Sunday, September 28, 2008
Pleasure Fish LCL 27th September 2008
The belated summer weather drew me away from the Saturday afternoon Football on TV to the lake for a couple of hours for a rare pleasure fishing session.
Suzy (my Jack Russell) stop off at Big Johns for ½ pint of Red maggots en –route.
I made my way to Peg 16 and Cyril Boozy who was over on peg 13 shouted across – “did I forget the house as well” a comment regarding that I had loaded my Match Gear on the trolley- but I had not – when I started to set up I noticed I had left my feeder Arm at home – Dohh ! Especially as my tactics was going to be Small Method and hair rigged Sweetcorn on the feeder for Bream / Small Carp and maggots on the Pole in the margins for Roach /Perch I already had a problem. Quickly resolved though as I was able to lay it down on the ground with a post acting as the rest and the bait runner on.
I had a good 3 hour session the weather was perfect sunny with little or no wind. I had lost of good Roach on the pole in the margins to the right – In the meantime Cyril has successfully landed a nice 13lb Mirror ( don’t know what bait he was using.) and he called it a day after that.
It was around 6.45 pm when I just answered a call from the wife whilst still landing Nice Roach that I would be home in ½ hour that I had the Feeder reel scream I lifted in this was something BIG and it was making its way to the Lilies / weed in the out of bounds area. I had no option but to hold on this rod had never had such a big bend in it but alas once in the weeds that was it the 5lb snapped!
Oh well time to pack up then, but I have a ¼ pint of maggot left so I up the feed rate on my spot and continued with the Pole attack there – I had being using Size 16 to 5lb line with Double red maggot. Dusk was on its way – as I had what I though was Perch Bite – lifted in but the elastic started to pull out – this was a carp! I played with my four sections – didn’t need to put any more sections on – good job as they where still in the bag! A good 10 minutes Fight and it was in the net – Black Mirror tipping the Scales at 10 1/2lb – that will do what a way to finish what was truly a pleasure session. – pack up and home for a shower dinner and the TV and a few beers!
Suzy was good as well sits patiently.
Suzy (my Jack Russell) stop off at Big Johns for ½ pint of Red maggots en –route.
I made my way to Peg 16 and Cyril Boozy who was over on peg 13 shouted across – “did I forget the house as well” a comment regarding that I had loaded my Match Gear on the trolley- but I had not – when I started to set up I noticed I had left my feeder Arm at home – Dohh ! Especially as my tactics was going to be Small Method and hair rigged Sweetcorn on the feeder for Bream / Small Carp and maggots on the Pole in the margins for Roach /Perch I already had a problem. Quickly resolved though as I was able to lay it down on the ground with a post acting as the rest and the bait runner on.
I had a good 3 hour session the weather was perfect sunny with little or no wind. I had lost of good Roach on the pole in the margins to the right – In the meantime Cyril has successfully landed a nice 13lb Mirror ( don’t know what bait he was using.) and he called it a day after that.
It was around 6.45 pm when I just answered a call from the wife whilst still landing Nice Roach that I would be home in ½ hour that I had the Feeder reel scream I lifted in this was something BIG and it was making its way to the Lilies / weed in the out of bounds area. I had no option but to hold on this rod had never had such a big bend in it but alas once in the weeds that was it the 5lb snapped!
Oh well time to pack up then, but I have a ¼ pint of maggot left so I up the feed rate on my spot and continued with the Pole attack there – I had being using Size 16 to 5lb line with Double red maggot. Dusk was on its way – as I had what I though was Perch Bite – lifted in but the elastic started to pull out – this was a carp! I played with my four sections – didn’t need to put any more sections on – good job as they where still in the bag! A good 10 minutes Fight and it was in the net – Black Mirror tipping the Scales at 10 1/2lb – that will do what a way to finish what was truly a pleasure session. – pack up and home for a shower dinner and the TV and a few beers!
Suzy was good as well sits patiently.
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Carp Fishing Holiday - Lake Bossard 30th August to 6th September 2008
On the 30th August Olly Wagg, Dean Peters, Mason Mills and I travelled 300 miles via the Channel Tunnel in anticipation on catching a life time’s fish at Lake Bossard http://www.60pluscarp.com/ in the Champagne –Ardennes region of France.
On arrival complex lived up to it billing on the website
“The main lake (Bossard 1) is definitely not just another overstocked hole in the ground with a 6ft barbed wire fence around the perimeter. It is a stunning 23 acre lake set in 200 acres of forest with carp to 68lb. The other lakes (Bossard 2 and Bass Pool) are also located in stunning surroundings near to the main lake”
On arrival complex lived up to it billing on the website
“The main lake (Bossard 1) is definitely not just another overstocked hole in the ground with a 6ft barbed wire fence around the perimeter. It is a stunning 23 acre lake set in 200 acres of forest with carp to 68lb. The other lakes (Bossard 2 and Bass Pool) are also located in stunning surroundings near to the main lake”
Steve the Owner made us most welcome and took on a tour of the Main lake – Olly chose his swim as the 1st One we came to – Tight Squeeze’ Dean & Mason chose the next one ’61 (named so as the 1st fish Steve caught here was a 61lber) – being a double Swim. I choose the next one ‘Bonsai’ named after a late friend of Steve.
We were joined later by Kev & nark from Norfolk as they got lost. They set up on 1 & 2(but moved the following day to the top end.
The rest of Saturday was set up; evening meal cast the lines out for the night.
Sunday was a bright Sunny day which meant the lines stayed out as very little activity so we all went spinner fishing on the Bass Pool for the early part of the day. We all managed to capture a Small bass each.
I decided I would put some baits out on my marks as I said to Mason "you won’t catch anything if you don’t have bait in the water whatever the conditions”
I was rewarded at 5.30pm with a run and take on my rod that was set on a hard patch in the middle of lake along the top edge of the river bed that runs through the Lake.
It snagged on something out there but got it out. I gave a shout and help was at hand even though I knew it was only a low twenty, mason was 1st a got my other rods out the way then Dean got the Movie out to record and Olly arrived in time to see it a superb Common into the net & landed.
Cheers and handshakes all round as the 1st fish on the bank went 24lb 14ozs.
Alas that was it until Thursday Evening. No other bites at all from anyone, mark was reporting he had not yet seen a fish –
We were joined later by Kev & nark from Norfolk as they got lost. They set up on 1 & 2(but moved the following day to the top end.
The rest of Saturday was set up; evening meal cast the lines out for the night.
Sunday was a bright Sunny day which meant the lines stayed out as very little activity so we all went spinner fishing on the Bass Pool for the early part of the day. We all managed to capture a Small bass each.
I decided I would put some baits out on my marks as I said to Mason "you won’t catch anything if you don’t have bait in the water whatever the conditions”
I was rewarded at 5.30pm with a run and take on my rod that was set on a hard patch in the middle of lake along the top edge of the river bed that runs through the Lake.
It snagged on something out there but got it out. I gave a shout and help was at hand even though I knew it was only a low twenty, mason was 1st a got my other rods out the way then Dean got the Movie out to record and Olly arrived in time to see it a superb Common into the net & landed.
Cheers and handshakes all round as the 1st fish on the bank went 24lb 14ozs.
Alas that was it until Thursday Evening. No other bites at all from anyone, mark was reporting he had not yet seen a fish –
How that was about to change. The intervening time was spent on sessions on Bossard Two where Carp to 20 lb and Koi to 10lb were stalked by all. The other major events were the explosion from a Military exercise on the nearby farm land and Thunderstorms.
In fact I believe Aircraft were dropping Bombs - on 3 occasions on Thursday Morning we had three exposions that made the bivvies move ! Well it woke Olly up.
Rain was very much the order of the rest of the week with very long periods of up to 16 hours of sustained moderate to heavy rain. Mason was flooded out and by Wednesday evening he had enough and after Dinner He and Dean made their way back to The UK.
Steve was concerned about the fish not seeming to feed and thought it may have been the fact that he had cut the weed two weeks before and the disturbance and sudden abundance of natural food was caviar compared to what we had to offer. We had tried every natural bait we could lay our hands on to no avail. I will leave what they were to your imagination.
Steve likes the water and has a relationship with his baby such that he will don his wet suit and get out into the lake and clear hard patches as ‘Dinner plates’ for you - On Wednesday evening he cleared the spot I had the fish from on the Sunday and prepared a shot spot to just under the Tree to my right and place markers for each. On Thursday he boated out a bait for me some 300 yards. Later that evening just as dusk arrived I had a Run and somehow it pick up my 300 yd line even though it was back lead at the rod end. I managed to shout for help on the radio and Kev arrived shortly after. It proved a difficult fight and was now dark, once landed in the net we saw the reason – it had managed to get the 300yard line around its Dorsal such that - that was the way I fighting it. –
Steve was concerned about the fish not seeming to feed and thought it may have been the fact that he had cut the weed two weeks before and the disturbance and sudden abundance of natural food was caviar compared to what we had to offer. We had tried every natural bait we could lay our hands on to no avail. I will leave what they were to your imagination.
Steve likes the water and has a relationship with his baby such that he will don his wet suit and get out into the lake and clear hard patches as ‘Dinner plates’ for you - On Wednesday evening he cleared the spot I had the fish from on the Sunday and prepared a shot spot to just under the Tree to my right and place markers for each. On Thursday he boated out a bait for me some 300 yards. Later that evening just as dusk arrived I had a Run and somehow it pick up my 300 yd line even though it was back lead at the rod end. I managed to shout for help on the radio and Kev arrived shortly after. It proved a difficult fight and was now dark, once landed in the net we saw the reason – it had managed to get the 300yard line around its Dorsal such that - that was the way I fighting it. –
However a long slim Common which went 25lb 10oz.
That was the signal for Mark to start catching up the far End Over the next two days he managed to land Two PB’s – 44lb Common, 36lb 10oz Mirror and a number of other Twenties and his last fish on the pull in on Saturday morning was ‘Newt’ A small fish caught from the stock pond by a lad on a recent trip and put in Bossard One as a Trophy Fish – So that cost Steve another Bottle of Champagne (he offers a bottle for PB’s)
This a beauty or What ?
I had an Lovely 18lb 10oz Plated mirror from the centre Dinner Plate area on Friday afternoon. I called Steve as there should not be any fish less than 20lb in here. He inspected and agreed to release back as this would Twenty by the Winter – I would very much like to catch it again in a few years time – I only regret not taking a photo of it.
Olly only managed a PB Tench of 7lb 10ozs and a large Rodent, Kev did not have anything either.
I did have one really good bite – Wasp Sting on my top lip – I so engrossed in a book I was reading I forgot a was around I picked up my Beer for a swig and hey presto.
The facilities, food and the Company are superb, yes the Fish did not want to play ball but that’s fishing. I will be back next year – but I’m not saying when. I’ve worked out when the best time will be
Olly only managed a PB Tench of 7lb 10ozs and a large Rodent, Kev did not have anything either.
I did have one really good bite – Wasp Sting on my top lip – I so engrossed in a book I was reading I forgot a was around I picked up my Beer for a swig and hey presto.
