoring the results and have plans to further improve the fishing at Whittle Dene.

Mark Holmes has updated his Blog

Read Matt Eaton's latest Blog.

John Bailey has updated his Blog

Read more

Read more

Improve Your Coarse Fishing magazine review the new Prodigy Luggage range. 

Read more about Ed's latest adventure

Dave Springall's account of capturing Big Lin at 40lb 13oz. Read more

"On a very windy day and with very clear water conditions, the Lower Lake fished quite well. Barry Evans (Big Waters A.C.) won the match with 11 Skimmer Bream weighing 9 lb 12oz. Barry caught fish to 2 lb with the open-end feeder alternating between worms and maggots.

"Second was Scott Lister (Browning Quaker), who is now winning the league after catching 7 lb 12 oz of Skimmer Bream on open-end feeder tactics. Third was Graham Jones (Darlington Angling Centre) with 7lb 8oz and George Huscroft (Mary's Tackle) was fourth with 5 lb 8oz."

With one match to go the league is finely balanced:

1. Scot Lister 39 points
2. Nick Jose 35 points
3. John Parkinson and Graham Jones 31 points
4. Steve Wood
5. Andy Bell 26 points

Ed Betteridge has updated his blog. Read more

Darren Belton has updated his blog. Read more.

Angler's Mail magazine writer Steve Lockett reviews the Greys Prodigy Klip-Lok Tackle Base.

Read more

Read more

Kevin Benham has updated his blog following recently catching Vanessa. 

Featuring quirky duckling lures for Pike, close encounters with ink-squirting sea monsters and a three pound Perch taken on a Greys XF2 Carnivore fly rod, it has been quite an adventure of late for Hardy & Greys backed angling writer, Dominic Garnett.

From the perils of night fishing in Torquay, to tea on the Test with Bob James and Chris Tarrant, "Crooked Lines" is fishing's must-view blog! Catch it at www.dgfishing.co.uk.

"As stated in my last blog just over 2 weeks ago, Yateley Car Park is now closed for 3 months so I would be concentrating on a particular Mid Kent gravel pit as there are a couple of gems in there I would like to catch..."

Read more

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Check out Mark Holmes full catch report as he lands Big Bernard at 48lb 2oz here.

Nick Jose came in first place with 6lb 4oz of Roach caught on the pole from the road bank. Nick won £150 and £40 worth of the new Greys Prodigy tackle.

In second place came Graham Jones with 4lb 6oz of pole caught Roach, winning £90 and £20 worth of Greys Prodigy tackle.

Jim Harris came in third place with 4lb 3oz of Roach.

Greys Product Manager, Dave Coster said;

"It was hard going for the 30 anglers fishing due to clear water, bright sunshine and little wind. The venue had been fishing well prior to the match with double figure catches of Roach and Skimmer Bream. Hopefully the next match in a couple of week's time will be better."

Please keep watching for a full report and pictures within the next few days.

Read more

Chris Lowe has updated his Blog following his last session on Acton. Read more.

"It doesn't seem that long ago that I ended my autumn Bream campaign on the large gravel pit. As mentioned in a previous blog although the fishing had proved very difficult as expected, I planned to return come March / April time for another crack before the Tench fishing really kicked off." Read more

Mark Holmes has updated his blog. Read more

Cathal met Mary during a state visit to a local school as she congratulated him on winning the silver medal in the 2010 World Championships.

John Bailey has updated his Blog. Read more

Read more

Read more of John Bailey's Blog

Heats will be held at venues around the country for both individual and team competitions. The individual final is to take place on the 8th October at Westlow Mere fishery in Cheshire and the Team Final also at Westlow on the 9th October.

The top three anglers from each of the sixteen heats will qualify through to the final and the top six finishers from the Greys Individual National Final will have their details forwarded to the Angling Trust Fly -Fishing Competitions Committee for ratification on eligibility to form the 2012 England Bank Team along with seventh and eighth place who will make up the reserves.

For the Greys Team Championships the winners will receive medals and prizes from Greys fishing tackle.

Competition secretary Fred Bainbridge said:
"We are delighted to welcome onboard our new sponsor! Greys are the market leader in Stillwater trout fishing and we feel that this partnership will be of an immense benefit to the competition"

The competition is organized under the auspices of the Angling Trust Fly-Fishing Competitions Committee.

You can find your nearest heats in the PDF documents opposite.

Competition enquires should be made to:

Mr. Fred Bainbridge
77 Aismunderby Close, Ripon, North Yorkshire. HG4 1NT
Tel: 07785 743508.

 There's more information at the Confederation of English Fly Fishers website. 

Academy member Mark Holmes has recently landed a 37lb Carp. Read more

Gareth Goldson has updated his Blog. Read more

Chris Lowe has updated his Blog

His recent lump, a 43.12 Common called Box Common was caught during a four night session on an Oxford syndicate. 

Improve Your Coarse Fishing magazine have reviewed the Greys Prodigy Klip-Lok Tackle Base.

Read the review

Improve Your Coarse Fishing magazine have reviewed the Greys Prodigy Klip-Lok Tackle Base.

Read the review

John Bailey has updated his Blog

"But it's all been a bit serious of late. Friends who have come along with me have wanted monster Pike. They've really got the bug for big fish. And, if you have a guy with you who is into a mega-Pike, you really, really want to see it in the net.."

John Bailey has recently helped land a 37lb 4oz Pike.

Read John's Blog

Read More

Comments about the XF2 included:

"A faster action than the outgoing X-Flite...will appeal to both novice and experienced anglers... Crisp accurate presentation and the backbone to cope with dense sinkers in rough and windy conditions" 

To read the whole review, download the PDF.

View details of the Greys XF2 fly rod

Russia is an exciting market for the company and the firm has had good relations with the Russian Federation for many years. Hardy & Greys be exhibiting through our Russian distribution partner, Eco Technology, who are the most established importer of foreign fishing tackle to the Russian Federation.

International Sales & Events Manager Andrew Sowerby will be on hand to meet Russian customers, discuss products and the new areas of innovation we're working on.

The Hunting and Fishing in Russia Exhibition will feature over 700 exhibitors from Russia, CIS and foreign countries demonstrating the best samples of their products and services including hunting and fishing equipment and accessories, vehicles, fishing and hunting tourism, recreation, books, souvenirs and gifts. The exhibition will be attended by companies from Belarus, Ukraine, Italy, Norway, Latvia, Poland, Korea, China, Japan, New Zealand, as well as almost all Russian regions. It is expected that the number of visitors will be more than 60,000 people.

For more details on the show, please contact Andrew Sowerby asowerby@hardygreys.com

Andrew Sowerby is the International Sales & Events Manager for Hardy & Greys. Andrew has been with the company for 10 years, travels all over the world, and appeared on TV in various countries. Andrew's a keen angler, loves to get out and fish in whichever location he finds himself, and has caught a variety of species across the world on lure, bait and fly. Andrew is pictured with a a large Kahawai caught on Lure at the mouth of the Hurunui Rover in New Zealand.

Chris Lowe has updated his Blog

John Bailey has updated his blog with an insight into the world of fishing for Pike.

Read John's Blog

Jason Green (Manager)
Tony Makepeace
Ed Betteridge
Kevin Grix
Dave Moore
Alex Bransby
Myles Gibson
Darren Belton
James Coleman
Chris Lowe
Ian Gemson
Mark Holmes
Detlef Zedler

"Marketing Manager Gav Burn said;

"I am pleased to announce our Carp Academy members for 2011. These guys form an integral part of our business, offering a wealth of knowledge and Carp angling experience."

Check out the Greys & Chub Carp Academy. 

Read Myles Blog

The 2010 world silver medallist will be answering all coarse and match fishing related questions, along with doing a demonstration on rig making and ground- baiting techniques.

Visit Cathal's Blog

Awarded by the Angling Times, the award is given out to an angler who has had notable consistent specimen catches throughout the year; Gareth's include a 3lb Rudd and a 6lb 6oz Chub.

Gareth said;

"Well it's fair to say 2010 has been my best fishing year to date and I can look back over the year with many fond memories.

"I suppose the highlights for me were my 12lb 5oz Tench and 32lb 7oz Pike - the sight of both those fish laying in the bottom of my net will never leave me".

"I was awarded Specimen Angler of the Year in the Angling Times and as the Fox Specimen Cup comes to a close I've put myself in with a chance of taking one of the top spots - something that I've dreamed about since I was a kid".

"Marketing Manager Gav Burn said;

"I'm not surprised that Gareth has won the Specimen Angler of the Year. We knew he was a very talented angler and had huge potential when he joined us, and this is now being borne out with his results this year. I wish Gareth every success in his pursuit of the Fox Specimen Cup."

Visit Gareth's Academy Blog to keep up to date with what he's been up to.

Read Mark Holmes Updated Blog

Gareth Goldson has updated his Blog. 

Gareth Goldson has updated his Blog reflecting on 2010 and looking ahead to the 2011 season.

Read more...

A cute little Dog followed by a scouting party of Goats! Read more about Darren's fishing adventures by visiting Darren's Blog!

Watch out for it coming soon in the top coarse magazines.

Download the advert

Watch out for it coming soon in the top coarse magazines.

Download the advert

Watch out for it coming soon in top coarse magazines including Improve Your Coarse Fishing, Total Coarse Fishing and Angling Times.

Download the advert

This talk is open to Club members and general public to attend.

More information

Read Mark's Blog

Read Lee's review

John Bailey has updated his Blog.

Read John's Blog.

Read John Bailey's Blog.

Gareth Goldson has updated his Blog.

Read Mark Holmes' updated Blog.

We hope that your visit was pleasant and you are as excited as us about our new products for 2011.

For all those people who purchased products on the day we hope you enjoyed the show and look forward to seeing you next year at Brentwood.

Watch out in January for our new products coming to a tackle dealer near you.

Guided by Hardy & Greys Consultant, John Horsey on Chew Valley, this big twenty joins Chris's 30lb 4oz PB cracker caught in February 2009.

John and Chris have just completed making a new fishing series. The pair fished in the Maldives, the Yukon, Chew Valley for Pike and Ireland.

A highly respected angler, Jon was the man behind the concept of the hugely successful Korda underwater DVD's. Jon was also Assistant Editor of Big Carp magazine and the Editor for Carp Addict magazine for five years and the first person to represent Carp angling on BBC 1 when he appeared in Griff Rhys Jones show, Rivers around Britain.

Jon currently writes for Carpworld and Crafty Carper and has a monthly slot in Carp TV.

Jon said;

"Having the chance to join Hardy & Greys Ltd is a very exciting prospect for me. I have total respect for the talented North East based team because they are totally and unequivocally customer driven. In short they really do care about their fellow anglers and for me that is nothing short of paramount.

"I have also watched the emergence of one of the most exciting and well thought out product ranges I've seen to date, but again that comes with being in touch at base level with the end user. I am looking forward to very exciting times ahead."

Marketing Manager Gav Burn said;

"To be able to bring a guy of the calibre of Jon Banister to Hardy & Greys signals our intent to grow the media side of our brands within the Carp market. Jon will be working with us on a part time basis heading up our Carp media development strategies."

Watch a short video on our official Greys YouTube channel. 

31 year old Dominic is a highly talented mutli-disciplined angler who has had over 70 angling features published in the last few years with magazines such as Anglers Mail, Angling Times & Total Fly Fisher.

Dominic said;

"As a writer whose work has covered everything from small stream fly fishing to specimen Pike, Hardy & Greys seems the perfect match for me as they produce such a wide range of quality kit. Equally however, I'm drawn by the more traditional values of the company, which is important for my writing- that aims to capture the magic of the sport without the hard sell. It's great to be involved with a company that has listened to angling legends from Richard Walker to John Bailey."

Marketing Manager, Gav Burn said;

"I'm delighted that we have been able to secure the services of a young, dynamic and professional angler such as Dominic. We look forward to working with and helping to develop Dominic in the years ahead."

Read Gareth's Blog

Read John Bailey's Blog

Read Tony's Blog

Check out his latest Blog!

"All you need is a light spinning rod - look at our Greys range for instance, and you will see we have plenty of delicate, winkle-picker stuff that is idea. A really small, fixed spool reel is perfect. Tool up with eight pound line and, if there are Pike about, a wire trace and you're in business. Little rubber jigs between two and three inches long with a light lead head cost pennies so they're painlessly losable.

"This is the key. You've got to work your jigs close to structure and snags if you're going to get the best out of them. I suppose the time species that you're after are probably Perch, Pike, Zander and Chub in that order but don't forget Carp, Rudd and even Bream will sip in little rubbers from time to time.

