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DreamLakes, France
The DreamLake Complex, consisting of six mature, tree-lined lakes offers excellent carp and catfish angling on either an Inclusive Package or Voyage Self-Drive basis. Currently five of the lakes are open, the sixth housing a huge number of stock fish, ensuring future growth and development.
DreamLakes aim to provide anglers with the highest quality French carp fishing holiday. Offering the size and numbers of carp you would never hope to find in any English water, the peace and tranquillity of the beautiful Champagne countryside only serve to enhance the DreamLake Experience. DreamLakes 3, 4 and 5 are able to offer a great experience for anglers who want to do their own pioneering in France. Only four hours drive from Calais, and with the advantage of knowing that there is always someone on hand to give expert help and advice, you have the freedom to enjoy some really impressive ‘all action style’ carp angling.
Reader Review - Luke "crazy carper" Thomas - August 2007
DreamLakes !!! - Lake 3
We arrived in Relyon Car park, Dover, at 9.45pm ready and set to make our
long voyage over to Dreamlakes. We were absolutly buzzing by now and couldn't
wait to get over there and wet a line. The two 36 seater coaches arrived,
briskly picked us up, along with all our gear, and bombed off for the ferry
port. The ferry journey over was about an hour and a half and we got
ourselves aquainted with everyone we would be spending the week wit ... what a
class bunch of guys !
After 5 hours following the ferry journey we arrived at Dreamlakes, met by a
bacon roll and tea, coffee etc. How welcome it was ! The sun was just
starting to come up and it looked like it was shaping up to be a lovely day.
We managed to settle into our swims and get set up, wandered around for a
chat and then cast in. Our Bailiff for the week, Garry, informed us that the
lake wasn't fishing as well as it should and that the previous week, the swim
I was in had blanked. I was a little apprehensive but took the approach "it's
about time they were here" and got on with it. I knew alot of bait would be
the kiss of death so stuck with tiny bags of pellets with plastic corn as
hookbait and within 2 hours I was in to the first fish. It went like stink,
taking out 1 of my other lines and nearly snagging me up, until I managed
to get its head up and land it. The scales flew round to 23lb 10oz Mirror Carp
and a lovely first fish it was.
I then went the next day without so much of a sniff. I was starting to worry
a little now and decided that a change of bait was in order, something a
little more attractive and smelly than my tutti-fruitti pop-up corn ! This
new bait was to be Mainline's Pulse boilies which we had pre-ordered. That
night I was to reap the rewards as a 34lb 8oz Mirror Carp and a 31lb 4oz
Mirror Carp graced my net. I was over the moon with these as my change of
tactics had paid off and what fish to catch !
The following night using these tactics I managed a 34lb 12oz Mirror Carp, the
biggest yet, and was happy that what I was doing was right. It was clear now
that the majority of the fish were coming out at night and that my efforts
should be doubled for the hours of darkness so I could catch consistently.
The next day Bruce, Dean and I were talking about how it would be nice to
catch a lovely common as all the fish we had caught were Mirrors.
Unfortunatly that night Ii failed to catch at all and morale was lowering a
little.
The following night it became clockwork and I recieved a screaming run which resulted in a gorgeous looking 29lb common carp. I was over the moon and breath taken by the fish but had no idea what was to come. An hour later I had another run which I managed to loose, and then at about half past 3 I recieved a slow powerful run. I hooked into it and was adamant it was a small carp or tench. How wrong I was. I got it to about 15 yards out and this thing went nuts. After a series of powerful lunges and runs, along with 20 minutes of struggle I got it in the net... it was big. I secured the net and ran to wake Dean and Bruce up. "I've got a big common mate, bring your weigh sling and scales !"
They finally dragged themselves out of bed and they're reaction when they first saw it was un-printable. We made sure the scales were zeroed first ... weighed it several times ... and then photographed it ... all 47lb 10oz of it !!!!!
I was absolutely smashed, never did Idream I was to catch a fish of that callibur. Phil and Andy (Andy incidently is in the final of the Welsh Carp Masters and is a top bloke !) came round to congradulate and lend a hand. Thanks alot lads !
That was the last fish I caught, Bruce managed 5 fish to 42.08lbs (Common) and Dean managed 3 fish to 34lb 12oz (Cracking Mirror). So overall it was great !
Would like to give a special mention to all the other guys on lakes 3, 4 and 5 it was a great laugh and must do it again next year !
Get yourselves to Dreamlakes, its the place to be !
