Seatrout.dk (English-2013)

Page 1

ENGLISH

4 seasons st the coa

on

elease Catch & R HOW TO!

:

gear The right


Seatrout Fyn products Seatrout Guide 117 Fine Fishing Spots on Fyn - 86 pages The anglers’ guide “Seatrout Guide - Fyn, Langeland and Ærø - 117 Fine Fishing Spots on Fyn” is indispensable for visitors to Fyn. The book includes 15 detailed maps, scale 1:100,000, and 117 excellent fishing spots are described in detail, along with aerial photographs. The guide book also gives lots of other valuable information about sea trout fishing as well as fishing in the River Odense.

Seatrout Fyn Cap Superb Seatrout Fyn cap, good fit, adjustable strap with stainless steel clasp. The cap is designed to give extra shade and is made of breathable materials. Wind and waterproof.

Seatrout Fyn - DVD ”The art of onshore sea trout angling” A film for sea trout anglers. A different fishing video with a course, tips and techniques. Playing time: 45 mins.

The Salar publishing company lets you in on the secrets of the sea trout These films are entirely about sea trout. Underwater cameras and on-location filming at fishing spots provide a special insight into sea trout angling from the coast. The films are almost of feature-film length, and the focus was on creating attractive footage that captures the atmosphere of the coast and shows plenty of good fish action. Watching these films, you can simply lean back and enjoy coastal angling, or find plenty of inspiration to improve your own technique of angling for seatrout.

A dream of a fish - A book about sea trout The best game an angler can hook around the coasts of Denmark. In this book, a number of Denmark’s leading experts open their bag of tricks to give new tips about angling for sea trout.


Funen, Langeland and Ærø:

The best coastal sea trout angling in the Nordic region By Jan H. Kjeldsen, project manager, Seatrout Funen Seatrout Funen takes a look ahead to another exciting sea trout season on Funen, Langeland and Ærø, where the best coastal angling for sea trout anywhere in the Nordic region is to be found. The 2012 season offered truly excellent angling right from the start with the mild winter, and throughout the year there have been stable, large catches of shimmering, silvery fish to die for! We look forward to perpetuating the partnership between Funen’s municipalities and private enterprise, knowledge institutions, environmental experts and lots of committed sports anglers. We work together for the sake of sea trout. Our partnership has three overarching focus areas: watercourse restoration, release of trout smolts, and marketing. These three focus areas are interdependent, and at the heart and core are the sports anglers – the many who lend a hand and the many who come here to enjoy excellent angling. Seatrout Funen is part of the EU’s Living North Sea project, with a focus on the sea trout and its environment. Research scientists are working with seven other countries to investigate a number of aspects of the life cycle of sea trout. For example, some fish are tagged so we can monitor their behaviour in the sea and in rivers; best cases are highlighted from watercourse restoration and fish ladders, and new knowledge comes to light about sea trout reproduction. Together, we gain valuable knowledge about the fish, its life, migration and the challenges the future holds. Seatrout Funen is able to benefit from lessons learnt as we develop our programme, thus facilitating better sea trout angling. You can learn more about the Living North Sea project inside this magazine. The urban watercourses action plans will come into force in 2013. This means the municipalities will be setting in motion a large number of initiatives, cf. the state water plans for the period 2013–2015. As far as watercourses are concerned, this means the removal of dams, reopening of culverted sections and changes to maintenance.

All these initiatives will improve the aquatic environment. Unfortunately, fish – and hence sea trout – are not an official indicator of achieving excellence in our aquatic environment, but this aspect may be included in the period of the plan beyond 2015. These initiatives work in our favour, but there will still be a significant need for improvements to watercourses that fall outside the watercourses plan initiative if we are to achieve the significant improvements that Seatrout Funen is striving for: self-replenishing sea trout stocks. For this reason, Seatrout Funen remains a key factor in achieving world-class angling. Collaboration on the Seatrout Funen project is now entering its 23rd year. During this time, the collaboration partners on Funen and the isles have improved conditions for sea trout to the extent that it is thriving better and better in Funen’s waterways. Wild stocks of sea trout are improving all the time. Sea trout raised from wild bloodlines continue to be released. As the years go by, and the Seatrout Funen partnership manages to restore more and more watercourses, natural stocks will grow even more. This will result in less of a need for releases. That is one of the objectives of the project. However, this is contingent on continuation of the political support we have enjoyed for the project so far. Happily, there are politicians on Funen, Langeland and Ærø who can clearly see the fruits of this work in the form of an improved environment, new jobs, healthier nature and angling tourism, and because of this, they are staunch supporters. We are delighted that private enterprise and industry are open to constructive dialogue so we can all learn from one another. Together, this positive partnership equips us all with better know-how, and this will help to develop the project in the years ahead. The project office looks forward to getting to grips with the work in 2013, and we wish all sports anglers, locals and visitors alike, the very best of luck as you hunt for sea trout along the coasts of Funen!

Published by: Seatrout Funen Printing: Clemens Grafisk Graphic design: www.salarmedia.dk ated) texts from advertisers/writers have been transl Translation: Interpen Translation (various Production: Seatrout Funen Print run: 50.000 tor Sport, ling Fyn, Seatrout Funen, Go Fishing, Ækva Photos: The Tourist Offices on Funen, Udvik , Kasper tensen Chris Broe l Fiskeri, Forlaget Salar, Terke Jan og Bo’s Lystfiskershop, Michaels Jagt og Dijkstra, Mike ni, Media o Sandr k), edia.d belli (www.salarm Wellendorph, Omar Gade og Valentina Scara sen Søren Jacob n, Olese G. el Micha Lilholt, Radek Hloušek, Sonny M. Carlsen, Kristian Sofus R. Petersen, Søren Knabe, Robert De Wilt. (www.bluedotmedia.dk), Michael Theilmann, Web: www.seatrout.dk

www.seatrout.dk

1


18 Take a Hike

06 Hooked on Fyn

22 Catch & Release

33 Four season on the

coast

www.seatrout.dk

2


t n e t n Co

w e i v r e ov

06 08 10 12 14 17 18 20 21 22 25 29 30 32 33 37 40 42 44 47 48 50 51

Hooked on Fyn Guideservice at Fyn Go Fishing “Vandpleje Fyn” The Silver Coast along the Little Belt Wind, weather and water “Take a hike” Sea trout on top of Funen Seatrout.dk Catch and release Sea trout at the archipelago Fyn Sea trout Fyn merchandise Living North Sea The Flats of Fyn The 4 seasons The right gear Fish n’ Shop Sea trout at Kerteminde Fulton’s Formula & Secrets of the sea trout Campsites and accommodation Theilmann’s Top 6 Turist Information Map of Fyn

www.seatrout.dk

3


Hooked on Fyn Radek Hloušek, Czech Republic Hloušek gladly drives from the Czech Republic to the Island of Fyn a couple of times each year. He’s got the silver-fever, and needs to get his annual amount of sea trout action every year. He’s been fishing at Fyn at all times of the year, but spring and fall are his favorite seasons. Here he tells you why and how. The beginning It was the spring of the year 2007 when I first chased after sea trout on Fyn. Since then, I visit this colourful island several times each year. Fyn has enchanted me with its beauty and diversity. The open sea, the bays and fiords give the angler the conditions he prefers to choose. Perhaps it is because we are being used to fish the small Czech rivers and lakes, that makes it feel good on smaller bays and fiords. Of course I must not forget the friendliness by which are met by the inhabitants all over the island. A peace and calm is sensed in the native “fynbo” at every meeting. The first one After first getting acquainted with the sea trout much time has passed, but the moment I caught my first one ever I’ll never forget. After three days of pursuit came the first take, and after first seeing the jumping silver beauty, I was immensly glad and emotional. All of this happened on a cold day of March on Torø near Assens. The granite cross on this Island was if symbolizing the significance of the moment. This fateful moment has been embedded into my heart in a manner that cannot be erased. I had fallen in love with Fyn and its coast forever and since then I’m visiting the island several times a year. Spring-time fishing My favourite time for pursuing the sea trout is the end of March, beginning of April. It’s a time when the nature slowly is coming to life and preparing for it’s most active time of the year. It’s a time when the sea trout are making up the losses they have had, spawning during the winter months in the rivers. This is when we hunt the trout on the “leopard-dotted” shallower water. I have had some good experiences at these times on the coast between Assens and Torø, Gamborg fiord, Odense fiord and the area on the North-east coast around Dalby. The spots are selected with regard to wind conditions and the strength of the tide. We fish a spot for an hour or two, and if we haven’t had any luck, we move on to a different spot. We try to get to the water early in the morning, trying to be the first ones there before the fish might be spooked by other anglers. We end the day at around six in the evening, generally when we experience the fishes activity ceases. On sunny calm days we would fish smaller, less flashy patterns. On darker days, we prefer larger and brighter patterns. We have had good results over the last couple of years with flypatterns of orange shrimps, the Polar Magnus and Grå Frede. We use flourocarbon tippet material in thicknesses of 0.23 to 0.26, and we fish the water in a fan-pattern, moving in one direction in smaller or larger distances. Maj May is the sweet month on Fyn. The fishing during this month I would recommend to fisherman preffering more takes and adrenalin. May is the in the sign of the garfish on Fyn. These toothy pirates come inshore intending to breed, and they’ll attack anything that moves. Often an angler loses count of the takes, and at times one feels the fish are really everywhere – and they are! For these fish I recommend smaller orange flies on really sharp hooks. We fish with two

flies, where the second fly is larger and intended for the sea trout, the leading fly being the smaller one for garfish. We fish untill sundown. The trout are in a better condition by now, and this is also noticeable in their fights. Trout and holidays The summer months mostly equals nighttime fishing. I fish the spot where the water quickly becomes deeper. A good indicator of this is the presence of light houses. My personal favorite spot being by the light house at Helnæs. This is a spot where I have caught several beautiful summer trout. My favourite time is during sundown until total darkness. This is when I rest and go to bed. I return to the water before sunrise and fish until the sun is back up in the sky. Most of the fish gives themselves away near the surface. I try to place my fly as close to the spot where I saw or heard the trout hunting, and usually the take comes shortly thereafter. Lately my preffered patterns are the more natural shrimp patterns and flies of the P.V Jensen type or the P.K.Mysis. I combine my fishing trips in summer with my holidays for the whole family. My family also loves the area for its beauty, calm and diversity. There are many places for the entire family to explore and discover. It’s worthwhile mentioning the ZOO in Odense, the chateau at Egeskov Castle and the Dolfinarium at Kerteminde. Or a trip across the many small islands in the southern parts of Fyn, such as Ærø and Langeland. October I also prefer fishing in the second half of October in the autumn. The trout are in exemplary condition, and the abundance of food sometimes makes them challenging to catch. During autumn the smaller fly patterns have proven themselves worthy. I must mention the small ‘kobberbasse’ which has saved me several times from blanking. I prefer the same type of spots as in the late spring season. If you are looking for challenging ways of catching wild trout on the open coast, then hunting for sea trout is just the right game for you. And Fyn, Langeland and Ærø are the definite top-3 places to go, all year round. Catching a silver beauty is indeed quite an experience, a magic many sports fishermen have fallen for, for the rest of their lives. I for sure am one.