The facilities, food and the Company are superb, yes the Fish did not want to play ball but that’s fishing. I will be back next year – but I’m not saying when. I’ve worked out when the best time will be
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Pleasure Fish - Kennett & Avon Canal 26th April 2008
My Sister Nikki and Husband Adrian along with Daughter (My Niece) Helen & Husband Stuart have recently taken on the running of the Bridge Inn at Horton near Devizes, Wiltshire and we were invited down to spend some time with them.
So what has that got to do with Fishing - you may well ask - well needless to say it is alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal which means of course that a limited amount of fishing Gear (Match Seat Box and Rod Holdall) with a pint of mixed maggots purchased form Big Johns en route gets loaded into the car with all the presents, flowers, clothes etc. the wife Ann and Suzy our Faithful Jack Russell (they always both enjoy this type of outing).
I don't think this section is fished much mainly because of the traffic - but that said for the couple of hours I spent fishing with the pole (and the maggot feeder under the bridge), I had a fair selection of fish - all Small but good fun on the light gear - Roach, Ruffe, Perch and Skimmers - for a total of ~ 4lb's . I've asked Nikki & Adrian to keep the feed going in so perhaps there will be more fish there when I return.
But is this the ultimate or what ! - You sat there happily fishing away, the Wife brings you Cheese & Pickle sandwiches made from freshly made Bread out of Morrison's (Devizes), Coffee - delivered to the Seat Box, then to top it all Stuart brings me a Pint of Wadworths 6X fresh from the Oak cask at 55 F.
If you have not had fresh bread from Morrison's or a Cask held Wadworth's 6X then give it a try - Beautiful.
The weather was also good but a little too good sun wise - I burnt my bald head - Did not realise it was burning through the clouds !
I cut the Canal Side Garden grass, during the afternoon closed period then returned at opening time foe a quick 5 minutes before packing the gear away - Caught a nice little Skimmer of 8ozs as well !
So what has that got to do with Fishing - you may well ask - well needless to say it is alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal which means of course that a limited amount of fishing Gear (Match Seat Box and Rod Holdall) with a pint of mixed maggots purchased form Big Johns en route gets loaded into the car with all the presents, flowers, clothes etc. the wife Ann and Suzy our Faithful Jack Russell (they always both enjoy this type of outing).
Location:
So to the fishing: I had my on little private part of the bank attached to the Pub right alongside the Bridge - so I was able to Fish under the bridge and in the moorings to the Pub side and in the main Cut.
My peg !
I don't think this section is fished much mainly because of the traffic - but that said for the couple of hours I spent fishing with the pole (and the maggot feeder under the bridge), I had a fair selection of fish - all Small but good fun on the light gear - Roach, Ruffe, Perch and Skimmers - for a total of ~ 4lb's . I've asked Nikki & Adrian to keep the feed going in so perhaps there will be more fish there when I return.
But is this the ultimate or what ! - You sat there happily fishing away, the Wife brings you Cheese & Pickle sandwiches made from freshly made Bread out of Morrison's (Devizes), Coffee - delivered to the Seat Box, then to top it all Stuart brings me a Pint of Wadworths 6X fresh from the Oak cask at 55 F.
If you have not had fresh bread from Morrison's or a Cask held Wadworth's 6X then give it a try - Beautiful.
The weather was also good but a little too good sun wise - I burnt my bald head - Did not realise it was burning through the clouds !
I cut the Canal Side Garden grass, during the afternoon closed period then returned at opening time foe a quick 5 minutes before packing the gear away - Caught a nice little Skimmer of 8ozs as well !
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Update for Lee Chapel Sunday league 3rd Feb 2008 and Indain Ocean Trolling and Hand Lining February 2008
With My Pearl Wedding Anniversary on the 4th February and Olly’s Wife’s' (Wendy) 50th Birthday on the 31st January we had long planned a vacation to Meedupparu Island in Raa Attoll within the Maldives with our respective Spouses we were always going to missing from the February Sunday's League Match.
Thanks to my Pairs Partner Gray Somerfeild we were kept up to date on what happen and we both realised that both the Single and pairs competition would is very close as a result of the February match - but did not relalise until I returned and worked it out - It looked like a tough day with only 8 of the 12 anglers weighing in.
Thanks to my Pairs Partner Gray Somerfeild we were kept up to date on what happen and we both realised that both the Single and pairs competition would is very close as a result of the February match - but did not relalise until I returned and worked it out - It looked like a tough day with only 8 of the 12 anglers weighing in.
The result &
Latest Positions:
Tight isn't it - Going down the wire with all the key rostrum positions up for Grabs - For Our part in the Pairs myself and Gary have to score 80 points if Olly and Rob finish 1st & 2nd in March.
Now then whilst that was going on myself and Olly and the Women went hand lining (evening Fishing) aboard a Dhoni- Olly caught a few good Jacks of around 4-5lb, but unfortunately his daughters (Samantha) Camera Picture Card failed and lost the pictures. - I only succeeded it catching the Bottom - See here - Greater Spotted Stone Fish: You can also see the size of the Hooks we were using a bit big.
It did have one resident a tiny red fish about the size of one of Mick Byrnes points scoring 1/2 ounce Perch. Just the coral was his home and did not realise it was a mobile one.
The air was blue on many occasions as the only thing I continue to catch was my head on the Lifebelt Rack in the roof of the Dhoni.
Olly & I got up really early for a spot of morning fishing (0500) which in fact was trolling for Yellow Fin Tuna and any other exotic game Fish that happened along using a 80lb Mono hand Line with a Pink Muppet just on / below the surface some 200 yards behind the Dhoni. This for 4 hours on what proved to be the calmest day of our vacation.
See Picture on mine out the back.
Now then whilst that was going on myself and Olly and the Women went hand lining (evening Fishing) aboard a Dhoni- Olly caught a few good Jacks of around 4-5lb, but unfortunately his daughters (Samantha) Camera Picture Card failed and lost the pictures. - I only succeeded it catching the Bottom - See here - Greater Spotted Stone Fish: You can also see the size of the Hooks we were using a bit big.
It did have one resident a tiny red fish about the size of one of Mick Byrnes points scoring 1/2 ounce Perch. Just the coral was his home and did not realise it was a mobile one.
The air was blue on many occasions as the only thing I continue to catch was my head on the Lifebelt Rack in the roof of the Dhoni.
Olly & I got up really early for a spot of morning fishing (0500) which in fact was trolling for Yellow Fin Tuna and any other exotic game Fish that happened along using a 80lb Mono hand Line with a Pink Muppet just on / below the surface some 200 yards behind the Dhoni. This for 4 hours on what proved to be the calmest day of our vacation.
See Picture on mine out the back.
Nothing but a tug for me Olly drew a blank also, but thanks to Olly’s good long sighted Vision we headed over and joined a Pod of 20 Dolphins for 5 minutes before they got bored and headed off on their own business. No photos as I was Videoing - Check back for footage if \I can get into a format for use here.
I was determined to catch an Indian Ocean Fish, so myself and Olly went out again fro another Evening session on what was a blowy night. I managed to get a Grouper & a Jack - Olly got an elusive Yellow Fin Tuna see Pics.
Well if you believe that then you will believe anything - Yes I did catch the jack of Around 4lb - gave a good fight and awkward on hand line. But the big Grouper and Tuna where being off loaded on the jetty when we returned - Couldn’t resist telling everyone what we had caught - but we did come clean in the end.
I was determined to catch an Indian Ocean Fish, so myself and Olly went out again fro another Evening session on what was a blowy night. I managed to get a Grouper & a Jack - Olly got an elusive Yellow Fin Tuna see Pics.
Well if you believe that then you will believe anything - Yes I did catch the jack of Around 4lb - gave a good fight and awkward on hand line. But the big Grouper and Tuna where being off loaded on the jetty when we returned - Couldn’t resist telling everyone what we had caught - but we did come clean in the end.
Labels: Lee Chapel Sunday League Match, Pleasure Fish
Monday, December 31, 2007
End of Year Fish LCL and Stats 30th December 2007
Decided to go again before the end of the year. Arrived and set up at 1030am on Fox Maggot feeder to size 20 / 1.7 lb hook link on Peg 16 - fishing to the right hand side of the island, Slow sport but getting the Odd Roach, went down to size 22 and 1lb Hook link. Had a small Perch of about about lb - whilst playing it softly, softly on the light link - it came in close and made a dart for the weed on the left - Felt a bit heavy thought had it weeded but when i looked at the location of the line it was out in front of me. A jack Pike had taken it - I managed to hang on for a minute, by which time I had 10 spectators -A family out fro a walk getting all excited but alas I was not able to to provide them with a banked fish as the inevitable happened - the hook link snapped.
Kitted up again back to size 20 - within 1/2 hour had another good take - Felt like another Perch indeed it was and a nice one too !
Went 2lb exactly - 2ozs short of my personal best. The photo here does not do it Justice - The colours of the stripes and Fins was beautiful.
Recast and had another - slightly smaller at 1lb 12 ozs. Not a bad way to end the Year. I carried on until it was too dark to see the tip had a few more small roach an finished off with 1 1/2 oz Perch.
Kitted up again back to size 20 - within 1/2 hour had another good take - Felt like another Perch indeed it was and a nice one too !
Went 2lb exactly - 2ozs short of my personal best. The photo here does not do it Justice - The colours of the stripes and Fins was beautiful.
Recast and had another - slightly smaller at 1lb 12 ozs. Not a bad way to end the Year. I carried on until it was too dark to see the tip had a few more small roach an finished off with 1 1/2 oz Perch.
Stats for 2007:
Personal Best Update
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Friday, December 28, 2007
Blind Lane Old Lake - Xmas Fish 27th December 2007
My annual Christmas pilgrimage to Blind Lake Old Lake – As always over the Christmas Break I will spend at least one day on this most extraordinary Lake. No matter what the weather you always catch fish. The depth probably has something to do with it I have even caught fish after breaking the ice here.
This is what can be best described as an unkempt / unkempt lake – full of snags and fallen trees – but that is what makes it so quaint. Five of us made the trip today – Olly & Mick Wagg, Dean Peters and Paul Pratley- Boozy and Steve Barrett where coming but they thought it was Friday not today!
We had a quick walk off draw – Olly had 1st Choice and me second. Olly choose the 1st swim on the East far bank and I chose the point swim - opposite the Island Point.
I was a bit exposed to the South Westerly Wind but it was Mild and I was wrapped up sufficient.
Mick Paul and Dean spread themselves out down the East Bank
Chose the feeder as my weapon today as did Mick, Paul & Dean – though I did see Paul try the Pole on occasions during the day. Olly was on the Pole all day fishing tight up against the fallen tree to his left.
I was on the maggot feeder my trusted old ¾ Once Middy but got through this one and another smashing up against the trees on the island several times during the day – I varied my position throughout the day around the point as bites dried up but I caught fish all day.
The Point
Did not even have time for my Mince Pies – Nothing Big Plenty of lovely sized roach to 1/2lb and loads of Gudgeon - and small carp Mirrors and Commons with a few F1’s as well –This Abu feeder rod when set up with light gear is fabulous I was seeing every bite even form the Gudgeon.