Luke Thomas
Crazy_carper
Score
Uk Fisherman would love to hear from any other anglers who have Dream Lakes in France. We would especially like to hear from anyone connected with Dream Lakes who would like to comment on this review.
Paul @ UK Fisherman
Please note the views expressed on these review pages are not necessarily endorsed by UK Fisherman.
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
Description:
This fascinating fish has been around for over 60 million years. The PRIMEVAL PIKE gives us an historical perspective and looks at pike biology and behaviour. Dedicated pike anglers show us their most successful baiting methods and we are treated to the joy of watching them land pike after pike of all sizes.
Highly Acclaimed angler and presenter Andy Nicholson joins forces with the British Museum and fellow expert anglers Ray Baker, Dr Bruno Broughton, Martyn Page, Vic "the rig" Bellars and Max Cottis to raise the profile of this ancient species and to make a compelling case for treating the pike with care and respect.
Chapters:
- History of the Pike - with Awyne Wheeler of the British Museum
- Fly Fishing For Pike - with Ray Baker
- Pike Biology & Behaviour - with Dr Bruno Broughton
- Dead Baiting - with Vic Bellars & Martyn Page
- Lure, Plug & Spinning baiting - with Andy Nicholson
- Mackerel as Bait - with Max Cottis
Running Time: approximately 105 mins
Review:
Right from the start I have to say that this is a cracking DVD full of interesting and useful information about the pike itself, it's history and habits as well as how best to catch one.
Before the DVD even gets to any fishing action we see Andy talking to Awyne Wheeler a pike expert at the British museum who provides loads of fascinating information about the history of this pre-historic fish. Another of the sections I found particularly enlightening was the section dealing with pike biology and behaviour. Bruno Broughton brings his vast experience to play when detailing the pikes feeding and behavioural patterns, vital information for any angler who wished to target this elusive predator.
By now my appetite was wetted for some actual fishing and I wasn't disappointed here either. Great care is taken to detail the methods used by the various participants and the following chapters of the DVD outline fly fishing for pike, dead baiting, lure, plug and spinning and using mackerel as bait for pike. The DVD covers nearly all the methods that can be used for pike fishing and I certainly picked up some really useful tips which will no doubt stand me in good stead this winter.
Throughout the whole DVD it is clear that those taking part are real enthusiats for the art of pike fishing and proper care of the fish they caught was something that was highlighted throughout.
There are some cracking underwater shots of the Pike splattered throughout this DVD and they really bring the whole "pike in their natural habitat" issue to life and make the whole DVD that much more enjoyable.
I would highly recommend this DVD to anyone who wants to find out a bit more about tactics for catching pike and anyone who is interested in the history of the fish we catch in this country. It is a well thought out publication that manages to create a fine balance between the history of the pike and the methods for catching them.
Score:
Where to buy The Primeval Pike:
The Primeval Pike is available to puchase from Beckmann Visual Publishing in either DVD or VHS video format and is priced at £16.99 for the DVD or £17.99 for the VHS.
To order this excellent DVD, visit www.beckmanndirect.com
A big thank you to Kelly Smith and all at Beckmann Visual Publishing for supplying UK Fisherman with this DVD for review.
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
Fly Fishing in Iceland - courtesy of Beckmann Visual Publishing
Description:
This ambitious and exciting film about fly fishing in Iceland follows Icelandic local fishermen as they pursue their catch - Arctic Salmon, Sea Trout and Arctic Char.
This is a unique fishing film allowing you to see the different fishing culture of Iceland first hand. Iceland is beautiful and a fish-rich, enchanting setting for fishermen keen to share with you their expertise and experiences. Though the northern summers are short, the fish are plentiful, offering up many unforgettable fights between man and his quarry.
The producer Eggert Skulason is the editor of the premier Icelandic fishing magazine called "Veidimadurinn" (The Fishermam). He has been fishing in Iceland for over three decades and has all the skills needed to point out the best places to fish and explain the tactics that work. Eggert is also a veteran producer having produced over 40 fishing films.
Five very different rivers are fished in this film, providing great variety. Among them is the River Hofsa, visited by Prince Charles for many years and a small but beautiful river in an isolated fjord that gets invaded by arctic Char every summer. The film contains some stunning unerwater footage including a big Char chasing and eventually catching the fly.
The DVD also includes maps of locations fished in the programme
Running Time: approximately 67 mins
Review:
Right from the start, I should say that I am neither a fly fishermen, neither have I ever been to Iceland. After watching this video though, I am seriously considering doing both!!
This is not fly fishing as most of us probably know it. Rather than well stocked commercial trout fisheries, this is fishing at its best, on wild natural rivers that tumble their way through some dramatic and stunning scenery.