Top 8 advices Radek Hloušek would like to mention the “8 commandments” that his friend, the passionate sea trout hunter Milan Steuer, has pieced together: Before heading out after sea trout, take a moment to consider the task beforehand. You will have to overcome physical and psychological obstacles, which the sea will put between your and the silver trout. If you stick to these general rules, which my trout-hunting experience has given me, you can go meet your goal at Fyn:

1. Choose locations with a “leopard-dotted” bottom, where

weeds are mixed with bare sandy patches. Boulders and ridges that run deep, sand bars, borders of clear and coloured water. In spring, look for warmer shallower waters, and in autumn for spots near reefs and outer points, in winter look for “lifeless” shallow water with bare muddy bottom – it’s not lifeless at all.

2. When fishing, be quit! Break away from your friends soon enough and find a secluded spot. When fishing a new spot, first fish near the bank before stepping into the water.


3. Fish with your back to the wind. 4. Be alert – you can often see the trout hunting. If you spot

a fish on the hunt, immediately present your fly to it. After landing a fish, immediately cast again, your spot could have a school of trout present.

5. Be creative – the ugly weird looking fly in the corner of your fly box, which you’ve never used, might just do the trick on the days, when the trout just seem to be too picky with their foods.

6. If you find a spot where the patchy bottom gives way to

a solid bar of weed with a ledge going deep nearby, give this spot some severe attention during sundown and sun-up.

7. Always attach your flies with a free-moving knot – and why not two flies while you’re at it. 8. In spring and sunny weather use smaller flies and strip slow and more naturally, in cloudy days, use more colorful flies and a more active stripping.

5


Angling guides on Funen, Langeland and Ærø

By Kasper Røjsmose, guide

Kick-start your hunt for sea trout and book a specialist: your own sea trout guide gives you valuable know-how and the local knowledge you need of Seatrout Funen’s 1,100-km coastline. Why go angling with a guide? A guide is a Funen sea trout angler with lots of experience and local knowledge of the coasts. Guides have special expertise when it comes to angling, many years’ experience as a guide, and they know the best angling spots for different times of year and what tackle to use. The guides are in touch with one another to keep up with the latest angling news and current hotspots. The guides also regularly visit the local tackle shops, who are only too happy to share what they have heard from their many customers. It also helps to have expert advice about

6

tackle: guides always have up-to-date information about the latest knowledge and tackle, so they are in a better position to advise visitors about choosing the right tackle. Hiring a guide is the easiest way to gain lots of experience. This is equally true of the choice of angling spots, coastal angling strategy, putting your tackle together and practical angling. Looking out over the expanse of sea as a visitor or a new sea trout angler, you might feel daunted at the prospect of ever catching sea trout there. Whenever doubts arise or your mind is teeming with questions, your guide will have the answers. Typically, guiding will begin when the visitor and guide meet at an agreed location close to the angling spot for putting out to sea.

www.seatrout.dk


It often starts with a cup of coffee or breakfast rolls and a chat about how to go about angling. The guide makes sure the visitor gains a clear understanding of the current angling scene and how to angle sensibly in the area. For example, if you want help with fly casting, your guide will assist you with that too. Naturally, the guide will take your level of skill and your wishes as the starting point, and when the visitor feels ready, it is time to start angling. The visitor does the angling, with the guide in the background providing advice and guidance. Many guides rarely fish for very long at the same spot, as their strategy is often proactive.

Ask the guide what tackle and clothing to bring. If you do not have what you need, ask if there is anything he could lend you. The guides often have a lot of fishing tackle, including spinning and fly-fishing gear, and they are only too happy to lend it out during a guided tour. You will need to bring your own waders and clothing, though. And, last but not least: remember to ask questions! Learn as much as you can. Then you will be better equipped to hunt for sea trout along the coast of Funen on your own.

Making the most of your guide It is advisable to book your guide in plenty of time. Phone your guide, or write and tell him about your level of skill and what you want to achieve. The more you can tell the guide about yourself, the better he will be able to help you. Then your guide will plan the day to best suit your requirements.

Sea trout guides on Funen book your ow n specialist

Joe Christiansen

s: Pricy e K 1,500 (4 hours): DK

1/2 da 2,500 hours): DKK 1 whole day (8 s al hour cost Each addition DKK 300. 4 per guide. Max. party of

Joe has served as a guide on the coasts of Funen since 2001 and has also served as a guide on trips to the Bahamas, Cuba and Bornholm. Joe got his first fishing rod at the age of 4 and has been angling ever since – and fly-fishing for the last 18 years. Joe has travelled extensively, and at home in Denmark he is a keen fly-fisherman, seeking out sea trout and grey mullet along the coast, pike in the lakes and rainbow trout in put-and-take lakes, and he also angles for salmon in the river Skjern Å. Joe speaks English and German. Contact: joe@go-fishing.dk. - Tel.:(+45) 2241 9094

Rene Gerken

Niklas Albrechtsen

René has been angling for most of his life, so he is an experienced fly-fisher and coastal angler. He has previously guided at Blackwater Lodge in Ireland, for Loop in Argentina and in Iceland for the last four summers. He is a certified casting instructor in the Federation of Flyfishers and is always able to give sound advice about casting using a flyfishing rod. René has organised numerous coastal fly-fishing courses all over Denmark for various clubs, as well as for Ækvator Sport of Odense. René speaks English and German. Contact: seatroutbum@hotmail.com - Tel. (+45) 51 89 05 22

Niklas has organised numerous sea trout flyfishing courses along the coasts of Funen, and as a result, more than 300 participants now have a quicker and easier route to “sea-trout success”. Niklas has been fly-fishing on the coast for more than 20 years, and has a large number of sea trout on his conscience each year. This has given him extensive experience about the life cycle of sea trout and where best to catch them. Niklas has also contributed to several books and articles, including “Fiske-feber” (“angling mania”) magazine and a number of web portals. Niklas speaks English and German. Contact: niklas@go-fishing.dk. Tel.: (+ 45) 5357 6006

Kasper Røjsmose

Kasper was given his first fly-fishing rod on 7 October 1989 and since then has spent thousands of hours by the water with his vice. Kasper fishes wherever he can and with whatever he has available. He has extensive knowledge of sea trout and its life cycle, and is always chasing his next big fish or the perfect fly. Book him for a coastal trip or a fly-tying event. Kasper speaks English and German. Contact: kroejsmose@gmail.com - Tel.: (+45) 4094 2622

7


SALTWATER SEATROUT FISHING

In Go-Fishing, we are all crazy about the saltwater fishing. This means that you will always get the best help and advice with us. Let us help you to find the right tackle for your fishing.

What are the Go-Fishing people using on the coast themselves? Four of the Go-Fishing staff will here tell you their favourite tackle combination Rod: Orvis Helios II, 9`# 6 Tipflex Reel: Orvis Mirage, Black Nickel Line: Zpey Shooting Head and a Varivas Running Line Wading Gear: Silver Sonic Waders and Simms Rivertek Boa Jacket: Simms G3 Favourite Fly: Pattegrisen and Kobberbassen Niklas Albrechtsen Besides: Maui Jim Glasses, Orvis Stripping Basket, Orvis Mirage leader with 1 Flyfisher meter Orvis Mirage tippet 1x

Joe Christiansen Flyfisher

Jesper Andersen Lurefisher

Robin Birch Lurefisher

8

Orvis Helios II, 9`# 8 Tipflex Rod: Bauer Rogue Reel: Scierra 20 gr Shooting Head and a Varivas Running Line Line: Wading Gear: Orvis Silver Sonic with Orvis boots Jacket: Simms Freestone Favourite Fly: Pattegrisen, Golden Magnus and Mysis Besides: Maui Jim Glasses Orvis Stripping Basket, Orvis Mirage leader 1x with 1,5 meter 1x Mirage material Edge Dynamic 11` 5-25 grams Rod: Shimano Twinpower 4000 Reel: Sufix 832 0,15 mm Line: Wading Gear: Simms G3 Guide and Rivertek Boa boots Jacket: Patagonia River Salt Jacket Lures: Petit Tobis and The Fianal Shrimp in brown Besides: Yellow Milo Bombarda, rigged with stick and rubber bead and Maui Jim glasses Rod: Shimano Aspire 10´ 10-30 grams. Reel: Shimano Stella 4000 Line: Sufix 832 Wading Gear: Simms G3 and Guide Boots Jacket: Simms G4 Lures: Boss, Fax and Snapper Besides: Maui Jim Glasses


LET US GUIDE YOU TO SUCCESs Go-Fishing offers you guiding with our own experienced guides. They are always 100% updated with the local hot spots and the right tackle for these hot spots. Our two Guides Niklas and Joe Lives and breathe for our local fishing. Through their jobs in Go-Fishing they have daily contact with the local seatrout fishermen from Fyn, so they know exactly where you have the best chances to catch the elusive “Silver” when you visit Fyn “It is a good idea to start your stay here with a day with a guide. That will give you the best chances when you fish on your own the following days”

Go-Fishing The meeting place of the seatrout anglers!

600 m2 shop for anglers • 3 mins drive from the motorway • Seatrout Info Center • Sale of Angling Licenses • Huge Selection of Tackle • Good Guiding for your Tackle Needs • Casting Lawn by the shop • Our Focus is 100 % on the Seatrout

Niklas: + 45 53 57 60 06

Joe: +45 22 41 90 94

Seatrout Open 2013 The biggest Seatrout competitions in Denmark April 12th to 14th and October 4th to 6th. Big prizes to the 10 biggest seatrout. 1.Prize: A Fishing Trip to the Bahamas. Value Approx DKR 26.000 Drawing Prize: A Fishing Trip to Greenland, Value Approx DKR 26.000

Main Store:

Go Fishing - Odense

Dalumvej 67 - 5250 Odense SV Tlf.: +45 66 12 15 00 The Smaller Go-Fishing Stores:

Go Fishing - Rosengårdcentret, Odense

Butik 233, Sølvgade - Ørbækvej - 5220 Odense SØ Tlf.: +45 63 15 02 99

Go Fishing - Haderslev

Apotekergade 5 - 6100 Haderslev Tlf.: +45 74 52 19 55

9


n y F e j e l VandpVandpleje Fyn Voluntary efforts for Funen’s sea trout

1

160 m2 of gravel and shingle waiting to be distributed in the watercourse.

2

A trench digger makes establishing a spawning bank easier.

3

The gravel has to be evened out to a suitable depth.