The weight do not matter it was catching which was the main thing, however we had a bit of confusion during the weigh in we used my Avon scales – Mick weighed mine at made it 14lb 6oz – I did not think anything at the time apart from I am sure I had at least 18lb of Carp. until we got to Olly and comparing Fish to weight – I worked out that the scales were on Green as with mine and I actually had 24lb 6oz, Olly had 34lb – he was pulling in carp and nice size ones at that all day, but what did surprise me was how much Mick, Paul & Dean had got – I had not witnessed too much action from them during the day – but must have been pulling them in quietly all day also, I did not too much notice of Paul’s’ & Mick Weights as we were still ‘debating’ my weight – But I did Deans-though= 36lb., so I duly gave him my £10 winner takes all pools money.
But amazing who much fish we caught – far more than some lakes we fish in the summer and all that of two weeks of hard frosts – I am not sure if I will go fishing again this year – I think this may be a good way to sign off 2007 – But you never know
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Pleasure Fish - Lee Chapel Lake - 17th November 2006
With the possibility of the rest of this seasons Sunday league Matches being on Lee Chapel Lake - I thought I 'd see how it fished after a week of heavy Frosts.
After completing my household chores dropped the missus off down the Town to do some shopping - so me and Suzy (or 2 year Old Jack Russel) stopped by Big Johns and got a pint of Red maggots and some Mini and 15mm Frozen Pineapple Boilies - I arrived and set up by 1pm - So will be short session.
I set up a ledger with Frozen Pineapple form Peg25 out to the right of the drain where I saw a fish roll - Fired out a few freebies as well.
I set up a maggot feeder to short Size 18 / lb hook link - Tried a few places close in close and at mid distance - no joy, So set up on the waggler- Light size 20 / 1lb line - Started 6 inches over depth and had one small Roach, But nothing else - i cam up to 2" over depth nothing - then flat bottom - nothing - Perhaps there is nothing in my swim - Being this is Practice for a match I have to try something - So into the Bait box, pulled out some liquid - not going to day what it is here - just to say I mix a bit with a little lake water and thew in to my swim. I would addd in to my ground bait. Instant success I had a succession of nice Roach for a total of 1 1/2lb, in 1/2 hour then went quiet.
So mixed up some more and threw that in - Similar response then a small Perch. Then it was getting dark and Suzy was getting bored, so time to pack in - Nothing on the ledger. Despite the Cold conditions is was still pleasent in catching fish If I do 3-4lb in the next match Here It will be good !
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Monday, October 01, 2007
Pleasure Fish - Kennett & Avon Canal - Devizes - 28th/29th September 2007
Friday 28th September
As always a Visit to my Sister (Nikki) & Husband (Adrian) means a different Fishing opportunity as I never know as to where they are moored until I Get there. This time they were Moored up opposite Devizes Wharf opposite the watering/ Service mooring. However the plan was to travel down 3 locks to the Black Horse Pound on the Saturday for a end of season 'wind down'. (Devizes Boat Group Social get together), so had two different opportunities.
Arriving at 1315 hrs - Coffee in the Wharf cafe and lunch on the boat meant a short 5 minute walk down to Devizes Tackle Shop for Day ticket, Top up on canal Ground bait and tips.
I decide to fish off the stern of Nikki and Adrian's barge Unity (replica Kennett & Avon barge) and also our home for the next 30 hours. N.B. Under Devizes AA rules fishing form the boat is not allowed for insurance purposes but I don't know that if the bailiff comes along.
The light Rain we had we we left home had followed us down and by the time I had set up it at to rain of the heavier variety keeping dry by improvising a ornamental Well Pump as an umbrella stand.
Simplicity was the order of the day - using the top match section of the Middy Hot Spot Pole and light Rig / Size 18 to 2lb line 2" over depth with Single Red maggot in the middle of the cut. One advantage of fishing from the boat especially on this wide beam - Only need the short top section.
Instant success - Straight into small Roach, added a little of the Supercup Ground bait and reaction straight away from the Bream. Several Skimmers to 1 1/2 lb grace my landing net. Then the 8 elastic really starts to pull out - feels like a big Perch, but don't get to see it as the hook pulls. However the next drop get another tug and this time the elastic does pull as much but this time a 2lb perch is the prize.
Steady bites and fish for the next 3 hours capped by a Bream of 4lb. Time to pack up and get ready for an Indian with 4 of Niki's and Adrian's boating friends. What a good meal that was - Reference if you are ever In Devizes - Balti Bite - See map
Saturday 29th September
Up Early - well I thought it was 6.30 am but an hour later it still was 6.30 - Battery Gone in my watch - A swift walk with Suzy (our Jack Russell) - I set up on the Stern again - a little less room as Eric & Jude had moored up their boat alongside Unity. Added a couple of sections to go further out in the cut.
A slow start just a few small Roach, so added in some SuperCup ground bait and and some good skimmers came to the bait. Then to my surprise Eric came out of his boat with a bait box in his hand and was surprised to see me fishing there. A short conversation ensue that he fishes using a Rod he found floating the canal earlier in the year and does it to pass the time in a relaxing manner.
I had more than enough maggot and shared mine with him. We fished within two feet of each other sharing my Ground bait - We both had nice Perch - Eric's being the best. then i had a pull felt like a Nice Tench but got snagged up with Eric line and that was that.
Nikki and Ann went off shopping and we continued to fish landing regular Perch, Skimmers and Quality Roach - The ground bait was really working.
Well time came to move Unity over to the other side of the Wharf to pick up the Barbecue from K&A Trust building for the afternoons' Social down at the Black Horse.
Ann awaiting with Suzy,& the 'boys' Rollo and Charlie whilst the men load the barbeque onto Unity at the Wharf.
Had a nice short trip down the canal to the Black Horse and reacquainted myself with lock operation.
Unity which is Eletric powered supplied via Solar panels in the roof.
Once moored up alongside the Black Horse - set up on the Match Rod / Light 2BB Waggler as the canal must be 25 metres wide here and there were fishing rolling in the centre. Eric had already taken his boat down and was already fishing. I had a nice skimmer 1st chuck, then a few more roach, I then alternated between catching good quality fishing and taking part in a Boules match alongside which I got through to one Semi-Final and one Final - loosing both but good fun all the same.
I capped off a good weekend by landing a 3lb perch as dusk fell. Then a good barbecue and a clean up and a Pint of alcohol free beer in the Pub and was time to leave.
Always a pleasure and have learnt a great deal more about canal fishing - Heres to the next time
As always a Visit to my Sister (Nikki) & Husband (Adrian) means a different Fishing opportunity as I never know as to where they are moored until I Get there. This time they were Moored up opposite Devizes Wharf opposite the watering/ Service mooring. However the plan was to travel down 3 locks to the Black Horse Pound on the Saturday for a end of season 'wind down'. (Devizes Boat Group Social get together), so had two different opportunities.
Arriving at 1315 hrs - Coffee in the Wharf cafe and lunch on the boat meant a short 5 minute walk down to Devizes Tackle Shop for Day ticket, Top up on canal Ground bait and tips.
I decide to fish off the stern of Nikki and Adrian's barge Unity (replica Kennett & Avon barge) and also our home for the next 30 hours. N.B. Under Devizes AA rules fishing form the boat is not allowed for insurance purposes but I don't know that if the bailiff comes along.
The light Rain we had we we left home had followed us down and by the time I had set up it at to rain of the heavier variety keeping dry by improvising a ornamental Well Pump as an umbrella stand.
Simplicity was the order of the day - using the top match section of the Middy Hot Spot Pole and light Rig / Size 18 to 2lb line 2" over depth with Single Red maggot in the middle of the cut. One advantage of fishing from the boat especially on this wide beam - Only need the short top section.
Instant success - Straight into small Roach, added a little of the Supercup Ground bait and reaction straight away from the Bream. Several Skimmers to 1 1/2 lb grace my landing net. Then the 8 elastic really starts to pull out - feels like a big Perch, but don't get to see it as the hook pulls. However the next drop get another tug and this time the elastic does pull as much but this time a 2lb perch is the prize.
Steady bites and fish for the next 3 hours capped by a Bream of 4lb. Time to pack up and get ready for an Indian with 4 of Niki's and Adrian's boating friends. What a good meal that was - Reference if you are ever In Devizes - Balti Bite - See map
Saturday 29th September
Up Early - well I thought it was 6.30 am but an hour later it still was 6.30 - Battery Gone in my watch - A swift walk with Suzy (our Jack Russell) - I set up on the Stern again - a little less room as Eric & Jude had moored up their boat alongside Unity. Added a couple of sections to go further out in the cut.
A slow start just a few small Roach, so added in some SuperCup ground bait and and some good skimmers came to the bait. Then to my surprise Eric came out of his boat with a bait box in his hand and was surprised to see me fishing there. A short conversation ensue that he fishes using a Rod he found floating the canal earlier in the year and does it to pass the time in a relaxing manner.
I had more than enough maggot and shared mine with him. We fished within two feet of each other sharing my Ground bait - We both had nice Perch - Eric's being the best. then i had a pull felt like a Nice Tench but got snagged up with Eric line and that was that.
Nikki and Ann went off shopping and we continued to fish landing regular Perch, Skimmers and Quality Roach - The ground bait was really working.
Well time came to move Unity over to the other side of the Wharf to pick up the Barbecue from K&A Trust building for the afternoons' Social down at the Black Horse.
Ann awaiting with Suzy,& the 'boys' Rollo and Charlie whilst the men load the barbeque onto Unity at the Wharf.
Had a nice short trip down the canal to the Black Horse and reacquainted myself with lock operation.
At the 1st lock down from the Wharf as Adrian guides Unity in.
Unity which is Eletric powered supplied via Solar panels in the roof.
Once moored up alongside the Black Horse - set up on the Match Rod / Light 2BB Waggler as the canal must be 25 metres wide here and there were fishing rolling in the centre. Eric had already taken his boat down and was already fishing. I had a nice skimmer 1st chuck, then a few more roach, I then alternated between catching good quality fishing and taking part in a Boules match alongside which I got through to one Semi-Final and one Final - loosing both but good fun all the same.
I capped off a good weekend by landing a 3lb perch as dusk fell. Then a good barbecue and a clean up and a Pint of alcohol free beer in the Pub and was time to leave.
Always a pleasure and have learnt a great deal more about canal fishing - Heres to the next time
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Monday, September 24, 2007
Pleasure Fish LCL 22nd September 2007
With a Pleasant day - chores done at home a quick visit to pick up 1 pint of red maggot and small pack of frozen pinapple 20mm boilies from Big Johns menat an afternoon session.
I set up on Peg 16 with Ledger under the Island tree and on the pole to the right hand side margin.
Tried Maggot, Pellet, sweetcorn & paste over pellet on the pole but only small Perch and Roach on the maggot.
Had a run on the ledger aftr a 1 1/2 hrs - and landed a pristine 5lb Common - The 1st carp I've landed on this lake since a Baliff fish in April. My haven't these carp come on well over the past 2+ years since they were introduced as 1/2lb > 1lb babies !