"Keep on the move. Keep experimenting. Jig fast. Jig slow. Let your jig fall to the bottom and then twitch it along back to you. Retrieve in mid-water. Retrieve near the surface. Constantly exercise your imagination and work hard at what you're doing.

"The photographs show Ian and Peter and their rewards for just a couple of hours on an October afternoon. A Pike into doubles and a Perch two ounces shy of three pounds in weight speak volumes. Jigging is fun and jigging is effective. Of course the Europeans know this but it's a style of coarse fishing in which we are years behind."

John Bailey has updated his Blog with his top tips on long trotting for Chub.

Read John Bailey's Blog

Read Gareth Goldson's updated Blog

Read Dave's article

Read John Bailey's latest Blog

Ed Betteridge has certainly put in the effort over the past three years but his hard work paid off with his target fish - Choco at 49lbs 12oz. Now, Ed gives his account of the catch to Anglers Mail magazine.

Donwload and read the article

Gareth Goldson has updated his Blog

Chub has also been voted the best brand for Carp rods below 100 Euro and in the best luggage category for the 2010 tackle awards.

These awards are presented to some of the best fishing tackle manufacturers in the world and we are pleased to have been successful.

John Bailey has updated his Blog.

Angling Unlimited believe people should have the opportunity to:

• Experience and enjoy angling
• Enjoy a healthy competitive environment
• Have a quality introduction to angling suited to their level of personal development
• Be offered excellent teaching, coaching and resources
• Progress along a structured path of achievement
• Fulfil their angling potential

Angling Unlimited works in partnership with local public services such as the Police, Youth Offending Teams, The Environment Agency and schools, as well as voluntary and community organisations.

Hardy & Greys Ltd are pleased to support Angling Unlimited

Read Cathal's Blog

Read Gareth's Blog

Read the review by Improve Your Coarse Fishing magazine

Caught at 49.12lb, Ed has been targeting Choco for a number of years and his perseverance and undoubted angling ability has finally paid off.

Ed Said;

"3 years and 3 weeks, 188 nights, 75 captures, 20 lost fish that could have been the one, half a ton of bait, 12000 miles and 200 hours on the road, £6,000 in diesel and tickets, hundreds of laps of the 50 acre lake watching and baiting... all to catch one fish - Choco! To say I'm pleased to finally catch him is a massive understatement. I just can't believe I have at last ended my quest with him."

Marketing Manager, Gav Burn said;

"I'm really pleased for Ed, I know how long he has been targeting Choco so for him to finally land the fish is fantastic news."

Read John Bailey's Blog

New Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy member, Gareth Goldson has updated his Blog.

Read Gareth's Blog

Read John Bailey's blog

Gareth started fishing at the age of 3, progressing to bigger specimens from the age of 15.

A professional head tennis coach, Gareth's favoured method of fishing is using the float and counts a 12lb 5oz Tench and a Pike weighing 32lb 7oz as his most notable catches so far.

A fantastic all round angler, Gareth sights his main aims for the coming year as winning the Fox Specimen Cup and to catch a 3lb river Roach and a 15lb Bream.

Gareth said;

"I'm over the moon to be joining such a prestigious forward thinking company as Hardy and Greys. I'm excited to be able to help develop tackle that will give the coarse
angler an edge in their fishing. It really is a dream come true for me"

Marketing Manger Gav Burn said;

"Being able to bring an angler like Gareth to the Academy signals our intention to expand even further into the Coarse market. Gareth's fishing ability and knowledge will be of huge benefit to the Academy"

Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy member, Lee Taylor has updated his Blog.

Read Lee's Blog

Read Ian's Blog

Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy Manager, Tony Runnalls has updated his Blog

Read Tony's Blog

"A book fell through my letter box the other day - Crock of Gold - Seeking the Crucian Carp by Peter Rolfe. It's not often these days that an angling book grabs me but this one has. I've nearly devoured it cover to cover in just three days."

Read John Bailey's Blog

Check back for Part 2 of John's Blog coming next week. 

Chub Carp Academy member, Ian Gemson gives his top tips on what fishing tackle is best to start Carp fishing. Part 1 of 2.

Read the article

"I thought I knew pretty much everything there was to know about the method but long-time friend Ian Miller taught me a thing or two. We fished with the same gear - the Hardy Marksman Avon 11'6' rod is hard to beat for the job - but this time had wives, girlfriends and a young spaniel on board as well.

"Initially we struggled. The Carp were inquisitive but spooky. It wasn't until Ian put on a couple of truly massive pieces of crust with the hooks totally hidden inside pressed on flake that the take developed. After that, it was pretty well a fish a chuck - or at least three fish before we decided that enough was enough. But what beautiful Carp they were. And caught in the best company on THE most fun of methods.

"We fish for fun and great tackle can enhance that fun massively. That's where the Hardy Marksman range of rods comes into the equation. I find when I'm using these rods, my own ‘fun' level rockets. You just get more satisfaction out of using great gear."

Thirty six anglers, including Hardy & Greys Coarse and Carp Product Manager, Dave Coster took part in the match which unfortunately switched off almost completely due to the calm, sunny conditions.

The venue had been fishing well with catches to nearly 20lbs before the match. On the day Phil Lawson from Newcastle only needed 6 skimmer Bream to win with 4lbs 12ozs. Phil didn't enter the pools, which would have paid him out nearly £200, but he did go away with a season ticket for Northumberland Water fisheries worth £700 plus a 13ft Greys G-Tec Feeder rod.

Runner up Craig Goodhall weighed in 3lbs 8ozs, followed by Martin Watson with 3 lbs 7ozs. Both anglers won a 13ft Greys G-Tec Float rod. All three top anglers also won tackle vouchers from Hardy and Greys.

Myles is a dynamic angler who likes to fish tough waters and sets himself high targets. Myles started fishing at the age of nine, has caught over five UK 30's and has a PB of 41lb 20oz. Favourite venues of Myles' are Stoneacre, Linchill and Christchurch.

Myles said;

"I am delighted to join the Greys Carp Academy and I am looking forward to using their excellent range of products and tackle and putting them through their paces."

Marketing Manger, Gav Burn said;

"Myles is just the type of angler we are looking for. He is young, passionate and has a huge knowledge of the sport. I look forward to working with Myles in the future and know he will be a superb acquisition for us."

Read Ed Betteridge's Blog

Read John Bailey's Blog

Watch the vide of Ed's cracking catch on our official Greys You Tube channel.

Read John Bailey's Blog

The channel is now live. Visit now to watch the video of Ed Betteridge catching Poolies at 44lb 14oz and look out for more videos coming soon!

Over the coming months we will be adding more videos to the channel including set up instructions for our bivvies and more from the academy. Subscribe to the channel to make sure you dont miss out!

Ed Betteridge is a member of the Greys Carp Academy and caught Poolies using Greys Torsion rods. Watch the video here.

Read John Bailey's Blog

On this Friday and Saturday, the 13 & 14 of August Clonanav Fly Fishing will be opening its new store in Ballymacarbry Co. Waterford. To celebrate the opening there will be a host of activities including casting demos, seminars, prize draw and discount deals on tackle.

Customers can try out all the new Hardy & Greys gear and there's a chance to meet and see casting demonstrations from leading anglers including Hardy & Greys Academy members, Jason O Riordan and Ian Gordon.

Read Lee's Blog

Read Cathal's Blog

Read John Bailey's latest Blog

Check out Ed' latest catches!

Check out the Greys Prodigy Feeder Rod review on Total Fishing.

More information on the Greys Prodigy Feeder Rods

The Lexus Teams Northern Heat was held on Stocks Reservoir on Saturday 17th July.

High winds and heavy rain led to atrocious conditions, and the rain coloured up the water, but G Tech Stocks triumphed. 

Darren Booth took top rod, fishing a slow sinker with four flies - a Booby on the top and bottom, and two dabblers in the middle. Darren used a slow roly poly retreive.  

Results:

The Northern Final Airflo Anglian Water was held on Rutland Water. Chris Guthrie, team captain for G Tech Stocks and top rod on the day sent us this report...

My boat partner for the day was Dave Docherty, known as "Curly" to most! Dave chose to fish at the top of the North Arm, from Transformer Round to Burley Reaches, just up from Dickinson's Bay. He chose this area because he had seen fish feeding on pinfry the previous couple of days before.

The day started well and Dave had a fish with his first cast, then I lost one after a 60m run. We picked up fish steadily throughout the day and by 4.15pm I had my eight fish limit which gained me a 1¾ lb time bonus. Dave finished with 6 fish. The fish were all taken on dry fly. My best catch was a brown, just short of 6lb and I also had a fine rainbow of 5½ lb.

When we spooned the fish, we found they were feeding mainly on Corixa, therefore we used the ploy of following the swans as they were feeding and lifting the weed from the bottom, disturbing the Corixa. Hence the use of dry fly as the water in these areas was fairly shallow.

At the weigh in I had a total weight of 30lb 9¼oz and the G Tech team all had good average weights with Nick Halstead having the 2^nd heaviest fish at 4lb 3oz. as a result G Tech Stocks team came an overall 2^nd in the competition assuring us of a place in the prestigious international final in October.

Read Lee's Blog

The 2010 Home Nations was hosted by the Scottish Federation on the most northern shores of the British Isle, Greys Team Wales Manager Mike Flynn sent this report... 

The welsh preparations for the event started in 2009 in the early qualifying rounds with over 60 welsh Anglers eager to participate in the international scene, with the teams assembled our next hurdle was the near 700 miles of driving to our destination, (normally we would travel to practice the venues two weeks prior, the distance became a factor in our decision not to travel two week earlier).

We set off in the early afternoon with Myself doing the longest stint of the journey arriving in Peterhead in time to sample a fine Scottish breakfast, we then located the complex we were staying unfortunately we could not book in early so it was off to explore the beaches, we were soon eager to get out the rods but the need to rest was paramount.

Eventually 3/5 hours later we had unloaded the gear had our rest and it was off to practice the beaches, sure enough we were not to be disappointed plenty of fish but the quality was not as good as thought   ,   a return to base to recharge the batteries in readiness for the next days fishing.

As we were not allowed to practice on the main beach we set off to a different location but similar in nature to the main event beaches or as we thought conditions were perfect  and fish were plentiful with a few unexpected sea trout thrown in a sight we used to see on the north Wales beaches until the dreaded gill nets took over.

Four hours later we were back at the complex and the preparations for day 1 of the official event were in hand

On the morning of the event Greys had provided the team with clothing from the Apollo range and must say they really looked the part.

Day 1

We were on the western end of Rattray bay the target fish were flounder our anglers were off the mark with all catching steadily, as the hours passed it wasn't making the best of reading, we were not having the luck, Phil's catch rate was better than all in his zone unfortunately a majority of the fish were undersized ,and this patterned continued to the end of the match

Day 1 results England 18 Scotland 16 Wales 12 Ireland 5 

We had much too do the team spirit was not as it should be so much expectation we did not expect the results to be so poor despite so much confidence, I considered the options available to me and deliberately kept the team sheets back until late and decided to ring the changes, hopefully the other teams would remain in the same zones

Day 2

The team were issued with their fish cards at the breakfast table all change eh manager rang out of Harris's lips,

Would the change lift the spirit? The difference to the team spirit was immediate like throwing a switch,  the fishing on  the second day was the northern end of the bay  with huge numbers of fish expected and in Zone 1 we were not to be disappointed but it was Ireland who had the bit between their teeth , we finished in second place  with England in third

Zone 2

Dave was slow to start we agreed a complete change to tactics and soon Dave was chasing the leader of the zone fish for fish , this was going to be a close run zone we snatched the lead from England  at  the end of the match ( "not over the fat lady sings sprang to mind") 

Zone 3

The fishing really became slower as we headed up the beach Steve continued with his tactics and sure enough the perseverance paid off and took the zone

Zone 4

This was the worst zone on the beach Alan ended third but on fish count we had 1 more fish but not enough to improve our position

Zone 5

Alan Hughes was the first man in the zone and really put up a fight and did not give up until the end , when you need a run of luck to be with you it sadly was going to be his day he again tied on the same number of fish but the length was not on his side and given the last few days Alan won the private sweep we had each with the biggest fish each the luck had eluded him

The results

We had two zone wins a second, third and a fourth not enough to overhaul England's day one result but it was enough to improve our position and take the silver medal ,

As a Manager Gold is the main prize and Silver is second best but on Saturday I feel the team produced a fantastic result and could ask no more .

Pictures:

Greys Sponsored Welsh Shore Angling Team

Team Wales Manager Mike Flynn

Read Cathal's Blog

Fishing the pole at 13 metres and using Greys Kilp Lok Bait Boxes and Cool Bags, Cathal won the individual silver with a total weight of 15.530 kgs.

