tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10003593935510747702024-02-08T04:01:28.595-08:00CROOKED LINESDominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.comBlogger323125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-87612208208875765292017-03-30T05:24:00.001-07:002017-03-30T05:24:55.533-07:00All change for 2017! <br />
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Greetings to all blog readers! It's not often I write in this location any more, but if you're one of my old followers on this platform, or have just discovered the blog, I should direct you to my new home and website! You can catch regular news and blog posts now at <a href="http://www.dgfishing.co.uk">www.dgfishing.co.uk</a> along with all my books, flies and other bits! Meanwhile, you can also find my regular adventures, confessions, rants and more in "The Far Bank", my weekly Angling Times column, not to mention every issue of <a href="http://fallonsangler.net/">Fallon's Angler</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%206_zpsslgnjdjg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%206_zpsslgnjdjg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo BLOG_UPDATE_2017 - 6_zpsslgnjdjg.jpg"></a><br />
<i>Bloody hell... feels like quite a decent one! </i><br />
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So what have you been missing otherwise? I'm still very much hooked on the whole fly for coarse adventure, you won't be surprised to hear (and also been doing a bit of filming to promote angling- as illustrated above. Watch this space for more details). Meanwhile though, I've also been avidly tackling various species on the light lure and dropshot tackle, from mini sea critters to perch, zander and others. Again, keep an eye on the new site and my other regular output for the latest. <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%204_zpsjczs9t2x.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%204_zpsjczs9t2x.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo BLOG_UPDATE_2017 - 4_zpsjczs9t2x.jpg"></a><br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%202_zpslbqrmdie.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%202_zpslbqrmdie.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo BLOG_UPDATE_2017 - 2_zpslbqrmdie.jpg"></a><br />
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Otherwise, I am still active with Turrall Flies too, adding my photography and blogging skills to the mix. The Turrall Flies <a href="http://www.facebook.com/turrallfinestflies">Facebook Page</a> and <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog">blog</a> are always worth a look for the fly anglers among you.<br />
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So, I hope you can join me on the new site, or simply drop me a line (<a href="mailto:domgarnett@yahoo.co.uk">domgarnett@yahoo.co.uk</a>) if you have any questions, or indeed stories or things of interest, whether it's a topic you would like to see me write about or a story worth investigating. I'm also now contributing each month to Flyfishing & Fly Tying magazine, with news stories and the "Angling Club of the Month Feature" should you have something you'd like to share.<br />
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Oh, and if you like a bit of total nonsense, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fishingwiththegeneral/">Fishing with The General</a> is going strong, both in Fallon's Angler each issue and on his own Facebook Page. There are probably more things I've also forgotten, but that's most of it at present. Tight lines and stay tuned! <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%207_zpseafwcyqx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/BLOG_UPDATE_2017%20-%207_zpseafwcyqx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo BLOG_UPDATE_2017 - 7_zpseafwcyqx.jpg"></a>Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-86391501233931316832016-12-06T13:46:00.002-08:002016-12-06T13:48:33.241-08:00Fish Leather Books, New Website & Blog!Greetings to everyone. You may or may not have noticed a few changes afoot with my site and blog. There is also some rather exciting news to share, which I didn't want regular followers to miss out on.<br />
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I'd been sitting on a particular secret for so long, my backside was starting to hurt, but now it's time to reveal current progress on a project that has been going for many weeks. In an exciting collaboration with artist Kari Furre, I am soon to release exclusive editions of Crooked Lines in sustainable FISH LEATHER! <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Crooked_Lines_Special_Edition20-2014_zpsunwujimz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Crooked_Lines_Special_Edition20-2014_zpsunwujimz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Crooked_Lines_Special_Edition20-2014_zpsunwujimz.jpg"></a><br />
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Yes, you heard me correctly. There are much better pictures and the fascinating, fuller background story on my brand new website. Read the latest blog entry <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/collectible-fish-leather-book-crooked-lines/">HERE</a> and check out the new site at the usual address: <a href="http://www.dgfishing.co.uk">www.dgfishing.co.uk</a> <br />
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Why did I switch? Well, to be honest, the blog has been here for nine years at least, but it has been less reliable lately. Pictures disappear and it looks a little... well, old hat? But perhaps the biggest plus of the new format is that it should display my photography in a much better manner. It also means you are slap bang next to the other parts of my site, including current features, links and the <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/shop/">shop</a>. <br />
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I hope you'll enjoy the new site and blog anyway. Don't forget to order a copy of <i><a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/shop/crooked-lines/">Crooked Lines</a></i> or one of my other books this Christmas, whether it's for a friend or loved one, or simply to treat yourself. I realise it is a drum I have banged before, but my very words depend on you, the reader! <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Crooked_Lines_Special_001_zpsywn0q3hm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Crooked_Lines_Special_001_zpsywn0q3hm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Crooked_Lines_Special_001_zpsywn0q3hm.jpg"></a><br />
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You can also keep reading me in Angling Times each week and also the cracking quarterly <a href="http://fallonsangler.net">Fallon's Angler</a> (where you can also catch the rantings of my military superior, the General). I've been leaving no stone unturned recently, with everything from the weirder side of lure fishing to all sorts of tangents and talking points. <br />
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Anyhow, have a bloody great Christmas, enjoy your fishing and do keep in touch- and if there is any subject you would like me to tackle in print do drop me a line. You know I'm never one to shirk a challenge! <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-52958552214311734882016-11-23T03:19:00.001-08:002016-11-23T03:19:49.446-08:00New home for my Fishing Blog...For those waiting for the next post, my apologies it has taken a while. A lot has happened in the past three or so weeks and not all of it good. My old fishing wagon broke down and has gone to the big fishery in the sky. My health has been poor. But things are finally looking up! <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/AT_Double_Feature20-203_zpslshuobw4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/AT_Double_Feature20-203_zpslshuobw4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo AT_Double_Feature20-203_zpslshuobw4.jpg"></a><br />
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One huge weight off my shoulders is a newly revamped website- the old version was creaking and my web guy disappeared. Luckily I hired someone more professional this time and the new version is now up and running, miles better and miles more secure for your orders and the rest! Do take a look at <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/blog/">dgfishing.co.uk</a><br />
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It will also now be the home of my blog, rather than here on blogger. A tricky choice, but you should find far richer images on the new site, not to mention my books, flies and the rest. The old posts will stay here on blogger, however, where I have nearly a decade of posts now (wow, that makes me feel a bit older). <br />
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Anyhow, get yourself along to <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk">the new version of my site</a> for more. I'll also have some very exciting news in the next week or so about a really eye-opening new edition of <i>Crooked Lines</i>. <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-54947197397307864462016-09-26T11:23:00.002-07:002016-09-26T11:43:37.709-07:00Strange Waters Photography Competition WinnersThe aim was to find the best and most unusual and adventurous pictures of your fishing. We had a whole raft of great fishing images, but in the end I had to boil it down, completely subjectively, to five pictures. Really grateful for all your entries, but here are the final entries that really stood out: <br />
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1. Jason Coggins: Fishtec Exclusive Fishing Luggage Winner! </b><br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Jason_Coggins_Isle_of_Islay_zpsnm4iqcdj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Jason_Coggins_Isle_of_Islay_zpsnm4iqcdj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Jason_Coggins_Isle_of_Islay_zpsnm4iqcdj.jpg"></a><br />
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For anyone who loves wilderness fishing, Jason’s image and report summed up the charm of the islands of Western Scotland, such as Islay. Wild trout lochs are a real feature on some islands, but his shot was from the rugged coastline (love the rusted old wreck!). And if that wasn’t intoxicating enough, you're just a few yards from the local whisky distillery. <br />
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Jason wins an <a href="http://www.fishtec.co.uk/buy.cfm/luggage-and-bags/airflo-flydri-150lt-cargo-wheelie-bag/40/yes/108813">Airflo Flydri-150lt Cargo Wheelie Bag</a>, a bomb-proof fishing bag fit for any fishing journey. <br />
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<b> 2. Thomas Finney: Turrall Fly Pod Winner</b><br />
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Close behind in second place was James’s picture of the coast at Stebley Point. An image that really captures the drama of shore fishing. <br />
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Thomas wins a <a href="http://www.troutcatchers.co.uk/turrall-fly-pod-selections-c102x2678985">Turrall Fly-Pod</a> of his choice. These feature a tough, double-sided box and selections of proven fly patterns, from reservoir flies to grayling specials. <br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Comp_strange_waters_%20-%201%202_zpsfk3pp2m9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Comp_strange_waters_%20-%201%202_zpsfk3pp2m9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Comp_strange_waters_ - 1 2_zpsfk3pp2m9.jpg"></a><br />
Our three final entries receive a copy of <i>Crooked Lines<b></b></i>, my collection of twenty-four fishing tales, with exclusive artwork from Lord Bunn, <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/crooked-lines/">available at DG Fishing for £9.99</a> or as an <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crooked-Lines-Collection-Fishing-Stories/dp/0993120415">Amazon Kindle Edition for just £4.99</a> <br />
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<b>3. Christopher Kirkham - Book Winner</b><br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Christopher_Kirkham_zpsg8xdp7sj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Christopher_Kirkham_zpsg8xdp7sj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Christopher_Kirkham_zpsg8xdp7sj.jpg"></a><br />
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Chris Kirkham’s Victorian moat is definitely a memorable place to fish, and just one of various striking water defences that can be fished in the UK. Several castles offer lakes or even moats to fish, while pillbox shelters from WW2 are a classic on some of our canals.<br />
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<b>4. Nicholas Lawrence – Book Winner</b><br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Nicholas_Lawrence_zpsjknq3ray.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Nicholas_Lawrence_zpsjknq3ray.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Nicholas_Lawrence_zpsjknq3ray.jpg"></a><br />
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When things get really cramped on a river, you have to improvise a little. Or in this case climb a tree to get your fly to the waiting salmon! <br />
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<b>5. Sam Wadman – Book Winner</b><br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Mountain_Lakes_Iran_Sam_Wadman_zpsx69acocy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Mountain_Lakes_Iran_Sam_Wadman_zpsx69acocy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Mountain_Lakes_Iran_Sam_Wadman_zpsx69acocy.jpg"></a><br />
Some of you really do get around the planet for your fishing! A beautiful shot here, taken on Sam Wadman’s trip to the mountain lakes of Iran. <br />
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A huge thanks to all our other entrants, because every shot told a story and we loved all of them. Thanks also to Fishtec and Turrall for the prizes. <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-26727790361157520072016-09-04T04:40:00.001-07:002016-09-04T04:40:46.385-07:00Strange Waters competition: Best fishing pictures so far...What a great summer it has been so far for discovering new fishing destinations. The new "Strange Waters" contest aims to bring together some of the most strikingly different, whether wild or man made environments. Thanks to all those who have entered so far, thought I'd share the best of them with you below. <br />
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Still plenty of time to enter, until September 25th. Just post your pictures on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DGFishing/">Facebook thread </a>or email me: <a href="mailto:domgarnett@yahoo.co.uk">domgarnett@yahoo.co.uk</a>). <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Jason_Coggins_Isle_of_Islay_zpsnm4iqcdj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Jason_Coggins_Isle_of_Islay_zpsnm4iqcdj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Jason_Coggins_Isle_of_Islay_zpsnm4iqcdj.jpg"></a><br />
A beautiful spot on the Isle of Islay for Jason Coggins. Ideal for a spot of fly fishing or LRF, with whisky distilleries a further temptation nearby. <br />
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Wild tides at Stebley point. Thanks to Thomas Finney<br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Lee20Saunders_Fenland_zps3tjqkmxi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Lee20Saunders_Fenland_zps3tjqkmxi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Lee20Saunders_Fenland_zps3tjqkmxi.jpg"></a><br />
A beautifully composed shot of fishing the Fenlands, from Lee Saunders<br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/958a2c48-61fc-4f4a-8fc6-46e285fa71ec_zpscyudihhy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/958a2c48-61fc-4f4a-8fc6-46e285fa71ec_zpscyudihhy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 958a2c48-61fc-4f4a-8fc6-46e285fa71ec_zpscyudihhy.jpg"></a><br />
Fishing nutter Dan Sales courts calamity and a large bream. Don't try this at home kids!<br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Paul_Sharman_Portugal_zpsj3oujjtd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Paul_Sharman_Portugal_zpsj3oujjtd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Paul_Sharman_Portugal_zpsj3oujjtd.jpg"></a><br />
Welcome to the fairground: A holiday cast in Portugal for Paul Sharman.<br />
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Thanks everyone- and keep those entries coming! You can <a href="http://dgfishtales.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/picture-competition-strange-waters.html">read the previous blog</a> for all the competition rules and prizes on offer, which include travel kit, fly collections and signed books from yours truly! Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-89048301212166074592016-08-25T10:03:00.000-07:002016-09-04T04:23:31.877-07:00PICTURE COMPETITION: STRANGE WATERS<b>Have you fished anywhere wild, different or downright weird lately? Regular readers of the blog and my Angling Times "Far Bank" column might already know of my love of bizarre and off-the-beaten-trail places to fish. <br />
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I also know that many of you will be returning from travels in some pretty weird and wonderful places. Hence I wanted to celebrate the beautiful and bizarre places you go fishing with an exclusive competition, open from now until Sept 15th 2016 </b><br />
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The rules are pretty simple. All you have to do is share your fishing venue pictures, along with a sentence or two describing the place, why you were drawn to it and what's so special or unusual about it. It needn't be exotic or far flung either; travel destinations would be great, but you could just as easily capture somewhere distinctly urban right on your doorstep. Just to start the ball rolling, I've described five of my favourites below, from the streets of Amsterdam to Arctic Norway!<br />
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<b>PRIZES:</b> Just to give you an extra incentive, I've wangled several neat prizes courtesy of <a href="http://www.fishtec.co.uk">Fishtec</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/turrallfinestflies/">Turrall Flies</a> to reward the best, funniest and strangest entries. These are as follows: <br />
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<b>WINNER: THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL FISHING BAG FROM FISHTEC!</b><br />
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Fancy winning the smartest, toughest solution for travelling with your fishing kit? Look no further than the <a href="http://www.fishtec.co.uk/buy.cfm/luggage-and-bags/airflo-flydri-150lt-cargo-wheelie-bag/40/yes/108813">Airflo Flydri 150lt Cargo Wheelie Bag (RRP: £169.99)</a>. With a big capacity and bullet proof construction, this is just the ticket to get your rods, reels and tackle safely to your chosen fishing destination. Even if it happens to be on the other side of the planet, or the luggage handlers do their job with all the finesse of a group of axe-murderers (sorry to all the careful luggage handlers, but some of you seem to love smashing up our fishing tackle. It's a bloody good job you don't work in childcare). <br />
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<b>4 RUNNERS UP: TURRALL FLYPOD OR SIGNED COPY OF CROOKED LINES</b> <br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Comp_strange_waters_%20-%201%202_zpsfk3pp2m9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Comp_strange_waters_%20-%201%202_zpsfk3pp2m9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Comp_strange_waters_ - 1 2_zpsfk3pp2m9.jpg"></a><br />
Fancy winning a brilliant boxed fly selection or a collectible 1st edition of my latest book? Four highly-commended entries will be rewarded handsomely with one of these great fishing gifts. The Flypod is a brilliant concept for the travelling angler, featuring a whole collection of proven deadly flies in a durable, double sided box at less than £25. Meanwhile, <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/crooked-lines/">Crooked Lines </a>features two-dozen of my finest, funniest and strangest fishing stories and some truly eye-opening fishing destinations (Described as "<i>an absolute treat</i>" and "<i>like what might happen if Gierach, John Cooper Clark and Half Man Half Biscuit got together and wrote about fishing</i>", if you believe the recent reviews...). <br />
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HOW TO ENTER: Just share your pictures on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DGFishing/">DG FISHING FACEBOOK PAGE</a> or simply email them to me (<a href="mailto:domgarnett@yahoo.co.uk">domgarnett@yahoo.co.uk</a>). Do provide some info about the location, what you might catch and what makes it unique. You have ONE MONTH from now to get your pictures in (deadline: 25th September), and I'll be sharing and commenting on the images I like the best as we go (you have been warned!). <br />
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So without further ado, here are five of my most memorable destinations from both the UK and abroad to get your brain ticking over:<br />
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<b>1. Arctic Norway</b><br />
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It’s one thing to still want to fish when the mercury hits silly temperatures, but quite another to pack a drill and get fishing! In Northern Norway, this is a reality for anglers who must find a way or take an unbearably long break. On my trip to Skaidi, we used foot-long rods and fished through holes no wider than a dinner plate to catch Arctic Char. A reindeer skin protects your backside from freezing, while snacks include dried halibut and whisky. By night it got down to -20C, but we carried on fishing actually inside the tent! <br />
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<b>2. Pant-y-Llyn, Wales </b><br />
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Some of the most uncannily beautiful waters of all are those little altered by man. Pant-y-llyn is one of those places you simply have to fish at least once in your life, especially if you are a bit of an old school carp fishing romantic. You won't find bloated, boilie-fed forty pounders here. But you might just tangle with some of Britian's most classic looking fish, as it is one of the only remaining fisheries with true wild carp. It's also one of the tales featured in <i>Crooked Lines</i>, while you can also <a href="www.wyeuskfoundation.org/fishing/obs/beat_details.php?beat=pantllyn">book a days fishing there yourself with the Wye and Usk Foundation</a>. <br />
