Spread over two ponds, Hawk and Grebe, on the H&DAA Bough complex it was already very busy, with anglers setting up, as I arrived. I found Andy, sorted where I was fishing and started getting organised, but before I was finished, I had a call to go over to Hawk pond and take some pics of the first pike of the day. On my way back, I also watched another youngster being helped with playing the first carp of the day, this time on Grebe pond. A great start, time I got my rods out!
I spent the morning chatting to a steady stream of visitors, some I’d met at similar events before but also some that were taking their first look at angling, exactly what these days are all about. Out of the blue one of my alarms sounded and I was into a fish. A quick check of the clutch and a young lad was playing his first fish .... Magic! We soon had a bit of an audience, but it didn’t bother my young angler, and despite a few anxious moments we had his first ever carp in the net. It was the start of a bit of a feeding spell, with two other carp landed on float fished maggot in the next swim, lots of interest and lots of excitement, just what these days are all about. All too soon it was time to pack away and assemble for some presentations. Andy and Bev had a host of prizes/gifts to give out and it was great to see so many happy smiling faces. Top job everyone and thanks for the invite.
Brian Skoyles (March 17)