10

www.seatrout.dk


An uninterrupted watercourse makes its way through Funen’s land. From its source in a soggy, boggy meadow, just a quiet stream, hardly enough to call a brook but reinforced by tributaries, springs and field run-offs along the way, wending its way around gentle bends and over deep hollows, flowing rapidly over low, stony sections and small rapids until it finally empties into the sea, a fully-fledged, mature river. This is how we like to picture Funen’s watercourses, but the reality is often far removed from the idyll. Decades of dredging, straightening, culverting and cleaning up have left many watercourses as barren gulleys in the landscape: sandy, uniform, lacking variation in flora and fauna. The life-giving stones and gravel sections are few and far between, or entirely absent. The sea trout swim in vain on their spawning migrations, and the few juveniles lack cover and stress one another to death. Vandpleje Fyn (Funen water conservation) has a mission to put matters right here; our objective is watercourses for Funen that support large, healthy, self-replenishing stocks of sea trout and brown trout. Spawning gravel beds and shingle are essential ingredients for achieving this objective. Without spawning gravel beds, trout stocks cannot replenish themselves. Without shingle, the water is not a good place for juveniles to grow. The effect of spreading gravel and shingle is significant – spawning sea trout can often be seen on the recently established banks of gravel within a few weeks of completing the project. Surveys of juvenile stocks show growth of more than 150% in areas where gravel and shingle have been applied. Spreading gravel and shingle is heavy work – the quantities often equate to several van loads. Often, the materials have to be taken to locations that are inaccessible to large machines, so plenty of manpower is needed. “Grusbanden” (the Gravel Team) is Vandpleje Fyn’s executive arm of the project, working with volunteers from local angling clubs to apply the necessary elbowgrease! Grusbanden comprises approximately 80 watercourse enthusiasts who are prepared to roll up their sleeves and work as volunteers when there is a job to be done. Without the help of the volunteers, many projects would never get off the ground. Since its inception, Vandpleje Fyn has undertaken numerous excellent projects working with clubs and associations, municipalities and private enterprise on projects that ultimately result in more sea trout around our coasts. New projects are constantly in the pipeline, and there is plenty still to be done. Looking ahead, it will still be possible to find Funen’s anglers throwing shingle into the river, a hopeful smile playing on their lips.

n y F e j e l p Vand By Sofus Ryge Petersen, Vandpleje Fyn (Funen water conservation)

Another section of watercourse is ready to help the sea trout of the future.

4!

Fact boks:

Fyn Name: Vandpleje bruary 2007 Fe . 13 d: he Establis d angling tsor fishermen an Members: 27 sp clubs on Funen l conditions for eate good physica Objective: To cr es nen’s watercours salmonids in Fu

www.seatrout.dk

11


FREDERICIA MIDDELFART

B

C A

B

A B C

C

A

A

A B C C

A

A

B B C

A

A

B C

B

D

A

B A

C

A B

D C

C B A

A B

B

A D A B

A

A

A

B

A D

C

D

B

C

C D

B A

C A

A

A Sea trout B Flatfish C Cod

C A

A

D Dinghy ramp

A

A

A

A

A

C

A D

A

A

A A

D

C

VisitMiddelfart, Lillebælt Waters – Havnegade 8A DK - 5500 Middelfart – Tlf.: 88325959 E-mail: mail@visitmiddelfart.dk • www.visitmiddelfart.dk Fredericia Turistbureau Vendersgade 30D Fredericia - Tlf.: +45 72 11 35 11 - Fax: +45 72 11 35 20 E-mail: turisme@fredericia.dk www.visitfredericia.dk

12

A

B


Fredericia & Middelfart

The Silver Coast along the Little Belt

Slipways, boat hire and “the good catch” Lillebælt Waters near Middelfart and Fredericia has got it all. Because of the good sea trout catches in this northern part of the Little Belt, anglers have dubbed the area the “Silver Coast”. The record catch from the Little Belt was a 13 kg sea trout! Along the coast is a series of absolute gems when it comes to angling spots, with good fishing all year round. If you fancy venturing into deeper waters, there are good slipways for your boat, and you will find tackle shops and plenty of options for hiring different types and sizes of boats, including at Galsklint Camping and Vestfyns MarineCenter. Accommodation with everything an angler needs The varied accommodation options near Lillebælt Waters make it a good starting point for the perfect angling holiday. Stay in large properties, lovely lodges or your own exclusive apartment, all by the water’s edge, of course, and with cleaning, coldstorage and drying facilities – see the next page. You can be sure of finding a sheltered spot by the Little Belt Despite its name, the Little Belt is big on angling. Anglers of all ages can join in – all year round. The narrow channel means it is always possible to find a sheltered spot – whether angling from the coast or from the angling cutters.

Angle from a cutter and book a local guide who knows the area Sail out on the angling cutter Medicus or Marianne. It only takes 10–20 minutes to reach the best angling spots! Book local guide Kurt Østergaard so you can be sure of finding the fish and getting some useful tips along the way. For more information about boat hire, angling trips and the up-todate current high water chart for the area near the Little Belt bridges, visit www.lillebaeltwaters.dk Cod, plaice and garfish In recent years, from February to May, a number of cod weighing in at up to 10 kg have been caught. At other times of year, cod have been caught at weights of up to approximately 5 kg. The Little Belt boasts Denmark’s record for plaice – 3.7 kg – and from August to November it is not unusual to catch plaice of record sizes and in record numbers. From November to April, large shoals of herring migrate into the Little Belt, while May and September are the peak season for fast-moving garfish. Lillebælt Waters – the starting point for your best-ever angling holiday.

www.seatrout.dk

13


AccommodAtioN directly by the wAterfroNt

bookiNg +45 70 26 05 65 Situated directly by the sea

Spacious holiday houses

Good fishing spots

Cook your own fish

Nice cabins with private toilet and shower, with free access to the best angling grounds at Trelde Næs. Fish cleaning facilities and freezing facilities free of charge. more iNformAtioN At www.feriereSort.dk

Hotel Borgmestergaarden Exclusive apartments at the waterfront in Middelfart

Trelde Næsvej 297 · DK-7000 Fredericia · Tel.: +45 75 95 71 83

www.mycamp.dk

The perfect starting point for the perfect fishing trip, with direct access to the beautiful Lillebælt We offer: · Dinghy ramp · Boat rental · Fish cleaning possibility · Freezers available · Drying room for clothes

The perfect starting point for a day of angling • Hotel– and holiday apartments • From 50 – 120 m2 (1-6 pers.) • With a view of Lillebælt

www.borgmestergaarden.dk

Galsklintvej 11 · DK-5500 Middelfart Tel.: +45 64 41 20 59 · Fax.: +45 64 41 81 59

Tel.: (+45) 7023 0204

www.galsklint.dk


Weather, Wind and Water level

Tips from local Anglers and

Go-Fishing shop The weather on Fyn is very changeable, especially during the winter season when things change very quickly. Many weather factors influence sea trout fishing. 1.

TIPS Check the weather forecast at www.dmi.dk Be especially aware of the wind direction.

2. Choose a couple of places with offshore wind in the guide book �117 Fine Fishing Spots on Fyn�. 3. Check the season columns for each fishing place. Disregard places that are not marked with green. 4. A whole day of angling should not be spent at a place with only a limited fishing stretch. 5. If you are many fishing together, always choose somewhere with a wide fishing stretch. 6. And give the chosen stretch a fair chance. If nothing has happened after a few hours, you should consider moving to a different fishing spot in the area. 7. You have to believe in and enjoy the spot you have chosen. If the wind is bad or there are too many other anglers, or if you simply lose faith in the spot, then it is time to change. You will only catch sea trout when you are concentrating and believe in the cause. 8. It is rare to have a good spot to yourself, but that is not important. There is room and sea trout enough for everybody. Show consideration for other anglers. 9. Check the tide at www.dmi.dk 10. It pays to be patient. There are no sure spots, but sea trout will turn up sooner or later, no matter where you are.

Weather You cannot say what the best weather for fishing for sea trout is. Trout bite in sunshine as well as in rain. There is, however, a tendency for sea trout to be influenced by the weather the same way the angler is. A warm period in the middle of a cold spell is good. On the other hand, a cool period in the middle of a warm summer also seems to refresh both fish and angler. But no rule without exceptions. The safest advice is that as long as you fish, you have a chance to catch one. No matter what the weather is like. Wind The wind is a big influence on fishing. The waters along the Fyn shores often get murky and filled with seaweed when the wind is inshore and creates waves. You can catch sea trout in murky waters, but it happens very rarely. So, if possible, find a shore with offshore/side wind. An exception to this rule would be periods with very little wind. Then you want to find a spot with a very mild inshore wind, creating only very small waves. Movement in the water is a great advantage as long as the water is clear. The weather forecast is very important. The sea trout angler needs to know what kind of weather to expect and how it is likely to develop over the next couple of days. You can get excellent newly updated weather forecasts on www.dmi.dk. So there is no excuse for turning up at the coast with a fierce inshore wind and cocoa coloured water. Water Level The difference between flood and ebb is very visible along the shores of Fyn. In Northern Fyn the difference is greater than in the south. In some places fishing is influenced by the different water levels. Many shallow shores are best during flow, whereas ebb can allow you to wade to exciting new spots. However, the different water levels only play a minor role. Again, it is the number of hours spent fishing that counts.

www.seatrout.dk

15


A Hike

By Mike Dijkstra, the Netherlands

The author often visits Fyn a couple of times each year. Namely the small and uninhabited island Æbelø, in the north of Fyn, has a particular hold on him. Here he tells how he approaches the fishing at Æbelø, and why it’s worth a hike. It’s still dark the moment we park our car that morning. A fresh but chilly spring wind helps us to wake up quickly. We put on our waders, and get our gear and backpacks with food and drinks, for a long and hard day of fishing. We are in a hurry – we’ve got the fish-fever! The strong wind builds up waves so we can’t see our destination - that magical island some 1.5 hours of hiking away. Since the island is uninhabited no bridge, road og ferry goes to the island, but the waters around it are so shallow, that you can walk there on the sea floor! It’s high tide. F...! My fishingmates shouts curses at the tough waters. High tide means a half hour of wading through waist deep waters over a sometimes murky bottom. This will drain our energy. What a way to start the day. But we know that we’ll be richly rewarded for our troubles. My friends and I are at Fyn for a week of flyfishing for sea trout. It’s our yearly pilgrimage. Sometimes we visit twice - in spring and in the autumn. And we always go for at least one day of fishing on the magical island of Æbelø. It has been, and probably will be, one of our all time favorite fishing spots on Fyn. We plan to fish around most of the small round island. This means we’ll hike and fish about 18 kilometers. It can be done, but of course less will do also. We skip from spot to spot.

16

to sea trout

Paradise

Reefs, weedbeds, current rips and deep pools (“bathtubs”) near the shore. All these spots are likely locations for silvery sea trout on the hunt. We fish in a fast pace, making 5 to 10 casts on specific spot and then move again. In our search we vary the angle, depth and retrieve speed. Most of the time fly pattern isn’t that critical. My experience tells me, that if you are at the right spot, at the right time, a right presentation of your fly accounts for 90% of your success. Later that morning, after catching some sea trouts, we arrive at the northern most tip of the island. Here a wadable reef stretches out far and a tidal rip crashes upon it and across it. A real hotspot! Side by side my fishingmate Johan and I are casting across the reef. Strip, strip...- fish on! A silvery and weel-fed 50cm+ trout, jumps into the air and then makes a run for freedom. My St. Croix rod bends deeply into this powerful fish. At that same moment Johan yells: Fish on! A double hook-up happens quite often when fishing at a hotspot like this. After some time we both land a nice sea trout, right next to the old lighthouse. We laugh, kiss the sea trouts - and release them back into the water. What a spot! We take a well earned break, and watch the scenery and wildlife of the island. In the afternoon the wind really picks up. Luckily we are on the mild and sheltered side of the island. Casting is no problem. Actually we feel like casting champions, as the wind taking our flylines a long way out! That’s another plus for Æbelø. Since you can walk around the round island you can always find some places to hide from the wind – but foremost find some sea trout. At sunset we wade the last couple of hundered meters back to our car. What a great day on on a small but magical island.


