April 7, 2005

Imagine a place where the salmon run through clear pools, where locals and fellow anglers are as helpful and friendly as you will ever find and the scenery is absolutely stunning - Dolgellau is the place.

I have recently returned from a weeks Salmon fishing in Dolgellau and I thought I would summarise my thoughts by writing a short appraisal for the potential visitor.

The Dolgellau Angling Association have some excellent Salmon and Sea trout fishing on both the Mawddach and Wnion and have, through good reputation with local land owners acquired the fishing rights to a number of the best stretches on both rivers.

The lower and middle beats of the Wnion are possibly the perfect Sea trout habitat with many deep pools and glides covered by overhanging trees and undercut banks, many good Salmon and Grilse also run each year.

The tidal junction of the Mawddach and Wnion is a wonderful confluence and is certainly the beat to head for when the tide is turning, whilst I was there I witnessed many double figure Salmon leaping clear of the water as they entered the fresh water.

The upper beat of the Mawddach is a stunning blend of deep-sided ravines, coniferous forest and fast tumbling water cascading through the base of the valley producing holding pools you can only dream of. As you make your way up the river you would be forgiven for thinking that you were in a Scandinavian valley.

To summarise I would say go to Dolgellau and experience the hospitality and warmth of this lovely place, it's people and it's fishing.

I would like to extend my extra special thanks to both Marshall Davies and Maurice Ford for their help and assistance in making my time in Dolgellau all the more enjoyable.

Thanks guys - See you in the spring.

Russell Dilks, Autumn 2004.