Could water abstraction proposals mean the end for the River Kennet?
Concerns over the future of one of the UK’s favourite rivers are mounting this week, as Angling Times learned that a licence to abstract more than 11 million litres of water from the Kennet a day is being considered by the Environment Agency.
It could be drained of the equivalent of over four Olympic-sized swimming pools every 24 hours by Thames Water if the EA extends its abstraction licence. The volumes are seen by many anglers as unsustainable and a danger to the river’s long-term health.
Taken from the Kennet at Axford, near Marlborough, the water will supply the residents of nearby south Swindon. The concerns are over the effect the abstraction will have on the Kennet’s levels and its wildlife as the water removed will not re-enter the Kennet catchment area, instead bypassing the waterway and draining into the River Thames via the River Ray.
Chairman of the Barbel Society Steve Pope, who fishes the Kennet, told AT that this could be ‘yet another nail in the river’s coffin’. “The Kennet is not a patch on what it was 10 years ago. With otters and signal crayfish, continued abstraction could well spell the end of a once-prolific venue and the real shame of it is that, as usual, it all comes down to politics and money.”
A spokesperson for Thames Water told AT: “Abstraction from the Kennet is not the solution Thames Water wants, but it’s the only one available to us.
“To ease the pressure on the Kennet, the answer is a transfer pipeline from the River Thames instead. But until funding arrangements for the £10 million needed to build this are made by the EA, we must continue to rely on the Kennet.”
The EA said: “Thames Water has recently applied for a renewal of its existing abstraction licence and we are considering this – a decision will be made by May 6.
“We recognise the Kennet is not as healthy as it could be and we do intend to reduce abstraction at Axford, but this may take several years to sort out.”
Could water abstraction proposals mean the end for the River Kennet?
Concerns over the future of one of the UK’s favourite rivers are mounting this week, as Angling Times learned that a licence to abstract more than 11 million litres of water from the Kennet a day is being considered by the Environment Agency.
It could be drained of the equivalent of over four Olympic-sized swimming pools every 24 hours by Thames Water if the EA extends its abstraction licence. The volumes are seen by many anglers as unsustainable and a danger to the river’s long-term health.
Taken from the Kennet at Axford, near Marlborough, the water will supply the residents of nearby south Swindon. The concerns are over the effect the abstraction will have on the Kennet’s levels and its wildlife as the water removed will not re-enter the Kennet catchment area, instead bypassing the waterway and draining into the River Thames via the River Ray.
Chairman of the Barbel Society Steve Pope, who fishes the Kennet, told AT that this could be ‘yet another nail in the river’s coffin’. “The Kennet is not a patch on what it was 10 years ago. With otters and signal crayfish, continued abstraction could well spell the end of a once-prolific venue and the real shame of it is that, as usual, it all comes down to politics and money.”
A spokesperson for Thames Water told AT: “Abstraction from the Kennet is not the solution Thames Water wants, but it’s the only one available to us.
“To ease the pressure on the Kennet, the answer is a transfer pipeline from the River Thames instead. But until funding arrangements for the £10 million needed to build this are made by the EA, we must continue to rely on the Kennet.”
The EA said: “Thames Water has recently applied for a renewal of its existing abstraction licence and we are considering this – a decision will be made by May 6.
“We recognise the Kennet is not as healthy as it could be and we do intend to reduce abstraction at Axford, but this may take several years to sort out.”
Norfolk Broads anglers concern over toxic algae threat
Anglers are up in arms this week as the threat of a massive fish kill has once again been raised at one of the Norfolk Broads’ most famous venues.
News that the Broads Authority is to carry out a large-scale dredging operation on Heigham Sound has been met with huge opposition from anglers concerned the work could lead to an outbreak of the toxic algae Prymnesium parvum, resulting in a fish kill of the like seen on the region’s Thurne system in 1969.
Headed by pike anglers, many of whom are threatening to blockade the entrance to the Sound with a flotilla of boats, opposition to the authority’s plans has been fuelled by the timing of the work, which will see the broad’s silt disturbed throughout the hotter summer months ¬ the most likely time for a Prymnesium bloom to occur.
“The dredging is being done for the wrong reasons and at the wrong time,” said John Currie, of the Pike Anglers’ Club.
Rob Rogers, Head of Construction and Facilities at the Broads Authority, said: “We would stop dredging before there is a bloom. We will schedule a meeting with local anglers in the near future when we will try to alleviate their concerns.”
New Hampshire Avon Royalty stretch barbel record of 16lb 8oz
One of the most prolific weeks for specimen barbel at arguably the UK’s best river fishery has been topped by a huge 16lb 8oz venue record.
