April already and time to open the Diary again. The Loch has been quiet so far but I did get a report that Tam Hogg had a fish of about 12lb a couple of weeks ago. However I’m still trying to verify this. Tam’s always one of the first out every year. The fresh paint on his boat doesn’t even get a chance to cure before he puts it back in the water. Farm fish are still turning up in the Leven and a good number of kelts have been caught and returned. The springers have yet to make their presence felt.

I’ve been down to the yard a few times recently to prepare my own boat, a clean out, a lick of paint and a spot of varnish keeps it looking respectable to the fish…..one hopes. A bit of fresh air and some honest toil gets you in the mood to get back out onto the loch. Several other ‘weel kent faces’ have been about and as usual everyone has high hopes for the coming season…….new lures….change tactics….when’s our first overnighter?

Sadly we say goodbye to one of Balmaha’s retired polis contingent… Bob Gordon… whom some of you may know……. not that he’s passed on to that great loch in the sky….just thrown in the towel! Bob has been a member for several years… never did get a salmon……and claims that his new hobby of photography is quickly turning into a business for him and he ‘can’t find the time anymore’ What an excuse! I think we all know the real reason…..spending far too much time with the woman in his life….magic stuff that Viagra!!!! His boat has gone to a good home and his services are available for weddings etc….at a cost! Bob, you’ll always be welcome to a day out…. bring your camera and a bottle!

On a more serious note. John Brice informs me that Peter Lyons, LLAIA vice president and Balmaha regular had suddenly taken very ill. I have no update on his condition but wish him a speedy recovery.

The Loch is back down to its seasonal level after the extremely high conditions during the winter. Euan McGrandle and Russell Boyd sent me photos of the Bay at its winter height …which should have at least helped Sandy clean his sheds out. Boats belonging to about twenty VOLDAC members suffered damage when the level of the Leven caused a cruiser break its moorings. Several were sunk with some yet to be recovered. I hope you get afloat again soon guys.

Once again can I appeal for your reports, photos, anecdotes and suggestions. Anything you think may be of interest… please contact me at the Diary- balmaha@lochlomondangling.com. Hope you all have a good season.

Regards J.R.