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<b>3. River Wandle, London</b><br />
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Urban fisheries produce some of the most surprising sport in the UK. Among the most fascinating is London’s River Wandle, where I fished with conservationist Theo Pike. In spite of a history of severe pollution, the river is now bouncing back and has everything from wild trout to roach, chub and even the odd barbel. Even so, it’s an odd feeling casting a fly or trotting a float while double decker buses and police cars pass. <br />
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<b>4. Caerphilly Castle</b><br />
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Since the age of about seven, I think most of us can admit to having a secret fantasy about being a feudal baron with ultimate power, medieval weaponry and a stinking great big castle, right? Well, it's never going to happen. But for a day at least, you can enjoy not only one of the oldest castles in Britain, but fish in its 25 or so acre moat! How cool is that? There are roach, bream, carp and even a few pike here. If you can find a castle type venue to top this, make sure you send us a picture! <br />
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<b>5. Amsterdam</b><br />
A haven for tourists and travelling hedonists, you might assume the waters of Amsterdam were too dirty to hold much life. And you’d be wrong! Countless canals and other waters contain perch, pike, carp and some excellent zander fishing. My good friend <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pim.pos.3?fref=ts">Dutch fishing guide Pim Pos</a> has even cast a line in the city’s notorious Red Light District! The city is also famous for its art museums, fantastic food and drink, and strange smelling tobacco, which I am told can make one somewhat dizzy. Not that you probably need it with swims like the one below, complete with pair of dismembered plastic legs: <br />
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Ok, over to you! All you have to do is post your pictures <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DGFishing/">HERE</a>... good luck. <br />
Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-21719751350849163292016-08-24T03:35:00.002-07:002016-08-24T13:06:32.570-07:00Late Summer Fishing Highs and LowlivesIn another interesting week of summer fishing I've been cramming in the short sessions wherever possible once again. A bit of a scattergun approach perhaps, but as we head into the end of August you do get that feeling that there is only so much summer left, with time so precious and limited. <br />
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Some regular followers will no doubt relate to the plight of the multiple job man. In the eyes of the tax system at least, I have no fewer than four different jobs. And although much of my time is to do with the things I love, it is sill work- and it can be tricky to free a few hours just to sneak off down the river, or spend a bit of time with the wife and no technology in sight. Chance would be a fine thing... quite often I want to bung my phone into the sea.<br />
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One benefit of my hours writing blogs and other copy for Clockwork (a marketing company near Newton Abbot) is that I finish my office hours only a short distance from the sea. And with Darren Sieminski, one of our ace website designers, a keen sea angler himself, another post work trip to the coast was overdue. <br />
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We parked by Living Coasts (slightly cheaper than the 24 hour robbery of the marina carpark) grabbed some tea straight from the outdoor market in Torquay before fishing the left hand wall of the outer harbour. Caught in about ten different minds, I had bundled four different rods in the car, along with LRF lures and some bait. Darren could have been forgiven for looking a bit confused. <br />
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Not that it took long to get bites. I had two small wrasse right from the off on small plastic worms fished dropshot style. Meanwhile, Darren had a small pollack on float tackle. He had released it carefully, but just as it looked as if it might recover, a seagull nabbed it. After that we had little for an hour, aside from a brief altercation with a guy on the other side of the wall, who insisted on wanging his rigs right round our side of the barrier, and then throwing a a strop when the lines got caught.<br />
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Seriously, I do worry about anyone who would hurl abuse at a complete stranger over something as petty as who has the right to cast where. As someone who worked for years with junkies, alcoholics and violent offenders, I'm fairly well versed in keeping calm and not lighting any fuses. Our friend here could have done with a similar lesson- because on a sea wall, threatening behaviour could lead to someone getting injured or killed. But hey ho, this is public fishing I guess. We also saw an inflatable boat fishing and moving right in feathering range of the pier- perhaps a southwest contender for the <a href="http://www.darwinawards.com/">Darwin Awards</a> on the cards? <br />
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Our bad tempered friend then promptly left just as the tide was climbing and the light went dimpsy. So much for picking your moment, because the fishing improved greatly as night approached. I had a lure caught pouting (above) on a weedless rigged Isome section, before giving Darren a crack with the lure rod and baiting up a bottom rig with a prawn. Not so long ago I wouldn't have given supermarket prawns a second look, but they seem to make pretty decent baits for flatties and smaller species. <br />
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Just about able to pick out the rod tip by the lights of the fairground in the distance, I had a really rod rattling bite. It wasn't the four-pound bass I had imagined, but nevertheless a very welcome rockling. My first, as it happens. I'm no expert on the different types of rockling, so perhaps someone could enlighten me? I gather they will also occasionally take lures. <br />
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It was a lovely evening, in fact, totally forgetting about phones and deadlines and just feeling for bites by the lights of Torquay. Sea fishing here is so much more varied than you realise, because 90% of visitors only seem to have eyes for mackerel. I strongly suspect that night fishing is the answer though, whether with lures or bait. To cement this hunch, Darren then hooked into the best fish of the trip; a hard-fighting pollack quite a bit bigger than the earlier samples. <br />
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Just for the record, <a href="https://www.clock-work.co.uk">Clockwork Marketing</a> are well worth a look for anyone involved in the hospitality trade or trying to build a business in any leisure or tourism activity! We make fantastic websites- and already do a great job for one or two fishing hotels. So much of the fishing world is blighted by dated and inadequate online presence I cannot help but feel there are more matches to be made in future. After all, how many dedicated marketing and website building agencies have actual anglers on the team?<br />
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I digress anyway, but if you are traveling to Devon soon, or if sea fishing is your thing, do also be sure to take a look at the recent Channel Kayaks Blog <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/blog/kayak-fishing-in-devon-from-sidmouth-to-the-south-hams/">HERE</a>, which features several recent kayak fishing marks and trips in Devon, from Sidmouth to Salcombe. Meanwhile, tackling the craggier parts of the South Hams in the company of happy-go-lucky maniac Norbert Darby is also my focus for the new edition of Fallon's Angler, just out.<br />
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So what else of note can I report from the past week or two? I jumped at the chance to dash back onto the local canals and River Tone for some surface sport, if done in a bit of a hurry. On the cut, I must have spent about 80% of a 2-3 hour session just walking and looking and not fishing, seeking out larger rudd and roach. And I found one or two, albeit in very different spots to previous seasons. I lost what looked like a 2lbs+ hybrid (bream/rudd?) basking in the top foot of water, before netting two nice rudd to one pound nine ounces. As is so often the case, it was a simple capture- the only key was casting in a bushy swim and getting a simple hackled wet fly (one of my Turrall Spiders) close to the fish. <br />
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I also had a quick blast on the River Tone with Norbert joining me for the ride. We must be freak magnets, because we had uniformed staff out looking for some crook on the run.... who we think we spotted later. One of those guys you take one look at and think "oh God, what happens now... ". First it was "can I use your phone, I'll pay you a tenner" (because I always willingly lend my phone to guys who look like crack addicts) before the question "has there been any police or guys down here looking for me?" Christ on a unicycle, I bet the landed gentry fly fishing on the Test and Itchen don't have to deal with this sort of shit. One scary lunatic, and that's coming from me and Norbert, who seem to draw these undesirables like perch to a wriggling worm.<br />
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Still, the chub were feeding, albeit very spooky. So often in the low, clear water they would come right up to the fly, before sulking away again. The only takes were by taking your life in your hands and dropping a big terrestrial right under the branches in their sanctuary. I missed two nice fish, but hooked one of the best in a group of eight or so fish, which took a Chopper (my big, leggy deer hair winged fly designed for the species). <br />
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Otherwise, the only fishy business I have to report is of a very pleasant short session on Creedy Lakes. Yes, I Know, I'm not always a fan of the big main lake. It's all a bit bivvy-tastic. But I had a lovely evening on the top pond and also made a new friend. In the same way you know instantly that some folks are surly buggers (like our friend in Torquay, Mr High Blood Pressure/ No Manners), others you just instantly know are on your wave length. <br />
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Such was the case with Mick Latham, who fished the next swim and was such great company- as we filled out tickets it appeared we had exactly the same plan, to fish simply on the less fashionable top lake, where it's pretty and weedy, even if the fish aren't quite as big. <br />
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Rather than race for the best spots though, we played it civilised, sharing pegs and anecdotes. It does make you think- surely this is the way it should always be, rather than competing with each other like kids? Sometimes I dislike busy specimen fisheries because regulars can get so serious they won't even say "hello" or "how's it fishing?". But it costs so little to be friendly to other anglers; and you could get a useful tip off or make a new pal. <br />
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I stuck it out on the floaters in the end, using nothing more complicated than a 50p bubble float (often just as good and less obtrusive than the huge £5 odd things I always see in the tackle shops) and a few dog biscuits. This was the best of my brace (and no, I didn't weigh it): <br />
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In between a perfect lazy evening, watching the kingfishers, picking out the hoot of an owl, laughing and discussing life, the universe and everything, Mick went one better and caught three. We shared netting and photography roles too, perhaps confirming that angling etiquette isn't dead after all. Nice fish too in this top pond- they tend to be wily and strong: <br />
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The only other recent journey was to Merlin Unwin Books, publishers of "Flyfishing For Coarse Fish", to attend their 25th anniversary bash and meet some fellow authors. I'll be reviewing some new fishing books shortly from their range, so do watch this space. <br />
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The plan was then to fish at Caerphilly Castle on the way home, but the weather was too filthy to stick around long. Those keeping up with my weekly Angling Times column or who bought <i>Crooked Lines</i>will know of my love of unusual angling destinations. This will also be the topic of a new photographic competition on the way very soon. <br />
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Until our lines cross again, let's all keep our heads and keep smiling. Happy fishing and my best to you all. <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-74058193337050914732016-08-13T05:13:00.001-07:002016-08-14T02:01:52.846-07:00Back to Basics<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Blog_AUG_02%20-%202_zpsfqfqlvfj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Blog_AUG_02%20-%202_zpsfqfqlvfj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Blog_AUG_02 - 2_zpsfqfqlvfj.jpg"></a><br />
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It’s tough coming home after a holiday. Especially when there is great fishing involved. Great fishing that you know you won’t be able to afford again for a long time! So what is the answer? How do you deal with a holiday hangover? <br />
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Perhaps the easiest option, after a few days of catching up with work and sleep, is to get back to the bread and butter fishing that you know and love. Because the stuff on your doorstep is also good fun. In fact, had you arrived from a totally different country you would probably be wowed with a lot of it. Because even an urban, free fishery has mystery and something new every time. Even if it’s in Tiverton or Torbay, not California.<br />
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When you live by writing of various kinds, with fishing a big chunk of it, a sense of perspective is vital. Never mind living the dream, you have to work at it- and if you’re not careful you can kill your passion. Which is why I always make sure that besides the “serious” expeditions, where fish, pictures and words have to be conjured up to order, I always make room for casual, fun fishing. Because the moment you lose sight of that laid back pleasure in the simple things, it all becomes just a job. <br />
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Time is incredibly precious. Until the eight day week is invented, I will continue to steal two hours here, an afternoon there, to get my fix like everyone else. The way I see it, this is healthy.<br />
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Rudd fit the bill perfectly- and there is no better place to catch them on the fly than the smaller canals and drains in Devon and Somerset. I had a real challenge on my hands on the Tiverton Canal though, with a quick afternoon off cursed by fierce gusts of wind. Not only does this make casting a pain, you just can’t spot the fish easily –or even the rises. <br />
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I found one or two twists and turns, after a fair walk, where the wind was less fierce and I could at least spot the fish. I had several that I could pick out in the upper layers, all to spiders and little beaded nymphs in sizes 14-18. And although high winds didn't help with location, the fish were up for it. I saw quite a large fly in the drink, in fact, with a rudd taking three attempts to nab it from the ripple! <br />
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Roach also showed up, along with a few perch, all sitting in the top few inches of water. Most were more than willing to take a fly, the breeze perhaps helping to mask any less than delicate casts. Sometimes it was tricky to spot takes, so I resorted to adding a little floatant to the leader about two feet from the fly and just watching for small pulls before striking. Not big fish, but fun on light tackle and all in the space of just a couple of hours. Small perch were also there for the taking on a tiny minnow streamer from my coarse box. <br />
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Rather than face the rush hour into Exeter, which is quickly starting to resemble Essex in the congestion stakes, I decided to take a last hour on the River Lowman, Tiverton. Ironically, the breeze was a help rather than a hindrance with the small trout which are far more easily spooked than rudd and roach.<br />
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This is a pretty stream, if you mentally blot out some of the more industrial background. In fact, man altered streams with little weirs and falls tend to produce well, with the pacy sections quite forgiving, even for a tall, ungainly angler. Tiny emergers and wets both hit the spot: <br />
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Perhaps the best part was the accidental crowd of kids who decided to join me though. After telling me that cheese was better than what I was using, I managed to pick out a lovely slightly better fish right before their eyes. <br />
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After this, the audience multiplied, as did the questions. And there were some humdingers: <br />
"Is that a real fly?" <br />
"What is the biggest fish you've ever caught?" <br />
"Can you be arrested for pushing someone? This girl in my class says you can." <br />
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They were great fun- and although their antics probably didn't help me catch many more trout, I think they learned a little about fly fishing, and trout, and not scaring them. In an age where we're continually told that young people are bad/lazy/addicted to technology, it's refreshing to see kids racing pushbikes, crawling along the banks and hopping in and out of a stream. <br />
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The next fishing window I had was another piece of quickfire opportunism, this time on Brixham Breakwater with the LRF fishing tackle on the way from work. This time I was hoping for mackerel and pollack, but with the tide still quite low and locals complaining about the local seals scaring off the shoals, I thought I might have to adapt. I quite often wonder if these things are just excuses, but looking over the sea wall, I did wonder if they might have a point: <br />
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I couldn't tempt a mackerel, and the winds were brutal on the outer wall, so I switched to the inside, where there are usually plenty of modest wrasse and mini species to go for, which usually escape the attention of the feathering brigade. <br />
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I managed to land three up to about three-quarters of a pound quite quickly, all on Texas-rigged Isome type worms, while getting chatting to a chap escaping for a quick hour away from the wife and kids. He wasn't catching and I could feel his pain. Having only a small window of opportunity can be frustrating. So after the next fish, I decided to play nice and give him the lure and rig I was using. A mere three minutes later, his lure rod slammed over and I had to run back to him with the net! <br />
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A nice ballan wrasse it was too, very fit and probably as big as my four put together! Still, I was as happy as I would have been catching it myself.<br />
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The older I get, in fact (and don't let the beard fool you, I'm no spring chicken any longer) the more pleasure I get from helping other anglers and sharing knowledge. Teaching many people to fish over the past few summers is one of my quietest yet proudest achievements. I get a real kick out of launching others into the world of fishing and, hopefully, equipping them with skills to help them enjoy many years of peace and enjoyment- and I run various guided fly fishing trips in Devon and Somerset each season. Summer is peak time around Exmoor and on the streams of the Westcountry Rivers Trust. <br />
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Steve Badger and his son were my latest victims. The really lovely part of it was that they wanted to fish a wild stream, branches and all. It can be a real challenge even for the experienced, with low, bushy water and shy fish to deal with. But they quickly got the hang of making short deliveries and sneaking unobtrusively into tight spots. Side and catapult casts were the order of the day, often on hands and knees. It was challenging to say the least, but caught two fish, a small trout and a grayling. Result! <br />
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We fished the Westons stretch (see <a href="http://www.westcountryangling.com">www.westcountryangling.com</a>), a lovely bit of water for just £6 a day. The farmer was also brilliantly friendly and I think he was chuffed to see a youngster fishing on his land. We also made a new friend: Ruby, an ancient looking dog who is anybody's best friend for a pat on the head, who still enjoys helping to bring in the cows, albeit with a slight limp: <br />
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Needless to say, I got a real warm glow from the day, which wasn't just down to the blue skies and baking heat. <br />
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Perhaps the biggest change I've seen in angling over the past few seasons has been the sheer number of anglers who enjoy a varied fishing diet, with lots crossing over into fly fishing. Organisations such as the Angling Trust certainly help, and I was delighted to join them at the Game Fair at Ragley Hall. As soon as I spotted this rather funky vehicle, belonging to Sarah from Get Hooked on Fishing and "pimped" by fishing artist Dusto, I knew I was in the right place: <br />