The historic specimen, which beats the previous best for the famous Royalty Fishery by a single ounce, was caught by Mike Brownett after he put his faith in the traditional combination of a simple leger rig fished in conjunction with a meat hookbait.
But it wasn’t just the capture of this historic fish that showed why this particular stretch of the Hampshire Avon is one of the best day-ticket river stretches in the country.
In what experts say was one of the most productive weeks for barbel fishing in the venue’s history, the river also produced specimens weighing 16lb 4oz, 15lb 10 oz, 15lb 8 oz, no fewer than six barbel over 14lb and countless double-figure fish.
New recordholder Mike, who lives in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, has been fishing the venue since 1963 and has confirmed the views of fishery experts after he and his fishing partner, Jim Siford, shared five other double-figure specimen and numerous single-figure fish during an amazing week of sport.
“Everything just came right for the barbel anglers who were privileged enough to be on the water during that week, and I feel truly humbled after catching this beautiful barbel,” Mike told Angling Times.
“Many river stretches that boast the quality of fishing here have been lost to day-ticket anglers and been taken over by expensive syndicates, which is a very sad sign of the times.
“But that’s the beauty of the Royalty. Everyone has the chance of catching a fish-of-a-lifetime, which is true testament to the venue and the fishery managers.
Nigel Grey, owner of Davis Tackle which sells the tickets for the venue, added: “I’ve never known so many big specimens to come out of this fishery in such a short space of time. That’s the beauty of this stretch, just when you think it can’t get any better it exceeds your expectations yet again.” For contact details and ticket information, call Davis Tackle on 01202 485169 or visit www.davistackle.co.uk
New Hampshire Avon Royalty stretch barbel record of 16lb 8oz
One of the most prolific weeks for specimen barbel at arguably the UK’s best river fishery has been topped by a huge 16lb 8oz venue record.
The historic specimen, which beats the previous best for the famous Royalty Fishery by a single ounce, was caught by Mike Brownett after he put his faith in the traditional combination of a simple leger rig fished in conjunction with a meat hookbait.
But it wasn’t just the capture of this historic fish that showed why this particular stretch of the Hampshire Avon is one of the best day-ticket river stretches in the country.
In what experts say was one of the most productive weeks for barbel fishing in the venue’s history, the river also produced specimens weighing 16lb 4oz, 15lb 10 oz, 15lb 8 oz, no fewer than six barbel over 14lb and countless double-figure fish.
New recordholder Mike, who lives in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, has been fishing the venue since 1963 and has confirmed the views of fishery experts after he and his fishing partner, Jim Siford, shared five other double-figure specimen and numerous single-figure fish during an amazing week of sport.
“Everything just came right for the barbel anglers who were privileged enough to be on the water during that week, and I feel truly humbled after catching this beautiful barbel,” Mike told Angling Times.
“Many river stretches that boast the quality of fishing here have been lost to day-ticket anglers and been taken over by expensive syndicates, which is a very sad sign of the times.
“But that’s the beauty of the Royalty. Everyone has the chance of catching a fish-of-a-lifetime, which is true testament to the venue and the fishery managers.
Nigel Grey, owner of Davis Tackle which sells the tickets for the venue, added: “I’ve never known so many big specimens to come out of this fishery in such a short space of time. That’s the beauty of this stretch, just when you think it can’t get any better it exceeds your expectations yet again.” For contact details and ticket information, call Davis Tackle on 01202 485169 or visit www.davistackle.co.uk
Willinghurst Fisheries set to undergo a big facelift
One of the nation’s most well-known commercial complexes has announced it is set to undergo a major facelift in an effort to change its flagging fortunes.
Surrey’s Willinghurst Fisheries gained a national reputation for its bagging prowess but it has been plagued by problems since contracting the deadly KHV virus in 2009, with catch returns dropping and anglers venturing elsewhere.
In 2010, the Fish O’Mania qualifier at the venue saw winner Stu Ballard needing less than 70lb to book his place in the prestigious final, and that poor showing led to organisers of the money-spinning event not offering the fishery a chance to stage a heat in this year’s competition.
But despite the setback, fishery bosses vowed to take drastic steps to bring back the glory days, with fish stockings, new lakes and large-scale groundwork projects being undertaken at a cost of tens of thousands of pounds.
Venue regular Jason Morgan has played a big part in reshaping the complex and he told Angling Times: “I’ve fished at the venue for longer than I can remember and I want to see it get back to being one of the best in the country.