So, next time you’re on Fyn: “Take a Hike”! NB: Please don’t leave any of your trash at Æbelø. The island is uninhabited and delicate, so whatever you are carrying in – you must also carry out.

fishingguide from Mike Dijkstra is a professional (fly) in (fly)fishingtrips in es ializ spec He Amsterdam, Holland. mark. Contact Mike Holland, Montana, Slovenia and Den l through info@fishingadventures.n

www.seatrout.dk

17


18


www.seatrout.dk

HAVØRRED FYN As a trout angler at Seatrout.dk, you can share your catches and reports from Fyn with other anglers who enjoy the pleasure of angling for sea trout on Fyn. You can participate in the website by commenting on the angling guides’ blog entries, writing angling reports, commenting on other people’s angling reports and describing the various sections of coastline for angling. You will have your own catch gallery and a catch map to track your trout trophies.

The new site is not only new; it is also a very state-of-the-art angling site. And a bit of a revolution compared to the old site. To achieve a dynamic, interesting flow of exciting news from Funen’s coasts, seatrout.dk has joined forces with three regular bloggers, who each week will add new life to the site with the latest updates, fresh catches and great experiences from the angling waters. Interactivity is the keyword on the new website – and you, the users, will largely be creating the content. As a user, you have an ocean of possibilities to make your mark on the site. You can participate in the website by commenting on the angling guides’ blog entries, writing angling reports, commenting on other people’s angling reports and describing the various sections of coastline for angling. Best angling regards from seatrout.dk

www.seatrout.dk

19


Catch

&release son to talk about “catch and In the past there was no rea waters ed with the need to eat, the release”, fishing was combin um. nim mi a at fishing pressure was were plenty of fish and the has re d, the fishing pressu Today the times have change . has certainly not improved ent increased and the environm and ch, cat t to release the fish we Let’s see why it is importan how to do it properly.

BY OMAR BO GADE, GUIDE

The truth about catch and release The topic is very broad and in some situations controversial. Some data, however, are undeniable and on these data I will base the next few words. The first study on mortality in salmonids dates back to 1932, published by F.A.Westerman. Since then, many studies have been made and it is certain that a fish reintroduced into its habitat with all the necessary precautions (“catch and release”) can survive up to +95 % of the cases and may even be recaptured! Fly fishing is the technique that allows us to bring less damage to the fish and with the necessary precautions also spin fishing. The fishing techniques with natural baits are the ones which cause the most damages. Respect for the nature Today, the value of respect for the environment allows us to improve the quality of life and to practice our passion at our beautiful clean beaches. I think that the “spirit” whereby to practice catch and release must be the same “spirit” that holds us back in leaving garbage in the streets. In the last years I’ve experienced a personal evolution, for which I feel joy while releasing a fish. If someone asks me today what are for you the most exciting moments of fishing?, I would certainly include “the release of a beautiful sea trout”. I would never dream of answering “killing a trout” and I think this is shared by all of us. Two or three, every season, are the sea trout that I take home for dinner: Personally I release over 90% of the fish that I catch, regardless of their sizes. I experience the few moments of releasing a trout, as the rite which is recognized by respecting the animal, respecting the sea and at the same time the elevation of our sport. Only with the respect of caught fish can we defend our passion, sometimes misinterpreted by non-fishermen, and thus render it due justice. Sportsmanship In many sports there is a rule: “One by one, back to the center circle”. This means that if a team has just made a goal or a point, it’s back “on an equal footing” to continue in the game. Fishing is a sport, and the fish becomes an opponent to be respected: If the ability of a fisherman wins over the instinct of a sea trout, there is no reason to sacrifice the animal. On the contrary, releasing in a sporty manner, allow the challenge to start ...”One by one, back to the center circle”. Numbers Every year there are thousands of sea trout fishermen along the coast of Fyn. This is positive, and makes it possible that institutions are increasingly sensitive to the needs of fishermen and the environment. Sea trout fishing at Fyn is a fantastic experience, but to be honest, I also have to admit that the catches are not always numerous. I often see fishermen who kill each trout above the 40 cm minimum size: If we multiply these by the thousands of fishermen, just try to imagine the result number! Then try to imagine if each of us - every year - releases let’s say “6 out of 10” captured sea trout over 40 cm: We will have thousands of ever bigger fish along the coast, year after year! The equation is simple: One released sea trout =one more sea trout in the seas.

20

www.seatrout.dk


The damages and how minimize them. In the collective imagination the hook that pierces the lips of a fish, is often identified as the major damage that the fisherman causes to a fish. In reality this it is not correct. Some even claim that some species of fish are not sensitive in the area of the mouth, and the fact that once hooked, a fish “pull” in the opposite direction, confirms this theory.

The “top 5” damages and how to avoid them: Acidosis A fish may be damaged during the fight due to the excessive formation of lactic acid developed during the sudden muscular effort. The state of acidosis in fish is disposed of from 6 to 12 times more slowly than in mammals! Advices: Restrict, as much as possible, the duration of the fight. Suffocation More damaging is the choke. A trout can withstand up to 3-4 minutes out of the water without dying. But even a single minute outside the water can cause irreparable damage to a trout, caused by the lack of oxygen. Advices: Keep the sea trout in the water, in case leave it in the net, unhook it in the water and release it immediately! If the fish is struggling to revive, try to oxygenate it by moving the fish forwards and backwards in order to bring the water (oxygen) into its gills.

Thermal Shock Have you ever tried to burn yourself with a boiling pot? Maybe it’s more or less the same sensation that a fish feels when it is held by the hands of a man! Advices: Dip your hands in the cold sea water before touching the sea trout and touch it as little as possible. Never tighten your grip on the fish! Protective mucous Fish are covered by a mucous membrane which protects them from bacteria. Handling a fish too much removes the mucous protection partially and exposes the fish to future infections. Advices: Touch the fish as little as possible. Use a landing net with a “knotless” mesh. Don’t drag the fish upon the shore. Damage to the buccal apparatus More damage is caused when the fish swallow the bait entirely, since the internal and more sensitive parts of the apparatus are involved. Another critical situation is when a fish is hooked near an eye. Advices: Use barbless hooks or circle hooks. In any case, if the bait is swallowed, do not try critical maneuvers for unhooking: Cut the line in the vicinity of the hook and release the fish.

www.seatrout.dk

21


: s p i t l u f p l e h Other

Catch

&release

- Keep the fish in the water, always in a horizontal position. - If the fish is small, try to unhook it by touching it as little as possible, eventually use a pair of pliers. - If the fish is generous in size, the best way is to grab him by the tail with one hand and use your other hand as a support under the belly of the fish, but do not tighten your grip. This grip allows to lift the fish from the water for a few moments in order to take a memorable photo (a photo remains for life!).

- If you are excited by the catching of a super sea trout, take it easy and take your time! Do not drag the fish upon the shore in fear of that it might escape, leave it the water for the landing net! Breathe deeply and be happy! In any case, avoid keeping the fish out of the water for more than 20-30 seconds. - Consider the purchase of a landing net with a knotless mesh. Today it is possible to buy landing nets with a silicone mesh that does not provide any damage to the fish (enviro-nets). - Never hold the fish by the mouth and especially never put your fingers into the gills! - If you are planning to embalm a nice sea trout, consider a resin reproduction. There’s no need to kill the fish! Many artists can create exact copies of your catch by looking at your photos. The results are impressive and the resin is maintained over time! - If you at all costs want to enjoy a delicious fish for dinner, go to a nice restaurant! Fyn offers good restaurants serving delicious seafood! In this manner you will make happy both a sea trout and a restaurateur. put a good fish y fisherman is to an to ve gi n ca u t someone else’s “The finest gift yo at you caught isn’ th sh fi e th if s ow back, and who kn gift to you?” ly once” us to be caught on io ec pr o to is t ou “A tr hing legend. Lee Wulff, f ly fis

22

www.seatrout.dk


Fyn

Archipelago The variety it offers is the best thing of all. The many reefs, the open, rocky coasts, the troughs in the sea bed where the sea trout move in and out with the ebb and flow of the tide. The best thing about the Archipelago is the islands and bays. Often, you wander around here in solitude for days and at best you meet one of the locals, who is only too pleased to tell you about the angling spots where you can catch fish. Whatever the wind direction and wind strength, you will find yourself within walking distance of a coast where you can go angling. There’s no shortage of islands. Baagø, Bjørnø, Lyø and Avernakø, Drejø, Skarø, Birkholm, Helnæs and Tåsinge, to name but a few of the larger ones. You can reach them by ferry, across a dam or bridge, and they are perfect for a day trip. No matter which village or island you choose as the starting point on your quest for sea trout, there’s good fishing throughout the Archipelago.

By Terkel Broe Christensen Funen – an angler’s paradise all year round. ASSENS From Assens Harbour, you can take the ferry to Baagø. The short distances let you switch angling spots quickly and easily when there’s a change in the weather. It is not far from Torø to Helnæs Bay in the south. For as long as there have been anglers on Funen, sea trout have been caught close to Helnæs Fyr lighthouse. The seatrouts here are often large. Helnæs is well worth a visit at any time of year. Funen sea trout records have been set for many years from Sønderby Klint/Aa Strand, south of Assens.

FAABORG Faaborg’s crowning glories of Bjørnø, Lyø and Avernakø are ideal for day trips and can be reached by boat within half an hour from Faaborg harbour. Avernakø is the only island too large to fully explore on foot in one day. The coasts around Faaborg are very varied. You can go angling in areas tending slightly more towards fresh water, for example Faaborg Fjord. You could also go angling on the more open coasts near Bøjden, where a number of large, shiny maiden trout are landed each year. SVENDBORG For sea trout anglers staying in or around Svendborg, a day trip to the islands of Skarø, Drejø or Hjortø is a must. From Svendborg harbour, it’s a one-hour ferry trip through the beautiful Svendborg Sound. All three islands have lots of good spots which you can reach on foot. You might want to bring your bicycle with you to Drejø. Svendborg Sound and Skårup Sound, which have strong currents, offer a lot of exciting angling spots. Even in summer, you stand a good chance of landing a cod here.

www.seatrout.dk - www.visitfyn.com

23


THE ARCHIPELAGO AN ANGLER’S PARADISE

Map showing the best angling spots

ASSENS

= fishing spots FAABORG

24

www.seatrout.dk - www.visitfyn.com


ODENSE

NYBORG

i

VisitAssens Willemoesgade 15A 5610 Assens Tlf: (+45) 6375 9420 info@visitassens.dk www.visitassens.dk VisitSvendborg Centrumpladsen 4 DK - 5700 Svendborg Tlf.: (+45) 63 75 94 80 visitsvendborg@udviklingfyn.dk www.visitsvendborg.dk Faaborg Turistbureau: Torvet 19 Dk – 5600 Faaborg Tlf. (+45) 63 75 94 44 Fax: (+45) 62 61 33 37 visitfaaborgmidtfyn@udviklingfyn.dk www.visitfaaborg-midtfyn.dk

SVENDBORG

Nyborg Turistbureau Adelgade 3 5800 Nyborg Tlf: (+45) 6375 9460 visitnyborg@udviklingfyn.dk www.visitnyborg.dk Odense Turistbureau VisitOdense, Vestergade 2 5000 Odense C Tlf (+45) 6375 7520 Fax (+45) 6375 7539 otb@visitodense.com www.visitodense.com

www.seatrout.dk - www.visitfyn.com

25


“NEED SOME HELP?