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It wasn't the busiest it's ever been, but plenty of guests stopped by and, most importantly of all, stacks of youngsters got their first taste of fishing. The other great thing was the feeling of togetherness of all the angling branches. Everyone from the England Carp team to the Fly Dressers' Guild was out in force- and on an evening social we had just about every approach you can think of on the lake, from lure fishing to specimen, match and fly fishing on the lake. The carp were lean and hungry- and not easy to lure to the surface, although it was great to see one a visiting Scottish fly angler catch his first ever carp (of any description) on the fly.<br />
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In between doing some fishing talks and demos, I also caught up with some of the anglers really making the sport tick these days. The lure casting pool was a huge hit with the likes of Sam Edmonds and John Cheyne, while I also met "Big Fish Off" champion James Stokoe, before sinking some beers with Dusto and the others. I think he probably earned them more than me having spent the whole of a humid day working on another of his giant masterpieces. I am seriously considering asking him to paint my kayak! <br />
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Talking of kayak adventures, I've also been back out to sea to explore some shore marks. The fishing has varied from tough as nails to hectic, with a lot of lessons learned. More to come shortly on the blog at Channel Kayaks (a whole stack of species and venues covered- now live, <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/blog/kayak-fishing-in-devon-from-sidmouth-to-the-south-hams/">CLICK HERE</a>), including what is surely my biggest ever wrasse. It's a species I've really got to grips with, in no small part due to picking the brains of my lure fishing friends such as Andy Mytton. The same weedless and dropshot presentations also work wonders with real bait too:<br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-48850363033895066052016-06-15T09:54:00.001-07:002016-06-17T01:33:29.728-07:00Marriage, Wrasse and Wreckage<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Kayaking_with_Norbert%20-%208_zpsslkqmi9j.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Kayaking_with_Norbert%20-%208_zpsslkqmi9j.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Kayaking_with_Norbert - 8_zpsslkqmi9j.jpg"></a><br />
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Regular readers of this blog will have heard, or been warned about Norbert Darby. He is as wayward as they come, and so I wasn't surprised when he turned up two hours late to my wedding by the Double Locks the other night. It's a pub I've had previous with, and a great place to have a wedding bash on so many levels.<br />
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So in his customary fashion, Norbert arrived rather late, half cut on a BMX and not especially smartly dressed. I was even more shocked to learn he hadn't been fishing in two years. Seemed odd, because we were once both glued to the banks of the Exeter Canal fishing for carp (as recalled in <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/crooked-lines/"><i>Crooked Lines</i></a>). And so, in that drunken way that you do, we hatched a plan to go kayaking fishing on the South Hams. <br />
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From the off, you could probably file it under "seemed a good idea at the time." Lashing waves. A small boat. Norbert's love of adventure and warped sense of humour. I didn't sleep that well the night before. When you've just got married, it's not a great time to go missing or die. But Norbert was insistent, after another tin of cider, that he had done loads of kayaking in his younger days, when not driving uninsured cars and chasing barmaids. <br />
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So anyway, we faced a foggy start to the next day, weaving through backroads and laughing at the lack of civilisation and directions. Low tide was mid afternoon, which didn't seem so ideal but left us with some time. Or enough to fritter away in what looked like a garage-come-shop, but turned out to sell a whole heap of fishing tackle, local tat and all the rest. Norbert left with a four pack of Strongbow, some crisps, weedless bass lures and a 3D postcard with pigs on it, which he thought was the best 99p he'd spent in his life. But this is Norbert. He is permanently acquiring things, only to lose them.<br />
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We reached our sheltered mark around midday and got sorted with kit. This takes some discipline with kayak fishing, because when you're out there, everything can get wet or misplaced, so you have to be organised. I put my lure boxes in a fly vest for security. We also wore buoyancy aids for safety. Really bad early 1990's buoyancy aids, to be specific.<br />
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We took the plunge right from the beach, getting well out into the little bay quickly. The tide seemed quite reasonable, although the spot we were heading for seemed to channel the currents. <br />
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It is an eerie, exciting feeling travelling over rocky, kelpy ground in a kayak. It was great to see a mark I've fished since childhood from a totally different angle too. The odd larger wave would sometimes creep up and give you butterflies, but Norbert was a dab hand at steering the boat. <br />
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We headed for a large rock that I must have looked and wondered at from the shore for the last twenty years. Now we could get to it! We'd packed three rods between us. Two lighter lure fishing outfits, along with a more no nonsense set up. I tried the heavier set up first with a Texas-rigged worm. I fished it tight to the bottom, jigging quite patiently and feeling for the bites. I got two early plucks, then nothing. But as we reached a really deep, fishy looking spot, I switched to weedless Black Minnow. I'd just cast some fifteen yards from the kayak and given a couple of pulls, when the rod absolutely thumped over. A pollack? A decent wrasse? <br />
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It turned out to be a lovely ballan, not far off three pounds I would guess. Norbert's pictures were pretty shaky, but at least he kept us both alive. <br />
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And I'm hardly joking, because after a break and a bite to eat, it was a very different sea we found. The incoming tide and an onshore breeze had kicked up quite a swell. It was tricky just to get into the sea without shipping lots of water. Not a huge issue, because modern sit on kayaks for fishing are very stable, and act like a giant air-chamber. But it's a pain when you have things like lure boxes and a camera on you, regardless of whether you have a dry bag. <br />
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Some of the waves on the return journey were large to say the least. The big ones would just pick you up like a toy. It was good practise, although fishing was often out of the question. You have to constantly anticipate and watch for currents and bigger waves. If you head directly into the waves, you get shoved up and down, but in safety. Whereas if you catch a big wave side-on, this is the biggest risk of the kayak rolling and getting pitched into the sea. <br />
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Eventually, we had to admit defeat and fish from the shore, since it had seemed way too risky to get into the rocky parts we really wanted to fish. It got pretty rough though. We started to get a battering and the General nearly got washed into the sea. A little disappointing, but there were still fish to be found from the shore, doing a spot of rock hopping and casting lures into the gullies. <br />
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I must say, the wrasse have been excellent fun this year but also quite a sharp learning curve. Having a session or two with Andy Mytton has really opened my eyes to the detail here. It is such brilliant, and surprising, fishing too. The trick is to fish lures right amongst it, in the rocks and kelp, hopping across the bottom foot or to with a degree of patience. The challenge for someone more used to freshwater fish, is the patience required. With the smaller fish, you have to let bites develop. But when a better wrasse arrives, the decisiveness of the take can be formidable. <br />
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A wrasse of two or three pounds can be too much for the lightest tackle, which explains why I was relieved to land another recent fish of that stamp from a different rock mark. Curiously this was on another more testing session where the larger lures didn't score- and the best of the day took a small 3" section of worm, rigged weedless. Luck had it that the shelf below was quite open and I was able to keep the fish from burying itself. Even so, the battle on an ultralight rod and 5lb hook link was hair-raising, thrilling stuff! A long-handled net came in handy once again too. <br />
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Which is enough excitement for a bit. Because it might be June 16th tomorrow, but it's absolutely lashing it down outside. Although you can catch more from me in both the Angling Times and the <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/">Turrall Flies blog</a> shortly... <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-78825151389236702262016-05-29T03:46:00.002-07:002016-05-29T03:54:51.416-07:00Tackle Reviews & Blanking BluesHow often do you read a fishing article about somebody blanking? Not very often, I would bet. With getting on for 250 articles in print, I've only managed to succeed in getting ONE published. It's an article I won't ever forget, because despite the frustration endured I got one of those shots that perfectly captures the madness of angling, with a grey mullet swimming literally right round the back of the fishless angler, coming within inches of his wading boots. <br />
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This past week though, the joke has been on me. Most recently with a whole night and a beautifully misty morning (above) which, although nice to look at, I would have gladly traded for the carp I was after. I'm not about to tell you that I love catching nothing, but as a long term addict of fishing you learn to accept this. <br />
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Think about it for a minute and contrary to the idea that top anglers never blank, the reverse is often true- certainly where the biggest fish are concerned. And yes, a few chastening experiences each season add extra sweetness to those days when your luck turns. <br />
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Another thing you learn to accept is that you don't always get the performance that you paid for at the booking office. And in truth, whether or not you are grateful for what you actually get depends on your outlook as much as anything else. Like the moment your rod is nearly yanked in and the huge carp in your imagination transforms into a three pound tench, as happened on my other not-entirely-successful recent trip to a small, private lake. Most of the time, I would prefer to see the pond as half full rather than half empty I guess? Tench are like perch for me- even if it was a fluke, it is virtually impossible not to be pleased to catch one.<br />
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Win, lose or play out a goalless draw that spills over into a pointless spell of extra time watched by nobody where there is no referee to call time, that is fishing. So perhaps I should continue this blog on another note. In fact, I wanted to cover something I very rarely mention here at all: my favourite items of tackle! Other bloggers write whole entries on rods, reels and rigs; I do not. Perhaps I'm too cynical about the tackle trade and the world of sponsored shenanigans. But I know that some readers do find it interesting, so I thought this week I would give you a few recommendations of the kit I have enjoyed recently, or for a longer spell of abuse. It's something to talk about while I remain biteless, anyway. So here goes: <br />
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<b>1. Spro Micro Game Rod (70M)</b><br />
So many rods exist these days, but this is the first I have bought for several years. After a few months I have taken it everywhere from Devon harbours to Amsterdam. It packs down into an absolutely silly length (38cm) and still performs really nicely. Hook an eight ounce perch and it bends like it shouldn't; hook an eight pound pike and, amazingly, it still survives without smashing to bits. I'd call that a very dependable light rod. My model is rated 5-15g, but this is way out. It feels right at home with 3g jigs, or my various dropshotting experiments with small jellies and flies. What can I say? I love this little rod, even if it is almost unbefitting of a large bearded man. <br />
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<b>2. Lone Angler Unhooking Mat/ Stalker Seat</b><br />
What a brilliant little piece of kit this is! So portable, great to sit on too, but also very functional. Folds into three and slides into the back pocket of my fly vest, yet big enough to protect a barbel or zander. Not quite pike size, but you can't have everything- and this is a great compromise for fishing small waters for fish like perch and chub when you don't want to be lugging a vast mat around. Could also save you from the horrors of "Farmer Giles" on the derriere.<br />
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<b>3. Daiwa LRF Net Handle 5.9m</b><br />
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Another cracking piece of kit for the roving angler, why didn't someone come up with this years ago?!! Totally portable, it folds down neatly to some 70cm odd and has a shoulder strap. Yet when you need it, you have a whopping 6m, or near enough, of reach! I particularly like the fact that a net head can be attached through the bung, which prevents all the sections from sliding out willy-nilly when you don't want them to. <br />
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So bloody useful! I'm already making a hitlist of spots such as harbour walls that this net will now allow me to land fish from, where previously I wouldn't have dared. Ruddy useful kit! <br />
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<b>4. Turrall Barbless River Flies</b><br />
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Ok, so I like to tie my own flies where possible. Time is a killer these days though, so it is extremely darned useful to have reliable patterns tied properly on barbless hooks that look and fish the part. After all, so many cheap barbless river flies feature rubbishly cheap hooks and are sold more overdressed than Lady Gaga (and just as tasteless). Not these designs, personally selected by Chris Ogborne with a competition angler's eye for detail. Granted, I am one of the Turrall team these days, but I like these so much I've been fishing them all season and now also stock them in my own shop <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/turrall-barbless-river-flies-selection/">HERE</a>. Do grab a set before I use them all myself! <br />
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<b>5. Orvis Forceps</b><br />
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Ok, so this is not a new tackle accessory by any stretch. When you own an item for the best part of ten years, however, and it's still going strong you know you're onto something good. These are top drawer, meriting that "reassuringly expensive" Orvis price tag, I must say- and I'm pretty attached to mine. Literally- they never leave my fly vest. Not just great for removing the hooks from fish, they are also good at debarbing flies while that little spike is genius- just the thing for clearing the eye of a fly when you're struggling to pass the leader through. Damned near indispensable in my book.<br />
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Ok, that is about as techy and tackle orientated as I'm about to get for a while. Now go and fish. Heck, do one better than me and actually CATCH SOMETHING! <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-19259551554702156072016-05-11T10:57:00.000-07:002016-05-11T15:07:26.357-07:00New horizons and old haunts <br />
Does anyone else suffer from false-dawn syndrome each and every spring? The yo-yo temperatures and random seasons don't half mess with the moods of both fish and anglers at times. And this applies whether you're lure fishing a cove in South Devon, or tackling one of Cornwall's wild fly fishing lakes. Which is why I write this week's blog with some relief after some tricky fishing and hard won catches.<br />
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I had promised visiting angler Jim Sutherland a suitably mixed trio of outings, in fact, for what would be an unusual mission for me. The idea was three days of very different predator and fly fishing, adding a different twist to my usual guided fishing trips in Devon and Cornwall. Besides brushing up on casting skills and discovering some new fishing styles, he wanted to fish alongside me to produce an article. <br />
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A refreshing change for me, because by and large I do not fish when I guide. Aside from demonstrating the odd technique, I think it's poor form. Equally, as many articles I've appeared in, I can probably count those written <i>about</i> me by someone else on the fingers of one hand. As often as not, I tend to cover what others are doing, tending to agree with the saying that there's no telling what can be achieved if you're not fussed about who gets the credit. This way you get a much broader pool of knowledge than your own limited perspective. But this time it did make a nice change not have to do all the running and note-taking!<br />
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We started with a spot of lure and fly fishing in the rockier extremities of South Devon. If you can be bothered to walk, there are some stunning secret beaches and coves here. It's especially lovely to return to some of these spots you remember from childhood armed with more "grown up" fly or lure fishing tackle. The only slight hitch was that it had been a couple of years since I'd been to this particular spot, hence we slalomed through poky lanes and, on one occasion, popped into a local village hall where a makeshift polling station had been set up, just to ask for directions. <br />
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On this occasion, I intended to start with the lure rod, like Jim, because I desperately wanted a lure-caught wrasse. However, my usually reliable Shimano reel then decided to have a meltdown, with the spool no longer locking in place. Usually I cannot fault these reels, but I guess nothing lasts forever and twelve odd years had taken their toll. A bit embarrassing, to say the least, to be left with a tangle and a bust reel! <br />
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It was to be a curious quirk of fate though, because I soon got into the rhythm of casting a sandeel style fly pattern and began getting bites. A small pollack came first, before I wondered if I was seeing things. On a couple of deliveries I thought I had spotted long, silvery shapes chase the fly. And then I had my answer- a garfish took hold! My first garfish on the fly ever in fact (I've often seen them chase, but never got one in). The only slight regret is that I didn't get a better picture- but the sun was right in Jim's face and I decided I wanted to avoid excessive handling and let the thing go. <br />
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We had a testing, sometimes gruelling day after that. I was certain the bass and pollack would arrive on the rising tide, but they just wouldn't appear. And so eventually, we turned our attention back to the wrasse. In my case, I eventually tore myself away from the fly as Jim let me borrow his spare lure outfit (although I spent the day getting ribbed about "hire charges"). I broke my duck later in the day, but it was Jim who really earned his stripes with an absolute cracker that fought like fury. I'm going to be a party-pooper here and only show my own, more modest effort, because I don't want to steal his thunder for the full write up. <br />
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In the process of a really interesting three days we covered miles in the end, tackling Cornwall's Colliford Lake in pursuit of its stickleback-clobbering browns, not to mention a jaunt on the local canals. The latter, I think, really floated Jim's boat. Like me, he is a confirmed sight fishing addict with somewhat itchy feet, which was probably for the best given how many yards there were to cover over three days. <br />
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We had action packed hours and slow hours, but it was all interesting fishing. Perhaps the highlight was a foray into shallow waters with the fly. We had seen bream on the verge of spawning, but for the first time in the year I also spotted numbers of roach and hybrids sunbathing. They were willing to rise too, although they wanted quite small flies- larger bugs were flatly ignored, while a size 16 to 18 spider was sucked in gingerly by several nice samples. <br />
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We also played with the pike and perch- in my case, using my own <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/dropshot-minnow-flies/">dropshot minnow flies</a> (which you can now find on my site). The perch were tricky, but in the clear margins it was possible to sight fish and use fluorocarbon rather than wire, to earn more takes. A little split shot or two and you can work these beautifully on the fly rod- but they'd also cast on a light lure set up. <br />
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I'm always torn with this kind of fishing. I'm reluctant not to use wire, but with fluorocarbon you tend to get more takes from perch, while you'll also land the typically small pike that take a shine to the minnow. It almost goes without saying that you should also debarb the fly/lure so that if there is a mishap the thing will come out easily once the tension is gone.<br />
