Recommended

Blackthorn Fishery in Oswestry, Shropshire was the location of a fantastic display of angling skills last week as an angler caught the largest carp in the venue’s Pines lake. Despite the horrific weather caused by Storm Isha and Storm Jocelyn, the lake record was smashed by angler Matt Bullas.

Matt's impressive haul of 14 carp across 2 sessions included, “Big C”, the previous lake record of 31lb 9oz and a carp named “The Scorpion”, which set the new lake record at 35lb 5oz. Matt then went on to break his own record by landing one of the largest carp in the main lake at Blackthorn Fishery “Big J” weighing in at a whopping 44lb 12oz, as well as “Bullseye”at 33lb 5oz.

. Staying in the private lodge on the lake exclusive Pines Lake at Blackthorn Fishery, Matt challenged himself to better his previous Personal Best of 28lb, but at the start of the week he couldn’t have imagined how it would turn out. Over the course of his 4-day session Matt caught 11 carp including 4 over 30lb. Matt’s haul also included a Treble Take. Combining both sessions Matt landed a total of 14 fish included the 3 x 30+ Carp and a 40+.

To achieve this impressive series of catches, Matt used Fox Rods and Reels, Delkim Alarms and Korda Terminal Tackle, and aside from that, just line and bait.

For this winter session, all of Matt’s fish were taken on The Bait Room popups fished over a lightly baited area of boilie crumb and pellet. Matt’s Fox Rods and Reels and Delkim Alarms were certainly put through their paces as well as his Korda terminal tackle using a Tom Dove style solid PVA bag rig during this red letter session!

On how he managed to achieve this very memorable haul. Matt comments, “I have found that consistency is key. Watching the water for any signs of activity, whether it be feeding or showing fish is first on my angling approach, but in winter this type of activity can be very subtle or sometimes can’t be seen, so targeting the deeper water is a good start when looking for a bite. Baiting tight and light in the colder temperatures is also a tactic I’m keen to follow at the start of my sessions.

“I fully intended to have a successful few days when I started my angling sessions but I couldn’t have dreamed that it would work out so well for me. Not only did I catch the previous lake record but I went one better and set the new record. Most people fish a lifetime trying to get something like this in Carp angling and never succeed. I’m delighted to have this experience at Blackthorn Fishery as it really is a great location for carp fishing combined with a relaxing holiday in a tranquil environment.

Charlie Hughes Owner of Blackthorn Fishery commented, “It was great to see Matt having such a productive session on the Pines and Main Lake, particularly as he fished through such stormy conditions. We are excited to be part of his angling journey and look forward to following his catch reports this year.

“I don’t think it will be long before we see him back on the bank enjoying his carp angling journey.”

Looking to the future Matt’s goal is to continue smashing his own personal records and looking out for even bigger carp to catch.

There's just one week left!

If you haven't purchased your Christmas raffle tickets yet the countdown is on! The raffle closes at 8pm on Sunday 17th December so don't miss out! Tickets are still just £2 and you can buy them online today! Angling Trust fishing news

If you haven't purchased your Christmas raffle tickets yet the countdown is on! The raffle closes at 8pm on Sunday 17th December so don't miss out! Tickets are still just £2 and you can buy them online today!

With 24 prizes up for grabs there's something for every angler including £2,000 worth of Daiwa tackle of your choice, £500 of Korda tackle and a £300 Angling Direct gift card! If you have already purchased - thank you for your support.

The full breakdown of the fantastic prizes for 2023 are:

  • 1st Prize £2,000 RRP Daiwa tackle of the winner's choice.
  • 2nd Prize £500 RRP Korda tackle of the winner's choice.
  • 3rd Prize £300 Angling Direct gift card.
  • 4th Prize £264 RRP Korum tackle bundle.
  • 5th Prize £250 Orvis gift card.
  • 6th Prize £250 RRP Avid Carp Revolve system.
  • 7th Prize £250 RRP Matrix tackle of the winner's choice.
  •  8th Prize £250 RRP Preston Innovations tackle of the winner's choice.
  • 9th Prize £250 RRP Nash tackle Siren Alarms set.
  • 10th Prize £250 RRP Day's guided barbel fishing on the River Wye provided by Weihai Julia.
  • 11th Prize £200 RRP Day's guided tench fishing on Farnham Angling Society waters guided by Duncan Charman courtesy of the Insurance Emporium.
  • 12th Prize £180 RRP Zerofit Head to Toe Baselayer Bundle.
  • 13th Prize £90 RRP Fox Rage Street Fighter Rucksack.
  • 14th Prize £65 RRP Fox International Edges Medium Loaded Tackle Box.
  • 15th−24th Prize £50 Fishing Megastore vouchers.
Buy tickets online here

A final huge thank you to all of Angling Trust's wonderful supporters in the angling trade, without whom this raffle wouldn't be possible. Money raised from this raffle, and all of their other fundraising events throughout the year, is ploughed back into the Angling Trust to support their work. Good luck if you choose to take part.