”: Get in touch w ith the local tourist information offic information abou e for further t accommodatio n options that ca anglers, e.g. w ith ter specially for regard to cold-s torage capacity fish and drying , facilities for cle waders. We w ill aning also help you to shops and guid find the local tac es who know th kle e Archipelago lik We can also tell e the back of their you about anglin hand. g regulations, bu etc. We hope yo ying fishing licen u w ill get a terrif ces, ic catch and thor close to nature! oughly enjoy be ing

NYBORG The Great Belt coast from Svendborg in the south, proceeding northwards past Nyborg, offers a lot of excellent fish. These fish come from the many excellent little trout watercourses that open out onto the coasts here. After extensive restoration of the waterways, these waters now have such robust stocks of trout that fish are no longer being released. So the fish caught on the Great Belt coast will often be wild. One angling spot near Nyborg is Knudshoved, renowned for its night angling in summer. ODENSE The river Odense Å runs through the heart of the city, and especially in summer and early autumn, large sea trout that you would give your eye-teeth for are caught every year – in the midst of the urban environment. This is easily accessible angling for beautiful sea trout, and you can also enjoy the added extras such as strong pike and large perch. The river Odense Å is always well worth a visit between spring and the protected period in autumn. During the spring, in March and April, Odense fjord is one of the most popular angling spots on Funen – and for good reason. ACCOMMODATION There are lots of options for accommodation offering excellent facilities for anglers, to suit all tastes and budgets: Campsites with cabins, bed and breakfast, holiday cottages and hotels.

SELECTION OF EVENTS 2013: 12.-14. april: Seatrout Open www.go-fishing.dk 4.-6. october: Seatrout Open www.go-fishing.dk 28.- 29. september: Trout days atHelnæs www.helnaes-camping.dk See ongoing events at seatrout.dk MOBILE GUIDE See all the angling spots on your m obile. Download the “visitfyn” app on your smartphone. With your mobile in your hand, yo u will be able to make yo ur way to angling spots, accommodation, attractions, cultu ral experiences, gem s of nature, etc.

Please note that the information and content of th will be downloade e mobile guide d via your mobile phone’s Internet and that your m connection obile provider wi ll invoice you sepa service in accord rately for this ance with your m obile phone subs cription.

www.visitfyn.com 26

www.seatrout.dk - www.visitfyn.com


Seatrout Fyn products Seatrout Guide 117 Fine Fishing Spots on Fyn - 86 pages The anglers’ guide “Seatrout Guide - Fyn, Langeland and Ærø - 117 Fine Fishing Spots on Fyn” is indispensable for visitors to Fyn. The book includes 15 detailed maps, scale 1:100,000, and 117 excellent fishing spots are described in detail, along with aerial photographs. The guide book also gives lots of other valuable information about sea trout fishing as well as fishing in the River Odense.

Seatrout Fyn Cap Superb Seatrout Fyn cap, good fit, adjustable strap with stainless steel clasp. The cap is designed to give extra shade and is made of breathable materials. Wind and waterproof.

Seatrout Fyn - DVD ”The art of onshore sea trout angling” A film for sea trout anglers. A different fishing video with a course, tips and techniques. Playing time: 45 mins.

The Salar publishing company lets you in on the secrets of the sea trout These films are entirely about sea trout. Underwater cameras and on-location filming at fishing spots provide a special insight into sea trout angling from the coast. The films are almost of feature-film length, and the focus was on creating attractive footage that captures the atmosphere of the coast and shows plenty of good fish action. Watching these films, you can simply lean back and enjoy coastal angling, or find plenty of inspiration to improve your own technique of angling for seatrout.

A dream of a fish - A book about sea trout The best game an angler can hook around the coasts of Denmark. In this book, a number of Denmark’s leading experts open their bag of tricks to give new tips about angling for sea trout. 27


Living North Sea

28

www.seatrout.dk


Living North Sea & Seatrout Funen

Living North Sea “Free fish migration from sea to source to keep our waters alive” BY JAN H. KJELDSEN, PROJECT MANAGER SEATROUT FUNEN

The main purpose of the Living North Sea project is to shed light on the management of migrating fish (such as sea trout) in countries with sections of coastline facing the North Sea. Denmark is represented here by Seatrout Funen, among others, which has been working actively for more than two decades to improve the habitat for sea trout. The project, which runs from 2009 to 2012/2013, is intended to shed light on relevant problem areas involving migration routes, including damming of trout spawning migrations, trout genetics, habitat requirements, etc. Seatrout Funen contributes specialist knowledge in the fields of “releases” and “best practice in the restoration of waterways”. Thus, the various aspects of the life cycle of sea trout are covered, and the countries share information with one another and incorporate lessons learnt with view to nurturing stocks of sea trout for the future. Restoration of watercourses Much of Seatrout Funen’s collaborative work focuses on restoration of watercourses on Funen, Langeland and Ærø. So far, Seatrout Funen has removed more than 200 dams in the watercourses, opening up more than 500 km of watercourses previously inaccessible to sea trout for spawning. For example, during the period 2007–2010, a total of 36 projects were implemented with a combined value of DKK 7.75 million. When dams are removed from watercourses that have attractive characteristics as spawning areas for sea trout, we typically see a significant increase in sea trout stocks in the river in question. The number of redds often doubles just one to two years after opening up the watercourse to sea trout. One of the biggest success stories is the river Puge Mølle Å, where parr density upstream from a new bypass around a dam has increased by a remarkable 531%. The incontestable conclusion is that when sea trout are guaranteed access to spawning grounds in the watercourses, they quickly repay this kindness by significantly adding to their family! Results such as these are included in the knowledge sharing that is also part of the Living North Sea project. Release of sea trout Much of the collaborative effort also focuses on helping wild sea trout stocks to thrive. This is also brought about by raising and releasing fish. Each year, the ten municipalities involved in Seatrout Funen release approximately 365,000 trout in the watercourses on Funen, Langeland and Ærø. These fish are raised from natural stock, and the parr (smolts) are returned to the same watercourses their parents came from. This preserves the bloodline of Funen’s fish, and the fish thus released serve as a supplement to natural reproduction. The effect of releasing fish is one of the topics Seatrout Funen would like to learn more about. Working on the Living North Sea project gives us the opportunity to inform our efforts in a manner that enables everyone to benefit even more from the work. One method we employ involves tagging some of the fish we release. A project in collaboration with DTU (Technical University of Denmark) and the Fyns Laksefisk hatchery involves recording how the sea trout migrate from the watercourse, proceeding out along the open coasts of Funen. In this context, we released 7,000 tagged fish into the rivers Storåen and Syltemade Å on Funen in 2010, and in 2011, we released 6,000 tagged fish. The research project is still in progress, and we are waiting with great anticipation to learn even more about the life of sea trout. You can read more about the Living North Sea project at www.livingnorthsea.eu www.seatrout.dk

29


The Flats

of Fyn

f lats. At Sightf ishing and wading on shallow rees warm all Cuba? No.. at Fyn! It’s not 30 deg nding islands year at Fyn, but Fyn and the surrou ty sea trout all got f lats- and sightf ishing for sal 365 days of the year.

BY SANDRO MEDIANI, AVALON FISHING, CUBA

I’ve visited Fyn two times, first in 2009 and then in 2012. Needless to say: the main reason of my visits, was fishing for strong sea trout. The fault is all Omar Gade’s - a colleague and a friend, who first intrigued me and then invited me to Fyn to experience this kind of fishing. I must confess that in the beginning I was a bit “confused”: Waking up at 4 in the morning and doing some 1000 blind casts into the dawn. It’s a “research fishing” kind of style and a right approach makes all the difference; the desire to hunt the sea trout and the precious tips from an expert fishing guide does the rest. And finally the capture of one beautiful sea trout pays back all your efforts. Believe me. During my two visits, twice in the late spring, I had the best fishing in the dusk of early mornings and late evenings. Fyn is for sure a beautiful island, surrounded by many miles of coastline where you can fish all year round and in any weather conditions. However, what impressed

30

me most are the vast number and the mere variety of fishing spots. Every fisherman here can find his ideal spot. There are sandy beaches, huge underwater rocks, wide bays, headlands, cliffs overlooking the sea and sea grass beds which provide shelter to the preferred baits of the sea trout. And then... and then... there are the flats! At the flats it’s possible to fish and wade for long stretches into the water...like we do at Cuba! Of course the fish are as diverse as the backgrounds, the climate and the temperature, but also in Cuba we are fishing, wading and walking on sandy stretches, and the fish feeds on shrimp, crabs and small baitfish, like the Danish sea trout. I have personally used the famous fly named ‘pattegrisen’ both on Fyn and at Cuba in fishing for bonefish… with great success. It’s amazing and fantastic to find similarities between two such places so far from each other, and climatically so different: That’s the beauty of fishing. For info about fishing in Cuba contact: sandro.mediani@avalon-europe.com www.avalon-europe.com

www.seatrout.dk


The 4 seasons

Spring

March and April are normally the months when not only the most plentiful but also the largest coastal sea trout of the year are caught. Sea trout migrate from fresh water or brackish water towards the open sea and can be found in the shallow, warmer waters between the shore and the first longshore bar and trench. The sun’s rays warm the water fastest between bars and troughs. Soon, sand-hoppers will be emerging from their winter hideouts. Male sticklebacks are busy courting their females and forget all about looking out for predatory fish. Conditions are perfect for sea trout. They can gorge on sticklebacks. If anglers are in luck, the water will be full of swarming bristleworms, and if so, the sea trout will absolutely run amok. Rod anglers using large, bushy flies, preferably imitation worm flies, and spinning anglers using a bombarda float will be able to celebrate success after success. Often, the sea trout are so wild, they’ll bite on anything that bobs through the water! For example, try a dark coastal wobbler or a long but light Tobis spinning bait in matt colours. As a spinning angler, if you find the sea trout are shaking the hook free, you could fit an extra spring ring between the hook and the actual spring ring to stop this from happening. That way, the fish will have more difficulty shaking the hook free. A lot of slender kelts caught in spring are thin and lean, despite being silver and having loose scales. From 16 November to 15 January, the law requires such fish to be put back immediately. Another good reason for throwing kelts back immediately is that they are not a very worthy catch, either for sporting anglers or for culinary appeal. Covering as much water as possible; spinning bait In spring, the fish migrate along the coast. You can never be certain where sea trout are to be found, so it is important to cover as much of the water as possible to find the fish. Each cast covers 3–5 m. Therefore, after 20 spinning casts along a length of 50 m, you will have drawn the spinning bait or wobbler through 1 km of water. It is worth investing more casts around particularly promising fishing spots such as reefs, points, current troughs, mussel banks or large boulders. In this season, the fly fisher, too, should try to cover a lot of the water and not remain on one spot for long.