Cathal said;

"Never in my wildest dreams did I ever expect to win the silver medal - dreams do come true with the support of a great team, a supportive wife & true dedication"

Some footage of Cathal Hughes fishing the World Angling Championships.

Fishing in competition with 550 anglers, Lee won his section fishing the pole with a total weight of 1.730 kilos. Overall Lee's team ‘Total Fishing Club ‘finished 13th out of the 55 teams.

Currently, Lee is actively field testing new prototypes of Hardy Marksman & Prodigy Coarse rods.

Lee said;

"Fishing the Nationals is no easy task, so to walk away with a section winner's medal at my first attempt is something I'm really proud of."

Read Tony's Blog.

Read John Bailey's Blog

Fishing on Christchurch Lake in the early hours of the morning, Ed managed to land Poolies' at 44.14lb using a Greys Torsion rod.

Ed said;

"I have wanted to catch Poolies' ever since I saw a photo of it and then when I netted it for a mate in March and saw it in the flesh it became a higher priority on my wish list.

"Its unique scale pattern from its big plated linear scales to the small pearly scales on its flank and dark colouration make Poolies' a special fish to catch."

UK Carp magazine have reviewed the Greys Distance Spod Plus and Marker Plus Rods.

Read Ed's Blog

World Cup fever is starting to grip the nation, but the footballers aren't the only ones gearing up for a big competition... Hardy & Greys Team England are currently in Poland, preparing for their upcoming match, Howard Croston sent this report...

Poland is suffering from unprecedented high water conditions following exceptional rainfall, all of the rivers are running high and coloured causing problems for the 29 countries currently engaged in practice and preparation for the match starting on the 17th of June.

Due to the large entry of teams, limited practice water is available and combined with the less than favourable water conditions practise is proving difficult.

Hopes are high for better conditions in the match, but more possible thunderstorms and heavy rainfall could dampen everyone's prospects. Luckily current day time temps are exceeding 90 degrees helping to dry up the rain soaked polish country side.

Team England have experienced good success on the 4 practice days fished so far on both the river and lake venues and are starting to formulate plans for the competition sectors .

Read more about Hardy & Greys Team England.

Neil used 13ft 3.5oz Greys X-Flite rods and Premier Baits indian spice 20mm boilies at a range of about 65 yards to a gravel bar.

Neil said;

"I only fish with Greys rods now because I know I can trust them."

Read John's Blog

Read Ed's Blog

Read Tony's Blog

Read Tony's blog

Read Ed's blog

Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy member, John Bailey has updated his Blog.

Read it here

Read more

It's a testament to their design just how well the original Greys Spod and Marker rods have stood up to the test of time. For their successors we've taken nothing away but improved the composite materials where needed; to ensure that these new rods outperform anything on the market.

More information

Watch out for it in Carpology, Total Carp and UK Carp magazines.

Watch out for it in Carpology, Total Carp and UK Carp magazines.

"The Klip-Lok and Flip-Lok Bait Boxes have taken the humble bait box as we knew it well and truly into the 21century with an almighty bang and virtually making their conventional old school counterparts obsolete at the same time. I’ll be very surprised indeed if anyone will be able to better these top quality Bait Boxes."

UK Match Angler have reviewed the Greys Klip-Lok Bait Boxes.

Read the review

Coarse Fisherman Magazine

Coarse Fisherman magazine have featured the Greys GRXi Clothing as Product of the Month in their May 2010 edition.

Read more

Gary arrives with a wealth of experience after ten years in the food service industry followed by thirteen highly successful years with fishing tackle manufacturer, Shimano.

Gary said of his appointment;

"It was a big step leaving Shimano, but when the opportunity arose to move to such a forward thinking, progressive company such as Hardy & Greys I found it impossible to refuse.

Since joining Hardy & Greys Ltd I have been overwhelmed with the level of customer focus and passion to succeed. I am looking forward to rekindling many old acquaintances, making some new ones and playing a full part in what looks certain to be a very bright future indeed."

Sales and Marketing Director, Ken Brewster said;

"I am delighted that Gary has joined us. He has a wealth of experience and tremendous customer relationships throughout the trade. He has fitted into the team instantly and will, I am sure, do a terrific job for us."

Gary replaces Steve Peterson who is taking up his new role as Game Marketing Manager for the Company starting at the end of April.

Greys Bait Box Cool Bags are designed to snugly accept single bait boxes, ranging from 1 to 3 pint plus capacities, taking up minimal carryall space, these bags will keep bait cool for long periods while fishing.

More information

Irish Angler Magazine review the Greys Prowla Platinum Drop Shot Rods in their April 2010 edition.

Read the review

Ed brings with him a wealth of fishing experience & knowledge and will be a superb acquisition to the Greys Carp Team.

Ed said;

"Hardy & Greys is a very historic and prestigious company, so when I was asked to join them as an Academy member it wasn't a hard decision to make, especially after a tour of the premise, meeting the professional staff and seeing the new and established product ranges. I'm very enthusiastic about working with Hardy & Greys in the future and having a hand in testing products whilst giving feedback on the new items I'm told will be hitting the market very soon."

Marketing Manager, Gavin Burn said;

"I'm delighted to have secured Ed's appointment. To be able to get someone of Ed's calibre is a huge bonus for us and I know he will bring an extra dimension to the Greys Carp Academy. "

Read the review

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The June competition will be held on Lake Vicario, near Madrid, Spain.

Cathal said;

"To be back in the Irish squad again is fantastic. Reports coming from Spain suggest that this is going to be one of the best championships ever. I can't wait to get there!"

The other five anglers have been selected for the team are Rory Dunne, Bob Hulme, Pat Barkley, Jason Ward and Rory O'Neil. Hardy & Greys would like to wish them the best of luck.

AnglingTimes Feature

Dave had been working as a Consultant for the Northumberland based fishing tackle company for over three years, and has been heavily involved with rod and tackle design during this period. This includes working on the highly successful Hardy Marksman, and the new Greys Prodigy Specimen & Specialist Coarse introductions.

Dave has been a highly successful match and specialist coarse angler for many years. He has written extensively for the Angling press and currently writes weekly features for the Angler's Mail magazine. He will continue to contribute to this popular magazine from his new location and home in Alnwick, which will no doubt delight many northern anglers!

Commenting on his new position Dave said;

"I'm deeply honoured to have been offered the position of Coarse Product Manager and I relish the challenge.

"Hardy & Greys Ltd is a major, forward thinking company who are going places fast in both the Coarse and Carp markets, and I can now be even more involved with this exciting success story.

"I have made many new friends in Northumberland and I can't wait to explore the fishing up there."

Managing Director of Hardy & Greys Ltd, Richard Sanderson said;

"Hardy & Greys are pleased to announce Dave is joining our Product Development Team on a full time basis. Dave has been working with us for many years as a consultant and brings a wealth of experience with him from both the coarse market and fishing tackle industry. We are very excited to have Dave on board and look forward to launching many new products with his expert knowledge of the coarse & match market."

Andy landed the PB 27lb 4oz Pike using a prototype phase 2 Greys Prowla bait rod, rigged with a Prowla bait slider on 40lb braid, quick change in-line sinkers and a standard size four hook trace.

Greys Carp and Coarse Category Manager, Andy Charlton said;

"Dry rod tests in the office are critical and serve an important purpose, but there's nothing like actually using a product in the environment in which it has been designed to be used. To hook and land such an impressive fish on a new prototype Prowla rod was real heart in the mouth stuff! But the rod more than comfortably handled it and we are all extremely excited with our future developments, and with the ongoing success of Prowla."

Trout Fisherman magazine review the Greys GS Landing Net.

Read review

View the advert. 

Hardy & Greys Category Product Manager, Howard Croston has been selected for the World Team for Poland in June 2010 as a full team member and has also been selected as Captain of England for the Home International Rivers Team for the River Tees in June 2010.

Howard said;

"It's a huge honour to represent your country and to be reselected for the world championships - following on from England's victory last year makes it all the more special."

Game Product Assistant, Scott Nellins has been selected for his first European Cap as a Full member of the European team for the event in Bosnia in September 2010.
Scott said;

"The selection came as a huge but very satisfactory surprise. I assumed my age would be against me but I believe I am fully capable of making the best of this opportunity."

Hardy & Greys Ltd would like to wish Howard and Scott luck in their competitions next year.

Read more

Look out for the advert in Angling Times, Improve Your Coarse Fishing, Total Coarse Fishing, Coarse Fisherman, Anglers Mail and Irish Angler magazines.

Still retaining all of the same features as the original Torsion, the versatile Extreme Canopy now extends over the front panel of the bivvy offering a storage area for wet gear as well as extra protection in adverse weather conditions.

The front infill panel of the bivvy has been designed to include Velcro detachable clear side windows for all mozzi front windows for use in hot weather or clear windows which are useful in wet weather for maximum visibility. The panel and groundsheet of the bivvy can also be removed, revealing a lightweight style overwrap that offers twin skin protection for the main bivvy.

The GRXi Plus, GS2 and GS single and double handed rod ranges have each undergone extensive testing by Greys Consultants from around the globe, and their four piece construction offers great performance but with easier transportation capabilities.

Other products to see from Greys include the new and much anticipated range of GRXi Xtreme clothing. Now with highly durable, waterproof and breathable fabric, the superior cut clothing comes in a variety of sizes from S to XXXL. Included in this range is the GRXi Xtreme full length Jacket, Wading Jacket, Bib and Brace and UV Shirts.

Read more

Trout Fisherman magazine review the Greys GRXi fly rod.

Read the review

Category Product Manager for game, Howard Croston has been selected for the World Team for Poland in June 2010 as a full team member, and has been fortunate to be selected as Captain of England for the Home International Rivers Team on the River Tees in June 2010.

Product Assistant, Scott Nellins has been selected for his first European Cap as a full member of the European team for the event in Bosnia in September 2010.

Congratulations go to both anglers and we would like to wish them both the best of luck in the competitions next year.

Founded to raise money for a fishing village devastated in the Tsunami in 2004 the annual event now raises money for similar good causes and In past years nearly £3000 has been successfully raised through the event and nearly 200 anglers have entered.

Managing Director of Game Fishing Supplies, Ian Woods said;

"We are very proud to win the ‘Business into the Community' award. On behalf of Game Fishing Supplies, I would like to thank all of our customers and supporters."

Game Fishing Supplies are based in Morpeth, Northumberland and work very closely with Hardy & Greys Ltd, organising events which include the Fish with the Stars celebrity charity fly fishing event.

Two days fishing for Pike during the Trials at Chew Valley on the 28th and 29th October saw the two anglers land 21 fish between them, including a 33lb 8oz Pike.

Fishing lures using Greys Prowla Jerk Bait rods, and dead baits using Prowla Bait & Boat rods, John's big fish fell to a smelt mounted on a Prowla size 6 Supa Snap Tackle, float legered under a Prowla Bait Slider and Quick Change In-line Sinker.

The fish initially dropped the bait after running a few yards with it, but then picked it up again after John carefully gave it a couple of twitches. It was landed on a Prowla 10'6" 3lb TC Boat rod and was netted by John's boat partner, Andy Charlton.

Andy said;

"John and I landed fish steadily over the first afternoon after switching to dead baits following a morning of fishing lures. When the big girl was first hooked we both thought it to be a lower double until it's back broke the surface and all hell broke loose! There were a couple of hairy moments at the boat but we eventually slipped the net under her. What an amazing fish and a superb 2 days Pike fishing."

With the aim of revolutionising predator fishing, Greys are proud to bring you this 27 page consumer catalogue from the Alnwick-based fishing tackle manufacturer.

Featuring an array of 90+ exciting new products under the name Prowla, each product in the range has undergone comprehensive research and testing across Europe by specialist predator anglers.

With rods in mind the Platinum models are the flagship of the range and include the Platinum Lure / Spin rods. Four rods compose this range, all completed with a well balanced blank and smooth fast action for great casting distance and safe fish playing.

The Platinum Drop Shot and Vertical Jigging rods have been designed to make the best use of the latest lure techniques, featuring an exclusive Greys D-Tecta reel seat that enables the user to trap braided line directly against the blank. This enhances the feel you experience when a fish takes. All models have the perfect sensitive tip actions required to inject life into lures.

The Greys Platinum Bait and Boat rods offer fantastic versatility and are designed with progressive through actions. They are powerful enough to set hooks at distance yet absorb close range lunges with ease.

All Platinum Jerk Bait rods have sensitive tip actions, essential for working lures of all types. The range consists of 5 models, in various lengths and casting weights, covering every fishing situation you might encounter.

In the Luggage category, the new Prowla luggage has been created with organisation in mind. Items in the range include the Specimen Quiver, Coolstyle Bait Bag, Trace Tube and Tool Roll - each designed to help you fish more efficiently.