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When it comes to "prospecting" with the fly and areas where you can't spot pike and take evasive action however, the only option is a wire trace. This was just one of several fish we shared on small lures and bigger pike flies:<br />
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Again, I'm reluctant to reveal all because no doubt Jim will produce a cracking write up and I have no desire to steal his thunder. Nor is this anything new, because it's fair to say that there's always a lot more between and behind the lines with what I write here. I just cannot include everything. Don't get me wrong, I love the blog as a kind of quick-fire diary. But I cannot give away everything for free and nor would you want me to- unless you're keen on the idea of a fishing landscape almost devoid of "real" books or magazines. <br />
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I've been as critical as anyone in the past about the fishing magazines, but it is as vital as it has ever been to support the print media. To give you some inside perspective from my own world, the balance of my income from print writing to digital content has swung totally in favour of the latter in the past three years. Part of this is because I write blogs for hotels and tourism these days. But in fishing the same is steadily happening. And while we all have to embrace change, we could be left with a world devoid of printed words if we're not careful, which would be a huge shame. Remove the rewards and standards will drop with the world of advertising holding all the ace cards, it's as simple as that.<br />
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It has been almost an ironic twist, therefore, that having written for the fishing press for over a decade now, I finally have a weekly column in the Angling Times! Yes, I know I've been outspoken once or twice before, but to their credit they have freshened things up with the new look magazine and even found space for an oddball like me. <i>The Far Bank</i> looks set to be a lot of fun. My remit is a sideways glance at the funnier and stranger aspects of the sport. This week's topic, for example, is all about the lure of dicey spots and dodgy casts. <br />
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I have lots more hot, strange and thorny topics to come in the months ahead, but if there's anything that amuses, perplexes or bothers you that you would like me to get my teeth into, do get in touch with me or <a href="http://www.gofishing.co.uk/HomePage2/GLOBAL/Contact-Us/">drop the Angling Times a line</a>! <br />
Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-6471352750785318252016-05-05T13:36:00.001-07:002016-05-05T13:39:30.383-07:00Lure Fishing & Cold LessonsThere come times for most anglers where you get rather out of your "comfort zone." It's extremely healthy to learn new things, even if that sometimes comes at the price of a fall or two. It also means taking a few risks and casting where you never thought of doing so before- and that can be a confidence tester. Most recently for me, I've been well and truly tested but also highly taken by two challenges- one totally new (kayak fishing) and one I've returned to only to find a total revolution taking place (saltwater lure fishing).<br />
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Looking back, I think some of my better articles have come from this sort of leap of faith. It can be exciting if you shed this idea that "I have to be world champion/ highly experienced to write about this." Because in reality, it is only by jumping into something new that you can see things with a fresh perspective. Once you've done a method a thousand times, you forget all the seemingly daft questions you had and challenges that other anglers also face, not to mention the sheer excitement of it all. And yet this idea prevails: the writer has to be a total expert on everything they cover. <br />
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Here's the secret though; I am not. My writing and general fishing skills may have slowly developed, but there are still areas where I am like that kid in the tackle shop, peering at all the strange bits of kit in wonder. This is a great position to be in. Such has certainly been the way on recent lure fishing missions to the coast, where I've been scaling right down and watching experts like LRF wizard Andy Mytton with a keen eye, and more than once a sense of total bafflement. <br />
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Close control using cute rods. The neatest and freakiest of little lures. Bonkers presentations involving special split shot rigs, dropshot weights and knots I'd never seen tied before. I've thoroughly enjoyed lure fishing for most of my life, whether it's casting for pike or bass. But I've been blown away by the current light lure fishing scene- what is happening currently is little short of revolutionary and incredibly exciting. You can read some of my musings on the "joy of the diddy rod" in my Angling Times slot this week- but suffice to say there is a lot more to come and I am enjoying feeling like a kid again. <br />
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Perhaps my favourite recent catch, in fact, has been one of the smallest in the form of this sea scorpion. I'd both enjoyed and endured a cold spring session with the tiddly lures with Andy and the sight of this critter brought back great memories of childhood fishing off the rocks. Circa 1991, I was afraid to touch these fish. But they are quite harmless. Furthermore, if you are brave enough to place one in the palm of your hand you could get quite a surprise. Not only do they go all puffed-up and defensive like perch; <i>they actually vibrate</i>. I thought this had to be b****it at first, but it's perfectly true- it's like holding a fish that has swallowed a mobile phone! Must be a defence mechanism? <br />
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Other lessons from my trips are also stacking up quickly, whether it is a timely reminder that evening and night fishing are often better than daylight in the salt, and that it is well worth fishing low and even dropping tides for different species.<br />
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I guess you appreciate the smaller stuff even more when sport proves slow- but that's the great thing about lighter tackle: everything fights energetically, even a tiny pollack! <br />
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More to follow in print and online on various topics shortly, but suffice to say that at the moment it's very much a case of "the more I learn the less I know" on reflection. And I love it that way. Because I don't have to be a world expert to enjoy it and write about it any more than you do to try it as well. And the only way any of us gains real "expertise" in any area of fishing is to have fun, experiment, ask other people and generally get stuck in. The same has been utterly true of kayak fishing- where I'm still testing the water, not to mention my limits and balance, quite literally. Another dunking for me this week I'm afraid (note to self- while standing on a kayak is possible, it is highly advisable to stay sitting on your arse when casting!). Even so, I broke my duck with two Wimbleball rainbow trout in a short tester session! More on the <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk">Channel Kayaks site</a> and blog shortly, along with listings for special kayak fishing days on the lake. <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Blog_May_2016%20-%2012_zpsm63xsiyk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Blog_May_2016%20-%2012_zpsm63xsiyk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Blog_May_2016 - 12_zpsm63xsiyk.jpg"></a><br />
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The only other news of note was a talk at the 2016 Barbel Society Show, where one of my main topics was this concept of new ground in fishing and putting yourself in the position of a learner. This was certainly the case for much of my experience with coarse fish on the fly, particularly the unusual species- including <i>barbus barbus</i> naturally. It's still one of the most exciting and tricky things I've ever done. But while I wouldn't advise the newcomer to start with barbel or zander or one of the other oddballs, they are all catchable. <br />
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In fact, perhaps my favourite backhanded compliment about <i>Flyfishing for Coarse Fish</i> of all time was a rather spiky review from a guy who wrote "anyone with a bit of experience could have done this." Totally. That was the point, wasn't it? To try new things and enjoy your fishing. Otherwise it's just an ego trip for the author. <br />
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It was a great show in the end, even though I felt a bit off-colour on the morning. I'd already had a bit of man flu, but also I partly blame Garrett Fallon for that "quiet pint" the day before which, in that wonderfully mysterious way, materialised into six, complete with a rambling converstaion on angling, politics and the meaning of life. We had a lovely afternoon's fishing on the Oxford Canal too, where he used a vintage cane rod for a spot of (I kid you not) dropshotting! The results we had were a big shock to say the least- but more on that another time. For now I'll leave you with a little glimpse of a classic canal and a rather classic rod: <a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Blog_May_2016%20-%205_zpsphpd9ygy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Blog_May_2016%20-%205_zpsphpd9ygy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Blog_May_2016 - 5_zpsphpd9ygy.jpg"></a><br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-62473553239651851102016-04-28T10:52:00.003-07:002016-04-28T11:15:25.136-07:00The Bounder, Buller and Current Fishing ReadsI’m having an eventful time of things lately to put it mildly, with life approaching the sort of chaos usually reserved for my tackle box. Fishing time is tricky- although I keep squeezing in short sessions with lures. I've also been busy at the desk this month for two quite big developments: Firstly, I have a column in the newly revamped <b>Angling Times</b> (now in magazine format). Needless to say, after a decade of working at it I'm thrilled to bring my slightly unhinged take on angling to the table on a weekly basis. <br />
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But equally, I'm also proud to be a part of issue six of the superb quarterly <a href="http://http://fallonsangler.net/shop/">Fallon's Angler</a>, which happens to be a special tribute issue to the late Fred Buller. Indeed, besides losing several too many music and comedy icons this year, fishing has also had a rough ride, with Jan Porter also passing this week. Both he and Buller really got the mind ticking over in my formative years as an angler. Perhaps for different reasons, but both were true one-offs who took quite unconventional ideas and made them mainstream.<br />
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Talking of mavericks, my main task this week is to give you my verdict on infamous angling character Mike Daunt’s rather intriguing book <b><i>The Bounder</i></b>, which I have just completed. Not for the faint-hearted, this autobiography follows the madcap life of not just an angler, but a soldier, philanderer and hedonist supreme, from London to Kenya and back, via the River Tweed and the jungles of Borneo. For better or worse, no punches are pulled or details of any kind spared. There is fornication as well as fishing. And for those prudish types who didn’t like the occasional curse words of my own recent work “Crooked Lines” this is a whole different level of “colourful”. But it is certainly compelling. <br />
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It is this candid, open-as-a-fridge-with-the-door-ripped-off nature that I love best about the book. It’s rather like eavesdropping on that fascinating bloke in the corner of a waterside pub. You know, the one with the "caught it, drank it, shagged it" look on his face, who speaks about theatre in Cold War Berlin one moment and tench fishing the next. The one who, at any minute, is capable of revealing some outrageous detail to make the whole boozer fall silent and sane mortals whisper to each other “<i>Jesus Christ, is this guy serious?</i>” Whether it is the sordid details of “swinging” London in the sixties and seventies or the sudden appearance of a man’s severed finger, it’s all in the mix. <br />
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The fishing adventures are a constant, but tend to form the subplots in the book alongside Daunt’s unfailingly mad-as-a-box-of-frogs life. So this is not a fishing book per se, but the sport is quietly prominent in its own way. His first ever fishing trip is beautifully rendered, for example, in the midst of a turbulent childhood and perhaps the most mismatched mother and father in the history of parenting (the one a kind-hearted but fallible bohemian, the other an emotionally retarded dictator).<br />
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As a kid who went to state school, with its well-meaning but downbeat teachers and leaking temporary classrooms, I always find tales of how “the other half” live as fascinating. But I’m never sure I envy the “privilege” of bullying, endlessly stupid rules and having to watch out for the school letch with a taste for young boys. There is a delightful mischief, but also moments of genuine misery, in the section on school days. Innocence and depravity are both present. Catching secretive common carp is one thing; catching two of your teachers hard at it in the bushes is quite another.<br />
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Forbidden from joining theatre school, the author is then dispatched to the army where, in spite of a rebellious streak, he manages to not only fit in but thrive. The adventures with the Headhunters of Borneo were among the most fascinating in the book, complete with the most eye-opening and astounding details. Depending on your tastes, the warts-and-all details will make you laugh out loud or wince (or in my case sometimes both on the same page). <br />
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Curiously in fact, The Bounder features some very famous names (Chris Tarrant, for instance, writes a foreword that declares both a deep fondness and sense of the absurdity of the author's life, while he also fishes and boozes with screen legends) but you suspect it is “Daunty” who has probably had the wilder ride. And while some readers might find leaps between subjects and eras a bit of a jolt, this pattern is perhaps only an appropriate reflection of the random, hedonistic rollercoaster of his life. <br />
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Perhaps the quality I didn't expect with a book of this title were the sudden moments of fragility. Whether it's a tragic family secret or an untimely disaster, beyond the bravado and the hedonism <i>The Bounder</i> is also unexpectedly touching. <br />
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As for the fishing side of things, the keen angler will perhaps enjoy the latter stages of the book best of all- and in particular the keenly-observed relationship with the late Hugh Falkus, an enigmatic man who is by turns funny and kind, rude and cantankerous. No spoilers here, but there are some great moments of mischief and more than a dash of controversy along the way. A small world too, because of course Falkus co-authored the classic Freshwater Fishing with Fred Buller, who has just passed away. <br />
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Whatever your own take on Mike Daunt's wild life then, <i>The Bounder</i> is a risky, unrepentant but never dull romp. For my money, I'd compare it to a bottle of high-proof India Pale Ale: Rather strong and more than a little fruity for some tastes, but if you like this kind of brew you'll find yourself happily sipping away until the whole bottle is gone. You'll can find it for £7.99 at John Blake books <a href="http://https://johnblakebooks.com/the-bounder-pb.html">HERE</a>.<br />
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More news and views to come shortly from me anyway, along with recent adventures in lure fishing; the sea is calling once again and while the fish have been small enough for "The General" (below) to hold thus far, there is some hugely exciting sport on the way. <br />
<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/General_April_2016_Blog_%20-%203_zpsjkyjugol.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/General_April_2016_Blog_%20-%203_zpsjkyjugol.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo General_April_2016_Blog_ - 3_zpsjkyjugol.jpg"/></a> <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-30000939758216058802016-04-24T06:27:00.002-07:002016-04-24T06:45:39.261-07:00Kayak Fishing Lessons & Cool Spring Days April has been a massive hectic, month for me in terms of both passing on experience and learning some new skills. One of the great joys of fishing is that there is always new knowledge to pick up as well as pass on. Sometimes it's a gradual thing- but in my case lately it has been more a case of jumping in.<br />
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My current leap in the fishing world is perhaps one of the biggest I’ve ever made, however, as I’ve decided to try kayak fishing. It’s something I’ve had my eye on for several seasons if the truth be told. Regular readers will know that I’ve enjoyed a fair bit of float tubing in the past; it’s a cheap, highly mobile way of getting afloat. But limited in other respects, particularly when it comes to sea fishing. <br />
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So why go the kayak route? Well, for those of us without the income or space to buy a big scale fishing boat, a kayak is a realistic option to get the freedom of boat fishing without the silly sized bill. So when fishing oriented specialists Channel Kayaks approached me with the offer to use one of their craft for a year and review it, I jumped at it. I mean, why the hell wouldn’t you? I live 25 minutes from the sea, not to mention some nice lakes that allow boats, such as Roadford. <br />
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Regular readers will already know I’m honest and skeptical about tackle and kit, having had mixed experiences with companies in the past to put it mildly. So I hope in the coming weeks and months I’ll be able to give you a warts and all account of my journey into kayak fishing- the bits I like, the bits I don’t like and, in a nutshell, whether I take to it or not. I mean, what's the worst that can happen? Actually... the worst that can happen is that you can drown but we'll get into that a bit later.<br />
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Anyhow, it should be interesting stuff and I want to record my experiences. Not in the style of "look at what an expert I am" (quite the opposite!), but as the guy figuring out the various aspects of how to go kayak fishing and, who knows, perhaps asking some of the dumb questions and making mistakes so others among you don't have to...<br />
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<b>How (not) to start kayak fishing</b><br />
So, after the initial feeling of “Wahey! These idiots are going to lend me a kayak for the whole summer!” I had to make the thorny decision of which model to go for. A tricky one really, because while I might well be flying (or paddling?) solo, I also liked the idea of a two person kayak for fishing trips (secretly hoping they could help with elbow grease when I get knackered). <br />
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Does such a thing as a versatile one or two person kayak exist then? Turns out it does with the <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/kayaks/tandem-bass/">Tandem Bass kayak </a>that was recommended to me; you can fix two seats on board, or convert to just one in the middle. <br />
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A big win? Um, sort of. Once you’re in the water, yes. When you have to hoist the thing onto your car, not quite so much, because this means you have more weight to lift. It is doable though and as far as a suitable compromise goes, this seemed the best option. If you're flying solo, the <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/kayaks/bass/">lighter one man "Bass" kayak </a>would be more sensible (and cheaper too, at just shy of £400). All include comfy seats and rod rests too, which is a big bonus- you can see these are designed by anglers (as opposed to just being marketed for anglers). Granted, it's not peanuts- but the last time I engaged in fishing kayak reviews (in Flyfishing & Fly Tying Magazine), the craft were well over a thousand just for a basic model- too much for me, while the inflatables and cheap versions often look duff or outright scare me to death (note to my Devon friends: please don't go shark fishing in an inflatable dinghy again. I'd rather not be at your funeral). <br />
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<b>Basic kayak safety & skills</b><br />
On one level, I never quite grow up with fishing related stuff. Give me new kit and I just want to get out and fish. But when you’re dealing with tides, waves and the elements you do have to take a reality check and be prepared. So quite sensibly, Byron from Channel Kayaks recommended me a session on Clevedon Marine Lake for a crash course in kayaking basics. Probably sensible, because if I were to drown on my maiden voyage, not only would my folks be upset, there wouldn’t be any kind of review. Unless you consider a police/coastguard report a “review”. <br />
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Joking aside, fishing can be a dangerous sport (statistically you're more likely to die on a fishing trip than in a rugby match or even a skydiving trip!). Just because you have a life jacket and can swim, it doesn’t mean you are invincible. There is risk and to be unprepared is stupid, hence I wanted a kayak starter session with no fishing involved, at least initially. <br />