Source: Angling Trust

The Angling Trust provides members the opportunity to vote on a number of voluntary director roles with individuals serving a three-year term as part of the Angling Trust board. Angling Trust fishing news

There were three vacancies this year, the first a specialist role focused on welfare and safety. This is a critical role of the National Governing Body (NGB) in every sport which requires specialist knowledge and experience. The membership voted Brendan Tonks on to the board to fulfil this role.

There were two further vacancies with an excellent shortlist of candidates. The membership voted for Bev Clifford and Neville Fickling to join the board. Neville will be serving his second term having been voted on to the board initially in 2020. Bev is a new addition to the Angling Trust board.

Finally, the Angling Trust board wished to thank Tim Macpherson as he stepped down from his third term as a volunteer on the Angling Trust board. Tim provided specialist insight into the sea angling community and chaired the Marine Advisory Group of anglers from across the country. Tim will be made an Honorary Vice President in recognition of his commitment and support.

Source: Angling Trust

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Wednesday, 13 December 2023 09:31

Disturbing The Water by Peter Wise

All alone in wild, remote places... obsessively pursuing their quarry in the fading light... is it any wonder so many anglers claim to have witnessed ghosts?

Disturbing the Water by Peter WiseIn a change from the usual haunted houses and gothic go-to’s, these original tales of tragedy, redemption and the unexpected feature a variety of watery realms, including a Highland river, an Irish lough, a North American wilderness, a Cornish seascape, long-lost carp lakes, and a Ukrainian water source with magical properties.

There are echoes of real history thrown in for good measure, including the English Civil War, the Second World War, and even a Victorian serial killer. So prepare for some chills at the water’s edge… and beyond it.

Review:

As a lifelong angler and someone who loves a good ghost story, Disturbing The Water by Petr Wise appealed to me on both counts. You certainly don't have to be an angler to enjoy these stories but it's without doubt an added bonus if you are.

Easy to read and incredibly engrossing, this collection of short stories will certainly have you hooked from start to finish. Whilst there is a general theme of fishing and water running throughout the stores, the main theme is the ghostly stores so if you like these, you will really enjoy this book.

I liked the fact that the book was split into 13 different short stories which means you can easily read one story if you have an hour to spare. If you don't have an enormous amount of time to read, you can pick up the book whenever you have time, read a story, and not have to worry about where you left off last time.

Peter has an easy style of writing which leads to an easy style of reading. Each story will have you gripped from start to finish.

Conclusion:

We thoroughly enjoyed reading this book here at UK Fisherman and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys this wonderful sport of ours or who just enjoys a thoroughly good read.

Information:

For more information about the author, the book and where it can be purchased, please visit:

www.cranthorpemillner.com

Score:

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Monday, 09 May 2022 07:38

Best Lakes for Carp Fishing in the UK

As fishing enthusiasts, we take great care in picking our favorite spots. But sometimes it can be exciting to experience a new place.

Whether you’re looking to relax in nature or you’re after that trophy fish, lakes can offer a unique experience.

Here are eight hidden gems found throughout the UK which are guaranteed to give you a great fishing experience and maybe even become your new favorite spot.

1. Linear Fisheries

The reed-whiskered lakes of Linear Fisheries in Oxford are an impressive sight in terms of both their surface area and contents.

Brasenose One is the main venue, its 32 acres having spawned over 100 mirror carps over the 13.6kg (30lb) mark. Hardwick-Smith is another popular choice for the ultimate fishing experience and even hosts some ghost carp.

If you are aiming for catch goals and have the patience to wait for the big game, pick Manor Farm or St. John’s Lake.

The current record stands at a hefty 23.6kg (52lbs). With that kind of weight in hand, if you’re one of the many people who’ve abandoned the gym, it might be a good idea to lift some weights before you get out on the water and wrestle with the goliaths of the lakes.