Greys also present their first line of terminal tackle including everything a predator angler would need. Along with these items, Greys have developed a range of accompanying tools.

Category Manager, Andy Charlton said;

"The Prowla range offers everything that a predator angler would expect from a quality brand and Greys are proud and excited about its launch.

"We have developed over 90 products for the launch, and with many more on the way we are looking forward to seeing the ongoing success of the range."

A cheque was presented to Karen Larkin from the charity, Grace House North East Children's Hospice Appeal by Hardy & Greys Ltd and Game Fishing Supplies.

The Fly Fishing event, which was held in at Sweethope Lough in June saw anglers from across the UK pay to fish with one of seven celebrities, including rugby players, Jamie Noon, Raphael Ibanez and Jason Oakes, and television actors, Sean Wilson and Dean Andrews.

Karen Larkin said;

"We had a brilliant day and the feedback we have received has been fantastic. I am extremely grateful to Hardy & Greys Ltd and Game Fishing Supplies for organising the event and of course to the people who attended the day and supported Grace House North East Children's Hospice Appeal."

Hardy & Greys Ltd, Managing Director, Richard Sanderson said;

"As a company we are proud to be able to help and support a charity as worthwhile as Grace House North East. Not only are they doing great things for sick children, as a local based charity, it is very satisfying for us to be able to give something back."

More information on Grace House North East Children's Hospice appeal can be found at www.gracehouse.co.uk 

Angling Times magazine

'Many anglers hate it when the temperature starts to plunge, but I look forward to the onset of winter because, for me, its pike time...'

Improve Your Coarse Fishing magazine review the new range of Prowla rods.

Angler's Mail magazine feature the Greys Prodigy Carp rods in their latest issue.

Trout Fisherman magazine review the Greys Cap Light.

Read the review.

Trout Fisherman magazine review the Greys Cap Light.

Read the review.

Greys Carp Academy member, Kevin Grix has landed two Personal Best Carp in one session!

The 54lb 12oz Mirror and 51lb 14oz Common were caught during a fishing trip to France on the 18^th and 19^th October.

Caught using the Greys Torsion 12ft 3.25lb Carp rods, Kevin used Premier's Matrix Reloaded as bait.

Kevin said;

"I had arranged an October trip to France with two good friends, weather conditions looked favourable for the first three days then a cold front was to move in on the Wednesday.

"We chose our swims, mine being at the far end of the lake, the widest part with a nice tree lined margin to my right.  I had fished the lake in the past, but not from the swim.

"I placed two lightly scattered baits in the margins and in the middle of the lake I found a few hard clay patches surrounded with silt. The area I finally picked ran diagonally out from my bank where I put approximately 4kg of bait along the clay with rods cast to the near and far ends of the patch, between 70 to 100m out -just a small flick with these 3.25lb Torsions.

"I caught steadily throughout the week, taking nine fish, four from the margin and five from open water. These included two PB's - a 54lb 12oz Mirror and 51lb 14oz Common. Others included two forties to 46lb and five thirties to 38lb. Two 50's in one session is something I will never forget."

Held at the White House Social Club in Ashington, Northumberland the evening was open to all members of the Club, their families and invited guests.

This year members of the Felling Fly Fishers were invited to present the trophies which were awarded to years 4, 5, 6 ,7 ,8 and 9. Trophies were awarded to High School Champion, Club Champion and Heaviest Fish Champion as well the Felling Fly Fishers Rivers Challenge. All school pupil members received certificates and medals for their efforts.

The Club Champion this year was Andrew Whitehall from Ashington and the Heaviest Fish trophy was won by Niamh Pirie with a fish of 3lb 8oz.

All young members received a certificate and medals for Fishing, Fly Tying and attending the Hirst Park Trout Tickers Introduction to Fly Fishing Days. The awards ceremony was followed by a raffle buffet and disco.

Trout Ticklers Chairman, John Whitehall said;

"The Hirst Park Trout Ticklers would like to pass on their thanks to everyone for their support over the season and to everyone who donated most generously to our raffle, including Hardy & Greys Ltd. We look forward now to a successful fly tying course held over the winter months leading into our next fishing season in 2010."

The 15th FIPS Mouche European Championships were contested by 13 Countries and were held on Lough Leane, Lough Caragh and the River Blackwater near Killarney in County Kerry, Ireland.

Team England was represented by World Gold Medallists John Horsey and Simon Robinson, plus John Tyzack, Mick Tinnion and Phil Dixon, ably assisted by reserve Andrew Gooding and Team Manager Paul Page.

England's highest capped International angler of all time, John Horsey said:

"Winning Team Gold in the World Championships was the highlight of my Fly Fishing career. However, the European Championships are so close in stature to the World's, which meant we were desperate to get another team medal to add to our Gold.

"Both Simon Robinson and I had fished Lough Lein in the past, so we knew we should expect lots of lightening quick, small wild brownies. The Blackwater had been in flood for weeks, so we knew this would be challenging. Lough Caragh was also full of wild brownies, but being a bit bigger average size than Lein, we hoped we could get good results here."

Although the England Team hooked and played hundreds of fish during the 5 three hour sessions, keeping them on the hook and getting them into the landing net proved the biggest problem.

Keswick's Mick Tinnion hooked an estimated 20 fish during his session on Lough Lein West, but only managed to net 2 sizable fish.

For the duration of the match, only fish in excess of 20 cm's would count, with a score of 500 points per fish, plus 20 points per cm over the 20 cm minimum size.

John Horsey was fishing his 32nd match for England and finished just 1 place point off Individual European Champion. This follows his 10th place in the 2009 World Championships and 4th place overall in the 2008 New Zealand World Championships.For the first time ever in a single year, England can boast the highest ever Individual standings of Iain Barr as World Champion and John Horsey as European Silver Medal Winner.

Czech Team Member Pavel Chyba took Individual Gold, with Horsey in Silver and Ireland's Dave O'Donovan winning Ireland's first ever medal in Bronze position.

The ever consistent French Team won Team Gold, with Czech Republic in Silver and Poland taking the Bronze medal. Italy and England tied on points for 4th place, with Spain in 6th spot and hosts Ireland in 7th place overall.

Caught during a weeklong fishing trip in October at Etang La Saussaie, France, the 54lb 8oz Mirror was caught using a Greys Torsion 12' 3½ lb rod.

Tony was using Mainline Cell 18mm boilie hookbaits, fished in solid pva bags full of crumbed and halved Mainline Cell boilies. This was fished over an area scattered with 18mm Mainline Cell boilies.

Tony said;

"I am absolutely over the moon with this capture. I have clocked up many trips over the years in France but have never really been very lucky with fish weights. This one just tops my year off, as earlier last month I upped my UK Common carp PB to 48lb 8oz and UK Mirror carp PB to 41lb 10oz."

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Karl, who worked with Greys Product Managers to design the newly launched Greys Torsion Bivvy's revolutionary ‘Spyda Wynda' concept, was nominated for the award through his ability to demonstrate and produce innovative and brilliant designs within strict commercial limits. Judges for the award were looking for engineers who have contributed to their industry and who work to promote engineering in the broader community.

The Award ceremony, held on 1st October at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London saw Karl battle it out against four other finalists. The host was ex Tomorrow's World presenter, Kate Bellingham and the guest speaker, Sir Richard Noble, famous for his record braking supersonic car, Thrust SSC.

Karl said;

"Being nominated for such a prestigious award was one thing but then being a finalist for the award is well and truly another! I am proud to have been nominated for this award."

Hardy & Greys Ltd, Research & Development Engineer, Colin Skene said;

"Karl's work on the Greys Torsion Bivvy has given the company an award winning product that has really got the industry buzzing with excitement."

Karl, who worked with Greys Product Managers to design the newly launched Greys Torsion Bivvy's revolutionary ‘Spyda Wynda' concept, was nominated for the award through his ability to demonstrate and produce innovative and brilliant designs within strict commercial limits. Judges for the award were looking for engineers who have contributed to their industry and who work to promote engineering in the broader community.

The Award ceremony, held on 1st October at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London saw Karl battle it out against four other finalists. The host was ex Tomorrow's World presenter, Kate Bellingham and the guest speaker, Sir Richard Noble, famous for his record braking supersonic car, Thrust SSC.

Karl said;

"Being nominated for such a prestigious award was one thing but then being a finalist for the award is well and truly another! I am proud to have been nominated for this award."

Hardy & Greys Ltd, Research & Development Engineer, Colin Skene said;

"Karl's work on the Greys Torsion Bivvy has given the company an award winning product that has really got the industry buzzing with excitement."

Read Kevin's updated blog.

Read more

Read more. 

When describing the G-Mag Editor, Mel Russ said;

The G-Mag is "handy for boat and shore fishing, and is built link a bunker... a heavy duty reel said to cast up to 200 yards that can be used for tough shore fishing or taken afloat."

Greys are sponsoring the team with products including a selection of sea rods, G-Mag reels and Apollo Extreme clothing.

The team are fully prepared for the Championship with the first event being held on Tuesday 13th October and concluded on Saturday 24th Ocober. Check back on the Team's progress coming soon.

Read Lee's Updated Blog.

'Improve Your Coarse Fishing' Magazine review the Greys Klip-Lok Bait Boxes.

Fly angler, Mark Bolam has recently landed a 10lb 1/2oz Bass whilst using the Greys Greylex 12' Bait rod.

Fishing using free-lined live Sand Eel with the new Greys G-Tec Mainline 8lb-3.6kg test curve to a bronze barrel swivel, and a 3ft leader of the G-Tec Mainline,  to a size 4/0 Aberdeen Wire hook Mark said;

"The take was slow and lazy but once it realised that it had been hooked it gave a very impressive fight. I am glad that the fish decided to spend most of its energy on trying to make it back to sea against the current, although it did turn a couple of times which made things very interesting!  The fight took some 10 minutes and I am very impressed with the action of the Greyflex - both for casting and for its handling of a fish in what was a 4-5 knot current. 

"I have used the Greyflex rod many times and I was always happy with the way it cast, but this is the first time I have used that size of rod with such a large fish.  Greys designers have got it right with this rod... It was a joy to play the fish."

Howard finished in third place out of a field of 31 top anglers in the England National Final which was held on the River Tees.

Using two new soon to be launched Greys prototype rods specifically designed for modern river fishing techniques and competition fishing, and Hardy Marksman reels, Howard claimed his third place qualification.

Howard said;

"I was very pleased to qualify against such a strong field and in extremely challenging near-flood river conditions that made fishing the productive far side of the River even more difficult than normal."

Results

1st Place - John Tyzack
2nd Place - Simon Robbinson
3rd Place - Howard Croston
4th Place - Ian Greenwood
5th Place - Phil Dixon
Reserve - Bernie Maher

The competition which was held on the Lake of Menteith in Scotland in early September saw Hardy & Greys Ltd Game Product Development Assistant, Scott Nellins help take the 14-man team to 2nd place with his catch of ten fish.

Scott said;

"It was very pleasing to be top England rod in my first Loch Style International; however the important thing is the Team performance which was an all round excellent effort. It was a shame not to collect the gold but Scotland were always favourites in the home patch."

Scott won the top England rod and collected the Grafham Trophy, one of the most prestigious trophies in English Fly Fishing.

Results

1st - Scotland
2nd - England
3rd - Wales
4th - Ireland

Improve Your Coarse Fishing magazine review the new Greys Prowla range.

Read Review.

Read Review.

Read the Review.

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The 8lb 2oz Tench was caught on an evening fishing session at Bovington whilst Tony was testing the new Greys VX 12ft Specimen Twin Tip 1.25lb - 1.75lb Rods.

Tony said;

"As soon as I hooked the fish it made a b-Line straight for a reed bed to my left and I knew that I had to apply immediate pressure or lose the fish. I didn't need to have worried however, as the VX Prodigy did exactly what Dave Coster designed it to do and all of the attempts for freedom the fish made were subdued in an almost gentle manner, even under the tip and, as she made a couple of hard surges I always felt in control. I will be using this rod a lot in the foreseeable future.''

The new Greys VX will be available in 12ft 1.25lb - 1.75lb and 1.50lb - 2.0lb and come in three sections.

This exciting new range will be available to customers from January 2010.

Based in Ireland and Wales, both Instructors offer Fly Fishing tuition to novice, intermediate and advanced anglers.

In the programme presenter, Keith Arthur along with Chris Bond and Kevin Benham from Greys and Mike Williamson from the Greys-sponsored boat, Firefox are seen fishing off the Cornish coast.

Using the Greys Torsion 12ft 3.5lb Carp rods, the anglers try their luck at catching Blue Sharks.

