Went to Markle on Saturday with my lad and his mate for a few hours. Conditions in the morning were overcast and gentle breeze so perfect for swinging nymphs in the ripple, and we all had fish on diawl bachs in the first hour or so. All fish were super fit and big tails on them and fought like stink. The boys were ecstatic as it was the 1st time either had caught fish on their own - priceless
I got another couple including 1 about 8lb which had about 20 yards of backing out - great fun. The wind picked up later and we switched to using smartfly's black shaggy cats (I've already been in touch and ordered some more) and all caught more with plenty of pulls and follows as well. Decided to call it a day when the rain started but all in all a great time was had, would definately recommend a trip if you're in the area. Plenty of other fish caught on the day but there were a few diseased fish swimming about which is bound to put some folk off. I don't know if it's the amount of catch and release that gets done here that causes it, but I must admit I was impressed by the way everyone was releasing their fish on Saturday - the boys included.

It's not a disease! Just a naturally occuring fungus. Generally refered to as 'cold water fungus', as it usually occurs on fish during the winter months but tends to be less prevelant after mid April. It's only a skin complaint but yes fish are left open to it when the mucus is rubbed off areas of flesh which would otherwise protect it from it. Once the fish if skinned you can't tell it was there. some fish recover and some drwn when it gets round the gills but you'll find some fish with it in all waters, it's just one of those things!..

Interesting CDC. Never seen it on fish at any other fishery although, to be fair, Markle is usually the only place I fish in the colder months.