The cluster of nine lakes requires an E.A. license for a day pass. It’s dog-friendly and allows anglers to bring up to three rods.

Amenities include disabled access, a bait and tackle shop, and the occasional pike match.

2. Bluebell Lakes

Situated in Peterborough, Bluebell offers some serious angling action.

A number of sizable carps have been caught there, including the late 229kg (64lb) Benson, a national legend in the world of carp fishing. Mallard Lake is the biggest with 20 acres and 40 pegs where you can set up your bivvy. The lushness of the surrounding greenery may not be allergy-friendly, but it’s definitely beautiful to look at.

The venue includes toilet facilities, a tackle shop, and an eatery.

3. Wyreside Lakes

Wyre Lake is one of the most prominent carp fishing waters in northwest England. Located in Lancaster above Manchester, it measures 18 acres and boasts a poundage record of 16.8kg (37lbs).

Pike anglers will also do well here, and some even occasionally catch a chub or tench, a smaller member of the sazan family.

Count a tackle shop and café into the equation, and anglers of all sorts will be drawn to install their carp fishing rods on the grassy banks of Wyreside.

4. Sandhurst Lake

Sandhurst is a smaller pearl in the world of day ticket carp fishing. Interspersed around the overgrown rim are 31 pegs, each one ideal for setting up your rod pod rig.

There are dedicated short-range swims, a barbecue area, and a tackle shop. The lake holds some sizable specimens.

The average weight is 11.8kg (26lbs) with the current record standing at 20kg (45lbs). More than 10 carp are known to be over the elusive 18kg (40lb) barrier.

While carp fishing in France or Hungary can be a rewarding experience, if you live near London, you can leave your passport in the drawer and visit Sandhurst Lake.

5. Caerphilly Castle

Catapult your boilie pre-bait right against the foundations of a 13th century Norman castle as you set your lines out in its moat.

This idyllic location in South Wales contains a stock of 300 crucian carp, of which 60 are over 9kg (20lbs).

A carp fishing hotspot, Caerphilly is free for all and everyone is encouraged to throw out a line. Anglers can also fish for pike, eels, perch, and tench. And in case something is missing from your pack list, Tony’s Tackle Shop is right next door.

6. Loch Morar

There’s a reason why the Scots call a lake a loch, for we are entering an entirely different league here.

If you’re hauling a boat, make sure it’s suitable for freshwater, as Loch Morar is the second largest freshwater lake in Scotland (after Loch Ness), and it is as imposing as it sounds. This monster-size loch roughly measures 26 square kilometers (10 square miles) and can be fished for carp, trout, salmon, pike, and perch.

The bulk of the catch will be under 7kg (15lbs), but on the upside, most will be unscathed for that superb shot with a scale-perfect specimen. So if you don’t mind globetrotting, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular fishing spot right in the middle of the Scottish Highlands.

You can even cruise around to see what the world looked like in Jurassic times.

7. Wellington Country Park

Wellington Country Park is an all-time favorite for those hooked on fishing.

Parents might especially want to spend a day or two in this sought-after location near London, since it’s paired with an amusement park with a playground, animal farm, and dino forest that the rest of the family can enjoy. Situated in Reading near London, the 35-acre lake holds a good number of 40-pounder mirrors in pristine condition. Some even tip the scales at over 23kg (50lbs).

The only catch is that Welly Park is a syndicate, meaning that you need to sign up for membership before being put on the waiting list.

8. Cherry Lakes

This is the last one on the list and offers a family-friendly fishing vacation in a luxury cottage with a private peg in the Cotswold Water Park near Bristol.

At 5 acres, the lake is large enough for some genuine carp fishing, as its largest inhabitant came in at 20kg (44lbs).

During the off season, there is plenty to do in the Cotswold area, such as shopping, fine dining, and paying a visit to the old Roman town of Cirencester.

Thursday, 03 February 2022 09:07

The Different Types Of Carp Fishing Rod

The Different Types Of Carp Fishing Rod Modern day carp fishing can be a minefield at times. I mean the theory is simple right? You cast a boilie out to the horizon, set your rod down to your alarms, and daydream until you hear that glorious screaming run.

If only it was that simple!

Theres so many technical aspects to carp fishing nowadays that we could literally write a novel on all the ifs, buts and maybes. We’ll save all that for another day, instead in this short article we will focus on one (very important) part of a carp anglers itinerary… The carp rod.

Does it matter what carp fishing rod you use?