I switch to the new In-line Fox Flat feeder to the mid position with hair rig double sweetcorn, Within 3 mins a tap then a fierce pull round - A short but spirited fight - landed another Pristine carp which I thought went about 7lb but was 9lb dead on - a very deep body - yet another from that brood stock.
A couple runs on the ledger one where the bobbin drop back with a single beep no line going out but in an arc the fish running towards the red zone. Lifted in was on for a second but lost it.
I was just about to switch over to maggot feeder when a few big twitches on the tip - this was a nice 3 1/2lb tench on double hair rigged 6mm Sonu Halibut pellet.
After a couple more cast decided to switch to the maggot feeder Size 14 / Double red maggot. Casting to all locations around the swim - A few Roach /Perch knocks. Then just before Dusk bang just off the Island . Had a long fight and had to let it run many times as a large carp kept making a dash for freedom. A nice mirror weighing in at 17lb 4oz.
As I was packing up the feeder etc. had a run on the ledger another big fish as it took me round the Island and snagged me up and off it came. The guy sat on the Bench murmured - "you lost it then"
It was dark when I finally got my gear to the car - A good impromptu session.
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Monday, September 10, 2007
Pleasure Fish - River Waveney Shipmeadow - Suffolk 8/9th September 2007
Taking a weekend break with my Wife Ann and Dog Suzy, we chose this location (Cherry Tree Farm Cottages) as would take Pets (Suzy) and close to fishing and available at short notice.
Well Saturday(8th) dawned but a heavy session on the beer the night before meant it was not an early start. I got to the river at 9am and it was high and wind coming across at me - (judging by the chill factor I guessed it was from the north - checked when home on Internet - yes it was but nice and sunny and still burned.
I did get a number of small what I thought might be Chub but the dorsal and pelvic fin did not look like Chub ones although the mouth did. I thought they might be Dace or Bleak. So took Photo's on my Mobile Phone.
Suzy on the look out just in cas the Cows make a charge for us !
Suzy confirms that this is definitely a Roach !
The Distant Church bells ringing @ 10:50 was the signal to pack up and time for Breakfast - A really good session comes to an end - I reckon about a 5lb Bag not bad me thinks.
The small farm we were staying had a short stretch of the River Waveney about a 1/4 mile which I could fish as part of the Cottage Price. On arrival on the Friday evening I got direction to the river and borders from the Farmer. A bit of a trek but went for a reccie using the excuse that Suzy needed the walk after the 2 hour drive.
The walk over land that was potted with cow hoof holes (formed by the the cows in the summer 'floods') you can gauge the distance by the arrow on the Map.
When I found the River - I had forgotten how close we were to the Boards and Great Yarmouth and immediately I could see that the River was 'Tidal' and the tide was out and would be quite deep at 'High Tide' I estimated about 9 feet. I had no idea what the tides were and when then would peak this far upstream but the plan was to get up early on Saturday Morning and fish for an hour before breakfast then trip out for the rest of the day.
Well Saturday(8th) dawned but a heavy session on the beer the night before meant it was not an early start. I got to the river at 9am and it was high and wind coming across at me - (judging by the chill factor I guessed it was from the north - checked when home on Internet - yes it was but nice and sunny and still burned.This was going to my 1st legal serious session on a River (played about on the Broads a few years ago from a boat). I set up on my Shimano 13ft Solstace Match Rod and weight Crystal Waggler so could cast into the wind. 4lb Mainline, Size 18 Kamsan Animal Hooklink - Found that there was no current so must be at peak. Plummed up found weed - could not see into the depths and water was dark coloured (peat) and deep. I set up at 8 feet which i figured would be just above the weed.
Sprayed a few maggots in and cast in more in hope than any conviction. To my surprise had a bite straight away - A small Roach. What was surprising was the dark colour of this Roach when compared to his still water cousins. (Probably the peat and camouflage). I kept going for an hour like this - a fish a chuck nothing big but so nice to see so many small silver fish in a River. I hoped I did not bet into the Pike which are reported in this stretch by the Farmer (who by the way had no interest in fishing- in fact I was only the 3rd person to fish this stretch all year !) But hoped that I might get into a Carp or Bream - he reported having seen big fish rolling !
I did get a number of small what I thought might be Chub but the dorsal and pelvic fin did not look like Chub ones although the mouth did. I thought they might be Dace or Bleak. So took Photo's on my Mobile Phone.A search in my books and Internet at home revealed that they were Dace - so I was going to have a PB on this trip. I estimate a 2oz best.
I packed up at 10am and returned for a full English and Day tripping around the Region.
Sunday 9th Sept
Well another Heavy Session the night before but managed to get up and out and fishing by 8am with Suzy this time. Suzy behaved herself very well sitting patiently behind me for the session. Which was bright with a few clouds that masked the Cloud on occasions. What at treat One man, His Dog, alone alone on a river bank with on lookers in the form recently milked Friesan cows on the other bank. 
The piece only broken by the occasional motorcycle blasting away as they do on Sunday morning in the far distance.
The piece only broken by the occasional motorcycle blasting away as they do on Sunday morning in the far distance.Suzy on the look out just in cas the Cows make a charge for us !
I found that the river was still flooding and the current was similar to that of a canal with a lock gate opened two miles further up. I set up as the day before but missing bites so went to a smaller Drennan 2BB Classic Waggler and that improved the take rate. Again a fish a chuck - Roach to 4oz, Dace to 2oz and a bonus 4oz Perch 
which came once the 'tide' had peaked a current had ceased flowing all to single red maggot over sprayed Maggot.
which came once the 'tide' had peaked a current had ceased flowing all to single red maggot over sprayed Maggot.
Suzy confirms that this is definitely a Roach !
The Distant Church bells ringing @ 10:50 was the signal to pack up and time for Breakfast - A really good session comes to an end - I reckon about a 5lb Bag not bad me thinks.
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Pleasure Fish - Arran's Lake aka Entire Farm 31st August 2007
This session was going to be a teach-in for my nephew Ben on how to catch on good fighting small to medium carp using a number of tactics on a well stocked Commercial fishery. However he was not allowed to come as he had been a bad boy during the summer holidays, but I decided to go as I needed a lift in the catching game.
I arrived at 8am and found all but 6 pegs already occupied and they were at the far end facing the wind. I decided to split the day into two distinct parts – Given that the lake was packed and effectively ‘drew ‘a peg – 36, I would treat the 1st part as a match and a target of 100lb. Then I would treat the remainder of the day as a true pleasure session using a ledger target the bigger fish and set a target of 150lb.
I set up on the korum in-line Method and tip and tried a number of hair rig baits on size 14 Middy hair hook links, Baits = Spam, Sweetcorn, Mini Pineapple Boilie & maggot. Best was the mini Boilie.
The Northerly wind rally kept it cool throughout the day gusting at times making any pole work too hard for a pleasure session so I stuck with the method at 20 metres. Carp came at regular interval basically a fish a chuck, just to show how populated this lake is 5 times during the day I lassoed a fish on the drop! All came off unharmed and no tackle loss.
Best Fish of the ‘match session was a long slim 10lb 12oz Common but I failed in my target after 6 hours only 84lb10oz, Mind you weighing every fish was taking up time probably worth 10lb over the 6 hours so not all that far off. At 230pm went into Pleasure mode and set up a ledger and alarm with 20mm Big John Frozen Pineapple Boilie over 4mm pellet and a few freebies under tree to the left of the peg. Had 6 fish out of there over he next four hours best going to 10lb but were getting the bigger fish – a lot of small ones were picking and dropping the 20mm regularly – had to wait for the run. Twice I had fish on both rods, good fun and managed to land them all.
The day was punctuated by fish running off with peoples tackle not once but FOUR times. The 1st I noticed a top kit circling the centre of the lake – it carried on four an hour when one young lad managed to capture it with his method rig and landed the fish which looked like a double and returned the kit to its grateful owner.
The lads to my left fishing with their Mum had ants in their pants and were not paying attention to their rods. The inevitable happened, A SHOUT OF MY ROD! – followed by Mum saying Your Dad paid £70 for that go and get it – So he stripped off and went in after it needless to say across my swim but got to it and landed the fish. This happened again 2 hours later to his brother who repeated his brothers swimming and fish retrieval technique and shouting it’s a monster playing to the on looking bemused anglers around the lake.
I arrived at 8am and found all but 6 pegs already occupied and they were at the far end facing the wind. I decided to split the day into two distinct parts – Given that the lake was packed and effectively ‘drew ‘a peg – 36, I would treat the 1st part as a match and a target of 100lb. Then I would treat the remainder of the day as a true pleasure session using a ledger target the bigger fish and set a target of 150lb.
I set up on the korum in-line Method and tip and tried a number of hair rig baits on size 14 Middy hair hook links, Baits = Spam, Sweetcorn, Mini Pineapple Boilie & maggot. Best was the mini Boilie.
The Northerly wind rally kept it cool throughout the day gusting at times making any pole work too hard for a pleasure session so I stuck with the method at 20 metres. Carp came at regular interval basically a fish a chuck, just to show how populated this lake is 5 times during the day I lassoed a fish on the drop! All came off unharmed and no tackle loss.
Best Fish of the ‘match session was a long slim 10lb 12oz Common but I failed in my target after 6 hours only 84lb10oz, Mind you weighing every fish was taking up time probably worth 10lb over the 6 hours so not all that far off. At 230pm went into Pleasure mode and set up a ledger and alarm with 20mm Big John Frozen Pineapple Boilie over 4mm pellet and a few freebies under tree to the left of the peg. Had 6 fish out of there over he next four hours best going to 10lb but were getting the bigger fish – a lot of small ones were picking and dropping the 20mm regularly – had to wait for the run. Twice I had fish on both rods, good fun and managed to land them all.
The day was punctuated by fish running off with peoples tackle not once but FOUR times. The 1st I noticed a top kit circling the centre of the lake – it carried on four an hour when one young lad managed to capture it with his method rig and landed the fish which looked like a double and returned the kit to its grateful owner.
The lads to my left fishing with their Mum had ants in their pants and were not paying attention to their rods. The inevitable happened, A SHOUT OF MY ROD! – followed by Mum saying Your Dad paid £70 for that go and get it – So he stripped off and went in after it needless to say across my swim but got to it and landed the fish. This happened again 2 hours later to his brother who repeated his brothers swimming and fish retrieval technique and shouting it’s a monster playing to the on looking bemused anglers around the lake.
Then at 6pm the 1st brother repeated the earlier feat but this has gone a little further and he was complaining he had no pants on so I caught using my method and dragged in again with fish on – which was a nice 5lb Mirror which safely returned no worse for wear for its experience. Mum didn’t even say thanks !!!!
I finished when I had used all on my blended Method Mix and total up and 162lb 10ozs in 10 hours. A new PB pleasure Fish bag.
I finished when I had used all on my blended Method Mix and total up and 162lb 10ozs in 10 hours. A new PB pleasure Fish bag.