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Kayaking looks easy when you watch others do it. But there are various little skills and safety bits you really ought to learn before you’re ready to venture out properly. I didn't want to get too bogged down on this blog- but I've written on the basic skills and things like what to do if you fall in on a guest slot for the <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/blog/kayaking-skills-from-paddling-basics-to-safety-tips/">Channel Kayaks blog</a>, after they very kindly have me a training session to get me started. You might want a look just for the entertainment value of seeing me fall in and then demonstrate how to clamber back into a kayak (<a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/blog/kayaking-skills-from-paddling-basics-to-safety-tips/">CLICK HERE</a>). <br />
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<b>Fishing from the Kayak</b><br />
Having completed my paddling and safety basics, it was time for the more fun part- testing the kayak for fishing and in two person mode! Heck, even I can only concentrate for so long before I start thinking about fishing. I know what you're thinking: there can't be any fish in Clevedon Marine Lake, right? It looks nothing more than a big and fairly lifeless concrete swimming pool, for goodness sake. <br />
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It actually turns out I was wrong here. Sitting right by the Bristol Channel, it gets a fresh influx of sea water on big tides. Fish, shrimps, crabs and the rest come in, but not all of them remember to leave. Non anglers have seen sea fish topping and moving, including the odd flatfish or dogfish, while the crabbers get the occasional blenny in their nets. I'm not saying it's prolific- but it could just be a quirky spot to have a cast (when it's quiet and you're not annoying swimmers or canoeists obviously!). <br />
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Anyhow, purely as a test I had brought along a light fishing outfit, just to see how it felt fishing from the kayak. Impressively stable, is my honest impression. Last time I fished from a kayak was in Finland; it was an ancient Canadian thing and the slightest movement made it veer all over the place. But these "sit on" kayaks are so different to the "sit in" versions. I am not a light human being nor one with a low centre of gravity, to put it mildly. And if I can sit on the edge, with my feet in the water, and fish, virtually anyone can. Furthemore, the new, hollow-bodied boats are very tough and virtually unsinkable. And yes, I tried during my trial. Just like with my fishing gear I like to see where the weak points are BEFORE, not during the event. <br />
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I had a little go with LRF type lures, anyhow, for no longer than half an hour admittedly, because it is April and you appreciate just how cold the water still is when you've been in it several times. I caught nothing- but then again, even the dad and lad crabbing in the corner blanked, which probably tells you it's too early. For the novelty alone though I may well come back. <br />
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Fish or no fish, I was pleasantly surprised by the kayak as a fishing platform. Built in rod holders are snug too and you get several, plus two posher kayak rod mounts, as standard. Another thing a lot of kayak anglers surely must ask though, is "what happens if I drop my rod or paddle?" If you are unlucky, the answer is " it disappears and you never see it again." Which is why I would recommend buying a leash or three: <br />
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These are made for retaining paddles- and very sensible too because you're not going anywhere other than the proverbial sh** creek without a paddle. But they also provide one of the best ways to avoid losing rods when kayak fishing. <br />
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<b>Kayak fishing sessions to come</b><br />
So, having completed my crash course in kayaking, it shouldn't be too long until I hit the water for a day out. I'll let you know how I get on. The sea is an obvious target, but I also get the feeling that this would be great fun on lakes- if you can only get past the health and safety Nazis. Permission can be a sod (it's the same issue with float tubing). But there are a few freshwater options I'll be exploring over the summer. <br />
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One of the most exciting of all options this summer is a series of <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/events-info/kayak-adventure-days-2016/">kayak fishing days on Wimbleball Lake</a>, also being run by Channel Kayaks. Hats off really, because permission is the main barrier to trying. With kayak and gear hire plus a fishing ticket for under £100 these look just the ticket and I've already wangled a place on the event taking place on June 1st. Grab a look at the event details <a href="http://www.channelkayaks.uk/events-info/kayak-adventure-days-2016/">HERE</a> for more info- but if you ever wanted to try kayak fishing without risking a fair sized investment, this is very much the way to do it and from what I've seen so far this looks great (Chris Ogborne is one of the guides on these days, who is not only a great host but a former international angler of huge knowledge!). <br />
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<b>Guided Fishing Update</b><br />
The other thing I am hugely looking forward to hugely this summer is taking more visitors out for guided fishing trips in Devon and Cornwall. There have already been some lovely highlights in the spring- not least of all teaching two intrepid brothers Oscar and Austin to fish at St. Tinney Farm with their father. <br />
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Now, a lot of boys of this age just want to get fishing and casting and, as much as I love their enthusiasm, a lot of what I say tends to go in one ear and out the other. Not with these two though. You could tell they have a school teacher in the family with mum, because they sat, watched and listened ever so well to learn how to set up a float, how to plumb the depth and all those other little basic angling skills that are so important. <br />
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The result of listening (for adults and kids aike!) is obvious; you catch more fish! They fished the margins very stealthily and effectively indeed. Best of all was when both hooked into fish at the same time. I think I was as thrilled as they were- hopefully a day they won't forget in a hurry! <br />
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In other guiding, I've also given recent pike and trout fishing lessons in East Devon and beyond. Whether it is a holiday activity, or a fiftieth birthday treat, I am always happy to oblige if I can. Sometimes I can take bookings at short notice too, but the diary does get crazy in the summer so it's usually best to give me plenty of warning and ask about dates; all the details are on my site<a href="http://www.dgfishing.co.uk"> HERE</a>. <br />
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Fishing Blogs and Articles on the way...</b><br />
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Last but not least, you may or may not have seen some of the other bits I've been producing, editing and writing lately. Not so long ago, the digital world was a totally unpaid minority of what I did as an angler. But in perhaps just three years, that has all changed. And while I always will be a devotee of books and print media, blogging is becoming just as vital. Here are some recent entries that really stood out, both from me and a couple of others: <br />
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<a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/5-top-urban-fly-fishing-tips/">Top 5 Urban Fly Fishing Tips: A fantastic little blog from my good friend and keen urban angler Theo Pike </a><br />
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<a href="http://www.rothaygarden.com/blog/general/lake-district-tarn-fishing"><br />
Lake District Tarn Fishing: Beautiful artwork and reflections from artist and Cumbria based angler Scott Winstanley.</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/river-fly-fishing-tips-for-coloured-water/">Fly Fishing in Muddy Waters: My own recent blog for Turrall, with some sound advice and hard-learned lessons on catching when our streams and rivers are fickle. </a><br />
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Otherwise, you'll find more musings, fishing ramblings and nonsense from me in the newly revamped Angling Times (collectible first issue in the new format out on Tuesday 26th April 2016), Fallon's Angler Issue 6 (which features a fishing trip in Cold War Berlin with the General) and various places elsewhere. I've also been back at the mini species and LRF fishing, with mixed results to say the least. Life has just got too busy to post it all on the blog quite frankly, but do keep reading and watch this space for more...<br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-35322344119770643832016-04-07T01:35:00.002-07:002016-04-09T02:41:15.484-07:00Fly Fishing in Poland: A Dunk in the "Protein River" Although my trips to Poland are not strictly fishing affairs, I’m always keen to test the waters of Silesia, where my other half’s family live. It isn’t always easy to balance inlaws and angling, but there is some fascinating fishing in this area of Southern Poland, with both lowland “coarse” rivers and lakes, along with some lofty and very beautiful fly fishing destinations. <br />
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The journey to Poland was an interesting one, crammed with three other voyagers into the confines of a small Fiat. Not exactly the vehicle of choice for the tall guy, but we survived and had some fun along the way, passing through no fewer than four countries on the 24 hour journey from England to Poland (France, Belgium, Holland and Germany). <br />
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I won’t subject you to a full report on Easter in Poland (something which is taken extremely seriously, from fasting to feasting and Catholic Mass). But suffice to say it always brings a smile to my face after the experience I had in 2014, which spawned one of the more bizarre fishing stories I’ve ever written (you could always grab a copy of <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/crooked-lines/">Crooked Lines</a>, for the complete yarn, which involves a rather miraculous resurrection that might confirm any brother of the angle's faith).<br />
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The real adventure began after the Easter weekend, however, as we met with Polish fly fishing enthusiast Arek Kubale and his good lady Agneiszka for an adventure in the Silesian mountains. Admittedly, it would be a fleeting and opportunistic visit rather than a meticulously planned fishing session. But I was looking forward immensely to trying the River Bobr (or “Beaver River”), considered one of the finest places to go fly fishing for trout and grayling in Poland. <br />
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As I’ve explained before on this blog and in my writing, I believe there are a heck of a lot of misconceptions about fishing in Poland. Favourites include “they eat everything” quickly followed by “fishing in Poland must be terrible.” On the contrary, in fishing terms I believe Poland is a sleeping giant. There is a heck of a lot of water, space and variety here. Furthermore, it is ridiculously cheap in comparison to so many other EU fishing destinations (a pint of beer is about £1.40, a stay in a quality fishing lodge well under £20 a night). <br />
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There is a huge diversity of fishing and slowly but steadily the country is getting its act together. Like many other fisheries, the Bobr is now strictly catch and release fishing, for example, and better protected than ever thanks to Poland’s younger generation of predominantly catch and release fly fishers. <br />
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The journey itself was both beautiful and slightly jaded. Poland is a country where you’ll see a line of ramshackle sheds and a faux-Greek mansion in the same road. Where one guy owns a BMW and the next has a clapped out old banger and a bottle of moonshine. <br />
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And along with big inequality come the other issues. Arek and Aga pointed out one or two unfortunate ladies they refer to as “mushroom pickers” to more sensitive guests (in reality, rural based "women of ill repute" from the Ukraine and other desperately poor nations). It must then be a battle to keep a straight face as other inevitable comments follow ("she looks rather underdressed for the season..."). <br />
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We then had the delight of stopping in the amazing mountain city of Jelenia Gora ("Deer Mountain" in Polish) to stock up on supplies and enjoy local delicacies, including fabulous local doughnuts and some of the best Chinese food I've ever eaten at the "Shang Hai" restaurant. One of the joys of being a Brit in Poland is that you can enjoy the best of everything and still spend a heck of a lot less than you would at home. Unsurprisingly I also sampled several delicious Polish craft beers. <br />
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Unlike beer brewing, angling Tourism isn't hugely developed here just yet. I was in stitches, in fact, at some of Arek's tales of early fishing businesses trying to gain a foothold. One local guide clearly illustrated the dangers of Google Translate by using it as the sole means to reach English speakers on his site, only to be referred to as a certain "Mr Bastard" offering trips on the "Proteins River". Hmmm... sounds both offensive and nutritious! <br />
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I was still chuckling on the water, asking my host whether the trout on the "Protein River" were as fast growing as the name suggested. I wasn't chuckling for too long once immersed in the very cold waters of the River Bobr, however. Spring arrives quite late here and it was cold, with currents that threatened to knock me off balance as I searched near bank lies with a six weight streamer outfit borrowed from my host. I couldn't buy a bite, sadly, although the ice cool waters were perfect for cooling down a couple of ales that went down a treat with the juicy, smoky Polish sausages we barbequed. If there was a sausage World Cup, Poland would be Germany or Brazil. <br />
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With only an hour of light left to use, we then went to a huge dam and fished near the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FlyFishingCenterTartakNadBobrem/">Tartak Fly Fishing Lodge</a>. A great looking place this, and with the river cleaner than it has been in some time, not to mention well-policed catch and release rules, this is a fly and lure only fishery with big potential. <br />
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My timing was fairly terrible though, as I simply never received that tell tale whack on the streamer. Heck, the lesson here is that you cannot always combine a social trip with fishing and hope the fish will cooperate for you in the few hours you find to have a try. Just because I do this for a living, it doesn’t grant me any God-given right to turn up anywhere and catch. The fish don’t give a damn and on this occasion my name may as well have been Mr Bastard, with a permit to fish the Protein River. <br />
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Ironically, my only fish of the trip came from the briefest of sessions fishing on a flowing urban canal in Wroclaw. Last time I visited, this channel was totally dry and undergoing maintenance. It seemed bizarre to revisit and discover quite an inviting channel, with roach, chub, perch and even the odd giant catfish present! A small chub took pity on us in the end, gulping down a Goddard Caddis, and I'm not sure I've ever been so happy and relieved to catch such a modest fish. <br />
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The rest of the trip is hazy, having gained about half a stone in cured meats and vodka. The Poles are the best of hosts, but I am seriously considering becoming a vegetarian tee-totaller. <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-63433583487391661962016-03-16T13:09:00.002-07:002016-03-16T14:38:05.793-07:00Lure and Dropshot fishing in Somerset <a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/thumb_DSC_0181_1024_zpshhe2rwnv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/thumb_DSC_0181_1024_zpshhe2rwnv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo thumb_DSC_0181_1024_zpshhe2rwnv.jpg"/></a><br />
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The back end of the season can be tricky round these parts. By the time the waters of the Somerset Levels are in any state to fish, winter is almost over and time is slipping away. I had hoped to find a dropping River Tone, but instead went for early start on the Taunton to Bridgwater Canal with Russ Hilton. <br />
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It's not the easiest venue to find the perch. There are at least 11 miles of it, and it can be hard fishing with a lot of walking required. I'm not even about to start telling you specific locations on this blog (sorry), but suffice to say you need to use your feet and find your own fish. But I'm really enjoying catching on the ultralight gear at the moment. You can fit a whole whack of lures into a box no bigger than a backy tin. You can also change setups quickly, and these days I'm doing a lot of drop shotting with the flies too.<br />
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There are plenty of features on these canals, but it's funny how often you'll catch a good perch from a fairly innocuous looking spot. If you can find the wider parts and straights where the smaller bleak and roach are massed, you'll see the tiddlers being chased on cool mornings. As often as not, it's a jack pike. But just sometimes you'll find a perch, or even a gang of them. <br />
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I like a tiny, minnow-like lure for these weedy canals. I fished a small 2g head and a little Japanese, split-tail lure to start. Sometimes you can even spot the fish- and when it's like this the fly can be even better. But on this occasion, visibility wasn't perfect and the fish seemed to be lurking in the deeper central track and were hard to pick out. I had just the one good knock in the first half hour, and was connected to a fish that felt weighty but only stayed on for perhaps six seconds. Bugger. <br />
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Then Russ showed up and we hit another spot, covering a fair bit of ground to get well away from the access point. The obvious, snaggy features didn't produce- and instead it was a featureless straight, a little more coloured water, with the takes coming in the middle. <br />
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With experience, you often know it's a good perch quite early in the fight. They don't fly off like the small pike. They plod and turn, but it's still quite tense. Even more so when you missed that first chance. You may not get another. <br />
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In late winter, these canal perch are really at their best and fattest. The even more curious thing about lure and fly caught fish is that they tend to push their fins up. It's as if they're still bristling with bad intent, even once you've landed them. This one went 2lbs 10oz and was pictured quickly, before going straight back.<br />
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And that was pretty much it for the cut. Next stop, I tried a short session drop shotting on the river. I've been thoroughly enjoying this technique with my own designs for dropshot flies. With a fine rod, you can search all the little slacks and areas close to the bank really accurately. <br />
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I rig my flies exactly as you would a standard drop shot soft lure, with a Palomar knot. On this occasion, I quickly stepped up from an 8g to a 12g dropshot weight, just to give a little more control.<br />
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Some parts of the river are really mucky and it took some exploration to find the fish. I fooled a couple simply by flicking the fly on the edge of a shopping trolley. Pretty much all the early takers were perch: <br />
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That all changed though, with the rig flicked out in a reedy slack. I'd just bumped a perch, when something a lot more solid pulled back. A light lure outfit is less than ideal for an angry pike, but these days you can get a lot of poke even with "toy" kit. A slightly stepped up fluorocarbon leader also helps when there are odd small pike thrown in the mix: <br />
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So, the short sessions have been fun and useful, and in fact the only full day out I had was a pretty gruelling session fly fishing on Blagdon Lake. It was meant to be a mild day with Gary Pearson, but he was ill, so instead it was John Garnett I subjected to a breezy day after the trout. <br />
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To cut a long story short, bites were hard to come by. We found one point swim where bites occurred, and just after I lost a fish, the old man netted a rainbow on a scruffy but effective home-tied Blob.<br />
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We might have caught a few more, had the wind been less brutal. But after a second fish, we just had to find some sanctuary. <br />
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We caught up with the others in a more sheltered spot, where the locals were hitting odd fish but the the fishin continued to be tough. Simon from Turrall probably deserves most credit for managing a fish on the buzzer, but there wasn't a great deal else to shout about! <br />
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Next stop for me is the <a href="http://www.westcountrygamefair.co.uk/">West of England Game Fair</a>, where I'll be signing books, tying flies and by midday probably hoping that the bar opens early. Wish me luck and hope to see you on the bank soon. <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-73155292562765291102016-03-02T14:09:00.000-08:002016-03-02T14:19:46.969-08:00Street Fishing in Amsterdam, HollandIt’s probably fair to say that most visitors are not drawn to the Dutch capital by the lure of fish. Vast swathes of tourist attractions, bars and the unmistakable whiff emanating from the legendary Amsterdam coffee shops account for the bulk of map-wielding tourists, looking to enjoy Europe’s most supremely laid back, hedonistic city. <br />