So, again, the question has to be asked… Does it matter what rod you use? I mean as long as it’s fairly strong and casts okay surely that’s all you need? Well yes, these are important attributes but I could quite easily tie some line so a broom stick and chuck it out 40 yards. Id guess I wouldn’t be very successful in landing any fish though. It’s important that you match your carp fishing rod to the fishing situation you are faced with if you are going to see any success.

The different types of carp fishing rod

So onto the main point of the article and that is the different types of carp fishing rod. So here are some examples of different carp fishing situations, all of which will require a different type of carp fishing rod…

  • Distance fishing – casting in excess of 120 yards
  • Float fishing for carp
  • Margin fishing
  • Surface fishing
  • Stalking
  • Spodding
  • Marking your swim out

Depending on what carp fishing rod you are looking at there are further consideration to have in mind. These include:

  • Carp rod materials
  • Rod handles
  • The reel seat
  • The number of eyes
  • Rod weight
  • Rod power
  • The test curve of the carp rod
  • The action of the carp rod

So when we said carp fishing can be a minefield, you can hopefully see what we mean!

What carp rod should I choose?

The carp rod you should choose depends on the factors listed above. For example, if you wanted a long-distance rod fishing for large carp on a big pit then we would suggest the following attributes:

  • 12 foot in length
  • A minimum test curve of 3.25lb
  • A reduced diameter blank
  • A Fuji DPS reel seat
  • A through action rod with fast tip recovery

If you were stalking for carp on the surface at close-quarters we would recommend the following attributes in your carp rod:

  • 10 foot in length
  • A maximum test curve of 2.5lb
  • A progressive rod action
  • A matte finish on the blank so as to not spook fish with glare

In terms of what specific rods to buy and indeed for more information on rod attributes for further fishing situations you can check out a full guide on the best fishing rods for carp fishing here.

Final Thoughts

We hope you have enjoyed our whistle stop tour on the different types of carp fishing rods. Hopefully, if anything, it has provided some food for thought that there is a lot of consideration required before parting with your hard-earned money.

Tight Lines!
Sunday, 02 August 2020 14:23

Royal Berkshire Fisheries Review

Royal Berkshire Fisheries has a fantastic feel to it and everyone there is friendly.

Brad is such a nice guy and the guys that work there are always happy to help. Another mention is Kev who was really helpful in setting me up after not fishing for over 40 years.

Prime example of this place is I lost my sunglasses while fishing & Brad found them andlooked after them for me until I next came.

I catch great fish there (26 caught one day after only my third week).

The cafe along with the tackle shop makes it an all round success.

I travel up from South London and highly recommend this place. Thank you for making me so welcome.

View submitted by Bob Burrage, July 2020

View venue details



View venue website

Angling Cymru update: 13th May 2020
Angling is now a permitted form of exercise but please remember to observe the following regulations:
Angling Cymru

Stay local:
You can drive to go fishing but only locally - the shortest distance you can. If you live in Newport, you fish in Newport. Use common sense.

Stay Safe:
Maintain social distancing. Sanitise hands regularly. Avoid dangerous fishing venues or those where you cannot maintain social distancing.

Stay Legal
Fish alone or with one other person from your household. No fishing in closed areas of land or property. No boat fishing. No overnight fishing.

Please remember this is just the first stage of a return to angling. STAY LEGAL and don't be the one responsible for getting angling stopped in Wales.

Source: Angling Cymru



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Kilnsey Park Fly Fishery is situated in spectacular surroundings. The two spring fed lakes are both approximately 1 acre in size and are open all year round, fishing well throughout the winter. The lakes are well stocked with hard fighting Rainbow, Blue, Brown and Golden trout from 2lb to 20lb+, all from our own Trout Farm. They are a TROUTMASTER water.Canal and River Trust angling news

The car parks, shop and cafe are adjacent to the lake, with lakeside fishing access for all abilities. They hold various fishing courses and events during the year (please note that these are suspended whilst coronavirus restrictions are in place).

Kilnsey fly fishing lakes will reopen to anglers from Monday 18th May 2020.

They appreciate that everyone is eager to start fishing again as soon as possible, but they need a few extra days to prepare properly for safe opening. They're going to need to do certain things differently to make sure they comply with the new Angling Trust guidance and support the national effort to defeat coronavirus.

You are advised to book your fishing ticket before travelling here if you can. To enable this they will be launching a new online booking system in the next few days. In the meantime please email fishing@kilnseypark.co.uk if you want to reserve a place next week.