The DVD manages to create just the right balance between technical fishing information about line, flies & techniques, footage of fish being played and caught and just unashamed shots of the wondeful Icelandic scenery. Underwater footage of fish in the natural habitat is almost obligatory in fishing videos these days and Fly Fishing in Iceland is no exception. It brings the whole experiece so much more to life.
I really enjoyed Fly Fishing In Iceland and would highly recommend it. Sitting at home in London on a miserable January afternoon, it has certainly made me want to get on my bike and experience other countries and the fishing they offer. If UK Fisherman doesn't get updated for while cos I've gone travelling, you can blame this film !!
Cheers for now ... Paul@UK Fisherman
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Where to buy Fly Fishing In Iceland:
Fly Fishing in Iceland is available to puchase from Beckmann Visual Publishing in DVD format and is priced at £16.99.
To order this excellent DVD, visit www.beckmanndirect.com
A big thank you to Kelly Smith and all at Beckmann Visual Publishing for supplying UK Fisherman with this DVD for review.
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
UK Fisherman was recently contacted by three anglers, all being familiar with the fishing at Cottington Lakes, but with very differing opinions of the place and the fishing on offer there. Just shows you that no two people ever have the same views on matters - well hey, wouldn't life be dull if we all agreed !!
Camo - Read Review
Carl - Read Review
John - Read Review
Carl - Read Comments and view pictures
Clive - Read Comments ** New Feb 08
Reader Review - Paul (April 2007)
Comments removed at the request of the author
Reader Review - Camo (April 2007)
"I cannot agree with the comments made about this fishery as the review sounds nothing like the place I have fished, the welcome one gets from Laurie who has worked in the Tackle shop for three years is excellent, he is extremely polite and a true gentleman."
"I went to the lakes today unannounced to see for myself first hand and the Lakes looked fantastic and as for the maintenance their has been trouble with blocked sluice gates in the dykes but that has now been rectified."
"I spoke to many anglers who love the place and fish were being caught left right and centre - I saw some beautiful fish and in pristine condition too. Aubrey was cutting the grass which he does on a weekly basis, Duane one of the Honary Bailiffs was removing old wooden platforms and replacing with new Galvanised Metal ones, paths were being laid around the match lakes, reeds were being cut back by Tim and weeds were being sprayed."
"The Lakes in my view have never looked better. There are now eight Lakes on the Complex including a silver fish lake, Pepper lake one of the Carp Lakes is being dug out to approximately seven acres and this all in a day."
Two views of Cottington Lakes - Pictures courtesy of Camo
"The facilities include toilets and showers which are cleaned on a daily basis, Cafe and Bar where the food is well presented and spotless and the tackle shop which is under new management and is very well stocked and caters for all Match, Pleasure and Carp anglers. Security Cameras safeguard your property and well being, each lake has its own car park so its never too far to your favourite swim.
I took countless photos of the Lakes and fish etc, hoping to put pictures to my words so all could see first hand how beautiful this place is and its going to get better.
There is a huge Caravan and Camping site which is open all year, with electric hook-ups and water etc."
Camo
Score:
Reader Review - Carl Harris (May 2007)
Last week myself and 7 work colleagues hired the exclusive use of Lake Pepper. We spent 48 hours, in glorious May weather, at the lake. We found the local bailiffs and staff very helpful, and although the fishing was not prolific, everyone caught fish.
Five of us had British PB's, myself having 3 fish over 20lb, biggest 25 1/2lb mirror. All the fish were in pristine condition, and put up very good fights!!!
I would definitely return to Cottington and will recommend it to others.
Score:
Reader Review - John (Sept 2007)
Your reviewer Paul gives a low assessment of his visit to Cottington Lakes. Whilst I do not doubt that he reflects his own experience mine is somewhat different.
I have visited Cottington on three occasions this year with my young son and friends to camp and fish. We have been treated courteously and in a friendly and helpful matter. There was no problem with distractions from other anglers, indeed we engaged in several pleasant conversations with others using the lakes, most of whom were more than happy to volunteer information gained from their experiences. We caught a variety of species as well as larger Tench and Carp.
Score:
Reader Review - Carl (Oct 2007)
On a recent trip to Cottington Lakes which is in Deal, kent, I beat my PB twice in one day on Lake Christine. My PB stood at 16lb but when I struck into a 23.8lb mirror carp I was over the moon and made the trip well worth it.
But then shortly after, I stuck into a 26.8lb mirror carp on my other rod.
