The Willow Stream, names by Ed Herbst, flows thin and clear through the stunning farm, Balloch at the source of the Flooikraal Spruit. The river is divided into two sections by a high waterfall, creating a natural barrier stopping the movement of rainbows into the top section, where browns were stocked many years ago. The waterfall not only changes the species of trout you are hunting, but also changes the character of the stream, which is where Ed got the idea to re-name the section above the waterfall to The Willow Stream.
However, it is quite paradoxical to say that The Willow Stream is vastly different to all the other beats in the area, as the section below the waterfall, running past the old hatchery, is also completely different too. Running through one of the best kept farms in the district, Balloch is lush and drips heavy dew in the mornings, and the ground holds its water and it is always green, except when it’s covered with snow of course.
Below the waterfall the banks are tree lined, offering shade to Rainbows and occasional Brown Trout holding in deep holes and under cuts. Above the waterfall, the river cuts down to the bed rock, lined with the occasional Willow, the browns are skittish and shy.
The river runs through the farm for about four and a half kilometers with the section below the waterfall flowing for about one and half kilometers and the Willow section of the stream is about three kilometers of fishable stream. Combined with the old hatchery dams, recently excavated to create a large continues dam; the farm offers some awesome fishing.
The main farmhouse is an engineering pleasure, constructed out of the areas sand stone and is a stunning example of a lost construction method where the one side of the building is duplicated on the other side, thus creating a synergy across the building. Balloch also has two great cottages offering self catering accommodation for those who wish to spend some quiet time away from the big city.
Advice Conditions – Although the farm has relatively easy access for most vehicles, except above the waterfall, the mountainous terrain can often bring out the worst in thunderstorms and having been caught in a torrential one, a light fleece and a good rain jacket is essential. I would also advocate hard wearing pants as the “steek grass” really can “steek”.
Tackle – Light and ultra light rods are the norm for the Willow Stream, where spooky browns are exceptionally judgmental on poor presentation and the slightest hint of drag. Below the waterfall two’s and three weights will serve you well.
Fly’s – RAB’s, ZAK’s and Klinkies, will cut the cake… but often the fish get quite picky and will feed quite selectively. When feeding on the surface they may be looking for close a representations of emerging, laying or spent insects. When nymphing, ZAK’s are still king, but other representations of Mayflies are also taken well.
Tactics – To start with, this river requires some previous knowledge and it is best to find a local fisher or guide to fish it with, the fish hold in strange and interesting places. Below the waterfall, large trout can often be found in the deep holes, however spotting these holes can be quite difficult. Above the falls, the browns can prove quite difficult and hold in completely different positions to the Bows below. They often set a policeman at the tail-out of the pool and once he is spooked, that’s it for the pool. The larger fish don’t hold where you would expect them, mostly holding well back from broken water at the head of the pool.
Booking – the easiest way is contact Dave at Walkebouts for a day permit, or if you want to book accommodation contact either Graham or Margy Frost on 045 974 9228 or mail them at
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Accommodation – This is one of those beats where staying there for a few days is never long enough, a week might get close, but the rest of your life might just do it. Alternatively you can stay in Rhodes and take the hour’s drive through to the farm.
The Willow Stream, names by Ed Herbst, flows thin and clear through the stunning farm, Balloch at the source of the Flooikraal Spruit. The river is divided into two sections by a high waterfall, creating a natural barrier stopping the movement of rainbows into the top section, where browns were stocked many years ago. The waterfall not only changes the species of trout you are hunting, but also changes the character of the stream, which is where Ed got the idea to re-name the section above the waterfall to The Willow Stream.