Revised opening hours for the fishing lakes will be 8.30am - 5pm. Please note that the café, family fishing and nature trail will remain closed for the time being. Thy look forward to welcoming everyone back here very soon.

Source: Kilnsey Fishing



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ANGLERS AND PUBLIC ASKED TO HELP SUPPORT CANAL & RIVER TRUST AS CHARITY ACTS ON 300% INCREASE IN FISH DISTRESS CALLOUTS DURING LOCKDOWN Canal and River Trust angling news

Today, anglers across England will be able to fish once again on their local canal, reservoir or other stillwater, following changes to government guidance during the current coronavirus pandemic.

As the guardians of 2,000 miles of waterways in England and Wales, the largest owner of fishing rights in the UK, Canal & River Trust is welcoming back anglers to its waterways for the first time in seven weeks.  It is also calling upon their help, following an unusually high level of callouts to help fish in distress during the last seven weeks.

Anglers are only permitted to visit the waterway if they are either alone, with members of their household, or with one other non-household member and importantly they can only fish where strict social distancing can be maintained.  This applies in England but not yet in Wales.  

The announcement of changes to government advice is welcomed by the waterway and wellbeing charity as it reports a staggering 300% increase in the number of fish distress callouts compared to this time last year due to decreased levels of oxygen in the water.

Fish in the canals, rivers and reservoirs looked after by the Trust are estimated to be worth around £40 million.  They are protected under law and some species are critically endangered . Thanks to calls from alert members of the public, Canal & River Trust have helped to save at least 100,000 fish in the past seven weeks.

Peter Birch, national environment policy advisor at Canal & River Trust explained: “Fish are sometimes overlooked by visitors to our canals, but they are integral to the ecosystem and a vital part of the wider food chain on our waterways. The joy of spotting a kingfisher, otter or heron is very much down to what’s going on below the water level.  Fish are a great indicator of good water quality – if the fish are thriving, so will other waterway wildlife.  The canals are generally healthier than ever and we’re keeping a close eye on the particular circumstances that are causing problems right now and taking action to support the fish.”

Instances of fish distress and fatalities (known as fish kills) occur when oxygen levels in the water decrease.  The Trust is aware of two key factors causing this in the waterways at present.

  1. High levels of sunlight during April helped algae blooms to flourish much earlier in the year than usual. These naturally occurring organisms grow in nutrient rich waters and are encouraged by warm weather and increased sunlight. Algae can cause water quality issues by reducing the amount of oxygen in the water during the night which, if left to its own devices, can impact on fish and other aquatic creatures.
  1. A rise in pollutants in the waterways, from accidental spills or even deliberate illegal disposal of pollutants.

As these conditions could persist throughout lockdown as we move into the summer, the Trust is asking anglers returning to enjoy fishing on their local waterways as well as members of the public who are already visiting their local canal to enjoy their daily exercise, to help support the Trust’s frontline operational teams and report any instances of fish in distress or any other unsociable behaviour on their towpaths or waterways.

John Ellis, national fisheries and angling manager at Canal & River Trust said: “Thanks to the public getting in touch we’ve been able to prevent two major incidents from escalating any further.  With oxygen levels in the water on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and the Lancaster Canal close to zero before we intervened, around 50,000 fish were estimated to be at risk of dying on each waterway.  Thankfully we lost only 200 fish in total because we were able to intervene in time and increase oxygen levels in the water with aerators and pumps. 

“Our fisheries and angling experts, ecologists and environmental scientists are all working closely with operational teams to look after our precious canals and rivers during this difficult time. With reduced staffing on the canals at present, the Trust’s operational teams are helping to monitor oxygen levels in some locations as a precaution, but we need the public and the angling community to help. 

“We know how much people enjoy spending time by water, it helps us to relax, unwind and boost our happiness levels.  If you are taking a short walk to your local waterway as part of your daily exercise, please keep an eye out and, if you see something unusual, then please contact our customer service team on 0303 040 4040.

“Fish gulping for air at the surface and not moving away with great haste when you approach them is a classic sign of serious distress.  This is occasionally confused with fish gasping at the surface or basking close to the surface on warm sunny days but scattering when you approach.”

The charity is also asking people to limit their use of canal towpaths and stay local.  Everyone should abide by the government guidelines, share the space along the narrow towpaths, respect social distancing and reduce speed if cycling.

Source: Canal and River Trust



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