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Friday, August 10, 2007
Pleasure & Trail fish LCL 9th August 2007
Whilst as on Vacation this week and the decorating completed with the weather set fair, I took the opportunity to have 1/2 days pleasure / test fish.
I set up on Peg 18 as Pegs 25 and 15 already taken. This is the 1st time I will have ledgered fished since coming back from France some two months ago. I set up a ledger on a reduce France set up of triggalink/ultralsilk combo to size 8 with a frozen combo of 7/8 K1G and 1/8 Scopex pop up and 1 oz lead placed under the tree of the East Side of the Island. Chucked half of dozen freebies around it.
I set up on the Pole to the weed to the right hand side fishing maggot over pellet. Had some small Roach 7 perch to start with then tried Tares - nothing at all - tried this several times during the day in several locations but no Joy - replaced the boilies 3 times during the day on the ledger - when to 1 & 1/2 K1G boilies at 6pm after a pick up and small run.
Swapped the pole for Feeder with in line Middy Method feeder to mid position Right of Island and bank- Only one bite during the day - a lovely 3lb Tench.
Swapped back to the Pole /Light rig that used earlier - 2lb Line to Size 18. Tried various baits - Sweet corn, Tares, Worm , Maggot, Paste, Pellet. When went to the latter and used 6mm Sonu
Halibut Pellets had a 4lb Bream ( new PB on this Lake and best caught on the Pole). Then two drops later had a sail way bite as Mr Carp decided he liked the Halibuts as well. Pole tip under the water but no way was I going to hang on to this one - It snapped my 2lb Hook link on the 2nd run.
I beefed up the Rig and put on the bully Boy with 18-20 Elastic but no big bites at all.
Had a Run on the Ledger - Lifted in a small Black carp but dropped the hook after 5 secs.
Decide that was enough - it had been a long hot dry day on not that successful in trail terms apart for the 6mm Halibut pellets - I might try them next in next Weds match.
Labels: Pleasure Fish
Friday, June 29, 2007
Lac Chateaux Cavagnac aka Nash Resorts- Rignac France 9th-16th June 2007
Saturday 9th June
Having had a nice lie –in and last second packing, my daughter Emily picked me up and dropped me of at Stansted Airport at 1105. The quickest check-in I have every had with Ryanair and just as quick through security I was sat in the Lounge having a Beer by 1135.
A on time departure and a pleasant flight we made a fast & bumpy arrival at Rodez 5 minutes ahead of schedule (Apparently the fast bump landing is standard - not the early arrival). With no fuss at this small regional airport, we were met by The lake Bailiff David.
David was expecting 7 of us but only four had arrived – Myself, Chris from Stevenage and Ed & Michelle from Harwich. Bags loaded into the van we made our way on the short journey to the lake through picturesque countryside. The weather was hot 26c as forecasted.
David said he had some good news & bad news. The good news that there would only be 6 of us fishing this week with three Austrians there awaiting our arrival but the bad news was that a 59lb Common had been caught on the last cast this morning.
David confirmed that spawning had finished over a week ago and the fish were coming out this week. We all discussed our own personal targets for the week, Both Chris & Ed wanted to improve their Personal bests of 34 & 35lb respectively, ‘Chelle’ was not fishing. Mine was to catch a 20lb Common with a stretch target of 30lb Carp of any type.
We caught our 1st glimpse of this massive water as we came down the adjacent hill, looked beautiful.
On arrival were greeted by Tom the other bailiff and Chris our chef for the week was busy preparing Shepherd’s Pie for Dinner. With a beer easily drunk - introductions were made with the Austrians, David took us on a tour of the lake by boat pointing out all the key spots as we went. Given that there was only 6 of us and the Austrians wanting to stay together down the south bank we dispensed with the draw and Ed fancied Steps swim, Chris wanted The Boards so I plumped for Sanctuary swim even though it was not in area of the recent wed treatment, but Tom had advised that it was fish for the 1st time in ages last week and fish were coming out regularly. This would be a challenge as I have never fished in a weedy lake before.
We returned to the Lodge and eat Dinner – Chris had prepared for 10 so we all had seconds of this delicious dish. Selected my inclusive Bait of 4kg of 20mm Scopex Boilies and 1kg Of Scopex pellets, and purchased (added to the slate that runs for the week) 20mm Banana Pop ups. Loaded up my boat that will be mine for the week with my bags and Tom Towed it to my Sanctuary swim
Where I set about getting established and set up. As I had the pontoon to myself I decided to use one Bivvie as store room and the other as living accommodation.
2030: That’s it set up for the night even the Spider has set up home on the RH Rod – Does he know something I don’t? All we are waiting for is the Frog Chorus to start up.
0625: Awoke to bright but misty day. The lake looked a picture though the Bivvy door
New PB at the time of 24lb 8oz
X marks the spot to where my baits where placed
I Learned so much that I can use in the UK - I found the Triggalink/Ultrasilk combo and the Limpet Camelion - Lead Core - the latter taking on the colour of the lake bed over the week and Triggalink works when wet like a piece of elastic giving you that extra bolt effect.
Having had a nice lie –in and last second packing, my daughter Emily picked me up and dropped me of at Stansted Airport at 1105. The quickest check-in I have every had with Ryanair and just as quick through security I was sat in the Lounge having a Beer by 1135.
A on time departure and a pleasant flight we made a fast & bumpy arrival at Rodez 5 minutes ahead of schedule (Apparently the fast bump landing is standard - not the early arrival). With no fuss at this small regional airport, we were met by The lake Bailiff David.
David was expecting 7 of us but only four had arrived – Myself, Chris from Stevenage and Ed & Michelle from Harwich. Bags loaded into the van we made our way on the short journey to the lake through picturesque countryside. The weather was hot 26c as forecasted.
David said he had some good news & bad news. The good news that there would only be 6 of us fishing this week with three Austrians there awaiting our arrival but the bad news was that a 59lb Common had been caught on the last cast this morning.
David confirmed that spawning had finished over a week ago and the fish were coming out this week. We all discussed our own personal targets for the week, Both Chris & Ed wanted to improve their Personal bests of 34 & 35lb respectively, ‘Chelle’ was not fishing. Mine was to catch a 20lb Common with a stretch target of 30lb Carp of any type.
We caught our 1st glimpse of this massive water as we came down the adjacent hill, looked beautiful.
On arrival were greeted by Tom the other bailiff and Chris our chef for the week was busy preparing Shepherd’s Pie for Dinner. With a beer easily drunk - introductions were made with the Austrians, David took us on a tour of the lake by boat pointing out all the key spots as we went. Given that there was only 6 of us and the Austrians wanting to stay together down the south bank we dispensed with the draw and Ed fancied Steps swim, Chris wanted The Boards so I plumped for Sanctuary swim even though it was not in area of the recent wed treatment, but Tom had advised that it was fish for the 1st time in ages last week and fish were coming out regularly. This would be a challenge as I have never fished in a weedy lake before.
We returned to the Lodge and eat Dinner – Chris had prepared for 10 so we all had seconds of this delicious dish. Selected my inclusive Bait of 4kg of 20mm Scopex Boilies and 1kg Of Scopex pellets, and purchased (added to the slate that runs for the week) 20mm Banana Pop ups. Loaded up my boat that will be mine for the week with my bags and Tom Towed it to my Sanctuary swim
Where I set about getting established and set up. As I had the pontoon to myself I decided to use one Bivvie as store room and the other as living accommodation.Having just decided to cast to three places on Rigs I made up the night before with, this was very much hit and hope for the night, I would a more detailed examination of the swim with Tom’s help tomorrow. Time for a brew – oops No lighter – unable to use the supplied gas burner and ‘grocery pack’ supplied. Oh well just have to do with a beer or two. It had just got dusk and the Frogs started – Like a Mexican Wave around the Lake the only difference they kept in going until dawn the following morning – so no quality sleep.
Sunday 10th June
I was awoken ( I did eventually get to sleep) by the Left Hand (LH) Rod alarm at 0630 – a small run but nothing there.
0800: Reeled in and rowed back to the Lodge for shower , shave etc and a superb Full English (with French Sausage). Arranged for Tom to come out after breakfast to show me some of the best spots to fish.
I returned to my swim and then rowed around some of the pre defined marks in the swim with a rod and weight to find hard spots where fish potentially have been feeding. I found one a rod’s length in front of a hot spot marker directly centre of the swim some 250 yards out. It was clear tome that this was going to be boating holiday as well – All baits would have to placed using the boat with rod in the boat and rowing back with the line release on the bait runner. I found spots close to the end of the lilies on the LH and RH side of the pontoon at 25 yards.
1030: I had just set up the RH rod when Tom arrived as we were discussing the Rigs I was using and where I was intending on fishing the RH alarm went – I immediately lifted into it the fish had gone into the lilies I gently pulled and it came out to be greeted by the tell tale thump of a Tench. Landed a 3lb Tench that looked a bit lost in the supplied 42” Landing Net., Hey but I have not blanked. Tom advised to sack the Tech I catch and they will be given to a Local farmer to stock his Lake.
Tom took me out to a spot further to the right from the spot I found, that he indicated that David have found and had good sport recently – I searched around and found this small hole which measured roughly 2 feet square close to a small lily patch. He also advised me to fish in the small inlet of the lilies to the left of the swim and at the end (where I had the run earlier in the morning). He thought my rigs were OK.
1105: Had another lift and small run on the RH rod again – another Trench a superb looking female of 3 1/2lb. – Sacked with the other.
Baited Up & everything in position time for a cup of coffee.
1115: Noticed that Ed has an fish on down in the Steps swim, A good fight ensues which I watched through binoculars which he safely nets. Looks big – 30lb plus (At Dinner – Ed confirm 34lb 8oz Common 4ozs short of his personal best – Good start.
1245: Run on LH rod (2nd Lily Inlet) Feels big but has gone into the lilies after a short fight it came through the point at the end of the lilies and felt distinctly lighter and kited away to the left making for the fallen branches snag to the left of the swim. Perching precariously on the edge of the pontoon I successfully guide it away and into the waiting landing net. Not all that big but a perfectly proportioned long slim common which went 9lb 14oz. I said to it thank for coming to the party go tell your mum and dad to put in an appearance please and gently placed back into the lake. A Cool beer from the cooler box celebrates the 1st one and hopefully not the last but hopefully the smallest fish.
1420: Run again on the LH rod this time the fish Kites straight out into the channel – Comes easily and can see it is a double Mirror. Tried five times to net it could not get the net low enough in the weed in front of the pontoon. The 1st time I thought I’d lost it as it saw the net turned and surged away. Landed it though and weighed 17lb 8 ozs.
1645: Reeled in and rowed back to the lodge for Dinner – Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, The Austrians had theirs delivered. That had spent the day stood up in the lilies digging out areas to fish in.
1800: Ice packs refreshed rowed back to the swim and rebaited,
2000: Rumbles of thunder coming from the South and the sky advancing from the South turns that tell tale dark purple colour – A storm is coming our way. Then rumbles from the East coming our way as well, what followed was the most ferocious Thunderstorm I have been in, lasted 4 hours and so noisy – it even shut the frogs up. No way was I going out in that if I had a run.