“We’ve brought in thousands of skimmers so that winter sport improves, made one of the lakes into a specimen angler’s paradise and also dug out a brand new lake Šand that’s just the start!” Early indications suggest the transformation is already having a positive effect, with big hauls of carp and silvers being taken in the first few weeks since work began.
Several experts, including England international Steve Gardener, have been consulted on what action should be taken to ensure a bright future. He is adamant the revamp will help draw back the masses.
“It is a fantastic fishery and these are exciting times. John’s Lake is one of the fairest match lakes I have fished, and it looks set to become the best match venue in the south of England,” said Steve.
Mid Kent Fisheries to stop day-ticket fishing
The owner of one of the largest fishing complexes in the country has revealed that there will “no longer be a place for day-ticket anglers at my waters”.
Chris Logsdon, who now owns Mid Kent Fisheries which comprises some of the UK’s most historic waters – including the carp record venue Conningbrook – has stated that he is no longer prepared to put up with problems such as litter and risks to fish welfare. He says the situation is far worse on waters that cater for dayticket anglers.
“We have more problems with litter and general disregard for the fish at our day-ticket fishery than at all our other waters put together,” said Chris.
“I’m not saying all day-ticket anglers are irresponsible. It’s a classic case of a few ruining it for the majority. But I just can’t take the risk of them affecting Mid Kent’s image.”
Gordon Howes, fishery manager at the St Ives complex in Cambridgeshire, agrees with Chris’s stance.
“We did allow day-ticket anglers here years ago and the trouble with litter and poor fish handling just got out of control,” said Gordon.
“Running the fishery on a yearly permit basis means you know everyone who’s fishing and you can run a clean, successful complex without policing the banks around the clock.
“I’d never allow day-ticket anglers again,” he added.
Not everyone agrees that banning day tickets is the way forward, though. Richworth Linear Fisheries, in Oxfordshire, is one of the most popular day-ticket specimen fisheries in the country.
And even though the fishery admits that litter can be a big problem, its manager, Roy Parsons, is adamant that anglers who want to turn up and fish will always be welcome.
“There’s no escaping the fact that running day-ticket fisheries can be high maintenance, but I think it’s vital for the sport that we give average anglers the chance to target the biggest fish we have to offer,” he told AT.
Mid Kent Fisheries to stop day-ticket fishing
The owner of one of the largest fishing complexes in the country has revealed that there will “no longer be a place for day-ticket anglers at my waters”.
Chris Logsdon, who now owns Mid Kent Fisheries which comprises some of the UK’s most historic waters – including the carp record venue Conningbrook – has stated that he is no longer prepared to put up with problems such as litter and risks to fish welfare. He says the situation is far worse on waters that cater for dayticket anglers.
“We have more problems with litter and general disregard for the fish at our day-ticket fishery than at all our other waters put together,” said Chris.
“I’m not saying all day-ticket anglers are irresponsible. It’s a classic case of a few ruining it for the majority. But I just can’t take the risk of them affecting Mid Kent’s image.”
Gordon Howes, fishery manager at the St Ives complex in Cambridgeshire, agrees with Chris’s stance.
“We did allow day-ticket anglers here years ago and the trouble with litter and poor fish handling just got out of control,” said Gordon.
“Running the fishery on a yearly permit basis means you know everyone who’s fishing and you can run a clean, successful complex without policing the banks around the clock.
“I’d never allow day-ticket anglers again,” he added.
Not everyone agrees that banning day tickets is the way forward, though. Richworth Linear Fisheries, in Oxfordshire, is one of the most popular day-ticket specimen fisheries in the country.
And even though the fishery admits that litter can be a big problem, its manager, Roy Parsons, is adamant that anglers who want to turn up and fish will always be welcome.
“There’s no escaping the fact that running day-ticket fisheries can be high maintenance, but I think it’s vital for the sport that we give average anglers the chance to target the biggest fish we have to offer,” he told AT.
Will volunteers soon be policing our fishing venue?
The policing of Britain’s banks could soon be placed into the hands of volunteers, Angling Times can exclusively reveal.
The Environment Agency has admitted that it is investigating the possibility of replacing its current enforcement officers with trained volunteer bailiffs from fishing clubs and associations. It would not only save the EA up to £2 million a year, but also see a huge shift of responsibility to fisheries and angling clubs to ensure anglers have the valid paperwork before fishing.
The plans for the change have been instigated by the Angling Trust that believes placing bailiffing duties into the hands of fishing communities will free up valuable funds that can be directly reinvested into the sport and allow EA staff to concentrate on other important issues, such as tackling organised illegal fish theft, movement and poaching.