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Those whose main vice is fishing, on the other hand, might also find a lot of reasons to fancy a trip to Amsterdam. A quick glance tells you that the whole city is full of canals, ponds and lakes. Most of them have fish, although with not a huge amount of guidance out there, it can be hard to assess the sport. Some folks will tell you there aren’t many; others will tell you there are species such as perch and zander throughout while the canals are the cleanest they’ve been in 40 years. Well worth a pop with some light lure gear, surely? <br />
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So what are your main considerations to fish there? Cheap flights are readily available and with the Dutch being arguably the most tolerant nation in Europe few areas are out of bounds, with a refreshing lack of those local Hitler types saying “you can’t do that” found on many UK canals. Let’s face it, if you can smoke jazz cigarettes or hire a harlot perfectly legally, nobody is going to be worried about you having a cheeky cast. Being English I actually asked one guy if I could fish all the water, to be told “this is Amsterdam, you can do what the hell you like!” <br />
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The whole workings of the city are a thing of wonder alone, which the UK could learn from. Public transport is excellent and cheap; bicycles hurtle around in their thousands. It feels truly multicultural and welcoming too; everyone just seems to get along. <br />
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Of course, even a very liberal city has rules. You might already be asking: do you need a license to fish in Amsterdam or Holland in general? It’s a tricky one. The obvious answer is yes, you need to buy the general license. Fortunately there are lots of tackle shops in Amsterdam (<a href="http://www.fishinginholland.com">here's a handy page where you can get a PDF list of shops</a>) . The fact that only annual tickets are available is a pain, but around 50€ is not desperately steep and allows you to fish a silly amount of water. I should also mention that you are fine to fish with most local guides, thanks to a kind of buddy system where guests can fish for free. <br />
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I didn’t have infinite time on my visit, as I didn’t want my girlfriend to freeze or get bored, but tried various locations. I tried the canal basin right where we were staying and also walked the banks of the Slotermeer- a giant urban lake, but the shallow bits within range were too cold to hold much life in the dead end of winter. <br />
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To be honest, it was a struggle and it was probably just as well that I’d booked a proper guided day with my friend Pim Pos, who I’d fished with in Norway previously. Not only is he a staggeringly keen lure angler, but has a wicked sense of humour and the sort of boundless optimism you need when the temperature drops. <br />
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We took a ride aboard his boat, the Dutch Dyke (not really) to explore the huge shipping canal above Central Station. It was an experience to say the least, cruising past huge ocean liners and skyscrapers. When you’re with a local you can also get into those parts that others don’t dare or even know about. Right outside the police station or behind a huge red ship busy loading up. And what a difference a well-organised guide makes. Besides lures and rods to cover every scenario, he also provided a thermal suit for my other half. <br />
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We used heavy dropshot tactics (20g sinker, 3-4” lures) in areas of ten metres or more in depth. But while the fishfinder showed signs of life, the fish were decidedly picky. Partly because this time of year is when the big zander are egg-bound and lose interest; partly because it was as cold as a whore’s heart. <br />
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An hour in and we had caught nothing. But another move or three and the knocks arrived. There is a special knack to this form of fishing, and it was instructive just watching Pim in action. Very slight “shivers” on the rod bring your lure to life- or sometimes just subtly raising and dropping a paddle tail lure as the boat gently moves. In competitions, a second “static” rod is often used- and even with only the action provided by the boat, fish are caught. He has a million other dodges too, and I’m keen to spill the beans with an article at some point. <br />
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It took a while, but I managed a nice perch to break my duck and suddenly it wasn’t all doom and gloom. And while the action was never hectic, it was a great lesson in concentrating to make the most of few chances. We added further perch and four very modest zander to provide some welcome action. Not a bad result considering the bitter conditions. This is the value of a guide- and if you want to book with Pim (whose surname “Pos” means “ruffe” in Dutch, rather appropriately) you could always drop him a line at: p.pos@hengelsport.com <br />
Besides the zander, the semi-salty waters around Amsterdam can also produce cod and whiting on lures! <br />
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Much to the relief of my other half, we also did some touristy stuff on the trip. We saw Rembrandt’s house and his famous nudes, while we also enjoyed local food and booze immensely. Dutch pancakes with bacon and maple syrup might sound wrong, but are devilishly good, as are the local beers. It might not be very rock'n'roll, but for me Amsterdam's craft beer bars held more appeal than the many coffeeshops and their notoriously strong weed. Brand IPA was an especially good brew; think punchy IPA crossed with Belgian beer and you get some idea. Paulina enjoyed a glass or two of this more than the fishing, I suspect:<br />
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The Weissbeers are ace too, especially with a few Bitter Ballen- seriously tasty, crunchy savoury little things, eaten with mustard:<br />
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The other notable event I only discovered very late in the day was the Amsterdam Street Fishing Competition. Having had no joy on the smaller canals around the city centre, I headed for the bigger, deeper waters around Central Station hoping for better, or at least a single touch. This is the trouble with having your birthday in February though- you dream up a big adventure but the fishing can be bloody cold and difficult. <br />
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I was sort of simultaneously disappointed and reassured to find that the competition anglers were also catching very little. I was also pleasantly surprised to bump into Dan Sales, who had also made the journey to Holland and was busy mucking in with the locals trying to winkle out a fish. Boy, it was tough though, so we continued to the large basin type area by the Nemo centre. Here's a Dutch specialist, trying to lift a perch from underneath Gandalf's arse: <br />
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I tried just about everything in the end. Scaling down my jigs. Dropshot tactics. Praying to the angling gods. Cursing the angling gods. It didn’t do a whole lot of good- and I suspect the whole competition was probably won with a modest perch or two. Not that the day wasn't entertaining. This is one of the more bizarre spots I tried, complete with an upturned pair of plastic legs: <br />
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I’d hate to write off the street fishing in Amsterdam so easily however. The local rods all told me there was decent sport here usually- just not on our visit. The shallower canals will also no doubt produce at other times- you just suspect that many fish move into the deeper channels for winter. The general consensus told me that the best time to visit is probably autumn. Which is when I’m already thinking of a return, because Amsterdam is simply too fascinating not to do so. And I also have that bloody one year ticket to use. <br />
Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-58550605484675979862016-02-24T00:59:00.000-08:002016-02-24T01:01:51.307-08:00Fly Fishing at Simpson Valley, North DevonIf there is one glaring contrast between coarse and game fishing in the UK, it is that of catch and release practise. On stocked stillwaters, certainly, the coarse side is never “catch and kill” (unless you’re breaking the law) while the fly side is almost always exactly this; catch your bag and sling your hook, so to speak. <br />
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Which is why <a href="http://www.simpsonvalleyfishery.co.uk">Simpson Valley Fishery</a> makes a refreshing change. There are very few catch and release fly fisheries in Devon, full stop. Owners fear that their fish will either grow wary or they will lose stock anyway, due to the fragility of rainbow trout and (so, shoot me), the not very brilliant catch and release skills of many game anglers. Perhaps this is connected to the lack of catch and release fisheries?!!<br />
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But here, at least, in a quiet corner of North Devon, the game changes a little. You don’t have that risk of your day being over in under an hour, effectively, should the fish be too bold and easy to catch. Nor do you end up with four trout in the freezer when you only really needed one (even my trout in mustard sauce loses its charm after a couple of nights). Equally refreshing, as some readers might note with interest, you are free to lure fish here provided you use single barbless hooks. <br />
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A £20 day ticket is decent value for quality rainbow trout fishing, but fisheries such as this, and their stocks, need respect if the owners are to continue offering such tickets. Sensible rules include barbless hooks only and these tickets only running through the colder months, since rainbows suffer much higher mortalities in warm water. Nor should you take the piss, and I can think of little more pointless than catching silly numbers of trout by pulling streamers through the water. No, this is the type of fishery to try a subtle approach and enjoy testing different presentations with smaller flies. <br />
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Much as I enjoy getting features and pictures done, I like to keep a good number of sessions for pure pleasure these days. Excessive target setting and deadlines can be the enemy of fun. So I took my dad, a self-confessed fair weather fisher, for a semi-lazy day out. <br />
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At first, the trout were a little slow to respond on Mallard Lake. I tried a long leader with a Superglue Buzzer on point, but it was a Diawl Bach on the dropper that got the first take. A pretty fish of about a pound and a half, I barely handled it at all, keeping it wet using the landing net head in the margin. There really isn’t any need to yank these fish out and have them flap on the bank and get stressed. <br />
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But with the lake flat calm for the next hour or so, sport was slow and it didn’t take me long to dig a pike fly setup out of the car. Mallard is unusual in containing pike. Most fly fishery owners wouldn’t dream of stocking any. You don’t suspect there are many big pike in the lake; you tend to see little jacks that probably stay small, because they cannot handle the rainbows and without any coarse fish beyond the occasional perch they probably struggle to kick on. Even so, it’s worth a go for them here in your trout session, because there are almost certainly one or two good fish. <br />
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I did a lap of the whole lake in around an hour, running a large pike fly into every likely area. In fairness I did see one, and it was a good twenty…. centimetres. By which time, the breeze was picking up and I felt reasonably confident the trout would respond better. <br />
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Such is the way with buzzer fishing. If it’s flat calm, you have to manipulate the flies more. Nothing like as good as casting into a nice ripple and simply letting the flies drift with very little retrieve to speak of. Do nothing is often the best policy- just wait for the pull. <br />
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The bites were not always positive on a cool afternoon. With the next bite, the only signal was my leader “sinking” a bit too quickly. This in itself was an indication that the fish were a little higher in the water than I’d expected. In fact, you can tell a lot by the time it takes to get a bite, especially when you’re barely retrieving the flies. If it’s a good minute or more after casting out, you can be fairly sure that the fish are several feet down. Savvy anglers will then switch to heavier or lighter flies in order to spend more time in the “take zone.” <br />
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Pretty soon, the fair weather king also struck. And although we pretend not to keep score on these trips, he hit a run of trout to come from 2-0 down to 3-2 in the lead. <br />
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If anything, the action seemed better on the smaller Skylark lake, where the wind was concentrating the fish in one corner. I was getting bites on a Black Superglue Buzzer, but it still wasn’t plain sailing, with many bites quite tentative. Eventually, a switch to a smaller fly worked best- in this case a size 14 Satanic Buzzer, which has to be one of the greatest trout flies never to be commercially produced! Basically it’s a buzzer with two little red flexi-floss horns. <br />
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Could we have cleaned up on lure style flies? I don’t really care, because I love fishing the buzzer, using the elements for a natural presentation and picking out those subtler takes. We finished with a dozen trout between us, every one of them unhooked in the landing net with minimal handling. <br />
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A very pleasant and increasingly rare day off I’d say, with twelve trout between us a nice result for a crisp, cold day without a great deal of breeze or insect life! This is a cracking winter fishery and the C&R tickets run through till 1st of April if you’re keen to try. It’s also a spot I’ve used successfully on several occasions for guided fly fishing trips in Devon; do drop me a line if you fancy learning to fly fish, or refining your casting and fishing skills (<a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/guided-fly-fishing-in-devon/">more details on all my fishing tuition and guided angling here</a>). <br />
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Last but not least, do take a look at the current <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/">Turrall Flies Blog</a> for more fishing tips and some superb fly patterns. Chris Ogborne recently gave us a cracking little blog post on gearing up for saltwater sport, while the next entry will be focused on catch and release tips that both coarse and fly anglers can learn from. It still surprises me how few words are written on this important subject each season, while we cover tactics, baits and venues to death! To my mind, it’s something even experienced anglers can improve at and learn more about their quarry- myself included. Check out all the blog posts <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/">HERE.</a><br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-71405682055897389302016-02-17T09:44:00.003-08:002016-02-17T10:03:53.474-08:00BFFI 2016<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/thumb_DSC_0769_1024_zpssykxxasc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/thumb_DSC_0769_1024_zpssykxxasc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo thumb_DSC_0769_1024_zpssykxxasc.jpg"/></a><br />
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Fishing has often been described as a solitary sport. An inward looking one, even. Which is why the big fishing events such as the British Fly Fair International are so refreshing in turning this idea on its head. Having attended for six years or so on the trot, I can only describe it as a family affair. And in simple terms, the greatest gathering of anglers, fly tyers, guides and specialist fly fishing shops and organisations in the UK. And the lovely thing about attending each year is that you get to know so many ruddy brilliant and creative people. <br />
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So where do I start? As good a place as any would be the "Fly Tyers' Row". The men and women you meet here are the heartbeat of the event, and the reason it's almost impossible not to leave the show with new ideas buzzing around your brain. And at the BFFI you get everything from classic salmon flies to saltwater specials. Branches once on the edge of the sport also start to become the mainstream, which is great to see. To take just one example, the quality of pike and predator flies gets better each year, as evidenced by Martin Smith: <br />
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As for the smallest flies in the show, that prize has to go to Roger Salomonsson. These cased midges were truly minute flies, tied right down to size 26 and smaller! To some it might seem an unnecessary obsession, but those who have ever struggled with fussy trout eating tiny insects will know the value of having some real tiddlers in your collection. Lovely work:<br />
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It was also great to meet up with the Turrall team and watch Gary Pearson at the vice. He has a really keen eye for a stillwater pattern, with beautifully refined nymphs and lures. There'll be more on the way on the <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/">Turrall Flies blog </a> too; the latest entry features saltwater fly fishing tips, but Gary's top flies will also feature very soon to set you in good stead for the new stillwater trout season: <br />
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It was a nice problem to have, but the show was so busy I couldn't often leave my stand. Which is probably just as well because I could spend a fortune on the latest materials, tackle and fly tying gubbins. I travel up with John Horsfall, who tries to spend money, while I try to keep it. Which can be harder than you thought, with all the treasures on display. <br />
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David Miller's work always catches my eye. I've been a fan for years, and was thrilled to have his artwork feature on the cover of <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/tangles-pike-first-edition-hardback-signed-author/">Tangles With Pike</a>. Others of you might have seen his brilliant set of British stamps, picturing threatened and sustainable sea fish. For more David Miller fish art, do <a href="http://www.davidmillerart.co.uk/">take a look at his official site HERE</a>.<br />
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As for the materials and suppliers, I just couldn't get to all of it. But you can literally find almost anything at the fair. Fly tying, just like fishing as a whole, is becoming less sniffy and more open. I was especially heartened to chat to plenty of anglers who now target coarse fish, not to mention a healthy number of younger anglers and ladies at the show, to give the old boys a run for their money! Because the truth of it is that there is space for every style and every one of us, from young to old, traditional feathers to space age materials. This is not an off-the-peg sport with fixed rules, which is exactly why it attracts folks with character and creativity in spades; you can tie and fish exactly as you like and little is now out of bounds. The only certainty is that there will be even more surprises next year. <br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-22520968165069864362016-02-03T14:04:00.002-08:002016-02-05T13:11:14.574-08:00Reservoir and Gravel Pit Pike Fishing<br />
While I can always wax lyrical about catching pike on the small waters near my home, I've also been lured by the bigger waters lately. Longer journeys mean bigger risks but also bigger rewards. The very nature of writing means that I have to be nomadic and cover as many stories and experiences as possible. But hit and hope doesn't always pay off. You need a bit of local knowledge, or at least some luck. <br />
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Or you need a local nutter, like Polish angler Seb Nowosiad. We were once thick as thieves fishing on the gravel pits. We fished many of these waters and the trips would take up whole weekends. It was survival at times, besides hunting down pike. We camped out, fished and sometimes damned nearly froze together.<br />
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My article in the current <a href="http://fallonsangler.net">Fallon's Angler</a> brought it all back. His wild enthusiasm for pike fishing. His daft superstitions. Seb thinks shaving is terrible luck on the day you fish. He also thinks bananas will lead to disaster if you are fishing on any kind of boat. <br />
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Our original aim was to go pike fishing on Llangorse Lake, but trying to get any information, let alone a boat for the day was like trying to contact the dead. So instead we headed north to Farmoor Reservoirs, an imposing concrete bowl of immense size where the likes of Paul Garner and Andy Black slay big pike for fun, while the rest of us slowly freeze and stare. <br />
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With the sun on your face it was nice just to be out searching the lake though. The structure looked good, I have to say. Classic features here for big perch and trout, and perhaps I should have brought the fly rod. But instead we were hurling big, bold jerk baits and soft lures for the pike. We fished aggressively and covered a lot of water, but the only brief excitement came from the trout. This one hit a lure of 4.5 inches and for all of five seconds fooled us that it was a pike. <br />