Watch the Clip

Read more.

Held on Saturday 14th August, the competition saw Tom and Mike, along with Basil Shields and Andrew Boyd representing Team Galway & Corrib be victorious against 27 other teams with a total of 5075 points and 18 trout with the competition run on a catch & release basis.

Basil Shields was also awarded Top Individual Angler, followed by Mike in 2nd and Tom in 3rd place. This follows Tom's 3rd place in the Irish National in June which has qualified him for the Irish team in next year's Spring International on Lough Conn.

Hardy & Greys Ltd would like to congratulate Tom and Mike on their success.

The team of six - Hardy & Greys Product Development Assistant, Scott Nellins, Paul Davison, Steve Cullen, Iain Earle, Ian Jones and Mark Howard competed against 22 other teams and 132 anglers to claim the victory.

Held on Rutland Water on the 22nd and 23rd August Scott Nellins said;

"We had a commanding lead after Day 1, but a disastrous 2nd day saw us almost loose the top spot. We just managed to hang on by a couple of pounds thanks to a great team effort. The Ospreys would like to dedicate their win to David Hodgson."

Chris Guthrie of the Greys G-Tec Stocks Team won Overall Best Bag in the comp over the 2 days, fishing with small dries up the north arm.

Hardy & Greys Ltd would like to congratulate The Ospreys on their win.

Results

1st. The Ospreys 51 fish for 113lb 1oz
2nd. BRFFA Team Orvis 44 fish for 111lb 10oz
3rd. Alba Orvis FF 44 fish for 107lb 3oz
4th. Kent & Sussex FF 44 fish for 106lb 4oz
5th. Team Tightlines 40 fish 40 fish for 99lb 13oz
6th. Nymph-A-Maniacs 36 fish for 98lb 10oz
7th. Greys G-Tec Stocks 40 fish for 97lb 1oz
8th. Blagdon FF Bristol Water 42 fish for 96lb 5oz
9th. The Anglos Anglers 41 fish for 90lb 9oz
10th.Meridian FF 36 fish for 84lb 7oz

Attached Image from www.fishypics.co.uk

Read the Review

Angling Times review the new range of Greys Prowla tackle, Thursday August 25th 2009.

At a weight of 52lb 6oz, the beauty was caught whilst Mark was fishing Home Pool, Chad Lakes in Gloucestershire on the weekend of August 15th.

Mark said;

"I always thought I was in with a chance of catching Blackeye, as even though he does get caught, every time I had been on the lake he never made an appearance! In fact, the first time I saw him out of the water, was just as I like it - In the bottom of my landing net!"

With time at a premium and a busy work schedule that took most of May and all of July out of the equation, Mark was concerned time was running out this year. However, his quest ended when perhaps the UK'S largest male Carp in the country took Mark's float fished Prawn.

Mark said;

"It is nearly a year to the day since Blackeye was caught on a piece of freelined flake by Mark Whitehouse, and I figured that at this time of year he would be more susceptible to being caught with a different approach.

"In view of this, during my latest session I kept flicking out prawns along the margins for 24 hours. On the second day, I tackled up with a float adopting a form of fishing called Stret Pegging which was actually developed for river fishing. It basically is to fish well over depth with the float practically lying flat on the surface. In actual fact I had it so the float was just cocked. With this method the line does not hang down in a straight line. About an hour after setting up, the float rose and slid away.

Amazingly I was using my new Torsion rods and the 2.75 TC was able to take the first surge of the big carp without tearing the hook out at extremely close range. After a frenzied few minutes, Mark Pitchers netted the fish first time of asking and told me I'd got him. I knew during the fight which fish was attached but put this to the back of my mind as I negotiated him around the weed beds."

Summing up his feelings Mark said;

"To catch such a stunning Carp as Blackeye was a real privilege. Even though he was well over 50lb, the real attraction was to catch such a well-known sought-after Carp. He was my 42nd Carp from Chad and in a way I'm glad that I have managed to catch all the lakes inhabitants, except two, as the lake holds some absolute stunning looking Carp, before I caught Blackeye. There is so much more to Home Pool than just the main obvious attraction of Blackeye."

Read more here

View the new Greys Prowla Advert. 

David Inglis from Nottingham entered a competition on the Hardy & Greys Ltd stand at the show to win one of either two prizes. David chose a Hardy Angel2 9" 6' #7 rod.

David said;

"What a surprise it was to win this rod! I have never won anything in my life and I am very proud. I already have lots of Hardy equipment and the Hardy Angel2 is a beautiful addition to my collection. My friends are very envious of my win."

Greys launch their new G-mag Advert.

View the new G-Mag Advert.

Read the review.

Read Mark Holmes Blog.

Both men were being guided by Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultant and England Fly Fishing Team Captain, John Horsey for the first two days of the annual sell-out Chew Valley Pike Trials.

Chris said;

"It was easily the coldest day that I've ever fished on. The water temperature was only three degrees and we didn't expect any runs a all.

"Around lunctime we have half a dozen Pike on smelt before I caught my PB 30lb 2oz Pike on float-fish smelt deadbait.

"I was absolutely thrilled as my previous PR was just 29lb."

Following two years in design and development working with top flight Predator anglers in both the UK and Europe, the new range of Prowla rods, terminal tackle, luggage and accessories have reached the end of its long testing period.

"The 12ft 3lb TC Greys Prowla Platinum Bait Rod that I was using was light to handle," said Chris. "Casting beautifully, it still had masses of power in reserve for playing a very big, strong fish in deep water under a boat. The rod set the hook easily at range and there was plenty of power to deliver the fish quickly to the net. What a day!"

Martin also had a Pike, weighing 19lb 8oz, on his Greys Prowla 10ft 6ins Boat Rod and John joined in the action too when he caught a PB Perch, weighing 4lb 6oz, on a Greys 6ft Prowla Platinum Jerkbait Rod.

John Horsey said;

"Over the years I have had great days at Chew on the Pike, but those two days must be the best so far. We have boated even bigger Pike, but never in such adverse conditions. For Chris to get his PR Pike in the middle of a snow storm that left most of our tackle completly covered, was absolutely brilliant!

"Then, to think we caught all our fish using the latest Prowla range of predator rods was fantastic. All the rods performed incredibly well - at times we had solid ice in the rod rings, but still they delivered the goods - cast after cast."

Coarse and Carp Category Product Managr, Andy Charlton said;

"The Prowla range has been carefully engineered for today's predator angling and is the most exciting range of products I've ever been involved with while at Hardy & Greys Ltd.

"Designed and developed by some of Europe's finest specimen anglers, I am incredibly excited to be nearing the launch later this year. Eighteen rods encompass the range, including bait, boat, drop shot, jerk baits, lure rods and vertical jig rods all priced between £79.99 and £109.99."

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new interactive Prowla website which we will be updating daily.

Featured on the site are all of the new products for 2009 from Prowla.

Please check back for further news and product updates coming soon.

The 50lb 7oz Common was caught using a Greys Torsion 12ft 2.75lb t/c rod whilst fishing a syndicate venue.

Kevin said;

"As she rolled across the landing net, I could hardly believe my eyes, "The Big Common" again! She settled the digital scales at 50lb 7oz, two ounces bigger than my previous capture and a new Personal Best. To say I am over the moon is an understatment."

Read Kevin's Blog.

At 64lbs 2oz Benson has been a target fish at Bluebell Lakes Carp Fishery, Peterborough for many anglers for years and Chub Academy member, Chris Lowe was lucky enough to catch the big common just over five years ago

Chris said;

"At a personal best weight of 56lb, which to this day still stands as my PB it has saddened me to know that the big fish had died. It gave me some good memories and is a capture that I will never forget.

"It is also a sad time for Tony, the owner of the fishery where the great fish resided as this is the second big fish to die recently on the complex and I'm sure it will have a big impact on him. My condolences go out to him."

The iconic Carp was stocked in 1995 at 24lbs.

Held at Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, Hardy & Greys were at the very heart of Fishermans row supporting no less than eight of their top retail dealers located throughout the Fishing Village.

A full range of new products were being showcased by the Northumbrian fishing tackle company, including the new Hardy Angel2 rods and Hardy Perfect and St George Reels - all made in Alnwick, England. From Greys there was the new X-Flite and Platinum XD rod ranges as well as a full range of new waders and boots.

Top Hardy & Greys Consultants including Charles Jardine, Chris Ogborne, Ian Gordon, Henry Gilbey, Nick Hart and John Bailey were all on hand to offer help and advice at all levels and members of the Hardy & Greys Academy, Andy Smith (England), Howard Taylor (England), David Bell (Scotland), Stevie Munn and Stevie Kennedy (Ireland) were also present, giving casting tuition and sharing their top fishing tips.

The competition being held on the stand to win an Angel2 rod worth £1,000 or St George reel worth £650 was also a big success with many customers entering.

Hardy & Greys also sponsored the show casting clinic in partnership with GAIA. Instructors used Hardy & Greys equipment and sported the company clothing, whilst offering tuition which gave visitors the opportunity to improve on their casting skills throughout the show.

For the past 7 years, Hardy & Greys have sponsored the Hardy Youth Open Salmon Distance Championship and Greys Youth Open Trout Distance Championship. This year the winner of both competitions was Joseph Avery-Harris from Wiltshire.

Sales and Marketing Director, Ken Brewster said;

"We do not attend the CLA just to sell tackle, we are equally delighted when anglers come to us to discuss a problem with their casting, their techniques or simply just to talk fishing. Our experts are on hand throughout the fair to offer advice on all aspects of fishing, offering a unique opportunity for anglers to talk with the best team in the business.

"As a company we are very excited about the year ahead. We have a lot of new products being introduced including a new rod and reel from Hardy and three new ranges of Greys rods. There is also some fantastic clothing coming from both brands. We are looking forward to the year ahead and hope to see you again at the 2010 CLA."

The 2010 CLA will be held at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire on Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th July.

‘Tweedguide', run by anglers Bill Drew and Ron McCombe, who is also a Hardy & Greys Academy Member, is Scotland's leading guide service for Fly Fishing.

Established in 1999, the company offer professional guidance to anglers from all over the world on the river Tweed, including many exclusive beats for Wild Brown Trout, Sea Trout, Atlantic Salmon and Grayling and their knowledge of the River Tweed has earned them an enviable reputation.

The company offer a hassle free guiding and fly fishing tuition service with packages designed for particular personal needs and provided by a group of friendly and experienced guides. All equipment provided is exclusively the most up to date Hardy & Greys tackle.

Bill Drew said;

"Tweedguide are proud to be associated with Hardy & Greys Ltd.
Hardy & Greys have a worldwide reputation for quality that has stood the test of time. The fact that they are a local company supporting another local company is of huge benefit to us.

"Hardy & Greys has enabled us to offer our clients a high quality experience of professional river guiding and Fly Fishing tuition using the best of fishing equipment."

Daniel Hansens, Marketing Manager for Hardy & Greys Ltd said;

"With Tweedguide providing more than a thousand anglers a year from all over the world with guiding services, it makes perfect sense for us to support them. Our association allows every person using Tweedguide to be certain that they will be using the best tackle out there for the job and experience firsthand the quality and innovation we offer in all our products."

3 hour, day, salmon, fishing holidays and corporate packages are all available from Tweedguide. For more information on Tweedguide and to book visit www.tweedguide.com

Carpology magazine described the bivvy as ‘the new revolutionary bivvy from Greys that will keep you comfortable (plus offer you a lot more...)"

Read more on this review

"The Only way I can describe this rod is that it is 14ft of pure muscle. If you're the type of angler who likes to fish in deep water with obstacles and strong tides in your way, this rod will not let you down."

Read more on this Review

Renowned for only giving this prestigious award to the finest quality fishing tackle companies, Greys was awarded this recommendation having undergone long and hard testing on their products.

Tested by the Editor of Blinker magazine under the heading ‘It doesn't get any better' the waders and boots underwent over 300 hours of testing throughout a 9 month period in both warm and cold conditions, fresh and saltwater alike. In all categories (specification, practice use, price-value for money) Greys have been voted the top score.

Stefan Meyenburg, Marketing Manager for Hardy & Greys GmbH said;

"I think this seal of approval is a very important marketing tool for Greys that not only the Platinum waders and boots will benefit from, but many more of our products.

"Fishermen know they can rely on this seal because the product has been tested hard under various fishing conditions."

This is the second Seal of Approval from Blinker for Greys. The Greys X-Flite Barbel Rod received the award in 2005.

Renowned for only giving this prestigious award to the finest quality fishing tackle companies, Greys was awarded this recommendation having undergone long and hard testing on their products.