“I believe our discussions with the EA are a huge step in the right direction for fishing because such a scheme would free up much-needed funds at a time when Government cuts are going to continue to affect our sport,” said Mark Lloyd, chief executive of the Angling Trust.
“We must ensure that it isn’t used as an excuse for the money saved to be used elsewhere instead of for the interests of angling. This is something the Trust would ensure didn’t happen.” John Woods is chairman of London Anglers Association and also believes that such changes could prove positive for the sport.
“I’ve always thought that anglers, wherever they’re fishing, shouldn’t be able to buy a ticket or permit without producing their rod licence, so putting an emphasis on showing them to club officials and venue owners can only be a good thing,” John told AT.
Not everyone is convinced, though, believing that the replacement of EA enforcement officers with trained volunteers would be a huge step backwards, not only putting people in danger, but also seeing the money saved swallowed up in further Government cuts.
“The fact that some EA bailiffs are now issued with stab vests just shows what an increasingly difficult and dangerous job this has become,” said Ashley Brown, secretary of King’s Lynn AA in Norfolk.
“To expect trained volunteers to take on these jobs is very dangerous as they will never command the same power or protection of EA fisheries officers.”
Will volunteers soon be policing our fishing venue?
The policing of Britain’s banks could soon be placed into the hands of volunteers, Angling Times can exclusively reveal.
The Environment Agency has admitted that it is investigating the possibility of replacing its current enforcement officers with trained volunteer bailiffs from fishing clubs and associations. It would not only save the EA up to £2 million a year, but also see a huge shift of responsibility to fisheries and angling clubs to ensure anglers have the valid paperwork before fishing.
The plans for the change have been instigated by the Angling Trust that believes placing bailiffing duties into the hands of fishing communities will free up valuable funds that can be directly reinvested into the sport and allow EA staff to concentrate on other important issues, such as tackling organised illegal fish theft, movement and poaching.
“I believe our discussions with the EA are a huge step in the right direction for fishing because such a scheme would free up much-needed funds at a time when Government cuts are going to continue to affect our sport,” said Mark Lloyd, chief executive of the Angling Trust.
“We must ensure that it isn’t used as an excuse for the money saved to be used elsewhere instead of for the interests of angling. This is something the Trust would ensure didn’t happen.” John Woods is chairman of London Anglers Association and also believes that such changes could prove positive for the sport.
“I’ve always thought that anglers, wherever they’re fishing, shouldn’t be able to buy a ticket or permit without producing their rod licence, so putting an emphasis on showing them to club officials and venue owners can only be a good thing,” John told AT.
Not everyone is convinced, though, believing that the replacement of EA enforcement officers with trained volunteers would be a huge step backwards, not only putting people in danger, but also seeing the money saved swallowed up in further Government cuts.
“The fact that some EA bailiffs are now issued with stab vests just shows what an increasingly difficult and dangerous job this has become,” said Ashley Brown, secretary of King’s Lynn AA in Norfolk.
“To expect trained volunteers to take on these jobs is very dangerous as they will never command the same power or protection of EA fisheries officers.”
How you can help save Britain's historic carp waters
One of the most historically important and influential carp waters in the UK is under threat of destruction – and Angling Times is calling all anglers to help save it.
Savay Lake in the Colne Valley, Buckinghamshire, is steeped in angling history, but under government plans to construct a new high-speed rail link between Birmingham and London, it could be destroyed and lost to angling forever.
Carving directly through the Colne Valley, the proposed route of the HS2 line would also see the destruction of several other well known waters in the area, including Broadwater, Korda and Harefield, not to mentions large numbers of stillwater and river venues between the capital and the West Midlands.
With construction due to start in 2015, time is quickly running out to save these irreplaceable venues, which is why Angling Times is now calling all anglers to take a stand and save Savay.
In the same week that the high speed train line has been branded a £17billion ’white elephant’ by pressure group Taxpayers’ Alliance, AT is urging all anglers to put their name to a petition which could well decide the future of the famous water, along with countless other angling venues across the UK.
Martin Locke, owner of Solar Tackle, spent his formative angling years fishing Savay, catching the water’s most targeted fish, the legendary Sally, which Martin caught in 1987.
“It’s by far the best place I have ever fished, Martin told AT. “During the ‘80s and early ‘90s Savay was responsible for forming carp fishing and in turn shaping modern angling. All of the modern tactics and methods, along with ideas on tackle and baits were developed during these years at this one water. It needs to be saved, and every anglers should sign this petition.”
Also right behind the campaign is boss of tackle giant Korda Developments, Danny Fairbrass, who is urging all anglers to support the campaign.