Monday 11th June
Nothing doing during the night had Breakfast at the lodge. I spoke with David on what rigs worked here as not being an out & out carper my knowledge was pretty limited. He precede to get out his ‘demo’ kit and showed me how to make the rig that he finds the best. The rig was 7” in length, 25lb Amourbraid and hair set for a 20mm with top 1/8 sliced off and replaced by a ¼ slice of 15mm Pop up Snowman style using a small piece of stick to hold the two together as the boilie expands. David gives me the rig which on return to the pontoon I set about copying and baiting up accordingly. The 1st fish was a Tench from the RH Lily pad of 3lb.at 1045. The rest of the day was quiet just a small run from the LH rod lost in lilies. Made my way back to the Lodge for Dinner and watched the last day highlights from the 3rd Cricket Test (Eng v West Indies) which was tight but England made it just,
1945: The Austrians had a run from the Woods Swim but they were on The Field swim – a slow walk two in the boat and used the reel / Fish to pull themselves along to the lilies once there put the net under the fish and rowed back. I called this Agricultural Angling. This was the tactic they used all week. Whilst this was going on I had a small drop bacon the LH Rod Lifted into it and a spirited fight from a 3lb Tench resulted – Sacked with the others. I re-rigged using a Limpet Leader rather than rig tubing.
Sunday 10th June
I was awoken ( I did eventually get to sleep) by the Left Hand (LH) Rod alarm at 0630 – a small run but nothing there.
0800: Reeled in and rowed back to the Lodge for shower , shave etc and a superb Full English (with French Sausage). Arranged for Tom to come out after breakfast to show me some of the best spots to fish.
I returned to my swim and then rowed around some of the pre defined marks in the swim with a rod and weight to find hard spots where fish potentially have been feeding. I found one a rod’s length in front of a hot spot marker directly centre of the swim some 250 yards out. It was clear tome that this was going to be boating holiday as well – All baits would have to placed using the boat with rod in the boat and rowing back with the line release on the bait runner. I found spots close to the end of the lilies on the LH and RH side of the pontoon at 25 yards.
1030: I had just set up the RH rod when Tom arrived as we were discussing the Rigs I was using and where I was intending on fishing the RH alarm went – I immediately lifted into it the fish had gone into the lilies I gently pulled and it came out to be greeted by the tell tale thump of a Tench. Landed a 3lb Tench that looked a bit lost in the supplied 42” Landing Net., Hey but I have not blanked. Tom advised to sack the Tech I catch and they will be given to a Local farmer to stock his Lake.
Tom took me out to a spot further to the right from the spot I found, that he indicated that David have found and had good sport recently – I searched around and found this small hole which measured roughly 2 feet square close to a small lily patch. He also advised me to fish in the small inlet of the lilies to the left of the swim and at the end (where I had the run earlier in the morning). He thought my rigs were OK.
1105: Had another lift and small run on the RH rod again – another Trench a superb looking female of 3 1/2lb. – Sacked with the other.
Baited Up & everything in position time for a cup of coffee.
1115: Noticed that Ed has an fish on down in the Steps swim, A good fight ensues which I watched through binoculars which he safely nets. Looks big – 30lb plus (At Dinner – Ed confirm 34lb 8oz Common 4ozs short of his personal best – Good start.
1245: Run on LH rod (2nd Lily Inlet) Feels big but has gone into the lilies after a short fight it came through the point at the end of the lilies and felt distinctly lighter and kited away to the left making for the fallen branches snag to the left of the swim. Perching precariously on the edge of the pontoon I successfully guide it away and into the waiting landing net. Not all that big but a perfectly proportioned long slim common which went 9lb 14oz. I said to it thank for coming to the party go tell your mum and dad to put in an appearance please and gently placed back into the lake. A Cool beer from the cooler box celebrates the 1st one and hopefully not the last but hopefully the smallest fish.
1420: Run again on the LH rod this time the fish Kites straight out into the channel – Comes easily and can see it is a double Mirror. Tried five times to net it could not get the net low enough in the weed in front of the pontoon. The 1st time I thought I’d lost it as it saw the net turned and surged away. Landed it though and weighed 17lb 8 ozs.
1645: Reeled in and rowed back to the lodge for Dinner – Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, The Austrians had theirs delivered. That had spent the day stood up in the lilies digging out areas to fish in.
1800: Ice packs refreshed rowed back to the swim and rebaited,
2000: Rumbles of thunder coming from the South and the sky advancing from the South turns that tell tale dark purple colour – A storm is coming our way. Then rumbles from the East coming our way as well, what followed was the most ferocious Thunderstorm I have been in, lasted 4 hours and so noisy – it even shut the frogs up. No way was I going out in that if I had a run.
Monday 11th June
Nothing doing during the night had Breakfast at the lodge. I spoke with David on what rigs worked here as not being an out & out carper my knowledge was pretty limited. He precede to get out his ‘demo’ kit and showed me how to make the rig that he finds the best. The rig was 7” in length, 25lb Amourbraid and hair set for a 20mm with top 1/8 sliced off and replaced by a ¼ slice of 15mm Pop up Snowman style using a small piece of stick to hold the two together as the boilie expands. David gives me the rig which on return to the pontoon I set about copying and baiting up accordingly. The 1st fish was a Tench from the RH Lily pad of 3lb.at 1045. The rest of the day was quiet just a small run from the LH rod lost in lilies. Made my way back to the Lodge for Dinner and watched the last day highlights from the 3rd Cricket Test (Eng v West Indies) which was tight but England made it just,
1945: The Austrians had a run from the Woods Swim but they were on The Field swim – a slow walk two in the boat and used the reel / Fish to pull themselves along to the lilies once there put the net under the fish and rowed back. I called this Agricultural Angling. This was the tactic they used all week. Whilst this was going on I had a small drop bacon the LH Rod Lifted into it and a spirited fight from a 3lb Tench resulted – Sacked with the others. I re-rigged using a Limpet Leader rather than rig tubing.
2030: That’s it set up for the night even the Spider has set up home on the RH Rod – Does he know something I don’t? All we are waiting for is the Frog Chorus to start up.
2115: Slight lift & tap of LH rod, left for a few seconds – another tap perhaps another Tench me thinks. Decided to lift into it and connected to a carp which went straight into the lilies? I walked back across the platform to apply some steady pressure it came out and went through the point then a dart to my left going straight for the snags. But I knew it was not that big once free. But still a good fight – Safely netted a 13lb Mirror. Whilst rebaiting in the boat on the LH the centre long line beep and indicator dropped off – nothing there though – suspect I missed that completely – one of the drawbacks of being on your own here. Rebaited, set back with a couple of beers and took in the last of the day’s sun, which had burnt me. I need to sort out some shelter.
Tuesday 12th June
0100: Slight indication on Centre Long line – Got out of the bed and checked out, Rod Tip swung round the drag clutch was working, lifted in Resulted massive solid feeling but occasional thump so fish was still on. Getting no joy I decided to get into the boat – found an paced the landing net into the boat, (I need to have this ready in the boat an extra thing to look for and do in the dark is not a good idea). I started to reel in but all came loose – Fish Off! Rowed back an found the platform in dark. Reeled in the rig – what a mess – sorted it out with a new hook link and rowed back out to find my 2 foot square spot 250 yards out in the dark – Found it 1st time. I was just about to lay the bait on the spot when I heard my LH alarm going. Immediately I turned and rowed back like I could a place in the British team for the next Olympics. It went quiet but as I neared the platform it went again. I scrambled onto the platform and picked up the rod – but was a solid mess. So back into the boat and reeled in once in the pads took me 5 minutes to retrieve the rig. Sorted it all out and repositioned all this took one &half hours it was now 0230. The frogs were relatively quiet as well – perhaps all the activity in 7 around my swim. Back to Bed an a little sleep.
Scores on the Doors – 4 Tench, 3 carp, and 3 lost carp.
Tuesday 12th June
0100: Slight indication on Centre Long line – Got out of the bed and checked out, Rod Tip swung round the drag clutch was working, lifted in Resulted massive solid feeling but occasional thump so fish was still on. Getting no joy I decided to get into the boat – found an paced the landing net into the boat, (I need to have this ready in the boat an extra thing to look for and do in the dark is not a good idea). I started to reel in but all came loose – Fish Off! Rowed back an found the platform in dark. Reeled in the rig – what a mess – sorted it out with a new hook link and rowed back out to find my 2 foot square spot 250 yards out in the dark – Found it 1st time. I was just about to lay the bait on the spot when I heard my LH alarm going. Immediately I turned and rowed back like I could a place in the British team for the next Olympics. It went quiet but as I neared the platform it went again. I scrambled onto the platform and picked up the rod – but was a solid mess. So back into the boat and reeled in once in the pads took me 5 minutes to retrieve the rig. Sorted it all out and repositioned all this took one &half hours it was now 0230. The frogs were relatively quiet as well – perhaps all the activity in 7 around my swim. Back to Bed an a little sleep.
Scores on the Doors – 4 Tench, 3 carp, and 3 lost carp.
0625: Awoke to bright but misty day. The lake looked a picture though the Bivvy door
I’d just turnt over to grab another hour or s when a single beep on the centre long line. I’ve learned to look rather than wait for any further audio indication as the bait runner drag was working the rod tip was arched round. Ran out and lifted in fish on but felt like a Tench then came off! Rebaited/Repositioned and brewed a nice cup of Tea. The PG Tips and UHT milk supplied make a good cuppa.
Made up some more rigs – 1 Combined TriggaLink/Ultrasilk and 1 Amourbraid straight through to replace the rigs on the Centre & LH Rods respectively – both using David’s Snowman set up.
0810 Reeled In and went for Breakfast. Enquired with Tom if there was an umbrella I could borrow / rent to provide some shade for me. Tom laid his hands on an old broken Homebase garden brolly. – No pin to hold it up. I had a solution see picture
Topped up with Ice packs for the cooler box, new landing net – the original I had was broken at the ‘Y’ and most importantly another crate of beer.
Back to Sanctuary, baited up, a brew set up the brolly and a change of underway all is well with the world.
1100: The daily Tench arrives from the RH rod this one went quite well and was 5 12/lb. I change this rig to Korda IQ.
1600: After a couple of false starts, the constant tap /tap which I thought was Rudd, Tench playing with the bait it finally resulted in a run with the rod arching round against the drag. Being stood over the rod I was straight into it. It went into the lilies but thankfully turned into open water and felt a good size then went all limp as it rushed towards me – a frantic winding of the reel and I re-established contact. Once in closer ran off like a steam train but not before I caught my 1st glimpse of a golden scales along the long sides of a gorgeous Common> it just has to be my target fish – the adrenaline and heartbeat start to race as it makes it attempted get away. But Blakey wins the fight and slips the net under and onto the unhooking mat. A dip of the weigh sling and zeroing on the scales place her in the sling and lift up goes past the twenty – but how much by – 4lb 8oz by that’s what! - Yippee went the cry but nobody else noticed. Gently put her in the 2nd sack ready for someone to take some photos after dinner. A new PB carp. Rebaited & positioned.