Tested by the Editor of Blinker magazine under the heading ‘It doesn't get any better' the waders and boots underwent over 300 hours of testing throughout a 9 month period in both warm and cold conditions, fresh and saltwater alike. In all categories (specification, practice use, price-value for money) Greys have been voted the top score.

Stefan Meyenburg, Marketing Manager for Hardy & Greys GmbH said;

"I think this seal of approval is a very important marketing tool for Greys that not only the Platinum waders and boots will benefit from, but many more of our products.

"Fishermen know they can rely on this seal because the product has been tested hard under various fishing conditions."

This is the second Seal of Approval from Blinker for Greys. The Greys X-Flite Barbel Rod received the award in 2005.

"The Angle of the Cast" features the life of Gwilym, incorporating his connection with angling and his fishing experiences. In his book Gwilym offers sound advice to anglers from his vast knowledge as well as hints and tips. There is insight on every page - from the memory of his very first Trout, boyish adventures and hilarious incidents - through the stages of learning and development of skills in angling to the fulfilment and elation of reaching International status. From all this comes a good read and an angling bible.

Dedicated to his parents, wife and children, the introduction of the 250+ page book has been written by angler and Rugby Union Legend, Gareth Edwards who describes Gwilym as an "especially gifted angler showing a form of understanding and skill far beyond normal anglers."

The book will be available from the 1st August 2009 from ‘G.H. Sporting' or email Gwilym - ghughes2@btinternet.com

More Greys Sea Fishing Rod Information

"Greys revolutionary new Torsion Bivvy has caused quite a stir since its release, so the Carpworld team decided to take a look at it." Read more

Carpworld Magazine

View more information on the Greys Torsion Bivvy

The competition, which took place between the 5th and 12th June at five different venues across Scotland saw the five-man team take gold with Ian Greenwood as Manager and Baz Reece as reserve for the team.

Howard joined Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultant, John Horsey and other members of the 2009 Team including Iain Barr, Simon Robinson and Davy Parker.

All anglers were using Hardy & Greys equipment and kitted out wearing Hardy EWS2 Waders and Wading Jacket, a Soft Shell Jacket and Mid Layer Fleece and Greys Platinum Wading Boots, Greys GRXi Shirts and Trousers, and GRXi Over trousers.

John Horsey fished using the Hardy Demon 10' #8 rod for Loch Leven and Loch Awe, and his Hardy Angel2 10' #7 rod for Menteith and Carron Valley. John used the Hardy Premium Floater on these venues.

On the river Tay, John used a 10' #5 Hardy Marksman outfit, plus the Greys Streamflex 10' #4 and #5 complete with Streamflex reels.

Dave Parker used the Greys G-Tec 10ft #7 and Streamflex 10ft #4 rods as well as GRXi+ Reels and Howard Croston used the G-Tec 10ft #7 rod and Streamflex 10ft #4 along with Demon reels.

England's Iain Barr won the title of World Champion.
John Horsey said;

"This gold medal has been a long time coming - we last won a Team Gold back in 1995. In the early years, the Championships were contested by only a dozen or so Countries, but this year's entry from 29 Countries made it the biggest World Championships in history and to win Gold made it even more satisfying. Congratulations also go to Scotland for their first ever Team Bronze medal."

Howard Croston said;

"I would like to thank Sweethope Lough for the use of their venue when practising in the run up to the Championships. We are very proud to have won this competition and the team all worked hard to achieve first place."

Hardy & Greys Ltd would like to congratulate Howard, John and the England Team on their success.

World Fly Fishing Championship Results Table

1- England
2- France
3- Scotland

For more information and to purchase visit your local Greys dealer.

The event, which took place at Sweethope Lough, was organised by Hardy & Greys Ltd of Alnwick and Game Fishing Supplies of Morpeth.

Anglers were set the task of catching the longest length of fish in total during the day, with all fish safely returned to the water.

Bill Riddicks, of Ayrshire landed first prize for 8 fish measuring 3580mm and received a whopping £1,000 worth of Hardy & Greys Ltd vouchers.
Gary Haggart, of Fife came second in the competition and received £700 and Marc Moss, of Aberdeenshire came in third and bagged a sizeable prize of £300.

Among the celebrities taking part in the event were former French rugby captain, Raphael Ibanez, keen angler, Sean Wilson formerly Martin Platt from Coronation Street; Dean Andrews, from Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes, Jamie Noon, Richard Hill and Jason Oakes of the Newcastle Falcons.

Dean Andrews said;

"It was a fantastic day and I was surrounded by lovely people in beautiful surroundings. It was all in aid of a very worthy cause and you can book my place for next year now because I'll be back!"

Jamie Noon said;

"It was a great day and everyone had a brilliant time, even those who came away without any fish. Most importantly however, we managed to raise a large amount of money for the kids who need it most. I'm looking forward to next year's event already!"

By far, the biggest catch of the day was netted by Grace House North East Children's Hospice Appeal where nearly £6,000 was raised on the day and by an on-line auction courtesy of www.flyforums.co.uk who are part of the Fish and Fly group and many anglers who attended on the day were from the Forum. 

Participants were asked to raise as much as possible in donations and prizes were awarded to the top three fundraisers with £2,000 of Game Fishing Supplies vouchers being shared between them.

Karen Larkin, Regional Fundraiser for Grace House said;

"To be given the opportunity to meet some celebrities, enjoy a full day's fishing, including food and raise a significant amount of money in the process surely ticks every box. I am extremely grateful to everyone who took part and supported the event. What a venue and what a day - fantastic. We have started making plans for next year already so watch this space!"

Richard Sanderson, Managing Director of Hardy & Greys Ltd said;

"Hardy are proud to be supporting a local charity such as Grace House North East. Together we raised a fantastic amount of money for the charity and I would like to take the opportunity to thank both the celebrities for taking part in the event, the boat anglers and Flyforums.co.uk - it is a very worthy cause."

Ian Woods, Managing Director of Game Fishing Supplies said;

"The day was even more of a success than we could ever have imagined.

"Although the weather wasn't great, nobody's spirits were dampened and all the anglers, celebrities and organisers had a fantastic day. I have been an angler for over 31 years and have never had a day as memorable as this. The real icing on the cake was the substantial amount that was raised for Grace House North East and I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the day. Roll on next year's event!"

The Fish With the Stars Celebrity Charity Event will be held on Wednesday 23rd June 2010.

To book your place contact Vicky Bell, Vicky@ian-woods.co.uk

More information on Grace House North East. 

Read More

England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales took part in the competition with five anglers per team plus one reserve.

Wales took first place in the competition with 92 fish, followed by England in second with 63 fish, Ireland in third with 60 fish and Scotland taking fourth place with 33 fish.

Hardy & Greys, Product Manager Assistant, Scott Nellins, who was Reserve for the English team took part in the afternoon session's after Simon Robinson couldn't continue due to injury.

Scott said;

"Beating Wales on their own patch was always going to be hard. They had a team full of local anglers who knew the water well. In third place after the morning sessions we dug in deeply to grab the silver during the afternoon."

Scott managed to win both of his sessions in the afternoon, fishing with a 10' #3 Greys Streamflex Rod, Hardy Demon 3000 Reel and Greys Platinum WF3 Line.

"True innovation in angling products is a rare commodity indeed, but in this new Torsion Bivvy the design team at Greys have really surpassed themselves." Read more

Angling Times - June 2009

View more information on the Torsion Bivvy

Careysville Fishery on the river Blackwater in Co. Cork has an international reputation as one of the best Salmon fisheries in Ireland and is one of the prime fisheries for spring Salmon.

The fishery is now promoting various Hardy product ranges including a Hardy Swift 15' Salmon fly rod, Swift reel and Mach 55 Wet2 Sink Tip Line and a Greys X-Flite 15' Salmon Fly rod with a Hardy Mach 44 Intermediate Clear Sink Tip Line.

Head Ghillie of Careysville Fishery, Patrick Devennie said;

"We are very excited about teaming up with such an established company as Hardy & Greys Ltd.

"Guests who are thinking of investing in a new rod, reel or fly line will now have the opportunity to try out two different new models alongside correct instruction on their use.

"Although we do not carry stock, should anyone wish to purchase an item while at Careysville, we can contact our nearest dealer and aim to have it within 24 hours."

Taking the Best New Carp Bivvy Award; the Torsion bivvy was rewarded for its overall specification and technical innovation provided by the ‘Spyda Wynda' patented mechanism which provides rapid set up in less than 60 seconds all by the turn of a handle. Additionally its comprehensive specification includes ‘Climatex' high performance fabric which is both breathable and completely waterproof. The Torsion Bivvy beat off strong competition from several other leading European manufactures for this coveted award.

The Torsion bivvy is produced in the UK and utilises an aero grade aluminium flexi-pole frame that can be adjusted for both height and width for changing weather conditions. To further increase versatility 3 different front panel options (clear, mosquito and standard) are included as standard.

Once erect, the bivvy is completely free standing and self supporting, with no need for additional storm poles, making it suitable for all types of swims including platforms.

The Greys Torsion Bivvy retails at £599.00 and the first bivvies off the production line will be available from your local greys stockist from the 26th June.

Their catch which consisted of the sixty along with a 40.05 PB for Cheryl backed up with 27x30's, 27x20's and 12 doubles all of which fell to either Cell Snowman rigs and Mainline Pineapple pop-ups fished over beds of Cell boilies and Winton's own particle mix coupled with Mainline Activated Hempseed ground bait.

Max told Hardy & Greys Ltd;

"We love Winton's in France and have been regular visitors for the past five years. We always try to get a couple of trips in each year as the fishing is first class which, coupled with the atmosphere, surroundings and facilities make this our favourite holiday venue.

"Arriving on Saturday morning Cheryl and I set up and visited the local supermarket to stock up on provisions before putting our rods out early evening. Action was instant and by the time darkness fell we had already caught eight fish.

"The next day the alarms were screaming and the Winton's Carp we're regularly filling our landing nets! The action remained constant up until Wednesday evening when I caught the big one, then as a result of the warm temperatures the fish just switched off - clearly in anticipation of spawning. The remainder of the week produced the odd fish but the lack of action was evident right up until the end of the week when we reluctantly packed up and handed over to the next group coming on."

Tackle used by the couple included 12' 3.25lb Greys Torsion rods coupled with Daiwa Basia reels loaded with 15lb ACE Velocity Camo Carp mono, Size 6 LS Arma-Point hooks to 20lb ACE Camo-Core hooklinks.

New products to see at the show include the Hardy St. George and Hardy Perfect Salmon Reels, both made in Alnwick, England.

Other products include the Hardy Angel 2 rod range, Classic and Glass rods and Demon rods and reels. In the Fy Line category, come and see our range of Fly Lines as well as waders and boots.

Under the Greys Brand we have the Greys X-Flite rods and reels, Platinum XD competitor rods, GRXi + reels as well as waders and boots, platinum luggage and new retractors.

World Renowned Spey caster, Ian Gordon and fly angler, Charles Jardine will also be demonstrating their casting skills throughout the event and Hardy & Greys will be sponsoring all CLA casting competitions and GAIA Instructors.

Customers can purchase from ten retailers at the show and there is also a competition giving you the chance to win a Hardy prize.

Visit the Hardy & Greys stand on Fisherman's Row.

More information on the CLA Game Fair

The competition, which took place between the 5th and 12th June at five different venues across Scotland saw the five-man team take gold.

Howard joined Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultant, John Horsey and other members of the 2009 Team including Ian Barr, Simon Robinson and Davy Parker.

World Fly Fishing Championship Results Table

1- England

2- France

3- Scotland

On the individual front, England's Ian Barr has won the title of World Champion.

Hardy & Greys Ltd would like to congratulate Howard and the England Team on their success.

Results

Greys will be sponsoring the team with products including a selection of sea rods, G-Mag reels and Apollo Extreme clothing.

These products will be used at events including the World Championships in Croatia in 2010 and the Home National event in Wales in July this Year. The team will provide Greys with feedback on these products and prototypes currently under development.

The Anglers to represent Wales in the World Championships are Franco Attanassio who has experienced success previously in World Championships in Portugal, Joe Arch, former individual world Champion who has also had major wins at many events home and away, Alan Price who is former World champion from 2002 in Belgium. Pete Corker also joins the team - an excellent all round performer who narrowly missed out in an individual gold medal in Portugal and James Fraser who continues to produce the results when required ( team gold in 1997.)

Andrew Hutchins is the reserve for the event and will participate midway through the championships. Andrew has continued to show commitments and development in his career in angling and is being rewarded with a place on the team.

Team manager, Mike Flynn said;

"We are very proud to have Greys as our official sponsor. The Welsh Sea Angling Federation pride themselves on the method of qualification for the National team that allows all Anglers an equal chance of qualification. The facts are clear in adopting an open method of selection and we have continued our rise up through the rankings to fourth in the world with the use of the best fishing products from Greys."

