If last week was almost predictable in the bright still conditions that were faced, this week our Welsh team saw almost everything that Patagonia could throw at them.It varied from cold weather and strong winds to sunny, stilland warm. As always prepare for the unexpected whether it be sun-cream or double layers of wind stopping fleeces.

The water from the high 3 weeks ago is now down to summer low levels and some mountain rain would be good for the river.
The low water and cold nights also meant that the water temperature dropped to 6 degrees and that does not make for easy work tempting Sea-Trout on a fly.

As is often the case at Las Buiteras it takes timeto adjust ones technique to that required and itwas Illtyd Griffths, old hat at Buiteras who was quick to show that once mastered the fish would follow.The fish that were caught were a mix of darker fish with some bright fresh runs, again showing that the low water does not appear to be any deterrent to the fish running the river. What was apparent was the fact that the fresh fish seemed to be running fast and whilst one might find a number of fish in a pool in the morningby the afternoon they would have appeared to have moved on.

Stealth is the magic word when there’s no wind and low, clear water, but during the week the fish surprised us again, by taking bright orange flies, when they ought to take more neutral colours. Of course these wily Sea Trout are well used to surprising us with their elusive ways.

Anyway it’s still single-handed rods, clear-intermediate lines or int. sink-tips in conjunction with long leaders with a tippet of 13-15 lbs.During the week some healthy rivalry broke out and whether it was competitive or just a matter of pride.

Charlie Dutton and Illtyd Griffiths challenged each other from day one. We could say their little battle ended 1-1, because whilst Illtyd caught the most Charlie had the size landing a splendid 18lb fish. JohnRoberts, John Willams and David Jones, all used to a different style of fishing soon adapted to the conditions and style, and all landed their largest Sea-Trout ever.

No. of rods: 5
Avg. weight: 7,85 lbs
Biggest fish: 18 lbs - Charlie Dutton
Top rod: 17 - Illtyd Griffiths