1650: Reeled in and rowed proudly in for Dinner which tonight was a barbeque.
Made up some more rigs – 1 Combined TriggaLink/Ultrasilk and 1 Amourbraid straight through to replace the rigs on the Centre & LH Rods respectively – both using David’s Snowman set up.
0810 Reeled In and went for Breakfast. Enquired with Tom if there was an umbrella I could borrow / rent to provide some shade for me. Tom laid his hands on an old broken Homebase garden brolly. – No pin to hold it up. I had a solution see picture
Topped up with Ice packs for the cooler box, new landing net – the original I had was broken at the ‘Y’ and most importantly another crate of beer.
Back to Sanctuary, baited up, a brew set up the brolly and a change of underway all is well with the world.
1100: The daily Tench arrives from the RH rod this one went quite well and was 5 12/lb. I change this rig to Korda IQ.
1600: After a couple of false starts, the constant tap /tap which I thought was Rudd, Tench playing with the bait it finally resulted in a run with the rod arching round against the drag. Being stood over the rod I was straight into it. It went into the lilies but thankfully turned into open water and felt a good size then went all limp as it rushed towards me – a frantic winding of the reel and I re-established contact. Once in closer ran off like a steam train but not before I caught my 1st glimpse of a golden scales along the long sides of a gorgeous Common> it just has to be my target fish – the adrenaline and heartbeat start to race as it makes it attempted get away. But Blakey wins the fight and slips the net under and onto the unhooking mat. A dip of the weigh sling and zeroing on the scales place her in the sling and lift up goes past the twenty – but how much by – 4lb 8oz by that’s what! - Yippee went the cry but nobody else noticed. Gently put her in the 2nd sack ready for someone to take some photos after dinner. A new PB carp. Rebaited & positioned.
1650: Reeled in and rowed proudly in for Dinner which tonight was a barbeque.
New PB at the time of 24lb 8oz
Tom came with me and took some photos & the sacked Tench back for Farmer Joe.
2010 Getting positive Tench enquires on the LH rod – result- another 5lb Tench
2100 After another couple of Tench interruptions the farmers (Austrians) had another ‘trawling’ session resulting in 30lb Liner / 34lb commons.
2300: Just got comfortable in the bag, a beep on the LH rod – Got out the tell tale twitching of Tench, lifted in an was treated to a spirited fight from what turned out to be a 7 1/2 Pounder, A New Personal best.
Wednesday 13th June
0100: Just off to sleep again, the frogs were making up for being quiet the night before and awoke by a single beep off the long centre rod. Immediately looked through the Bivvy door with the torch to see the Rod tip arched round against - Lifted in solid - another in the weed but detected the slight thump – Applying gentle pressure until slowly comes out, certainly felt weird stood in the middle of nowhere dressed just in underpants in pitch darkness pulling what seemed like ½ ton of weed and perhaps a fish out of the lake towards me.. There is an occasional knock so the fish is still there. 50 yards it goes relatively light as either the weed or the fish comes off – luckily it is the former as the fight begins. Having managed to my headlight on by hook by crook I catch a glimpse of the fish in blue LED light – looks like a Leather, But after netting and safely on the unhooking mat is a Linear – going 21lb 8 oz on the scales another PB – that makes 3 PB’s in a 24 hour period.
After gently slipping back rebaited in the mist on the same spot. And hit the sack again – checking before hand that no intruders have sneaked in the warm bag whilst I’ve been away.
0300: Single beep on centre road again Rod arched round again Lifted in an felt the twang- twang of leader round lilies- It extricated itself from the lilies and kited out in open water to the left. No weed on this one and now that I am getting use to the bend on the Nash outlaw 3lb TC rod – I guess this one goes high Double / Low Twenty. This is a more portly looking Common and goes 8ozs over the twenty. I re-rigged and reposition in 20 minutes – getting the hang of this now.
0500: Lots of bleeps – hey a run!! on the Centre rod again. This ones flying what a good scrap not big but good fun in the dawn light. Hopefully everyone else is asleep and not watching this underpant duel.. This fish really is wild does not want to come in but finally I win and a beautiful long Wild Common – Wild in more than name.
The Austrians call Wednesday big fish day as they normally catch their biggest fish of the week on this day – plus it is Christian’s birthday today and they will join us for Dinner tonight, the 1st time since Saturday.
I decided to weighed the Tench from the night before – but they were a bit lively – the 7 Pounder escapes after weighing and before I can take a picture by jumping off the mat and over the edge of the pontoon to live another day. Perhaps I will get him next year when he is 10lb?
The rest of the day was Quiet in terms of Fish and I was able to catch up on some ZZZZ’s only interrupted by the occasional Tench 3 in all. I made up some more rigs Triggalink/Ultrasilk Combo’s but with Korda Size Micro-Barb’s – I hadn’t noticed this when I purchased them – Good job Kevin had given his blessing to be able to use them – My eye sight is not all that good is it.
We all had dinner with the Austrians and Chris produced a smashing birthday cake for Christian.
2100 After another couple of Tench interruptions the farmers (Austrians) had another ‘trawling’ session resulting in 30lb Liner / 34lb commons.
2300: Just got comfortable in the bag, a beep on the LH rod – Got out the tell tale twitching of Tench, lifted in an was treated to a spirited fight from what turned out to be a 7 1/2 Pounder, A New Personal best.
Wednesday 13th June
0100: Just off to sleep again, the frogs were making up for being quiet the night before and awoke by a single beep off the long centre rod. Immediately looked through the Bivvy door with the torch to see the Rod tip arched round against - Lifted in solid - another in the weed but detected the slight thump – Applying gentle pressure until slowly comes out, certainly felt weird stood in the middle of nowhere dressed just in underpants in pitch darkness pulling what seemed like ½ ton of weed and perhaps a fish out of the lake towards me.. There is an occasional knock so the fish is still there. 50 yards it goes relatively light as either the weed or the fish comes off – luckily it is the former as the fight begins. Having managed to my headlight on by hook by crook I catch a glimpse of the fish in blue LED light – looks like a Leather, But after netting and safely on the unhooking mat is a Linear – going 21lb 8 oz on the scales another PB – that makes 3 PB’s in a 24 hour period.
After gently slipping back rebaited in the mist on the same spot. And hit the sack again – checking before hand that no intruders have sneaked in the warm bag whilst I’ve been away.
0300: Single beep on centre road again Rod arched round again Lifted in an felt the twang- twang of leader round lilies- It extricated itself from the lilies and kited out in open water to the left. No weed on this one and now that I am getting use to the bend on the Nash outlaw 3lb TC rod – I guess this one goes high Double / Low Twenty. This is a more portly looking Common and goes 8ozs over the twenty. I re-rigged and reposition in 20 minutes – getting the hang of this now.
0500: Lots of bleeps – hey a run!! on the Centre rod again. This ones flying what a good scrap not big but good fun in the dawn light. Hopefully everyone else is asleep and not watching this underpant duel.. This fish really is wild does not want to come in but finally I win and a beautiful long Wild Common – Wild in more than name.
The Austrians call Wednesday big fish day as they normally catch their biggest fish of the week on this day – plus it is Christian’s birthday today and they will join us for Dinner tonight, the 1st time since Saturday.
I decided to weighed the Tench from the night before – but they were a bit lively – the 7 Pounder escapes after weighing and before I can take a picture by jumping off the mat and over the edge of the pontoon to live another day. Perhaps I will get him next year when he is 10lb?
The rest of the day was Quiet in terms of Fish and I was able to catch up on some ZZZZ’s only interrupted by the occasional Tench 3 in all. I made up some more rigs Triggalink/Ultrasilk Combo’s but with Korda Size Micro-Barb’s – I hadn’t noticed this when I purchased them – Good job Kevin had given his blessing to be able to use them – My eye sight is not all that good is it.
We all had dinner with the Austrians and Chris produced a smashing birthday cake for Christian.
David's Dog wishes Christian Happy Birthday
We left them to it – looked like they wee going to party hard. Strange that whilst hey were partying Ed, Chris and I had a mad hour & a half. Started off at 8pm – I had a Tench from the LF Lille pad – Ed had a run / landed a Large carp and so did Chris I lost a good run on the LH rod not 5 mins after repositioning, no sooner had I reeled in and inspecting the rig the centre rod bent round I lifted in even before the alarm sounded – Big Heavy lump – in the weed again –
It comes with gently pressure but no signs of a thump from a fish. That what is was – just weed. I changed over onto the rigs I made earlier in the day. Amourbraid straight though on the LH and TriggaLink/Ultasilk combo on the centre – left the RH where it was. It was now dark. No sooner had I place the LH bait and got back to pontoon the alarm went off. This one made for the other side of the lilies I was able to guide back through the small gap it had gone though but it goes for the snags on the left, they all seem to know where to go. I was running out of angle and was bending out over the front of the pontoon luckily this provides enough leverage to get to steer it away but almost went in the drink in the process... This was a 21lb 8oz hump back mirror. Took some photo’s using the Cooler box as a makeshift tripod.
I was just sorting out the mess on deck when the Centre Rod went round, got straight into it and was greeted again by the twang twang of leader against lily’s but was not coming – so put the Landing net into the boat and unhook the mooring rope. I was just about to step into the boat when the fish came free and into open water, and getting regular thumps which would indicate no weed and a sizable fish. Slowly made headway even though the fish was fighting harder. As it neared the pontoon I caught a glimpse in my headlamp – could it be a thirty? It is a Common as long as the one yesterday but a bigger girth.
It comes with gently pressure but no signs of a thump from a fish. That what is was – just weed. I changed over onto the rigs I made earlier in the day. Amourbraid straight though on the LH and TriggaLink/Ultasilk combo on the centre – left the RH where it was. It was now dark. No sooner had I place the LH bait and got back to pontoon the alarm went off. This one made for the other side of the lilies I was able to guide back through the small gap it had gone though but it goes for the snags on the left, they all seem to know where to go. I was running out of angle and was bending out over the front of the pontoon luckily this provides enough leverage to get to steer it away but almost went in the drink in the process... This was a 21lb 8oz hump back mirror. Took some photo’s using the Cooler box as a makeshift tripod.
I was just sorting out the mess on deck when the Centre Rod went round, got straight into it and was greeted again by the twang twang of leader against lily’s but was not coming – so put the Landing net into the boat and unhook the mooring rope. I was just about to step into the boat when the fish came free and into open water, and getting regular thumps which would indicate no weed and a sizable fish. Slowly made headway even though the fish was fighting harder. As it neared the pontoon I caught a glimpse in my headlamp – could it be a thirty? It is a Common as long as the one yesterday but a bigger girth.
Once close in I went for the landing net – oh no! Its in the boat and that is drifting away, so I had to conduct a balancing act Rod in right hand Right foot on the edge of the platform and reaching out with my left foot I captured the boat with my Big Toe ! Good job I did not have any shoes on – I would have never done it. Fish is landed- on the unhooking mat then the weigh sling – Will it go 30lb – No it won’t 26lb 8oz – Another New PB. Again struggled to get some pictures then released. Time to sort out – What a mess the platform was in Rods weed, line mats strewn everywhere. Have a tidy up and Mr Spider has set up his trap on the RH rod. And the Frogs are off.