There is no need for the sports angler to lose any sleep about the choice of colours of flies, spinning bait and wobblers in spring. The sea trout are hungry after meagre winter rations and are not fussy about whether the bait is a perfect imitation or whether the eye of the spinning bait has been affixed correctly. It’s all the same to the fish, but on the other hand, in turbid water or in difficult light conditions, you should use bait that the sea trout can see from a distance. Silvery, white or fluorescent spinning bait is often used for springtime sea trout angling. Fly fishers get fly patterns such as the “Christmas Tree” or Polar Magnus out of the box. More discreet tools and colours should only be used when the water is clear, or when there is no wind. Fly fishing Although spinning angling is more mobile and is the most effective angling method in spring, the seasoned fly fisher will also get a share of the cake. Although the spinning angler may catch the most sea trout in April, the fly fisher will balance things up during May and June. In other words, it all amounts to more or less the same. The fly fisher should avoid the long, straight sections of coast where the spinning angler’s more proactive and effective angling technique is more likely to find the “needle in the haystack”. Instead, the fly fisher should seek out better-defined fishing spots such as reefs and mussel banks. The fish are generally to be found in the “bath tub” between the coast and the first longshore bar on days with an onshore wind. Here, as a fly fisher, you will often benefit from standing out on the longshore bar; with the wind at your back, it is then much easier to cast towards the shore and thus effectively explore the “bath tub”. If the weather is very cold in the spring, the fly fisher – like the spinning angler – must seek out the sea trout on the beds of inlets and coves, where the water is fresher than out at sea. Here, the fly fisher will often catch just as many sea trout as the spinning angler.

Tips!

Be highly mobile. a different spot. to switch should you , angling hours’ two of If you have not seen or noticed fish after a maximum spring months. the methods are effective during Fly fishing or spinning angling – the choice is yours! Both start of spring. the at spots Don’t forget winter angling es think. sometim we as them leave to quick as The sea trout are not quite mornings. the in mainly and April and March in long day all Angle

www.seatrout.dk

31


The 4 seasons

Summer

In summer, the most obvious time to angle for sea trout is in the evening, due to the water temperature. In June and July, sea trout spend their days in the deep, cool offshore waters. Only around sunset do they venture back to the coastline, even though the water is a little too warm for comfort. Accordingly, the fish only hunt for a brief period in the shallows, before the poikilothermic sea trout has to head back out to deeper, cooler waters to regulate its body temperature – only to return again later in search of prey. Angling around eelgrass Some of the best fishing spots are to be found where deep water with a strong current runs right in under the coast. Even so, you should keep an eye on the flat, sandy beaches on the north side of Funen or the east coast of Langeland. On days with a strong offshore wind, the warm surface water is blown away from the coast, and this draws out the cold water from the depths, sucking it in towards land. Look for sea trout wherever eelgrass is growing. Throughout the summer, eelgrass forests are the habitat of mysidacea, shrimps, sand-hoppers and small fish.

Use light tackle By around May, the sea trout has satisfied the worst of its hunger. Although the warm water boosts the metabolism of the fish, the spinning angler will quickly ascertain that, very often, the sea trout just follow the spinning bait without biting. Sea trout can still be caught with a very small, 5–10 g spinning bait and spinners, however, notably because you rarely have to contend with the elements in summer. The fly fisher will be enjoying success now, and many of the more experienced fly fishers prefer to challenge the sea trout in summer with quite a light, class 5–6 fly rod. Using this, they can lay the fly line quite close to hunting sea trout without frightening the fish – and the light tackle will be much more fun whilst tiring out the strong, frisky summer trout. Most sea trout are caught during night angling; the first two hours after sunset are particularly good. Most fly fishers use black flies. Favourite types are cigar flies which swim on the surface whilst being taken. If you do not care for these odd flies, instead try a black palmer fly or streamer tied with black marabou feathers.

Tips! at night. deeper, cooler waters. This is why it is best to angle mainly When the water approaches 20°C, the sea trout head for nights. light the of ge advanta take you if lly May and June still offer superb angling for sea trout – especia of food. n selectio l plentifu a find trout sea the where s, The best fishing spot is typically around eelgras trout. Use light tackle in order to attract the less hungry sea

32

www.seatrout.dk


s n o s a e s 4 e h T

Autumn

Sea trout have spent the spring and summer preparing for the autumn’s spawning migration, building up stocks of eggs and milt. The spawning migration often starts in August– September, while the larger fish have already migrated to the major rivers in May and June. As the water becomes colder, sea trout can once again be found close to the coast. Angling is best on overcast days with a fresh wind. The fish have had six months to fill their stomachs, and in autumn, most of them regard bait distrustfully. The fly fisher often catches considerably more than his spinning angler colleague when the sun is shining from a cloudless sky. As the water temperature in the autumn is roughly the same in deep or shallow water, it is difficult to tell in advance where the fish will be. Well-defined reefs and mussel banks are almost certain to be good fishing spots, but the fish may prove difficult to engage, especially for a spinning angler. Bombarda, Spirolino and Fly Many experienced coastal anglers only use flies and casting floats such as bombarda or sbirolino all year round, because this method brings together the best of spinning and fly fishing. In recent years, there has been an explosive development of floats, snoods and angling methods. Depending on conditions, it is possible to angle near the surface with floating sbirolino floats; slowly in intermediate water with a floating sbirolino and a sinking snood; fast in intermediate water with an intermediate/sinking sbirolino and sinking snood or slowly and deep with a sinking float and loaded flies. The options are almost unlimited.

very large sea trout are landed each autumn. Sometimes, large shoals of herring come quite close to land, with large trout right on their tailfins. The prospect of experiencing this is normally greatest on days with an onshore wind, or where deep waters cut in close under the shore. Another, but more commonly overlooked phenomenon, occurs in September, when young garfish migrate from the inland waterways. The approx. 15 cm young garfish gather in large shoals at the edge of the current, close to points and promontories, and of course every sea trout is very interested. The spinning angler then immediately ties a slim Tobis bait to the end of the line, while the fly fisher brings out his most streamer-like fly with white hair and a blue/green back to draw it through the water at express rate. Coloured trout While the smaller, sexually immature sea trout (finnocks) and the large, shiny maidens remain out at sea, there is a dearth of “intermediate-class” fish. The majority of medium-sized sea trout lose interest in food and, during the autumn, make their way towards the watercourses which they will later migrate to in order to spawn around Christmas time. Although they are no longer hunting and eating, coloured sea trout quite often bite on red/yellow flies, spinning bait and wobblers – especially when the bait is worked slowly. This is aggression biting. Sea trout on their way to spawn are called coloured fish. Apart from the characteristic red spots of river trout, a coloured sea trout on spawning migration is very similar to its smaller, upstream cousin, with its brown/yellow colours and markings. Their bellies are full of eggs or milt, while at the same time their flesh loses its salmon-pink colour and delicate taste. The transition from a silvery fish to a coloured fish is of course gradual, but when the fish no longer has loose scales, the law requires it to be put back in the period 16 November to 15 January.

Young garfish Although the chances of catching large sea trout are greatest in spring, catch reports nevertheless show that

Tips!

order to get the sea trout to bite. During spinning, There are two useful tricks the spinning angler can try in the autumn in Now the sea trout will try to grab the prey possible. as fast as reel the turn you can stop and wait half a second – and then which is trying to get away like greased lightning. with a small, bold spinner. You have to switch Alternatively, the spinning angler can replace the spinning bait/wobbler bait very quickly, before the trout gets out of range of the light spinner. Autumn angling is best on overcast days with a fresh wind. young garfish emerge from the inland In September, there is a strong possibility of catching sea trout when the waterways.

www.seatrout.dk

33


The 4 seasons

Winter

As long as the water temperature does not drop below approximately 4°C, it is perfectly feasible to catch sea trout along the coast. But the fish are sluggish and lie near the bottom, so angling with spinning bait, wobblers and flies has to be done slowly. If the water temperature drops below 4°C, it is virtually impossible to catch sea trout out on the open coast. This is because the sea trout is intolerant of the combination of cold and salty water due to its balance of fluids. Accordingly, during December, most fish migrate further into inlets and bays where there is more fresh water and it is easier for them to survive. Plenty of sea trout are still caught in winter along the southern coasts of Funen or along islands such as Langeland, Thurø, Tåsinge and the east side of Ærø, however. Here the water is more brackish than in the fishing grounds of northern Funen. The majority of sea trout on the winter coast are finnocks approximately 40–50 cm in length, but there is always the chance of running into a large, shiny maiden. Fly fishing in slow motion The fly fisher will benefit from loaded flies and sinking snood. If the water depth of the fishing ground is more than 1 m, use an intermediate – or a slowly sinking fly line. In winter, the fly fisher will often get more bites on smaller flies that imitate sand-hoppers. On dark days, choose flies with reddish or orange colours, but in clear water or on sunny days, use more discreet fly patterns. It is important for the fly to be tied with soft material that gives the fly pulsating movements. A large fly tied with a marabou feather can be extremely effective as it is slowly dragged through the cold water.

Slow angling with sbirolino As long as the water and air temperatures are stable, the sea trout will seldom stray far from its position. Therefore, bombarda or sbirolino floats and flies will often be by far the best method of catching, because this makes it possible to present a small, natural-looking fly much further out in the water than with normal fly fishing. But bombarda or sbirolino floats and flies need to be dragged much more slowly in winter than in autumn: only give half a turn of the fishing reel and then let the fly sink for two to four seconds – before you repeat the procedure. Spin angling Die-hard spinning anglers adapt their angling to the prevailing conditions. This is why spinning bait, made of thin material, is chosen, so the bait can spin slowly in without catching on the bottom. Lots of spinning bait comes in a uniform length, but with differing weights and thicknesses. Some of the most popular spinning baits are 6, 8, 10 and 12 g. The light models have more lively movements, but casts will of course be somewhat shorter. Coastal wobblers are very popular for winter angling. Most models can be drawn slowly, but they also enable very long casts – even against the wind. Many of Funen’s spinning anglers tie a fly 20–30 cm in front of the wobbler. Some days, the sea trout clearly prefer the fly. The fly can be tied with a smooth knot on a short wisp of line on the main line so that the fish pulls the fly down to the wobbler during the fight.

Tips!

sharpness due to the saltwater and hitting the bottom. Remember a hook hone, because hooks quickly lose their Even brand-new hooks should be honed frequently. Store spinning bait and hooks separately. not be put back with the other hooks. should it rds, afterwa Only mount the hook once the spinning bait is in use; as the reel in fresh, running water. well as hooks and flies bait, g When you get home, rinse the spinnin m sizes for the most common types of fish on your rod. Always remember a measuring tape, or mark the minimu for cleaning the fish on the beach. Remember a priest for killing and a stainless steel knife

34

www.seatrout.dk


r a e g t h g The ri

www.seatrout.dk

35


The right gear Spin

Bombarda

The spinning rod A carbon spinning rod of 9-10 foot and a throw weight of between 10-30 grams is preferable.

A Bombarda angler combines the best of spin-fishing and fly fishing. You get the long cast and the opportunity to introduce a light bait with high speed. Bombarda rods are often longer than the most popular spinning rods, typically 10-12 feet and “softer”.

The spinning reel Choose a salt water resistant spinning reel with a reliable brake and a line capacity of about 200 meters of 0.25 mm nylon line. The line Many prefer to use the plaited lines as they are very strong despite the thin diameter. Seeing that these lines are “dumb”, even the smallest bite is felt at once. A 0.10-0.18 mm plaited line is preferable. The classic nylon line of 0.25-0.30 mm is often used. The end gear The fitting assortment of winks, wobblers and spins is huge. A variety of all sorts in the bait box is a good start. Bait comes in different colors, sizes and weight. Winks are used all year whereas dark wobblers are for night fishing during summer. Spinners, causing havoc in the water, can get the more choosy sea trout to bite. A good tip for the fly fishing angler, is to replace the attached 3-hook with a single hook with a large hook gap. Thereby reducing hook errors and “catching” the sea bottom.