Read Cathal's blog on the competition.

A neatly padded pouch specifically designed to safely transport your Greys Digital Scales and stop them getting scratched or damaged in transit.

The pouch has two double zipped compartments which allow for carrying items such as forceps, pliers and carp care kits and also features elasticated loops on the back of the pouch designed for storing your weigh bar.

The pouch is manufactured from Heavy Duty Oxford Weave 600D material and also features 5mm foam padding for added protection.

Visit your local dealer today to purchase.

A neatly padded pouch specifically designed to safely transport your Greys Digital Scales and stop them getting scratched or damaged in transit.

The pouch has two double zipped compartments which allow for carrying items such as forceps, pliers and carp care kits and also features elasticated loops on the back of the pouch designed for storing your weigh bar.

The pouch is manufactured from Heavy Duty Oxford Weave 600D material and also features 5mm foam padding for added protection.

Visit your local dealer today for more information and to purchase.

Hardy & Greys Ltd are delighted to announce they have teamed up with one of Scotland's most prestigious Salmon beats.

Park Fishing on the river Dee has twelve rods available on both the North and South banks of the river Dee and is professionally managed by Head Ghillie, Keith Cromer who said;

"I am over the moon that Park fishing and world leading tackle manufacturer, Hardy & Greys Ltd has joined forces together and we look forward to working with Hardy & Greys in the future."

Hardy & Greys are proud to be sponsoring Park Fishing and will be providing equipment for anglers to use on the river.

For more information on Park Fishing on the River Dee visit www.park-leisure.co.uk

Caught whilst fishing using a Wapsi ‘Egg Yarn' fly pattern just below the surface of the water Zdravko said;

"What a day! I saw a big shadow swimming slowly near the surface, and I tried few times to cast my fly in front of it. Finally the fish took the fly and after 10 minutes of fight I managed to land it. The 20kg Carp is likely to be the first 20kg+ Carp caught on fly rod in Croatia."

Zdravko was also using a floating Hardy DT 6wt line.

Caught whilst fishing using a Wapsi ‘Egg Yarn' fly pattern just below the surface of the water Zdravko said;

"What a day! I saw a big shadow swimming slowly near the surface, and I tried few times to cast my fly in front of it. Finally the fish took the fly and after 10 minutes of fight I managed to land it. The 20kg Carp is likely to be the first 20kg+ Carp caught on fly rod in Croatia."

Zdravko was also using a floating Hardy DT 6wt line.

The 43lb beauty, caught using a Greys X-Flite Plus rod on a recent trip to a French lake called Lake Bossard fell to Mainline maple 8 boilies.

Tony said;

"The fish fought very hard. I've caught a few Grass Carp but nothing near this size!"

Greys Carp Consultant, Max Cottis has produced another big hit during a recent 48 hour session at Grenville.

Fishing the 80 acre syndicate water in Cambridgeshire, the Director of ACE (Advanced Carp Equipment) landed 19 Carp including seven 30's to 39lb along with another eight 20's and four doubles.

Fishing Peg 12, Max began by baiting each rod with around 2kg of Mainline Cell and fished either Cell or Hi Viz Pineapple pop-ups on size 8 long shank hooks tied to 7" of 20lb ACE Gravel Camo-Core hooklinks.

Using the new Greys 12' 3.25lb Torsion rods, Max blasted out a single pop-up 140 yards on his left rod choosing to fish the other two on top and down the side of a bar at 45yds and 60 yards.

Max said;

"It was my first trip out on Grenville using my new Torsion rods and to say I was happy with their performance would be an understatement! Not only did they comfortably hit the extreme range required on one rod but they played fished beautifully.

"This latest catch takes my tally of 30's from the water to 17 this season; hopefully I'll get another session in before it closes at the end of May and take the number to 20... this would be a very worthwhile return for the limited time I've spent up at this amazing water!"

Northumbrian fishing tackle Company, Greys were pleased to sponsor the 6^th and final round of the Woodford Winter League.

The event which took place on 29^th March at Woodford Fly Fishery saw Campbell Baird take first place catching 25 fish weighing in at 26.79kg, Ross Hill took second place with 21 fish at 17.55kg and Darren Haggan with 20 fish at 24.67kg. Darran also caught the heaviest fish of the tournament at 2.31kg with his first cast.

In taking first place Campbell retained the title of Winter League Champion for the fourth time, earning him a Greys Platinum XD Comp Special Fly Rod and Greys G-Tec Fly Reel.

Ross received a Greys X-Flite Fly Rod and G-Tec Fly Reel and Darren received a Greys GRXi Fly Rod and G-Tec Reel.

All prize-winners are members of the Greys sponsored fishing team.

For more information on Woodford Fly Fishery visit www.woodfordfly.co.uk

18 anglers battled it out in the 8 hour loch style competition, each having to comply with international Rules.

Using his Greys Platinum XD Comp Special rod for the first time, Hardy Demon 5000 Reel and new Hardy Mach Clear Intermediate line, Scott fished using the washing line method with long slow pulls, whilst landing 21 Trout.

Scott said;

"This is a great start to the season, and I am very much looking forward to using the Greys Platinum Comp Rod this year - It handled the rough conditions effortlessly.

Credit must go to the Stocks management for the great job they are doing, hopefully more people will attend the next sweep."

Further details plus information on the next two Spring Sweep competitions can be found at www.stocksreservoir.com

Overnight frost forced many high achieving anglers to fish deep and Welsh International angler, Craig Gimblett prised out his 6 fish limit within the 90 minutes fishing a fast sinking line with Boobies and mini lures.

Most of the competitors failed to get deep enough and Gimblett took the top prize of a coveted Hardy EWS Soft Shell Jacket plus a £100 voucher.

Runner-up was another Welsh International angler, David Hoppe, who started on nymphs, but after only landing 1 fish in the first 3 hours, switched to a sinking line to take his limit bag by 4pm.

Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultant and Championship Manager, John Horsey said;

"The sharp overnight frost really stopped the trout from feeding until after midday. Craig Gimblett's gamble to fish very deep certainly paid off and on a hard day, his International pedigree certainly came to the fore".

For further details on future event information visit www.johnhorsey.co.uk

View the clip and the Greys products being used on the programme.

Fire Fox is a charter boat based at Dover in Kent, skippered by Michael Williams.

Available for full or part day sea fishing trips as a whole boat charter. Fire Fox is also available for channel events, safety-boat work, pleasure trips including sight-seeing, survey work, film-work, scattering of ashes and various other duties.

For more information on Fire Fox click here.

Top Carp fishing magazine, UK Carp has recently reviewed the Greys Torsion Carp Rods,

"I'm a massive fan of slim blanks and lightweight rods, but finding a model with a huge amount of casting power is a tall order. Well, that's exactly what Greys promised with its Torsion rod, and as soon as I picked up a 12ft 3.5lb tc model I felt confident the company was right." Read more

Richard Wilby - UK Carp April 2009

View more information on Torsion Carp Rods

The qualification, awarded by the Advanced Association of Professional Game Angling Instructors is one of the highest salmon qualification anglers can achieve.

Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultant, Ian, who is also a qualified STANIC salmon instructor, specialising in the Spey cast, along with teaching basic casting with a double handed rod said;

"Having fly-fished with a double handed rod since the age of 9, I am delighted and thrilled to have taken and passed this AAPGAI in Advanced Salmon exam.

This qualification is a major milestone, in that it is very difficult to attain. The standards within AAPGAI are second to none, with only the very best of people making the grade.

Ultimately it was this high standard which initially drew me to AAPGAI, and I have to say, spending time with a group of people with so much knowledge of all forms of fly-fishing has been a real inspiration.

I very much look forward, through my association with Hardy/Greys and AAPGAI, to helping the next generation of fly-fishers take as much from the sport as I have been fortunate enough to take myself."

Ian hails from the river Spey in Scotland, having fished since the age of eight and worked as a Ghillie on the Knockando beat [Spey] for 19 years.

Andy Smith, Hardy & Greys Game Academy Manager, said;

"This is great news for Ian. In the Hardy & Greys Game Academy we promote continuous personal development with our members and Ian joins many other Academy members who have passed angling qualifications in the last few months, including newcomer, Mike Smith who passed his APGAI salmon, Stevie Kennedy passed his AAPGAI trout and Sue Sissons who has passed her APGAI trout. This makes Sue the first female member of the Academy to have achieved this highest level of qualification."

X-Flite Carp Rod - Improve Your Coarse Fishing February 2009.

Hardy & Greys Ltd are pleased to announce that Lee Taylor is the second new member to join their Coarse Academy this year.

Lee, from Warwickshire, started fishing when he was 7 years old on the canals around the Warwickshire area, before progressing to win junior matches and successfully compete outside the junior age group in the club circuit.

Lee started fishing waters including Barston in Solihull and Spring Pools in Rugby, which accumulated in him winning the Intersite individual at Barston in 2006 and coming 4^th in the final of the Stafford Moor Mania in 2007.

Lee said:

"Joining the Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy is a dream come true for me and I am looking forward to working with Hardy & Greys and the Academy."

Lee particularly loves fishing waters with Skimmers and Carp in and ,  his favourite methods are method feeder, and fishing paste on the pole. For silvers he likes to fish caster shallow.

Academy Manager, Dave Coster said;

"I'm delighted Lee has now become a full member of the Hardy and Greys Coarse Academy. He is a very good angler and puts a lot of thought into his fishing. He will be a great asset to us with his vast knowledge of tackle and techniques."

Lee joins Academy Manager, Dave Coster, John Bailey, Cathal Hughes, Tony Runnalls, Dave Burgess, Andy Charlton and new member, Jonathan Watt in the Academy.

Highly competitive Coarse match angler, Jonathan Watt from Lewes in East Sussex has joined the Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy.

Starting fishing aged ten years old, catching Rudd and Perch on his local lake before progressing onto fish rivers and more established venues, Jonathan, was first spotted fishing the Sussex Ouse, before being invited to join and represent the then powerful Isfield & District Angling Club Team as a Junior, fishing against adults.

Described as one of Britain's hottest match anglers in The Angling Times in 2006, Jonathan regularly takes part in competitions on the open match circuit and has broken venue records at Framfield Fisheries, Passies Ponds and Old Bury Hill with Carp weights.

Jonathan also broke the UK record for the biggest pole caught fish under NFA match rules when he landed a monster Wells Catfish, at the Faulkenvile fishery in East Sussex. Tipping the scales at 33lbs, this was one of a combined 5 fish haul that went over the Ton in a team contest.

A regular contributor to the publication ‘Improve Your Coarse Fishing', Jonathan said;

"I am delighted to be part of the Hardy & Greys Coarse Academy.

I enjoy learning and with so many new techniques required to achieve consistent good bags of fish, all the years of practice are now starting to pay dividends.

Going forwards, I would like to continue to be competitive and embrace the wonderful advancement in modern tackle from Hardy & Greys and its development to help me stay ahead of the game."

Jonathan joins Academy Manager, Dave Coster, John Bailey, Cathal Hughes, Tony Runnalls, Dave Burgess, Andy Charlton and new member, Lee Taylor in the Academy.

The Hardy, Greys and Chub Carp Academies recently held their first meeting of 2009. 

The meeting, which was held at Kingfisher  Lakes, Norfolk, saw all three Academies come together to discuss a range of topics  which included existing and future product development, Academy events, media activities and show calendars - laying down the plan for what's set to be, an exciting year ahead!

The weekend also saw three new members welcomed into the Academies:

Alex Bransby, who was the worthy winner of Total Carp magazine's Chub Carp Academy competition, and has subsequently been promoted to a full time member.

Expert anglers Jonathan Watt and Lee Taylor have joined the Hardy and Greys Coarse Academy; both are keen anglers and have already had articles published in several fishing magazines.

Hardy & Greys Ltd, Trade Marketing manager, Alan Yates, who organised the event, said:

"We are keen to set a high standard within the academies and having an annual get together is a vital part of this, not only does it give all the members an opportunity to have their input and share their valued opinions, but also how we work more closely with the Academies and improve communication, something I am keen to pursue this year.

"Despite being Valentine's weekend we had a 95% attendance which shows the members commitment and I would personally like to thank all of them.

"I would also like to thank Kingfisher Lakes and Apartments for the use of their stunning multi-discipline complex. I am sure we will be visiting again and believe that some of the coarse Academy members have already undertaken a feature at the complex since the meeting!"

Kingfisher Lakes was chosen as it offered excellent facilities, modern accommodation with an extremely diverse range of angling disciplines including River, Specimen Carp, match fishing & junior lakes. The venue lent itself perfectly to the diverse range of anglers within the Academies.