“I was a days-only member of Savay many years ago. The lake is quite simply the most stunning place I’ve ever fished. The amazing fish that swim in it and the legendary anglers who have fished it make Savay an irreplaceable gem in carp-angling history, it must be saved,” said Danny.
“The planned routes will also affect several other waters in the Colne Valley, Korda lake for example which is where the name Korda Developments came after an exploratory visit to the lake for the up-and-coming season, some 20 years ago. I’ve never fished the lake but hold it in equally high regard as Savay.
“I urge all anglers and everyone who cares about our countryside to join with me and sign the petition to stop this rail link devastating such a historic and idyllic part of our beloved country,” he added.
The British Carp Study Group that runs the angling at Korda lake is also taking action against HS2.
“We’re urging all of our members to sign the petition and would encourage all anglers, carp or otherwise from across the UK, to do the same,” Ron Key of the BCSG told AT.
“This is a chance for angling to stand up for itself and save some very important waters and wildlife along with hundreds of other waters along the route.
“If the plans for this trainline go through we will lose the lot,” he added. “We need to fight hard to make sure that doesn’t happen.”
SIGN THE ONLINE PETITION TODAY
You could add your name to the growing list of anglers protesting against this measure. To go direct to the petition page, click HERE.
How you can help save Britain's historic carp waters
One of the most historically important and influential carp waters in the UK is under threat of destruction – and Angling Times is calling all anglers to help save it.
Savay Lake in the Colne Valley, Buckinghamshire, is steeped in angling history, but under government plans to construct a new high-speed rail link between Birmingham and London, it could be destroyed and lost to angling forever.
Carving directly through the Colne Valley, the proposed route of the HS2 line would also see the destruction of several other well known waters in the area, including Broadwater, Korda and Harefield, not to mentions large numbers of stillwater and river venues between the capital and the West Midlands.
With construction due to start in 2015, time is quickly running out to save these irreplaceable venues, which is why Angling Times is now calling all anglers to take a stand and save Savay.
In the same week that the high speed train line has been branded a £17billion ’white elephant’ by pressure group Taxpayers’ Alliance, AT is urging all anglers to put their name to a petition which could well decide the future of the famous water, along with countless other angling venues across the UK.
Martin Locke, owner of Solar Tackle, spent his formative angling years fishing Savay, catching the water’s most targeted fish, the legendary Sally, which Martin caught in 1987.
“It’s by far the best place I have ever fished, Martin told AT. “During the ‘80s and early ‘90s Savay was responsible for forming carp fishing and in turn shaping modern angling. All of the modern tactics and methods, along with ideas on tackle and baits were developed during these years at this one water. It needs to be saved, and every anglers should sign this petition.”
Also right behind the campaign is boss of tackle giant Korda Developments, Danny Fairbrass, who is urging all anglers to support the campaign.
“I was a days-only member of Savay many years ago. The lake is quite simply the most stunning place I’ve ever fished. The amazing fish that swim in it and the legendary anglers who have fished it make Savay an irreplaceable gem in carp-angling history, it must be saved,” said Danny.
“The planned routes will also affect several other waters in the Colne Valley, Korda lake for example which is where the name Korda Developments came after an exploratory visit to the lake for the up-and-coming season, some 20 years ago. I’ve never fished the lake but hold it in equally high regard as Savay.
“I urge all anglers and everyone who cares about our countryside to join with me and sign the petition to stop this rail link devastating such a historic and idyllic part of our beloved country,” he added.
The British Carp Study Group that runs the angling at Korda lake is also taking action against HS2.
“We’re urging all of our members to sign the petition and would encourage all anglers, carp or otherwise from across the UK, to do the same,” Ron Key of the BCSG told AT.
“This is a chance for angling to stand up for itself and save some very important waters and wildlife along with hundreds of other waters along the route.
“If the plans for this trainline go through we will lose the lot,” he added. “We need to fight hard to make sure that doesn’t happen.”
SIGN THE ONLINE PETITION TODAY
You could add your name to the growing list of anglers protesting against this measure. To go direct to the petition page, click HERE.
We must stock more carp into our canals
Some of the biggest names in the sport have thrown their weight behind a campaign that could stop carp being removed from canals and would instead see the species stocked into these venues nationwide.
Commercial fishing ace Steve Ringer is the latest to have signed an online petition which was created after British Waterways netted almost all of the big carp from one of the UK’s premier stretches of canal.
Last week Angling Times revealed how anglers nationwide had reacted angrily when BW netted a stretch of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal, following a request from local angling clubs Dams and Locks and the Stirrup Cup, who claimed that the carp were ‘ruining their matchfishing’.