36

Fishing with Bombarda floats have increased markedly over the last year. Floats of 8-30 gram with a fly tippet of the same length as the rod and at the tip of the tippet a fly, small winks/spinners, gulp or live worms are used. The fly tippet is either braided or coated and made of ordinary nylon or fluorinated carbon with thicknesses of 0.25-0.33 mm.

The clothing The right clothing is important for the coastal angler seeing that the weather often changes. A breathable wading jacket (wind- & waterproof), with pockets for gear and other equipment, is a must. Sweat absorbing underwear, fleece sweaters and thick socks are standard equipment for the angler during the cold months. Waders Waders come in many different variants. Breathable waders are often used when the water is warm and neoprene waders when it is cold. The waders have felt soles which give a better grip on rocky shores.

www.seatrout.dk


The right gear Other clothing Polaroid sunglasses and a hat is important too when fishing. Not least for safety, preventing a hook from catching your eye or getting stuck in the scalp of your head. Furthermore, a pair of Polaroid glasses can often see through water.

Fly Fishing The fly rod Today fly fishing is popular among anglers. The gear for coastal fly fishing sets a high standard for fitting. The following is not to be taken as a complete check list but as a guideline. Many swear by a 9 feet rod in line class 6-8. The lower classes are used for days with little wind whereas the high classes are used for fishing in rough weather. The fly reel There is no need to make high standards for the fly reel. What you need is a reliable brake and a reel of 50 meter back line in case you hook the fish of your dreams. The fly line The line is the most important part of the coastal fly fishing equipment. A line not fitted for the rod or vice versa can complicate the cast significantly. Most fly fishers prefer a WF-line or a shooting head system with a monofilament or a coated shooting line. If you are new to fly fishing, choose a WF-line. A shooting head system requires more experience. Most fly fishers prefer a floating line, but some swear to so called hover-lines, fishing a few centimeters below the surface. The fly tippet Usually a 9-12 food ready tapered nylon tippet is used. This presents the fly accurately and delicately for the fish. The tippet is the invisible part between the line and the fly. A replaceable tip is tied at the end of the tippet, making 1½ rod length between the fly and the line.

The line basket A line basket keeps your line in place preventing it being taken by the currents or the waves. Numerous line baskets are found and prove indispensable to many anglers. The fish flies You can find just as many fish flies as anglers. It is a good idea to copy the prey of the sea trout. The prey can be seen along the shore at various times of the year. Shrimp,-goby and sandeel flies are good in spring, summer and autumn. In autumn the trout is more selective whereas a smaller size flies can prove to be successful. Provocation flies in bright colors can provoke the most inactive sea trout to strike in the cold winter months. In summer the coastal water is warming up and the sea trout pulls out to colder water during day time and returns at night to hunt. At night, big black silhouette flies are used creating havoc in the water. In spring bristle worms swarm in great numbers which is why a bristle worm fly proves to be a hit in the spring months.

rg vej 3, Oden se • Æk vator Sport, Nybo j 67, Oden se • Go-Fishing, Dalumve en se rshop, Vesterbro 2, Od • Jan & Bo’s Lystfiske Mesinge ri, Fyn shovedvej 208, • Tropica Jagt & Fiske ndborg ri, Porthusvej 127, Sve • Michaels Jagt & Fiske

www.seatrout.dk

37


FUseful ishadvicenand’sgoodhtackle op Fyn boasts a number of extremely good fishing tackle shops which can give you the exact equipment and advice you need to complete your angling trip on Fyn. These shops can be found throughout Fyn, from Mesinge in the north to Svendborg in the south. See map p. 51.

Ækvator Sport

A

• • • • •

ore than 50 years’ experience M Specialist knowledge of all types of angling Advice on virtually any type of fishing An extensive, comprehensive range The shop has a staff of four – Hans (the owner), Claes, Niklas and Renè • Guideservice and casting courses Ækvator Sport Nyborgvej 3 5000 Odense C Tlf.: +45 66 11 29 93 fiskegrej@aekvator.dk

www.shop.aekvator.dk

Go-fishing

B

• E veryone in the shop is crazy about fishing! • Together, they have more than 275 years’ experience of angling • They have their finger on the pulse and know what’s going on out there • Attractive new premises just two minutes from motorway junction 51 • The coffee pot is always on. Go-Fishing Dalumvej 67 • 5250 Odense SV Tlf.: +45 66 12 15 00 • mail@go-fishing.dk Go-Fishing Rosengårdcentret, Butik 233, Gul-gade Ørbækvej, 5220 Odense SØ. Tlf.: +45 63 15 02 99 • mail@go-fishing.dk

www.go-fishing.dk

38

www.seatrout.dk


p Jan & Bo’s Lystfiskershop

C

• Denmark’s biggest chain of shops with fishing gear • Specialized in costal angling with spin, bombarda and fly • Funen’s largest selection of hand made, locally manufactured bait • Situated only one minuts walk from the pedestrian street in the centre of Odense • Guide Service Jan & Bo’s Lystfiskershop Vesterbro 2 5000 Odense C Tlf.: +45 66 11 23 66 janogbo@post.tele.dk

www.janogbo.dk

Michaels Jagt & Fiskeri

D

• I n business for more than 25 years • The staff have 50 years’ combined experience of fishing and hunting • A wide range of hunting gear, fishing tackle and outdoor equipment • 1000 m2 shop • The shop has 7 shop assistants Michaels Jagt & Fiskeri Porthusvej 127 5700 Svendborg Tlf.: +45 62 21 11 53 info@michaelsjagt.dk

www.michaelsjagt.dk

www.seatrout.dk

39


Kerteminde Northeast Funen is a good starting point for the perfect angling holiday. In Kerteminde harbour, you can catch fish while keeping your shoes dry.

Dutch anglers flushed with success In the summer, two young anglers from the Netherlands visited Funen for the first time. They enjoyed great success with their angling, mainly using spinning bait. All the photos are from their trip. Expert guides Kerteminde is an angler’s paradise. Enough said! But if you want to track down those “trout magnets”, it is advisable to book a guide. You can phone the guides for a no-obligation quotation. A whole day costs DKK 2,500. The benefit of booking a guide is this: the guides know the area; they know where the fish are and they can give you tips both about fly fishing and about fishing with spinning bait. Unique experiences ONLY for anglers Why should things continue as they always have? In Kerteminde, we’ve strung a whole lot of experiences

together to create three standard packages to suit every wallet. They are packed with benefits and things to see and do, including eating well, living well, reading up about what’s going on beneath the sea and, of course, CATCHING LOTS OF FISH…

is a minde “Kerte ce to put the la great p e water” th in t boa

MUNKEBO KERTEMINDE LANGESKOV

lised specia odation for e m m servic acco guide d n a s angler e! emind in Kert y – are you u o y e Se gb e standin fish and hav We’re h c t a to c day? ready tic holi s a t n a af

Sea trout h oli

VisitKertemin day de package, from can assist with the entire your arrival at railway statio n, to car hire, the airport and the booking a guid half a day or se e fo veral days, ac commodation, r delicious mea ls with or wit hout your ow and To view our pa n catch. ckages, visit www.kertemin debooking.dk of any specia . Please send l re de holiday to turi quirements for your anglin tails st@visitkerte g m try to put toge ther the perfec inde.dk, and we will t holiday for yo u.

VisitKerteminde • Hans Schacksvej 5 • DK-5300 Kerteminde Tlf. +45 65 32 11 21 • turist@visitkerteminde.dk www.visitkerteminde.dk • www.kertemindebooking.dk 40

www.seatrout.dk


Angling spots

The blue fish marks angling spots from the book �117 superb Funen angling spots� www.seatrout.dk

41


SHOULD I TAKE THIS FISH TO EAT? The legal size limit should of course always be followed and respected, but the condition of the fish should also be taken into account when deciding if it should be kept for the table or returned. To help you decide if a sea trout is in good condition or not, many fishermen use Fulton’s formula to calculate condition. The formula is also widely used in competitions. If you use this formula on any of the fish you catch, you will know immediately if the fish is good for the table or should be returned. The condition factor should be over 1.

X=

100 x weight in kilograms

”Length in cm”x”Length in cm”x”Length in cm”

THE ANGLER’S SEVEN COMMANDMENTS still as long as you have the statutory fishing licence. It is In Denmark, onshore angling is a “basic civil right” – and pieces of good advice. important for anglers to follow a few simple regulations

1 - Take care of the countryside. Do not walk on crops and stick to lanes and paths. Don’t leave any litter behind – and be considerate towards all other people using beaches.

4 - Park with care. Use parking areas as far as possible. Avoid blocking narrow roads used by local traffic and agricultural machinery. Only use public rights of way.

2 - The beach belongs to everybody. No one – not even clubs or large companies – can therefore expect to have the beach to themselves. No part of the beach may be cordoned off.

5 - Always use authorised ramps when launching boats. This makes for easy launching and less wear and tear on the coastline.

3 - Limit the number of rods you use. Spreading out rods over large expanses of beach stops other people from angling.gå ikke ud foran.

42

6 - All overnight stays must take place in accommodation or on campsites. Using tents, caravans or mobile homes for overnight stays is forbidden on or near beaches, or in parking areas. 7 - Keep a reasonable distance from other anglers.

www.seatrout.dk


The Salar publishing company lets you in on the secrets of the sea trout Niels Vestergaard is an angler who practises many different types of fishing, and he is the man behind the Salar publishing company and Wide Open Outdoor Film, which publish books and produce films about angling. The producer of the Seatrout Fyn DVD “Havørredfisker på Fyn” (“Sea trout angler on Fyn”). The Salar publishing company’s newest films, Secrets of the Sea Trout 1-4, are entirely about sea trout. The films are almost of feature-film length, and the focus was on creating attractive footage that captures the atmosphere of the coast and shows plenty of good fish action. Watching these films, you can simply lean back and enjoy coastal angling, or find plenty of inspiration to improve your own technique of angling for sea trout. This film is about spin angling from the coast, and we join Thomas Hansen and other experienced coastal anglers on a number of fishing expeditions. We are there with them in all seasons, and at different fishing spots. See a large trout being caught. Watch underwater footage of sea trout at night, and see all the prey of the sea trout.

This film is about fly angling from the coast. We deployed underwater cameras at the fishing spots while anglers worked, which produced unique glimpses into the underwater world of the sea trout. With the help of underwater cameras and two very experienced coastal anglers we get a brand-new insight into the secrets of the sea trout.

Coastal spinning Runtime: 1 hour 22 min. Bonus material: 7 min. How to rig a bombarda float and fly.

Coastal fly fishing Runtime: 1 hour 23 min. Bonus material: 15 min. 10 min. Fly casting – useful tips 5 min. Fishing with two flies – an alternative.

Niels Vestergaard

We join the diligent and very experienced Thomas Hansen on a number of fishing expeditions in the spring period. He explains about tackle, strategy and angling techniques while catching lots of sea trout. This is an instructive film, but it is also a very attractive film that captures atmosphere and action-packed angling situations.