For more information on Kingfisher Lakes visit www.kingfisherapartments.co.uk

The meeting, which was held at Kingfisher Lakes, Norfolk, saw all three Academies come together to discuss a range of topics which included existing and future product development, Academy events, media activities and show calendars - laying down the plan for what's set to be, an exciting year ahead!

The weekend also saw three new members welcomed into the Academies:

Alex Bransby, who was the worthy winner of Total Carp magazine's Chub Carp Academy competition, and has subsequently been promoted to a full time member.

Expert anglers Jonathan Watt and Lee Taylor have joined the Hardy and Greys Coarse Academy; both are keen anglers and have already had articles published in several fishing magazines.

Hardy & Greys Ltd, Trade Marketing manager, Alan Yates, who organised the event, said:

"We are keen to set a high standard within the academies and having an annual get together is a vital part of this, not only does it give all the members an opportunity to have their input and share their valued opinions, but also how we work more closely with the Academies and improve communication, something I am keen to pursue this year.

"Despite being Valentine's weekend we had a 95% attendance which shows the members commitment and I would personally like to thank all of them.

"I would also like to thank Kingfisher Lakes and Apartments for the use of their stunning multi-discipline complex. I am sure we will be visiting again and believe that some of the coarse Academy members have already undertaken a feature at the complex since the meeting!"

Kingfisher Lakes was chosen as it offered excellent facilities, modern accommodation with an extremely diverse range of angling disciplines including River, Specimen Carp, match fishing & junior lakes. The venue lent itself perfectly to the diverse range of anglers within the Academies.

For more information on Kingfisher Lakes visit www.kingfisherapartments.co.uk

Following two years in design and development working with top flight Predator anglers in both the UK and Europe, the new range of Prowla rods, terminal tackle, luggage and accessories have reached the end of its long testing period.

Chris was on a two day guided boat Pike session at Chew Valley Lake, Somerset with fishing partner Martin Founds, of Anglers' World Holidays.

Both men were being guided by Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultant and England Fly Fishing Team Captain John Horsey, for the first two days of the annual sell-out Chew Valley Pike Trials.

Chris said;

"It was easily the coldest day that I've ever fished on. The water temperature was only 3 degrees and we didn't expect any runs at all.

"Around lunchtime we had half a dozen Pike on smelt before I caught my personal best 30lb 2oz Pike on float-fished smelt deadbait. I was absolutely thrilled as my previous P.B was just 29lb.

"The 12' 3lb TC Greys Prowla Platinum Bait Rod I was using was light to handle, casting beautifully, it still had masses of power in reserve for playing a very big strong fish in deep water under a boat. The rod set the hook easily at range and there was plenty of power to deliver the fish quickly to the net. What a day!"

Martin also had a Pike on his Greys Prowla 10' 6" Boat Rod weighing 19lb 8oz and John joined in the action too when he caught a personal best Perch weighing 4lbs 6ozs on a Greys 6' Prowla Platinum Jerkbait Rod.

John Horsey said;

"Over the years I have had great days at Chew on the Pike, but those 2 days must be the best so far. We have boated even bigger Pike, but never in such adverse conditions.

"For Chris to get his personal best Pike in the middle of a snow storm that left most of our tackle completely covered was absolutely brilliant!

"Then, to think we caught all our fish using the latest Prowla range of predator rods was fantastic. All the rods performed incredibly well - at times we had solid ice in the rod rings, but still they delivered the goods - cast after cast."

Coarse & Carp category Product Manager, Andy Charlton, said;

"The Prowla range has been carefully engineered for today's predator angler and is the most exciting range of products I've ever been involved with whilst at Hardy & Greys.

"Designed and developed by some of Europe's finest specimen anglers, I am incredibly excited to be nearing the launch later this year. 18 rods encompass the range, including bait, boat, drop shot, jerk baits, lure rods and vertical jig rods all priced between £79.99 and £109.99."

Three of the company's new rods & reels are featured on the advert, incluidng the top of the range, G-Tec (Ahead of its Time,) X-Flite (Ahead of its Class) and GRXi (Ahead of the Game.)

Click here for information on Greys Fly Rods.

Click here for information on Greys Fly Reels.

Three of the company's new rods are featured on the advert, including the top of the range and brand new, Torsion, X-Flite and Prodigy SX.

Click here for information on Greys Carp Rods.

Click here for more information on Greys Reels.

Featured in the advert are Hardy & Greys Ltd Consultants and Professional Anglers, Charles Jardine, John Horsey and Ian Gordon.

For more information on Greys GRXi click here.

The show, which took place on the 7th and 8th February at the Ijsselhallen in Zwolle, Netherlands, saw the new Hardy Carp rod, designed for the Dutch market, stolen prior to the Show on the evening of the 6th February.

Andrew Sowerby, International Sales and Events Manager for Hardy & Greys Ltd said;

"I am sickened by this theft. As it is a prototype, this specific example of the rod is of little value, even worse, anglers had travelled several hours to the show specifically to see, handle and discuss the Hardy Goldbow - this is exactly why anglers go to shows."

This rod, together with a number of Hardy Marksman Coarse rods were stolen. The Hardy Goldbow rod is clearly identifiable by its distinct rich brown blank, full cork handle and has no bag, tube or stopper. The Marksman Coarse rods are easily identifiable as they also have no bags, stoppers or tubes and the Hardy Feeder rods only have one 2oz quiver tip in each of them.

Police are now looking to find the stolen items and Hardy & Greys Ltd are offering a complete finished Hardy Goldbow Carp rod as a reward to anyone who has information that leads to the recovery of this prototype.

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new interactive website which we will be updating daily.

Featuring on the site are all of the new products for 2009 including the Torsion Rods, X-Flite and X-Flite + 50 Rods and Prodigy + and Prodigy + 50 rods.

See our new range of best in test Platinum Luggage and the ultimate bivvy in the Torsion Bivvy, as well as our new Greys Digital Scales.

Please check back for further news and product updates coming soon.

Greys Carp Academy Consultant, Mark Holmes has landed two 40lb+ Carp in only two hours.

British surface-caught Carp record holder, Mark, caught the 43 lb 15 oz and 42¹/₂ lb beauties whilst fishing on a quiet Warwickshire estate lake.

Commenting on the capture, Mark said:

"I never thought this would happen again!  I was very lucky to catch a brace of forties three years ago weighing 48lb and 40lb but it seems I've been struck by lightning twice.

"The lake I was fishing had been frozen for three weeks but with the warmer weather lifting daylight temperatures, I decided to give it a go.

"I set up at 7am and cast out my X Flite onto one hotspot which was 50 yards out in 7ft of water.

"The lake bottom is hard but the hotspot is more mud-based and has been regularly topped up with a special ground bait to attract the lakes natural food.

"The sinking braid I was using was nailed to the lake bed. I used cork ball pop-up hook baits, the rig I used was the no twitch nailer comprised of size 10 ESP hooks and inline drop-off leads.

"1.45pm saw me catch the first fish - a cracker at 42¹/₂ lb - the fish was up in weight by 12 oz since I last caught it.

"Twenty minutes later I landed a 29¹/₄ lb Carp I'd never seen before. Then my next rod was away and the biggie at 43lb 15oz was attached.

"Catching Carp like this so early on in 2009 has given me great confidence for the year ahead. Let's hope it gets even better!"

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new interactive website which we will be updating daily.

Featuring on the site are all of the new products for 2009 including the G-Tec and X-Flite range of rods and reels and Platinum Luggage.

Pease check back for further news and product updates coming soon.

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new interactive website which we will be updating daily.

Featuring on the site are all of the new products for 2009 including the G-Tec range of rods, Bewick Centrepin reel and G-Tec Luggage range.

Coarse Accessories include the new Greys Rubber Spoon and Rubber Skin nets, G-Tec Ground Hugger Brollies and Greys Digital Scales.

Pease check back for further news and product updates coming soon.

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new interactive website which we will be updating daily.

Featuring on the site are all of the new products for 2009 including the Apollo M3 rod, Platinum GSI rod and GRX-S Bass Rod.

In the reels department, Greys have launched their first ever multiplyer reel - the G-Mag and, following on from the successful Apollo range of clothing, Greys have redesigned and redeveloped the existing products to create the new Apollo Extreme range.

Pease check back for further news and product updates coming soon.

Joining 119 top anglers from the UK and Ireland, including three times competition winner, Neil Parkinson and World Champions, Bob Nudd and Kevin Ashurst, Cathal beat the strong competition with a combined weight of 73 Kilos.

Fishing using the Greys 12' G-Tec Feeder rod Cathal's ability to fish at extreme range over 80 meters won him the competition.

Held in Southern Ireland and lasting 5 days the Festival winner is decided upon according to the total weight caught over the week long period.

Cathal fought hard throughout the competition and the hours of practise and preparation in the weeks leading up the festival well and truly paid off.

Cathal said;

"To win a big one like this against such strong opposition is amazing. Thanks must go to the organisers, sponsors and all the anglers who took part in what is now widely regarded as THE one to win in southern Ireland."

This is one of several big fishing competitions, including the Ballinasloe and Belturbet Festivals won by Cathal in recent years.

The patented ‘Spyda Wynda' mechanism at the heart of the Torsion enables it to be erected in less than a minute and tensions the anodised Aerospace aluminium arms and high performance Climatex cover like no other bivvy.

If you want the ultimate in design, quality and credibility the new Greys Torsion Bivvy System is as good as it gets.

Click here for more details

Click here to watch the Greys Torsion Bivvy being set up by Lee Collings.

Independant readers voted the UK carp fishing manufacturer and supplier of Carp rods the best in the RRP category, "above 200 - Euros".

Awarded to the Greys brand, Michael Unger, Hardy & Greys GmbH Commercial Director said:

"This is not an early Christmas gift. The award is the result of very strong development, sales and marketing from Greys.

"I would like to thank all the team. With the launch of the new Greys Torsion Carp Rod we look forward to receiving this award again. "

Greys has already received this award in the past, showing how popular the brand and their products are in Germany.

Fishing Luke Moffats Water, Les Graviers, France, Andre caught the record fish whilst fishing with Greys 12ft 6" 3lb Test Curve Platinum Carp Rods.

Taking ten minutes to land, ‘The Scarred Mirror' was caught on a week long fishing holiday and was weighed, independently verified and photographed by two people.

Andre tempted the fish using Bait Craft T1, 17LB Korda Adrenaline, Korda Long shank hook and 3oz square pear lead with mantis hook link.

The fish came from under the tree lined far margin around 50 yards out in 8ft of water using a blow back rig.

Andre said:

"It really hasn't sunk in that I now hold the world record for the largest Mirror ever caught - the fish was enormous!

"As we were on holiday, any fish that came out of the session was a bonus."

Andre also caught ten other fish during the session, with a further three breaking the magical 50lb barrier, they weighed; 63lb, 56lb, two at 50lb, 40lb, 37lb, 33lb, 32lb, 29lb and a 27lb.

Dave said:

"I caught the fish, which varied from 4ozs up to 1lb, using a prototype Greys pole and very fine tackle in the clear, cold water.

"All the fish were taken on a single caster, fishing seven metres out - with tiny fine wire size 20 hooks, tied to super thin 0.08mm traces.

"In order to keep the fish coming regularly (approximately one every 2.5 minutes for the duration of the competition) I fed two pints of casters over two areas, switching between them to maximise my catch potential.
This also required chasing the fish around, catching at full depth and off the bottom with lightly shotted float rigs."

To compliment the range, Greys have launched their eagerly awaited G-Mag Reel, the first multiplier reel from Greys.

Following on from the successful Apollo clothing range, Greys have redesigned and redeveloped the existing products to create the new Apollo Extreme range of clothing.

To find your nearest Greys Dealer visit our Dealer page for a full listing.

Products include the greatly anticipated G-Mag reel - the company's first sea multiplier reel, the latest evolution of the award winning Apollo beachcaster rods; the MK3 version, a new Bass rod range, and the upgraded Apollo Extreme clothing.

The new full colour catalogue also features stunning photography from renowned Sea fishing expert Henry Gilbey, and the introduction of our new Sea Product Manager, Neil Mackellow.

To obtain a hard copy of the catalogue please contact your local dealer. An electronic version of the Greys Sea catalogue is now available to download at www.greysfishing.com.

'Imagine a 1980s Abu 7000 with magnetic and centrifugal brakes, a stright sided spool, stainless steel and aluiminum one-piece frame and components, twist and shift side place, ball bearings, and all built like a Penn 525 - that's the G-Mag'

Alan Yates - Sea Angler Magazine

Click here to read more