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With the gales heavy by three o'clock, however, we thought it would be best to find a more sheltered spot for the next day, and so it was off to try pike fishing on the gravel pits. We had to stop on route just to stock up on supplies, get all the usual bloke stuff- beer, bacon, backy. And because Seb had forgotten to bring any kind of sleeping bag. <br />
"Nah mate, I'll be okay," he says. I virtually have to insist on him buying a blanket. He is a tough but silly bastard sometimes. <br />
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Our spot on the pit is only reached in cover of darkness, thanks to the traffic. But it's here the adventure starts. Putting up a bivvy under the headtorch. Feeling the first bite of the wind as you bundle your gear in for the night. I'm convinced our best chance of action will be first light, but once we're set up we also put a rod out each. <br />
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I have mixed feelings about night fishing for pike. You do have to be attentive and quick off the mark. You have to stay close to your rods. Big baits also help at night, because even a large pike won't swallow them instantly. So it was a whole sardine for me, and a half lamprey for Seb. And for us, a pan of curry and some IPA.<br />
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Seb Nowosiad is hilarious. He's the sort of bloke who will open a can of beans with a machete, start singing or even drop a conspiracy theory on you, after he's had a third shot of Jagermesiter. <br />
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Even though this was our first long trip in quite a while, the camp was fairly well organised. Just as well, because the wind lashed out all night, while not very much happened. At one point we had to hold down the corners to stop the bivvy being levered up from the ground by the wind. Rough stuff, but we laughed at the madness of it and at perhaps two or three in the morning things finally calmed. <br />
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It was a little after first light that my first run arrived. The bait had been positioned on the near shoulder of a bay on the pit. It had been half an hour or so after I'd just recast a fresh bait, chopping up and ground baiting with the old one. The clip fell and the line pinged free. It kicked steady but only really felt big as it came towards the net. I'm always eager to hook them cleanly and net them quickly. But you can rush them too, especially when it looks like the biggest pike you've seen in some time. <br />
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Just a shade over seventeen pounds and beautifully proportioned. And then, for pretty much the whole morning, it was Seb's turn. The next two were good doubles- and at one point I had to help with one fish while the other rod also went off! We had brought plenty of bait too, and built up the area by repeatedly throwing in old baits and chopped pieces. It's also good practise to keep recasting baits. With a lot of weed present, it also seemed sensible to pop the baits up. <br />
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We had also tried lures at intervals and hopping swims, but in the end it was the same area that kept producing. It's not my preferred fishing style, but by sticking to one area you will certainly intercept moving fish at intervals. You'll pick up different pike at different times of the day too, as they become active and roam the pit. <br />
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It was Seb who predicted the best fish would come later, in the afternoon, and he was correct when I got a really brutal run. It almost seemed that the fish had hooked itself, such was that first rush. It seemed to take a tense age to get within range. I then saw the length of it and things became serious. Big fish! <br />
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A lovely pike, it was exceptionally long and went 22lbs 2oz. She was well behaved for a quick snap too. I do like to get into with wellies or waders these days, and hold the fish over the water for that final shot or two. You won't harm your catch at all, even if you were to drop it, and the water itself makes a nice light background. <br />
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It must have taken me a good couple of days just to properly thaw out and feel normal. I quite often sleep little- or sleep irregularly- on overnight fishing trips. But the fire is burning again, and I'll be back out soon. <br />
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<a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/">Don't forget, if you enjoy my blog do look out for my angling books. <i>Tangles with Pike</i> has further pike fishing articles and adventures, and you can also buy it together with <i>Crooked Lines</i> for just £20 right now. </a><br />
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Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-68886252398104971352016-01-16T13:53:00.001-08:002016-01-16T13:58:55.862-08:00Floodwater Piking and Flounder on Lures<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/JAN_BLOG_LRF_%20-%204_zpso8sss4d6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/JAN_BLOG_LRF_%20-%204_zpso8sss4d6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo JAN_BLOG_LRF_ - 4_zpso8sss4d6.jpg"/></a><br />
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I’ve always loved unusual fishing and the sport’s capacity to spring a surprise, but even compared to my oddest adventures, my one day mission this week was bonkers. To be brutally honest I wondered whether I was on a hiding to nothing as I sped towards Dorset and saw trickling streams rendered into gruesome, muddy flows.<br />
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I was looking forward to catching up with Nathan Edgell, but fancied that even with his knack of catching specimen river pike we would need a big slice of luck, or our brains testing. Along the access path to the fishery alone, we were up to our thighs- and perilously close to that annoying leak in my waders, just around “Crown Jewels” level. And then it was tricky to see where the fields ended and the river began. <br />
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Now, I’m not going to give away the whole story in this hasty blog, but if I can give you any inkling as to how Mr Edgell catches so many pike it has nothing to do with fancy tackle or secret tactics and everything to do with his willingness to be mobile and get stuck in. He is like the Heineken of pike anglers- the one who gets to the parts others don’t reach. By which I mean he gets stuck into the bits most of us walk right past or take one look at and think “no way.” <br />
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Not only did he winkle out a pike on the day, but he did so on a lure and the fish was absolutely cracking! There’s a great article there, with some revealing dodges anyway. More to follow...<br />
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It was only later in the day when I managed one of my own. With takes at a premium, I decided to put my final efforts into an hour or two with a sardine in a tempting looking slack. I managed to trip and almost totally fall in just getting into a position where I could fish properly. Boy was it cold. I was starting to shiver when the float started to take a walk- and in a split second all discomfort was forgotten and it was just man against pike. <br />
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It was a pretty and hard-fighting fish too. It fought harder than some much larger fish I’ve caught. Nothing like as big as Nathan’s, but hey- that’s a pretty normal state of affairs for anyone who follows his exploits! I didn’t bother to weigh it, but it looked like a scraper double. It also had the top of its tail missing- perhaps an otter attack, but I couldn’t say. Perhaps one of you blog readers might be able to enlighten me? It looked well healed and the fish was fit. <br />
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I was literally shaking with cold as I left for the coast to catch up with another fishing pal I hadn’t seen in a while. I last met up with Andy Mytton on a towpath zander fishing trip (hence his appearance in my Canal Fishing book). Ever since then though, I’ve been staggered by the sheer variety of sea fish he catches on lures. Unless, like a goby, you’ve been hiding under a rock, you can’t have failed to notice how Light Rock Fishing or LRF is getting increasingly popular. And having done a lot of recent fishing with light lure gear for perch, a visit to the sea was overdue. <br />
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One species not usually associated with lure fishing had particularly piqued my interest however. Flounder are a childhood favourite that I’ve always had a soft spot for. They look almost comical, but if you are a shrimp or crab these are mass murderers. Even so, I expected it to be a tough challenge to tempt one on a lure. If anyone could help me it was Andy and his pal Ricki Hill, who are real specialists when it comes to fishing the salt with small lures. <br />
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While the river that morning had been a scene of millionaire’s houses and the Green Wellie Brigade, the Dorset town where we met was a world away. On exiting the warmth of the car I saw a rat running along a wall and the police speed past. Some poor homeless chap was hunkering down for the night in a sleeping bag and the waters looked eerie. <br />
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Again, I can’t spoil the whole surprise here, because Andy’s tactics and observations were fascinating deserve a proper article later this year, not a filleted blog entry, to do justice. But By working tiny worm style lures low and slow close to features we managed to draw the odd bite. <br />
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Ricki had just caught a little school bass when my own chance came. I’d had a suspicious pluck already, when a few casts later the little rod went bouncing over. I was instantly transported to being twelve again with a cry of “I’ve got one, I’ve got one!” And yes, it was a flounder! <br />
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I cannot quite convey just how chuffed I was with this fish. Perhaps it’s because I’ve tried and failed to catch these fish on flies. I now know it’s possible without bait though, and the fly rod will make another appearance this year- no doubt aided by Andy and Ricki’s fascinating tactics and observations on the species.<br />
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Beyond flounder there are a whole galaxy of species to target with the light gear too. Ideal for the “toy” rod I’ve enjoyed using so much for perch lately. Delightful and unusual fishing, with both a world of detail and quite specialized stuff but also perfect for big kids. Right up my street- and I can’t wait to experiment further with both tiny lures and flies this year. <br />
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Otherwise, it looks like winter might finally be here. Anything but more rain I say! I wish you tight lines in the meantime anyway and should you fancy some more reading I've also updated the <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/fly-fishing-resolutions-for-2016/">Turrall Flies Blog</a> and received another incoming <a href="http://fishing-with-the-general.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/river-therapy.html">report from The General that you can read here</a>. Keep warm and be lucky! Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-21160851306188838812016-01-09T04:19:00.000-08:002016-01-09T04:27:32.897-08:00Rough RewardsStrange and often grim weather has been the challenge of recent fishing. Sure, you can stay in and just look out of the window with dread when the winds hit home and rivers rise. But quite often, braving rough conditions seems to result in good fishing. <br />
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To be brutally honest, I think I’ve got it wrong on quite a few days this season. I’ve chickened out in the gales and sat it out with baits. But the weather has been so mild this winter, you get the feeling that the pike are often still more willing to chase than pick up a static bait. <br />
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On slow pike fishing days, I start to think Exeter Ship Canal should be renamed Exeter Shit Canal. The rumours start to spread, about cormorants and poachers and tackle shy pike. I fished for two blanks on the trot with bait, before I got restless and tried a spot of fly fishing. <br />
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The weather looked absolutely foul that morning, as I hit the water I for first light. I could just about make the fly out as it returned to my feet. I snuck into a cramped little spot and tried the margin, just a few yards along the bank. Even the margins on these ship canals can be quite deep, so it’s important to let the fly sink and not retrieve too fast. <br />
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On this occasion, I tried a nine-weight set up and the monstrous pink fly my mate Dave West Beale calls The Gay Assassin. I’ve said it before, but pink is so underrated for pike and predator flies. It really stands out in almost any conditions. In this case I also add an obscene dose of flash too, with a generous pinch of UV tinsel such as Multiflash: <br />
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Encouraged by reasonable clarity, I had only made a couple of casts when something whacked the fly. A rush and then gone. Perhaps it hadn’t felt the hook or had some sort of prejudice against pink though, because the next take was even more savage.<br />
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Four or five pounds of lean, fit pike. And so it continued for about an hour, with four other, similar sized and smaller jacks providing plenty of hits. Pete Wilkins also joined me, putting a flatwing pike streamer through the margins and getting followed by the best we saw on the day, of perhaps seven or eight pounds, that watched with a beady eye but just wouldn’t open wide. <br />
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When the weather got really foul, Pete’s camper van also came in very handy to drink coffee, have a catch up and and discuss Exeter’s FA Cup tie with Liverpool. I think you could survive the apocalypse in this vehicle, which also provides an ideal den for Rocky, a giant, hairy and delightfully dopey Alsatian. <br />
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I’ve spent too many weeks fishing solo, if at all, of late though. Writing for a living can do that to you. So it was also pleasure to speak to the Somerset Pike Anglers’ Club lads at their January meeting and catch up with so many familiar faces. That said, I had spent Monday morning feeling a bit like a pike myself, after a hospital procedure involving a camera on a long tube and my throat. They were sporting enough to release me afterwards, but it wasn’t pleasant. <br />
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Among other topics were my use of single hooks for pike, whether it comes to fly, lure or bait fishing these days. The deadbait rig has been working a treat in fact, ideally with nice soft baits such as sardine. A lot of the drains and canals in both Devon and Somerset are muddy at present, so I do also tend to groundbait. Yes, it is a little extra bother, but I think it’s worthwhile. Rather than just getting a quick run, you can almost build the swim. This is especially worthwhile where you find spots with a lot of small fish topping, and you fancy there might be several pike. I use nothing fancy- just brown crumb and chopped fish. Works for me anyway; this was the best of three fish, at just over sixteen pounds. <br />
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Of course, pike aren't the only fish to target at this time of the year. Trout fishing continues right through the roughest weeks of winter. For any of you who enjoy fly fishing, my recent Turrall blogs are worth a look: <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/">www.turrall.com/blog/</a><br />
Whatever you fish for in 2016, I wish you crooked lines and happy hunting. <br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Blog_Jan_2016%20-%202_zpsiiqcjd1e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Blog_Jan_2016%20-%202_zpsiiqcjd1e.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Blog_Jan_2016 - 2_zpsiiqcjd1e.jpg"/></a>Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-4983669960884480262015-12-19T05:49:00.000-08:002015-12-19T05:56:40.326-08:00Pike, Poles and PostHello, humbug, bloody hell and that. It's fifteen degrees and pissing it down here in Exeter, yet it's only days till Christmas. It has been an exciting but busy time for me. I've been making an absolute nuisance of myself in the local Post Office, with piles of books that make queues form and customers curse. Thanks to all of you who've bought <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/crooked-lines/"><i>Crooked Lines</i></a>. Many of you will have to wait till Christmas itself to read it, of course! Still enough time to order for the big day, if you're quick! Do enjoy it and let me know what you think. <br />
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Balancing books, a day job and other bits can be challenging, but I also managed to grab a rare full day off in the week to head north for a spot of pike fishing on the Somerset Levels. The idea was to have a roam a couple of rivers and drains in the morning, before meeting up with Marcin Kwasniewski, a very useful lure fisherman with a surname that I'd imagine the Somerset locals have all sorts of fun with. A really good bloke anyway, who's also bailiff in Somerset, protecting his local waters from poaching. <br />
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Torrential rain had put the dampness on things a bit. You all know my mania for fly fishing, but I'm also pragmatic when it comes to pike fishing methods and do spend some time bait fishing each season. So I packed a couple of rods, some sardines and mackerel. <br />
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I tend to catch much greater numbers of pike on lures and flies than I do on dead baits, but in muddy water you sometimes need all the help you can get. I started on the West Sedgemoor Drain, which appropriately rhymes with rain. Conditions felt reasonable as I got there as it was barely light. I put a few yards between myself and the access point, before casting two dead baits out at intervals, spending little more than 20 minutes in each spot. It's a method that has served me well in the past, but today I simply could not buy a bite. I tried everything, but somehow it didn't look right. These little drains do switch on and off. Sometimes they get badly poached, or suffer from pollution or severe weather patterns. I guess that's both the joy and the gamble of fishing the Levels. Last years best fishing spots are today's duds, while elsewhere the reverse is true. <br />
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So off I went, taking one look at an even higher river, before trying another drain. This time I found better water clarity- not perfect, but better. There were immediately plenty of smaller fish showing. A really good, and cheap, predator fishing tip I can share from a few recent sessions is to take some left over bread with you. Or just buy a cheap white loaf. If you fish any water with a good head of silver fish, this can be a huge help to draw predators. You can easily mix it into ground bait on the bank too. Just pop three or four slices of bread in your landing net head and dunk into the margins. You can then just mash it up in your hands. <br />
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I quite often bait a couple of spots with a ball or two. I'll then fish elsewhere for a bit, but return after and hour or more and cast close to the feed. It works staggeringly well to draw in the tiddlers- and many of our Westcountry drains and canals have lots of small roach, skimmers and also invasive sun bleak aka "motherless minnows" in Somerset. If you can get these swarming, it creates a chain reaction. I know it's a fishing tip my good friend and fellow blogger Russ Hilton also swears by and besides groundbaiting for pike, we've also used this trick to catch big perch. <br />
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Another thing I've been doing for the past few seasons is trying single hook rigs for pike. Could these be a more pike friendly, long term alternative to treble hooks? I definitely think so. I feel that too many pike anglers don't really give single hooks a proper chance. We lose a fish or two and abruptly decide it's not for us. But if you persevere, they really do work well- or at least, I haven't noticed a big increase in fish not getting hooked or coming off. <br />
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Two things you must do, however, with single hook rigs. First, do use a large, wide gape hook (I tend to use Cat Master hooks in sizes 1 to 2/0). You must also adjust your baits a little. Chunks of lamprey or mackerel will work, but avoid big, tough baits that impair the strike. In fact, my favourite offering is sardine, which comes off easily with a firm strike, to let the hook penetrate. I also hair rig the baits on my single hook pike rigs, just to avoid losing them on the cast. <br />
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I was struggling at first but the clearer water in the second spot made me more confident. An hour in without a bite, I dropped straight onto my bread spot. Through my polarising glasses I could see little shapes turning and there was still a little white of the mashed bread on the bottom. I tossed a sardine just to the side of this and as I watched the bait flutter to the bottom, I immediately saw a decent fish move in and scoff the bait. It went nuts, but the single hook found its mark and I netted a reasonable pike without too much fuss. <br />