Cottington's is a nice and friendly place which has all the amenities that you could need for a short or long stay. The lakes are peaceful and are kept in good condition and the surrounding areas.
As the fish go they all put up a nice fight as I have fished all lakes apart from the match lakes and caught a range of nice fish which are in an all round good condition. I know some people disagree with paying the cost for the specimen lakes but with all fisheries that have specimen lakes they charge more so if you don't like it then go some where else and that's my opinion.
Score:
Reader Review - Clive Cook (Feb. 08)
Re Paul's review. I've fished Cottington Lakes over the past 4 years for carp. I cannot agree with him on the quality of the fishing (my specific is carp): over a 3 day @ night period I bagged 17 carp with my pb 29 3/4lb mirror.
However I can fully substantiate his views on the staff, especially the moron on his quad bike who thinks he's the new Richard Walker of carp tactics and specimens caught. When you question monsieur le moron closer, all his specimen fish have been caught in .......yes you've got it France!!! The first time I fished Christine Lake, mons. le m. LEFT HIS BIVVY UP, barring us from that swim.
One funny instance though: he told to leave us alone in his best estuary vocabulary, promptly revved his quad up, went up the bank at the wrong angle and turned the lot over. Please get a life whoever or whatever he is AND KEEP OUT OF OUR FACES!!
Well all the best to Paul in future. Oh yes by the way, Camo is also biased to Cottington, he's a Kentish fisherman through and through
Score:
Very differing views then of Cottington Lakes although the thumbs up seem to be definitely outweighing the thumbs down - guess you'll just have to make your own mind up and check the place out for yourself. If you do and you would like to send us your views, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Paul @ UK Fisherman
* Please note, the opinions shown on our review pages are not necessarily shared or endorsed by UK Fisherman.
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
This is not so much of a review by me but a chance to gaup in awe at some superb carp caught recently using Carple Steamers Baits from the Baitmaster. Words seem unncessary - just feast your eyes on these beauties and then head over to THE BAITMASTER to order your baits direct from them.
Red Crab Steamers have been catching fast and furiously where ever they go, whether it's European or British Waters.
For example Ben May from Carpers.net Forum has recently won the Seniors/Juniors competition, which was held at Etang De La Boissonie (Carp Anglers Dream) in France having hauled in a mighty large bag of Carp weighing 374lb over 48 hours.
Why not get some Red Crab Steamers for yourself.
Kevin Stait is just one of our many successful anglers baiting up with Carple Bloody Squid Steamers. Here's how Kev's been getting on since changing his bait over to Bloody Squid Steamers.
Kevin braved heavy showers and thunderstorms during his 48 hour sessions to take five fish topped by a 20lb 14oz Ghostie and a 20lb 2oz fully-scaled mirror. Kev caught his fish from both open water and the marginal reed beds where he offered Carple Bloody Squid Steamer Baits...
Why not get some Red Crab Steamers for yourself.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE
Carple Red Lobster Seaweed has also seen some great catch reports. Let's see what Clint has to say about his recent session. 18mm Carple Red Lobster & Seaweed Steamers, Carple Green Crab 'n Lobster Stik Mix accounted for these carp. The venue was a local lake.
The day started well Carl with a few fish to just over 10lb but as the morning turned into afternoon the fish came thick and fast. Rig set was a 5oz running lead, hook link 15lb E.S.P sink link, hook Korda Hybrid size 6.
Best fish was a 23lb common followed by 20lb, 20lb 8oz, 19lb,14lb. Total fish caught 12, size and quantity wasn't at all bad for just a days session.
Why not get some Carple Red Lobster Seaweed Steamers for yourself.
Score:
Qaulity fish caught using quality baits. Get yours NOW !!
Click Here to View all the Baitmaster products
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
Two readers have recently contacted us to share their view on the River Bourne in Chertsey, particularly the stretch known as The Meads. They certainly cast doubt on the statement that the River Bourne can offer some excellent coarse fishing.
Reader One - Thomas Denny (June 2006)
Having been very interested in fishing The River Bourne near Chertsey Meads, I decided to make a visit and get an up to date view of The Bourne at Chertsey. What a shame. After moving up from the start of the river, I'm met by overgrown stinging nettles - not possible to even get near to the river.
A little further greets me with what appears to be a stangnant pond area. For those thinking of fishing near The Meads its a no no. Great shame. The area needs urgent attention. Ministry of enviroment perhaps spend some of our licence money please in a clean up.