Experienced fly angler Claus Eriksen explains about strategy, angling spots, choice of fly and angling technique while angling in many different spots during the spring. We get right down to the minutest details, and the camera follows closely all the time. We use aerial photos to show the different types of coast from which you can angle. The film addresses springtime angling in particular, but includes lots of tips that can be used all year round.

Spin/spring Runtime: 1 hour 18 min. Bonus material: 5 min. Watch Thomas Hansen’s encounter with a big fish as he angles from the longshore bar.

Fly/spring Runtime: 1 hour 18 min. Bonus material: 36 min. Claus Eriksen and Jesper Petersen tie the flies in the film: “Pattegrisen” (the sucking pig), Flatwing Tobis, Live Shrimp and Live Brushworm.

www.seatrout.dk

43


Purchase your mandatory fishing permit at www.fisketegn.dk and m.fisketegn.dk Everyone aged between 18 and 65 angling in Denmark must hold a valid angling licence. Angling is fishing using light hand tackle. The angling licence costs DKK 185 for one year, DKK 130 for a week or DKK 40 for a day. Hobby anglers fishing with passive fishing tackle such as a hook line, net and trap must buy a fishing licence. This costs DKK 300 for one year. The fishing licence is also valid as an angling licence. You can now buy licences online at www.fisketegn.dk or m.fisketegn. dk and print them yourself. It’s quick and easy. You can also order a plastic card bearing your licence number. This number, together with proof of identity, serves as sufficient proof of payment.

Holiday homes are a real catch! We offer a selection of holiday homes - well suited for anglers. www.novasol.dk • www.dansommer.dk Østergade 63 B • DK - 5900 Rudkøbing Tel. +45 3914 3026

44

www.seatrout.dk


Camping Camping

Galsklint Camping Galsklintvej 11 • DK-5500 Middelfart Tel.: +45 64 41 20 59 Right next to the Little Belt Sea trout, cod, flatfish, Fax: +45 64 41 81 59 garfish and herring. Slipway and jetty. Bring your own boat or hire one of E-mail: mail@galsklint.dk ours from DKK 625 a day, 3 sizes of boat. Closed from 12-2pm every day. www.galsklint.dk 23/3 – 20/10 Fishing permits and fishing equipment on sale.

Helnæs - a sea trout gem in the south-western corner of Fyn. With Helnæs Camping as a base for your fishing holiday, you are really close to absolutely first class coastal fishing. Here there are classic all-year round spots such as Helnæs Lighthouse, Bo Bakker and Sønderby Klint, which teem with large fish every year. Helnæs Camping is a comfortable site set in beautiful countryside and designed with anglers and other nature lovers in mind. Cosy cabins for 2-6 people for hire. We have refrigeration facilities, fishing licences, ”fishing days”, internet and smoke ovens as well as beautiful natural surroundings - and of course good service.

Camping

1/1 – 31/12

Information provided on 550 holiday homes on Fyn, Ærø and Langeland. Rent a lovely holiday home just at the water’s edge. We have a great selection of spa houses, pool houses, houses that are angler-friendly and child-friendly, all at attractive prices. For example, one week, pre-season and post season: from DKK 1291 - 3 nights from DKK 930.

Fyns Hoved Camping Fynshovedvej 748, Nordskov •DK-5390 Martofte Tel.: +45 65341014. Fax: +45 65342514 Email: fynshoved@dk-camp.dk www.fynshovedcamping.dk

Fyns Hoved Camping is situated in a unique area of natural beauty on the top of Hindsholm. Rainfall is 25% less than anywhere else in Denmark. The long sections of coastline offer an ocean of opportunities for anglers.

Middelfart

MOB Sommerhusudlejning Hasselvænget 1 • DK-5500 Middelfart Tel.: +45 64 41 23 22 Fax: +45 64 41 75 41 E-mail: info@mob.dk Open all year round www.mob.dk

The best camp site on Langeland for anglers is centrally situated in Spodsbjerg, directly opposite the marina, the fishing port and the ferry terminal. Boat hire and angling trips on a cutter. Place for cleaning fish and cold store. Daily angling package: Cabin for six from DKK 550, or Bed & Breakfast for two from DKK 550.

Langeland

Færgegårdens Camping Spodsbjergvej 335 • DK - 5900 Rudkøbing Tel.: + 45 62 50 11 36 Fax: + 45 62 50 26 36 E-mail: info@spodsbjerg.dk www.spodsbjerg.dk

Accomodation

All year

Assens

Camping

The most beautiful waterside site on Fyn. Right near great fishing spots on Gamborg Fjord. Hire of cabins, caravans and motor dinghies. Good site facilities. Slipway and jetty. Ring for brochure or visit: www.angler-camping.dk

Middelfart

Helnæs Camping Strandbakken 21, Helnæs • DK-5631 Ebberup • Tel.: +45 64 77 13 39 E-mail: info@helnaes-camping.dk www.helnaes-camping.dk

Middelfart

Ronæs Strand Camping Ronæsvej 10 • DK-5580 Nørre Åby Tel.: +45 64 42 17 63 E-mail: campingferie@hotmail.com www.camping-ferie.dk 23/3 - 15/9

Angling Trip eland from south Lang

trip 6 hours fishing rbour ha e th at ng Parki deck r de Clearance un

Book at 75 77 46 Tel + 45 22

You will never be short of a sheltered angling spot. We have a place for cleaning fish, cold store, grocer’s shop and barbecue/ café on the campsite. Sale of fishing tackle and fishing licences. Boat hire.

45


Theilmann’sTop 6

by michael theilmann

40 years of coastal angling for sea trout on Funen. That adds up to quite some experience of angling from boats and the beach, with f ly-fishing and spinning rods, at all times of the year. Michael Theilmann has condensed his experience into six simple rules, which he shares with us now. • Fishing tackle – the right fishing tackle is a must. That does not mean only the latest and most expensive tackle will do. Knowledge is still your best weapon. But the tackle needs to be right for the type of angling that is appropriate to the location. Carrying heavy tackle does not help when light spinning or fly-fishing tackle works best at the spot you have chosen. Your tackle must also be well maintained. There is nothing worse than the line playing up because it is too old, or losing a sea trout because your hooks are no longer sharp. Using tatty old spinning bait is fine as long as your hooks are new and sharp. • Local knowledge of angling spots and methods is essential know-how. If you do not have the necessary knowledge yourself, there are ways to access this

46

knowledge. On the Internet, you can find websites showing aerial photographs of the location where you want to go angling. These photographs reveal hidden details such as reefs, sandbanks, deep waters and much more besides. Angling books can also be a source of help about the location. Last but not least, you need to talk to local anglers. They will be happy to relate angling anecdotes and share their knowledge. They will keep some knowledge to themselves, but you might find out enough to improve your chances of success. Anglers have a special culture of boasting about their catches – so getting them to tell you a secret or two shouldn’t be too difficult! • Move around. We have all seen the angler who drags a whole tackle shop down to the beach and then has to stay in the same spot for the duration of his angling session. That’s no good – particularly when you are visiting a new location. You need to be mobile and not carry more than you can keep in the pockets of a fisherman’s jacket. Proactive angling is what it’s all about.

www.seatrout.dk


If there are no sea trout at your angling spot within one hour, move along the beach to continue angling. You might find there is brilliant fishing just a few hundred metres from the spot that looks the most promising based on what you have read and the aerial photos.

read the same books as you! And they haven’t heard what the local anglers say about the angling spot. Many, many times, I have enjoyed some brilliant angling in locations where there weren’t meant to be any fish. And I have even caught trout using bait not used by the local anglers.

• Knowledge. The Internet and angling books are invaluable sources of knowledge. Fortunately, many excellent anglers have chosen to share their knowledge over the years. There is hardly a single location anywhere in the world that you will not find in books or articles. Whenever I go angling in a new location, I always peruse my book collection and have a look online before I set off. I have already said that local knowledge is very important, and I’ll say it again now, because it really is invaluable. For example, read the Seatrout Funen guide “117 Fine Fynske Fiskepladser” (117 superb Funen angling spots).

• Prey. The sea trout is a true predator, and local stocks of small creatures such as fish, sandworm and shellfish are a good indicator of what you ought to use as bait. Always have a look at the prey in the water before you go angling. You might find it useful to turn over some clumps of seaweed to find out about the available prey. Whether you prefer fly-fishing or spinning, try to imitate natural prey and the sort of movements they make.

• Rely on your intuition and take a more experimental approach to angling. There is no doubt that local knowledge and literature can contribute a lot to a successful angling trip, but the fish have not

Angling is not an exact science. All anglers have their own opinions about what is best. Also, no two years are the same. What works well one year might not work as well the next year. Following these six rules is no guarantee of successful angling, of course, but you will not be starting entirely from scratch, and you’ll be able to avoid wasting precious angling time on hopeless angling with neither trout nor happy memories to show for it.

www.seatrout.dk

47


i

Information and booking service for accommodation, tours and holiday activities.

Nyborg Turistbureau Adelgade 3, 5800 Nyborg Tel.: +45 63 75 94 60 visitnyborg@udviklingfyn.dk www.visitnyborg.dk Visit Svendborg Centrumpladsen 4 5700 Svendborg Tel.: +45 63 75 94 80 visitsvendborg@udviklingfyn.dk www.visitsvendborg.dk Turist- og Erhvervsforeningen Langeland Torvet 5, st 5900 Rudkøbing Tel.: +45 62 51 35 05 Fax: +45 62 51 43 35 info@langeland.dk www.langeland.dk VisitOdense Rådhuset 5000 Odense C Tel.: +45 63 75 75 20 Fax: +45 63 75 75 39 otb@visitodense.com www.visitodense.com

VisitAssens Willemoesgade 15A 5610 Assens Tel.: +45 63 75 95 00 info@visitassens.dk www.visitassens.dk Faaborg Turistbureau Torvet 19 5600 Faaborg Tel.: +45 63 75 94 44 Fax: +45 62 61 33 37 visitfaaborgmidtfyn@udviklingfyn.dk www.visitfaaborg-midtfyn.dk VisitKerteminde Hans Schacksvej 5 5300 Kerteminde Tel.: +45 65 32 11 21 turist@visitkerteminde.dk www.visitkerteminde.dk www.kertemindeevent.dk VisitMiddelfart, Lillebælt Waters Havnegade 8, A, Kulturøen 5500 Middelfart Tel.: +45 88 32 59 59 mail@visitmiddelfart.dk www.visitmiddelfart.dk Nordfyns Turistbureau Østre Havnevej 4 5400 Bogense Tel.: +45 64 81 20 44 bogense@nordfynsturist.dk www.nordfynsturist.dk

www.visitfyn.com

Ærø Turistbureau Ærøskøbing Havn 4 5970 Ærøskøbing Tel.: +45 62 52 13 00 post@arre.dk www.visitaeroe.dk

48

www.seatrout.dk

T urist information Find information about • • • • • • •

Accommodation Get away offers Attractions Cycling – and Hiking Active Holiday For children Shopping and much more


Nordfyns Turistbureau = Shops

Middelfart Turistbureau

Kerteminde Turistbureau

Odense Turistbureau

A C B

Nyborg Turistbureau

Udvikling Fyn Meeting Place/Touristinfo

D Sydfyns Turistbureau

Faaborg Turistbureau

Ærø Turistbureau

Turist- og Erhvervsforeningen Langeland



Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.