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What I really like about the large single hook is how perfectly it hooks fish, right in the side of the jaw- no getting fouled up with gills like small trebles. Removing the hooks from pike is so much easier with just that one single too. <br />
The fish looked like it should go eight or so pounds with any kind of girth, but still very welcome at a lean six or so I would guess. <br />
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I tried a few different tricks on the day. Another was a small drifted roach, a method those of you who've read <i>Tangles With Pike</i> will know I also favour well. But it was a simple, static presentation that worked for two further jacks, both on a sardine and a single hook rig. There's a feature in it at some point, but for now suffice to say that single hooks are working well for me. <br />
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Just as the drizzle picked up, it was time for me to shift again, and drive a few miles further to meet Marcin out on the Levels. I'm going to be writing a little feature on his approach to lure fishing and life, for early 2016. We only had a couple of hours proper light, but I got some great shots and some really interesting lure fishing tips too. He catches a lot currently on little SpinMad lures- ingenious little hybrid lures with a tremendous kick and vibration. A little taste below, but watch this space for the full story.<br />
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Anyway, I wish all of my blog readers a great Christmas and hope you get some fishing in. If you've yet to treat yourself or a friend to a copy of <i>Crooked Lines<i> there's still a little time to order at <a href="http://www.dgfishing.co.uk">www.dgfishing.co.uk</a> and I promise to send all subsequent orders first class. YOu'll also find it at the evil empire of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Crooked-Lines-Collection-Fishing-Stories/dp/0993120415/ref=sr_1_2_twi_pap_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1450529782&sr=8-2&keywords=crooked+lines">www.amazon.co.uk</a> where it can also be bought as a £4.99 E-Book, as can <i>Tangles With Pike</i> <br />
With so many of the current celebrity fishing books retailing for £25 or more, that has to represent good value. But another benefit of independent publishing is that I can keep prices affordable. Don't forget, you can also <a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/tangles-with-pike-crooked-lines/">buy both of my most recent books for just £20 at www.dgfishing.co.uk</a><br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Marcin_AM%20-%201%201_zpsfiy7saqh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Marcin_AM%20-%201%201_zpsfiy7saqh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Marcin_AM - 1 1_zpsfiy7saqh.jpg"/></a>Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-32720158069772643372015-12-12T03:21:00.001-08:002015-12-12T04:10:42.538-08:00Casting into the WindIt’s a curious phenomenon that brutal storms and weather patterns are given names these days. We’ve had Desmond, Eva and there might even be a Nigel on the way. But I’ve had some other, less pleasant words lately for the type of high winds that tangle lines and send the lids of your bait tubs sailing off like kites. None of my recent trips have been easy. I enjoyed (or endured?) a mad, wild and windy Christmas match with Tiverton Angling Club. Amazingly, there was a fifty strong turn out on a day of 40mph gusts and rain. <br />
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So how did I do? The far bank line was written off for most of the match, as fishing any great distance with the pole felt lethal. So I started by fishing bread punch down the middle, a method that works so well on our fairly clear Westcountry canals. But I also fed a couple of chopped worm lines as backup.<br />
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Keeping the bait still was a huge problem. Small roach still bit avidly at the start, but it was a battle to tempt the fussier, better fish. Perhaps my keenest memory is of looking across at the bloke in the next peg, the wind howling and both of us just shaking our heads and laughing at each other, as if to say “yes, this is ridiculous and we must be a bunch of twats.” The onslaught of wind got even stronger, if anything. At one point I swung in a one ounce roach that suddenly accelerated towards my head at about 50mph. <br />
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But there was also just a minute of chilling drama. I’d switched to a heavier rig and a larger piece of bread when the float dipped, the elastic plunged and I could feel a good bream nodding away on the bottom of the canal. If anything, perhaps I was too eager to try and net it early. Whatever the truth, it was just coming up to the net when something went ping, the rig flew up in the air and I was left with a tangle and that sinking feeling. <br />
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That was about the only chance of glory I really got, although the chopped worm lines produced some late bites and a nice hybrid. Enough to take me over the pound mark for a hard fought 520g. Never mind, it was a great event and excellent to see all the local angling characters out in force. Only five anglers managed above 5lbs, with Ali Robinson the winner with 3.560 kg a very good net, given the wretched conditions. <br />
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But I had happier returns at one or two of my perch spots elsewhere. After fishing a match, it’s great to be able to choose your spot and fish exactly how you please. You’d wait too long between bites, for example, fishing something like a whole prawn. But I’ve been trying these over chopped worm, both in obvious perchy bits of cover, but also straight down the middle of typical canals and drains. The best of these two went 2-11. <br />
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It was also perch I was hoping for with a visit from my excellent friend David West-Beale, who has been developing a real habit of catching big perch on the fly. His tactics are fascinating, with rods as light as a three weight used to tame fish to over three pounds from his own local canal (as you can read on his splendid recent blog post <a href="http://www.fishingtails.co.uk/fly-fishing-perch-and-eternal-youth/">"Fly Fishing, Perch and Eternal Youth"</a>)<br />
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I’m sure he found our waters clearer for one thing. But we had some very bright conditions at first, as we had a quick go at the river. I’ve been really enjoying drop shotting recently, with a real toy rod, a 7ft wand that casts 2-12g. Not with soft baits though, but flies. You can use all sorts of small streamers and trout lures, but I’ve developed my own alongside Turrall Flies using drop shot hooks and a blend of traditional and new materials.<br />
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It was mucky work, among all the winter wreckage, but I like a crisp little set up to test little slacks and holes, many of them right by the bank. Bites were hard earned, but after a missed pull, I managed to wangle a nice hand-sized perch from the reeds. <br />
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With clarity not ideal on running water though, I fancied we’d do better on a more sheltered stretch of canal. A bright sun really seemed to put the fish off however. We tried gamely for the perch, but they just wouldn’t budge. David searched meticulously with his light streamer set up, with some fascinating tactics (I’m going to feature him very soon in the fly fishing press). But on this occasion, even the little jack pike we spotted were tentative. <br />
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As the afternoon wore on, we eventually had to have a rethink and both tackled up for pike. We tried various fly patterns, but in the end success was more about the light. As soon as the afternoon grew a bit darker and dirtier, the pike appeared. And as the wind dropped a little, we could watch them attackers materialise. <br />
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We tangled with the jacks for a while, but really fancied there had to be a bigger one somewhere. It’s all relative I guess, and on many of the small drains and canals I fish a 6-pounder is a good one and a double is a specimen. But I’m totally addicted to sight fishing these little places. <br />
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My favourite pike fly at the moment is a dirty big pink thing with lots of flash. Not exactly natural, but it really draws fish. I’m not sure what Dave thought of the fly he described as the Gay Assassin. But the pike loved it, or perhaps hated it enough to want to shred it to bits? <br />
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The best of the day came from the central channel and there was no half-arsed follow, no warning, but just a big angry lunge. There was a tension and a thump, thump, thump as if to say “you and that pink thing can f*** off.”It proved to be a very decent small water pike, in the 8-10lb bracket. <br />
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I had to walk her down the bank a little, because being me, I’d snuck into quite an overgrown spot. If there’s one tip I can offer anyone who wants to catch more pike from small waters, it’s to get stuck in and fish the hairy bits. The majority anglers will just stop at the open bits, the cutaways and worn swims. It’s also a case of judgment because you have to be able to land the fish cleanly. A mate and a long-handled net often come in handy.<br />
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We had a few others too, including a few that wouldn't look out of place held by The General. But it was all good fun and in spite of the tough perch fishing, there were some real lessons and surprises. Now that the book is done and dusted I'm really looking forward to writing more features and yes, a little more method to follow the madness.<br />
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I'll be penning a special feature on fly fishing for perch very shortly for Fly Fishing & Fly Tying Magazine, while the new issue has my piece on fishing for winter brown trout in Devon. There's also a short film on the subject on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KJPi8CYIM4">Winter Fly Fishing at Bratton Water</a>. <br />
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Otherwise, <i>Crooked Lines</i> has been well received so far and is shifting well! You can read Jeff Hatt's verdict <a href="http://idlersquest.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/crooked-lines-lifes-ditch.html">HERE</a> for another angle on the book too. Like me, he has been an avid blogger in angling for a long time and shares many of my own typical joys and woes. If my own blog has been well received for a while(typically 4,000 reads per month currently), Jeff's has topped the 10-12,000 figure at times! With many magazines struggling to get these figures, it does make you wonder and I think he should definitely make an Idler's Quest book... I've already been twisting his arm anyway. Of course, books also put bread on the table and give writers the backup they need to continue, whereas blogs like this one are enjoyable but ultimately hard to sustain at no cost.<br />
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A huge thanks to all of you who have already ordered the new book so far. Keep an eye on <a href="http://www.dgfishing.co.uk">www.dgfishing.co.uk</a> for some exclusive sample pieces and also the chance to pick up both the new book plus <i>Tangles with Pike</i> for just £20. We're down to the last 300-400 copies or so of the pike book, so a second print run looks likely. Snap up a first edition while you can, because the value is only going to go up! Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000359393551074770.post-17310605788633560172015-11-28T01:12:00.000-08:002015-11-28T21:32:05.100-08:00How (not) to write a fishing book I am an extremely relieved man this week, with the final arrival of <i>Crooked Lines</i> the book! For all of you regular blog readers, this is a chance to get hold of two-dozen of my best ever stories in a collectible format, accompanied by original artwork from Lord Bunn and a foreword by Mr Matt Hayes. You won't find scribblings from this blog (which tend to be my least polished writing!), but a mixed bag of twenty-four original pieces, including plenty of new and unpublished work. <br />
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The last few days and weeks (or make that months) have been "interesting" to put it mildly. Not least a lengthy delay due to the increased security with recent turmoil in Europe. I'd like to thank everyone who ordered early for their patience- as you can imagine, I was tearing my hair out. The printing of the book is a story in itself. It was printed by <a href="http://www.trt.ee/en/">Tallinn Book Printers</a>, Estonia, who are honest and excellent people to deal with. My last book <i>Tangles with Pike</i>was also printed by them, via a company in London who dealt with admin and puling a few strands together. But I was later to learn that the Estonians were never paid! Hence I wanted to go directly to them this time and make sure they got my business and full payment (and show them that not all Brits are dishonest!). Amazingly, they were trusting enough to deliver the books without demanding an advance, on a pay on delivery basis. Good karma, I felt, and the finished item is fantastic quality. It just took an age to travel across Europe. <br />
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But this is merely the end of a long and yes, crooked, journey. The idea of the book had been long in the making. Regular readers may already know of some my frustrations as a fishing writer. Even pieces that had appeared before were often only a shadow of the original, once they were clipped and squeezed to short format. "A War of Worms" (pictured below) is a classic example. While I wanted to describe various highs, lows and downright hooky bits from a long, wet winter, the article that went to press was chopped to less than half length (rather like a worm?) and retitled something like "CATCH YOUR BIGGEST PERCH EVER THIS WEEKEND!" in a classic bit of editorial hack'n'slash. <br />
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But the beauty of independent self-publishing is that you have nobody to say "you can't do/say/publish that." This digital age is a battle, quite simply, to cut through the noise and get your message out there. But it is also empowering because you can blaze your own trail without having to compromise, or follow someone else's agenda or the usual formula. A great freedom, because with this book I wanted to be daring and make it something original and totally different in its design and feel. I wanted to tell the hidden story of fishing with all the grubby, interesting bits left in.<br />
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The artwork and design would be critical, but I had a strong gut feeling that Sheffield artist <a href="www.lordbunn.com">Lord Bunn</a> would be perfect. His standard fare is anything but standard, with signs, murals and even band artwork very much his usual thing rather than fishing (I had met him through encounters with friends of his, the excellent post-rock band <a href="http://65daysofstatic.com">65 Days of Static</a>, but that's another story).<br />
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It took a lot of inspiration and perspiration from both of us to get things just right, especially with the cover. Creative types grow through being outside their comfort zone though- and I just loved his take on the different fish species. He gave each its own personality and the detail blew me away (I especially love the eel, hiding in the beer bottle). <br />
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As for the internal illustrations… you'll just have to get the book! There are lots of great black ink pieces, including flies, worms, hooks and even the odd stray fag butt. He also produced the most beautiful ink lettering, to provide chapter titles that were bang on. Each is a continuous, crooked line in itself, perfectly suited to my own slightly anarchic sensibilities.<br />
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As for the writing itself, it took several months and was laden with coffee and expletives. There are several completely new and exclusive pieces in the book and others I had been saving up, while I also revisited other favourites and partially published stories, sharpening them up and fleshing out the juicy bits to hold nothing back. Compared to this blog and many previous articles, it's like looking at a finished gallery rather than a sketchbook. <br />
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The actual writing is the fun part, but the process of hammering it into a finished book can be painful. Garrett Fallon was my right hand man to provide design and layout. Above all else, we wanted to give the traditional angling book a kick up the arse and produce something edgier, funnier and more entertaining. But his editorial skills were also hugely valuable, because as the author you do reach a point where you are so steeped (and jaded) with your own work it is difficult to see the wood from the trees. <br />
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Several nasty little dramas were negotiated as it was proof read and refined. But you also reach the stage where you have to stop tinkering and correcting, and leave it the hell alone. Because this way madness lies and, after a certain point, you can end up making it worse. <br />
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With the introduction, however, I just couldn't feel satisfied. It was pedestrian and lacking in bollocks. Then, at the eleventh hour, it came together. I was up late one night with the flu and suddenly the right words came flooding out- or so I thought. Bloody predictive text almost put paid to that! I had written about the essence of the book, the nutters and strange places I had enjoyed the most. But modern autocorrect doesn't like angling terms. I hate autocorrect. It is lethal. It wants to change "tiddler bashing" to "toddler bashing" and my website address (dgfishing.co.uk) to "dogfighting uk" (I shudder to think what such a website would be like). But the worst was yet to come. My line about "the camaraderie of the bankside" was automatically changed to "the camaraderie of the backside!" A very different message- and typing this blog the same has just happened. <br />
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Jesus Christ on a bike, this was a disaster, because the files had already been submitted! I tried to solicit a little sympathy from family and friends but mostly just got howls of laughter. My line about the brotherhood of fishing had been changed to some sort of statement about fishermen bumming each other (whatever floats your boat I guess?). But mercifully, after frantically trying to contact Tallinn, we managed to correct this line before they pressed print. Some of you may of course be sadistically wishing it was left in, but I am relieved in the extreme. I had had visions of having to hand-correct 2,000 books. <br />
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So perhaps you can understand my titanic sense of relief in the project even more now. The even longer road will now be selling the thing, to ensure I'm not permanently in debt after financing the project. With independent publishing you take all your own risks- but my aim is always to be read rather than make stacks of money (wishful thinking in the fishing world!). Too many angling books are hoofing great coffee table ornaments, aimed at collectors and sold for anything up to £40 or more a copy. Sure, some of them are truly lovely, but to my mind, this isn't affordable for most anglers so I wanted mine to be available for a tenner. The margins become smaller, but I want as many readers as possible to enjoy my work, not just a handful of book collectors. It's always nice to sell books, obviously, but I much prefer signing scruffy well-loved copies of my work at events, rather than pristine and unread editions, probably destined for Ebay in the year 2050. Dare I say it though, collectors could always buy one to use and abuse, and another to collect?<br />
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<a href="http://s278.photobucket.com/user/domgarnett/media/Bloggy_2015Oct2_zpspoaf2wzr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk111/domgarnett/Bloggy_2015Oct2_zpspoaf2wzr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Bloggy_2015Oct2_zpspoaf2wzr.jpg"/></a><br />
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You can get the book directly from my website (<a href="http://dgfishing.co.uk/product/crooked-lines/">CLICK HERE</a>) or also as an E-book from Amazon UK for just £4.99 (<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Crooked-Lines-Collection-Fishing-Stories-ebook/dp/B017OXFA50/ref=sr_1_1_twi_kin_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448566589&sr=8-1&keywords=crooked+lines+fishing">CLICK HERE</a>). You can also buy the real thing from Amazon, but please use my own site, because Amazon nick about two quid from every book sale. They also pay bugger all in UK taxes- but are a necessary evil I am afraid. <br />
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After months of work, I am now looking forward to actually going fishing again on a regular basis! If nothing else though, I'm getting savvier at making the most of small windows of opportunity these days. I had a fantastic canal session for perch on the fly recently, with a lovely fish of two pounds and six ounces to a new fly pattern (you can read more on the blog I currently produce for Turrall Flies- <a href="http://www.turrall.com/blog/fly-fishing-for-perch-tips-and-fly-patterns/">CLICK HERE</a>). <br />
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Otherwise, my next stop will be the Tiverton Angling Club's Christmas match. I don't fish many contests these days, but this one is always a good day out and very well attended. Even the poorer pegs produce lots of bites from small roach- although I seem to have a knack of drawing right by the car park. Please let this be the year that I draw a flier! I'll let you know how I get on. Dominichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13904253076130268258noreply@blogger.com2