Shimano UK brand manager Richard Griffiths launched the petition, that has also been signed by Richard Foster, boss of one of the sport’s biggest tackle retailers, Fosters of Birmingham.
But he also hopes that he can lead a bid to convince BW to ‘look to the future’ and stock canals with carp because he believes that this will make such venues much more viable and popular for future generations.
“Canals should be enjoyed by all anglers and I can’t believe that BW, which has many successful carp waters in its portfolio, would remove them from an already balanced ecosystem,” said Richard Griffiths.
“Countless stillwaters have tried to promote fishing for ‘silvers’, but have failed because anglers want to catch carp. I think it’s about time our sport moved with the times and considered stocking small carp into canals.”
Steve Ringer admitted to have been ‘shocked’ by the news of BW carrying out the netting of carp from the Birmingham & Fazeley and believes the species has earned its right to thrive in the nation’s canal systems.
He said, “To say carp are ruining matchfishing is a joke. I’m told that carp are never caught in matches on the stretch that was netted. An angler fishing any venue can get seen off by a big fish – that’s just the way it is.”
But anglers such as England international Darren Cox aren’t so sure that a canal with newly stocked carp is such a good thing.
“I grew up on the Leeds & Liverpool canal, fishing for roach and gudgeon. It was then stocked with small carp, which were great for three or four years before they became big fish and only lived in certain pegs. I have no problem with existing carp in canals, the stocking balances itself out, but I don’t agree with stocking a canal like you would a commercial. You’ll upset the natural balance,” he said.
We must stock more carp into our canals
Some of the biggest names in the sport have thrown their weight behind a campaign that could stop carp being removed from canals and would instead see the species stocked into these venues nationwide.
Commercial fishing ace Steve Ringer is the latest to have signed an online petition which was created after British Waterways netted almost all of the big carp from one of the UK’s premier stretches of canal.
Last week Angling Times revealed how anglers nationwide had reacted angrily when BW netted a stretch of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal, following a request from local angling clubs Dams and Locks and the Stirrup Cup, who claimed that the carp were ‘ruining their matchfishing’.
Shimano UK brand manager Richard Griffiths launched the petition, that has also been signed by Richard Foster, boss of one of the sport’s biggest tackle retailers, Fosters of Birmingham.
But he also hopes that he can lead a bid to convince BW to ‘look to the future’ and stock canals with carp because he believes that this will make such venues much more viable and popular for future generations.
“Canals should be enjoyed by all anglers and I can’t believe that BW, which has many successful carp waters in its portfolio, would remove them from an already balanced ecosystem,” said Richard Griffiths.
“Countless stillwaters have tried to promote fishing for ‘silvers’, but have failed because anglers want to catch carp. I think it’s about time our sport moved with the times and considered stocking small carp into canals.”
Steve Ringer admitted to have been ‘shocked’ by the news of BW carrying out the netting of carp from the Birmingham & Fazeley and believes the species has earned its right to thrive in the nation’s canal systems.
He said, “To say carp are ruining matchfishing is a joke. I’m told that carp are never caught in matches on the stretch that was netted. An angler fishing any venue can get seen off by a big fish – that’s just the way it is.”
But anglers such as England international Darren Cox aren’t so sure that a canal with newly stocked carp is such a good thing.
“I grew up on the Leeds & Liverpool canal, fishing for roach and gudgeon. It was then stocked with small carp, which were great for three or four years before they became big fish and only lived in certain pegs. I have no problem with existing carp in canals, the stocking balances itself out, but I don’t agree with stocking a canal like you would a commercial. You’ll upset the natural balance,” he said.
Cemex Angling accused of falling into disarray
The UK’s biggest fishing club this week stands accused of ‘falling into disarray’.
Cemex Angling has been surrounded by controversy after worried fishermen posted on internet forums and contacted Angling Times to complain about the ‘overpowering stench’ coming from the bodies of dead specimen carp which have been left rotting on the banks of one of its flagship waters – Frimley Pit 2.
The corpses were from the aftermath of a winter fish-kill at the Surrey venue, but it’s the prolonged delay in the clean-up operation that has made many members question the company’s dedication.
Cemex, a global leader in the aggregates market, is also currently the UK’s largest commercial angling organisation in the UK, and controls more than 70 stillwaters and 20 stretches of river, catering for pleasure, specimen and match anglers.
But since the company streamlined its fisheries management team last year, many anglers believe that the impeccably high standards that had been set in the past and enjoyed by thousands of customers, are slipping. Rumours are also circulating that many bailiffs have become disillusioned, and have resigned in protest.