2300: I thought this carping lark was supposed to be laid back – I’m Exhausted. I get another run on the LH rod – I had no real idea where this one ran to but it was free I just pulled in against the strong fight and another Common graces the net and weighs in at 26LB on the nail. The Austrians were right it was big fish day! Especially as they were still partying down at the Lodge we were making hay.
Thursday 14th June
Thankfully no runs during the night and a reasonably lat night sleep after the Frogs had stopped.
The day was overcast and windy making bait placement difficult. And just a few Tench to show for the day – changed over rigs. What was occurring now was Line Twist resulting from the use of the Bait runner to let line out when placing the bait on the spot and rowing back with the rod in the boat. This was on the long Centre Rod so cast out 6 times with just a 6 oz weight and pulled in – helped a little.
After dinner and rebaiting I prepared my Boilies for the night the roach and Pumpkinseeds fighting over the shreds of boilie falling through the slats of the platform.
Had another Tench from the LH road at 8pm. Then the sky turnt that horrible purple blue and the sound of thunder starting rolling in from the West time to put everything away in the Bivvy’s At a quarter to nine it started – and went on for a further two hours. I took the opportunity to review and edit my Speech for daughters wedding In July, and then turned in after rebaiting all three rods at ten to midnight.
Friday 15th June
Was awoken by a single beep from the centre rod, for some reason in my disoriented state went to the wrong rod. Had a look round saw a slight twitch on the centre rod. Gaining my senses now! Lifted in and got the twang –twang and solid weight, not sure if there is anything there at all. Decide the boat maybe the best option just start to make for it when I detect some give. But just feels dead weight so start to pull in pausing along the way to try to find any murmurs of a fish – There is the smallest indication of something more than weed. As I make progress the thumps become stronger so the wed is coming off –
2300: I thought this carping lark was supposed to be laid back – I’m Exhausted. I get another run on the LH rod – I had no real idea where this one ran to but it was free I just pulled in against the strong fight and another Common graces the net and weighs in at 26LB on the nail. The Austrians were right it was big fish day! Especially as they were still partying down at the Lodge we were making hay.
Thursday 14th June
Thankfully no runs during the night and a reasonably lat night sleep after the Frogs had stopped.
The day was overcast and windy making bait placement difficult. And just a few Tench to show for the day – changed over rigs. What was occurring now was Line Twist resulting from the use of the Bait runner to let line out when placing the bait on the spot and rowing back with the rod in the boat. This was on the long Centre Rod so cast out 6 times with just a 6 oz weight and pulled in – helped a little.
After dinner and rebaiting I prepared my Boilies for the night the roach and Pumpkinseeds fighting over the shreds of boilie falling through the slats of the platform.
Had another Tench from the LH road at 8pm. Then the sky turnt that horrible purple blue and the sound of thunder starting rolling in from the West time to put everything away in the Bivvy’s At a quarter to nine it started – and went on for a further two hours. I took the opportunity to review and edit my Speech for daughters wedding In July, and then turned in after rebaiting all three rods at ten to midnight.
Friday 15th June
Was awoken by a single beep from the centre rod, for some reason in my disoriented state went to the wrong rod. Had a look round saw a slight twitch on the centre rod. Gaining my senses now! Lifted in and got the twang –twang and solid weight, not sure if there is anything there at all. Decide the boat maybe the best option just start to make for it when I detect some give. But just feels dead weight so start to pull in pausing along the way to try to find any murmurs of a fish – There is the smallest indication of something more than weed. As I make progress the thumps become stronger so the wed is coming off –
As the mass comes nearer I can just make out a fish shape looks like a fat mirror through the misty gloom– the heart starts to race. Definitely a bigger fish then just as I make a dash for the landing net the torch packs up. I tried to blindly guide the fish to which I have no idea what it is into the net – I think what if I bump it if now I’d never forgive myself it has to be a Thirty. Deep breaths I let out some line and holding the rod high I walk slowly backwards to the Bivvie and grovel around for my headlamp. A couple of blank sweeps later I find it.
Managed to somehow put it on my head and walk back to the front reeling as I go. Now I can see the lump and what a lump a long thick Common. One further attempt and she is in the net and onto the unhooking mat – I am now shaking in anticipation – The hook hold was tenuous to say at the least being the fleshy part of the scissors but no evidence it had been in there long. How lucky had I’d been I looked in the centre of the lower mouth and the hook had been in there so must have come out and re hooked in that period when I fanning around getting a light source.
So how much did it weigh? A struggle to hold it up in the weigh sling went 35lb 8oz. I allowed myself a little yelp then placed in the sack ready for some photos in the morning.
I reflected on this and the High Double Commons I have caught this trip and in the past, and was disappointed in the fight per pound of the respective fish – The smaller one definitely fight harder.
Back in the sack after rebaiting at 0345.
0535: Single beep on the centre rod had a run here against the drag but came straight out into open water. This one was in a hurry to get out coming straight at me no real fight – perhaps it’s a Tench. No it was a Mirror of 16lb.
0730: Went to the lodge early today and then went round to The Steps swim via the Pontoon to ask Ed to come and take some photos’ before Breakfast – taking him up on his offer to do so... had to wake him but he was more than pleased to do so.
Managed to somehow put it on my head and walk back to the front reeling as I go. Now I can see the lump and what a lump a long thick Common. One further attempt and she is in the net and onto the unhooking mat – I am now shaking in anticipation – The hook hold was tenuous to say at the least being the fleshy part of the scissors but no evidence it had been in there long. How lucky had I’d been I looked in the centre of the lower mouth and the hook had been in there so must have come out and re hooked in that period when I fanning around getting a light source.
So how much did it weigh? A struggle to hold it up in the weigh sling went 35lb 8oz. I allowed myself a little yelp then placed in the sack ready for some photos in the morning.
I reflected on this and the High Double Commons I have caught this trip and in the past, and was disappointed in the fight per pound of the respective fish – The smaller one definitely fight harder.
Back in the sack after rebaiting at 0345.
0535: Single beep on the centre rod had a run here against the drag but came straight out into open water. This one was in a hurry to get out coming straight at me no real fight – perhaps it’s a Tench. No it was a Mirror of 16lb.
0730: Went to the lodge early today and then went round to The Steps swim via the Pontoon to ask Ed to come and take some photos’ before Breakfast – taking him up on his offer to do so... had to wake him but he was more than pleased to do so.
Here's My new PB 35lb 4oz
Being in the sack she was a bit lively but had some expert coaching from Ed on how to handle these big fish. Lots of Photos in & out of the water me and all I reluctantly let here go.
Breakfast done set up for the day and made up some more rigs the ones I had been using are getting tired.
I decoded to change over at the lunch time rebait, but just as was the middle of the rebait I had Tench on the LH rod and forgot to re-rig that rod. You know what is coming next. Not 5minutes after rebaiting /positioning the LH rod and preparing to rebait the Centre Rod the LH rod arched round violently I lifted straight into it and a huge fish crashed on the surface were the bait was. It came like a surfacing submarine towards me it hump standing well clear of the water it had the hump in more ways than one. I reeled like mad was it still on – yes I get confirmation with violent thumping followed by slack again as it continued toward me I This time when it brightens up a three big thumps and then nothing. The rig had come undone at the knot on the swivel. !!!!!
If only I had the new rig on, If only I’d paid enough attention to clutch setting when setting the bait runner drag it was too tight. All valuable lessons learned but I’d lost the chance of a massive fish – I don’t think I’d get another this trip.
Had a busy last Night more Tench and Carp form the centre Rod at 0100, 0300 and 0500 the last two being of 27 1/2 and 22lb respectively a nice way to finish it off. The score on the doors was 15 carp, 14 Tench 10 lost. But the Tench had the last laugh on the centre rod Tap tap a drop back and off deposited my bait in the weed – Time to call it a day – packed up at 0900 and called for Tom to come and pick me up – back to the lodge - shower etc and fresh clothes – a nice fresh bacon egg sarnie we sort ourselves out – weigh up the bags to meet the 15kg weight allowance and David takes us to the airport, where we had an 1 1.2 delay. Steve my future son in law picked me up, and back home – a Quick sort out ready for the Match at Bury Hill the next day.
I decoded to change over at the lunch time rebait, but just as was the middle of the rebait I had Tench on the LH rod and forgot to re-rig that rod. You know what is coming next. Not 5minutes after rebaiting /positioning the LH rod and preparing to rebait the Centre Rod the LH rod arched round violently I lifted straight into it and a huge fish crashed on the surface were the bait was. It came like a surfacing submarine towards me it hump standing well clear of the water it had the hump in more ways than one. I reeled like mad was it still on – yes I get confirmation with violent thumping followed by slack again as it continued toward me I This time when it brightens up a three big thumps and then nothing. The rig had come undone at the knot on the swivel. !!!!!
If only I had the new rig on, If only I’d paid enough attention to clutch setting when setting the bait runner drag it was too tight. All valuable lessons learned but I’d lost the chance of a massive fish – I don’t think I’d get another this trip.
Had a busy last Night more Tench and Carp form the centre Rod at 0100, 0300 and 0500 the last two being of 27 1/2 and 22lb respectively a nice way to finish it off. The score on the doors was 15 carp, 14 Tench 10 lost. But the Tench had the last laugh on the centre rod Tap tap a drop back and off deposited my bait in the weed – Time to call it a day – packed up at 0900 and called for Tom to come and pick me up – back to the lodge - shower etc and fresh clothes – a nice fresh bacon egg sarnie we sort ourselves out – weigh up the bags to meet the 15kg weight allowance and David takes us to the airport, where we had an 1 1.2 delay. Steve my future son in law picked me up, and back home – a Quick sort out ready for the Match at Bury Hill the next day.
X marks the spot to where my baits where placedSo I am already planning my return trip next year -
A few lessons learned
1) Go with someone you get on with to be on the pontoon with you - will help with the baiting up and getting to those runs when you are out baiting up and searching for things in the dark.
2) If on your own make sure you have a tripod - handy for taking photos.
3) Listen to what the bailff's tell you.
4) Take some high factor Sun tan oil, the sun is vary agressive at this time of the year - you have to remember how far South You are.
5) Make sure you have transmitter alarms so you can hear runs the over the Frog Chorus at night.
6) Take a line twister lead
7) Use new line on a couple of sessions before you go
8) Remember to ask for a means of lighting your gas burner on the 1st night.
I Learned so much that I can use in the UK - I found the Triggalink/Ultrasilk combo and the Limpet Camelion - Lead Core - the latter taking on the colour of the lake bed over the week and Triggalink works when wet like a piece of elastic giving you that extra bolt effect.
The biggest thing I learned was thinking about bait & freebie placement in setting the trap - Something David taught me and has change my whole outlook
Role on next year
Role on next year
Look at the lake details here:
Labels: Pleasure Fish