“There are still dead fish all over the place at Frimley 2, and a pit that had been prepared behind the lake to bury the carcasses has been visited by foxes that have dug them up. The smell is unbearable,” a source close to the situation told Angling Times.
“This is concrete proof that the fisheries team is stretched to breaking point. It’s not the fault of the guys on the ground, it’s the big bosses upstairs who no longer seem to care about the fishing side of the company – they wouldn’t know a fishing rod if it poked them in the eye!”
Despite the damning accusations, Dan Panormo the company’s head of property who also now oversees Cemex Angling, told Angling Times: “Our top priority is to ensure our members continue to enjoy fishing our venues, and our first-class fishing venues are tirelessly maintained by our 350-strong bailiff team.”
Cemex Angling accused of falling into disarray
The UK’s biggest fishing club this week stands accused of ‘falling into disarray’.
Cemex Angling has been surrounded by controversy after worried fishermen posted on internet forums and contacted Angling Times to complain about the ‘overpowering stench’ coming from the bodies of dead specimen carp which have been left rotting on the banks of one of its flagship waters – Frimley Pit 2.
The corpses were from the aftermath of a winter fish-kill at the Surrey venue, but it’s the prolonged delay in the clean-up operation that has made many members question the company’s dedication.
Cemex, a global leader in the aggregates market, is also currently the UK’s largest commercial angling organisation in the UK, and controls more than 70 stillwaters and 20 stretches of river, catering for pleasure, specimen and match anglers.
But since the company streamlined its fisheries management team last year, many anglers believe that the impeccably high standards that had been set in the past and enjoyed by thousands of customers, are slipping. Rumours are also circulating that many bailiffs have become disillusioned, and have resigned in protest.
“There are still dead fish all over the place at Frimley 2, and a pit that had been prepared behind the lake to bury the carcasses has been visited by foxes that have dug them up. The smell is unbearable,” a source close to the situation told Angling Times.
“This is concrete proof that the fisheries team is stretched to breaking point. It’s not the fault of the guys on the ground, it’s the big bosses upstairs who no longer seem to care about the fishing side of the company – they wouldn’t know a fishing rod if it poked them in the eye!”
Despite the damning accusations, Dan Panormo the company’s head of property who also now oversees Cemex Angling, told Angling Times: “Our top priority is to ensure our members continue to enjoy fishing our venues, and our first-class fishing venues are tirelessly maintained by our 350-strong bailiff team.”
Chew Valley booking system slammed
Bosses at the UK’s best big pike water have slammed claims that tickets for the venue’s annual predator fishing trials are allocated unfairly.
For nine weeks every year, Chew Valley Lake in Somerset attracts anglers from all over the country who make the pilgrimage in search of the 1,200-acre venue’s legendary stocks of big pike to over 40lb.
In order to fish, anglers must first apply for tickets in advance, a process which is vastly oversubscribed each season. And, following the 2011 allocation several weeks ago, a number of disgruntled anglers who missed out have used internet forums to claim that favouritism is shown to some Chew regulars every time the grab for tickets comes up. Angling Times has also received calls from pikers who have lost out.
One such caller, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It seems to be the same people, sitting at the same tables having breakfast in the Woodford Lodge every morning. I applied for a dozen dates this year and got nothing.
“Last year I got one date from 20 that I asked for. Yet I’ve heard that there are a couple of individuals who have got upwards of 20 dates out of the 60-odd available. The process is certainly not as democratic as the management would have you believe. It’s a stich up.”
These claims have been dismissed by Bob Handford, fisheries and recreation manager at Chew. He said: “We’ve had more than 850 applications this year and, as usual, everybody’s name was put in a draw.
“We try to allocate a place for everyone, but this year there were about 20 anglers who didn’t get anything. However, most have two dates and we try to give consecutive days for anyone who’s coming more than 100 miles. But it’s not easy – most are happy, but of course there are always some who are not!”
Big-fish all-rounder Paul Garner has fished Chew in the past and also believes it is simply a case of sour grapes.
“I’ve only ever got one or two dates a year, and so have mates who have applied,” he said.
“You put your name into the hat and take your chance – it’s a fair process and I can’t help but think that those complaining have just been unlucky.”
Chew Valley booking system slammed
Bosses at the UK’s best big pike water have slammed claims that tickets for the venue’s annual predator fishing trials are allocated unfairly.
For nine weeks every year, Chew Valley Lake in Somerset attracts anglers from all over the country who make the pilgrimage in search of the 1,200-acre venue’s legendary stocks of big pike to over 40lb.
In order to fish, anglers must first apply for tickets in advance, a process which is vastly oversubscribed each season. And, following the 2011 allocation several weeks ago, a number of disgruntled anglers who missed out have used internet forums to claim that favouritism is shown to some Chew regulars every time the grab for tickets comes up. Angling Times has also received calls from pikers who have lost out.
One such caller, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It seems to be the same people, sitting at the same tables having breakfast in the Woodford Lodge every morning. I applied for a dozen dates this year and got nothing.
“Last year I got one date from 20 that I asked for. Yet I’ve heard that there are a couple of individuals who have got upwards of 20 dates out of the 60-odd available. The process is certainly not as democratic as the management would have you believe. It’s a stich up.”
These claims have been dismissed by Bob Handford, fisheries and recreation manager at Chew. He said: “We’ve had more than 850 applications this year and, as usual, everybody’s name was put in a draw.
“We try to allocate a place for everyone, but this year there were about 20 anglers who didn’t get anything. However, most have two dates and we try to give consecutive days for anyone who’s coming more than 100 miles. But it’s not easy – most are happy, but of course there are always some who are not!”
Big-fish all-rounder Paul Garner has fished Chew in the past and also believes it is simply a case of sour grapes.
“I’ve only ever got one or two dates a year, and so have mates who have applied,” he said.
“You put your name into the hat and take your chance – it’s a fair process and I can’t help but think that those complaining have just been unlucky.”
Gold Valley Lakes boss' damning verdict on fisheries
“Far too many fisheries are negligent in their maintenance and repairs, and are accidents just waiting to happen.”
That’s the damning verdict of John Raison, boss of Hants complex Gold Valley Lakes, who claims venues across the country are in a ‘state of disrepair’.
The blunt appraisal comes just a week after we revealed how the owner of day-ticket fishery in Cambridgeshire was ordered to pay £4,000 to an angler who claimed to have broken his ankle after slipping on a platform.
According to John, more venues will soon fall foul to the UK’s ‘compensation culture’ unless they take swift action.
“Many fisheries are negligent,” said John.
“I could take you to loads that are in a complete mess, with rotten wooden platforms everywhere and other problems that need addressing. Several years ago we replaced all of our wooden platforms with non-slip concrete ones – at great cost. You simply have to do these things.”
According to John, owners also need to make sure that they have plenty of disclaimers in place on site, or face the consequences.
“We have signs which say ‘To pass this point, you have to be a member’, meaning you can’t get on to our land without passing the sign. Fishery owners have to safeguard their livelihoods and cover their backs,” he added.
John’s warning was given extra relevance when the secretary of a club in the Colne Valley contacted AT to tell us how his organisation had paid out insurance claims twice in three years.
The man, who wished to be known only as Chris, said, “We’ve been hit not by anglers, but by members of the public. One claim came from someone who entered the fishery and sprained their ankle, while the other was from a bloke who stepped on to a wooden platform to look at birds and went through it. What amazed me both times is how quickly the insurance companies capitulated. It was alarming, and a sign of the society we live in,” he added.
Gold Valley Lakes boss' damning verdict on fisheries
“Far too many fisheries are negligent in their maintenance and repairs, and are accidents just waiting to happen.”
That’s the damning verdict of John Raison, boss of Hants complex Gold Valley Lakes, who claims venues across the country are in a ‘state of disrepair’.
The blunt appraisal comes just a week after we revealed how the owner of day-ticket fishery in Cambridgeshire was ordered to pay £4,000 to an angler who claimed to have broken his ankle after slipping on a platform.
According to John, more venues will soon fall foul to the UK’s ‘compensation culture’ unless they take swift action.
“Many fisheries are negligent,” said John.
“I could take you to loads that are in a complete mess, with rotten wooden platforms everywhere and other problems that need addressing. Several years ago we replaced all of our wooden platforms with non-slip concrete ones – at great cost. You simply have to do these things.”
According to John, owners also need to make sure that they have plenty of disclaimers in place on site, or face the consequences.
“We have signs which say ‘To pass this point, you have to be a member’, meaning you can’t get on to our land without passing the sign. Fishery owners have to safeguard their livelihoods and cover their backs,” he added.
John’s warning was given extra relevance when the secretary of a club in the Colne Valley contacted AT to tell us how his organisation had paid out insurance claims twice in three years.
The man, who wished to be known only as Chris, said, “We’ve been hit not by anglers, but by members of the public. One claim came from someone who entered the fishery and sprained their ankle, while the other was from a bloke who stepped on to a wooden platform to look at birds and went through it. What amazed me both times is how quickly the insurance companies capitulated. It was alarming, and a sign of the society we live in,” he added.