Reader Two - Michael Allen (October 2006)
I spent the day at chertsey today interseted in fishing the meads. It was as read on your site meaning the stingers being a nightmare. However I did manage to get to the bankside but I honestly cant see how anyone has ever caught barbel there. The only way I could envisage that is in winter maybe they might swim from the thames into there for respite.
I've looked at various parts of that river before and can honestly say that I have never seen any signs of aquatic life anywhere, no swirls no surface movement only water boatmen. I'd be interested to speak to anyone who knows of anyone who has caught there.
Still not all gloom. I parked in car park and after extensive roving of the bourne I decided to hit the thames walking the opposite way from the bourne. Did quite well picking up a few nice chub and a few nice perch til the weather got the better of me. I would recommend thames at the meads on feeder tactics.
Score:
Obviously our two readers were not overly impressed with The Meads. However, as Michael mentions, this is probably a better winter venue when the bankside vegetation has died away making access easier and the river is in full flow.
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
“This lovely book chronicles the rustic ramblings of two extraordinary characters through a Britain that has all but disappeared, where there is still a real quality of life and man is altogether kinder to his fellow man”.
Chris Tarrant
“Invigorating . . . a most refreshing read.”
Ronnie Corbett
"They may look like poachers and talk like rogues, but ‘the Bart’ and ‘the Bounder’ are impeccably classy chroniclers of Britain ’s rural traditions… Like a pair of disreputable Victorian villains… they have confessed their sins in [this] wonderful book… What makes the tales in their book such a treat is that the pair not only ransacked their long memories and old game books for anecdotes but actually went out on the road together… travelling Britain, ferreting out old acquaintances - gamekeepers, gypsies, coal miners - and quizzing them about the secrets of the countryside."
"Thanks to this diligent, pub-based research… it is not just terrific sporting history they have unearthed but social and natural history, too… In their research, they did stumble on a significant hidden truth. Rural writers from Harvey, through Chesterton and Betjeman have taught us to accept with mournful certainty that we are seeing the final passing of a rural race along with its way of life... [The Bart and Bounder's belief is rather that] "The English countryside is so magical that it makes new countrymen every generation, and the new countrymen are in every way as much a part of the country as the old ones were 100 years ago. You don't have to be born there to be one of them, you only have to find a way of enjoying it when you live there."…
"Country people are not really an endangered species at all and they will never die out, at least until England's very last green acre goes under concrete. It is even possible, then, that the next generation will throw up a pair of exuberant aberrations like the Bart and the Bounder. Lord help us."
Sandy Mitchell, Daily Telegraph
"You many already have encountered The Bart and The Bounder on BBC2 last year. The programme featured the two cousins, lifelong friends and conspirators, tickling trout, telling tall toff tales and taking in a audience of some three million on the way. Their convivial style caught the imagination of their soon-to-be editor and publisher and the suitably long and jolly lunch that ensued has resulted in this fascinating book."
"The ‘ endangered species’ of the title are the rural people and ways of life of the British Isles but rather than a reverential Sir David Attenborough-like approach, think more of the hearty Clarissa Dickson-Wright and her adventures with both the late Jennifer Paterson and with countryman Johnny Scott. The reader joins the Bart and Bounder, whose love of their topic is matched only by their passions for whisky and women (the former indulged, the latter wistfully recalled) as they catch rats, poach salmon, shoot game, hunt boar, carouse in pubs, try their hand at netting in coracles and attempt to paint a true picture of our countryside, from the river Towy in Wales, to the Inner Hebrides, Yorkshire, Ireland, Hampshire, Sussex, Norfolk, the Midlands and places in-between…"
"To this end, their year is spent travelling month by month… to these intriguing areas of our land, meeting old friends and making new ones – poachers, gamekeepers, dukes and estate owners – winning over even the most wary… The Bart and the Bounder’s sincerity, integrity and love for the countryside and its laws are always evident. And informative… This book is huge fun, written with vivacity and peopled by characters whom politicians and political correctness would rather airbrush out of modern life. I’d recommend this as an ideal gift for the cantankerous, the inquisitive and the open-minded – teetotallers and vegetarians excepted."
Penny Meyrick, Daily Express
"To read the hilarious tales of the Bart (Sir Richard Heygate) and the Bounder (Mike Daunt) is to meet them. That they are equally at home on barstools or with barmaids – busty or blonde – is a double joy. They may have been weaned on the works of ‘BB’ (Denys Watkins-Pitchford), but they have brought modern countryside writing to a new, higher and more relevant level. I do not simply recommend this book to every sporting household, but that readers try their hand at some of its eccentric sporting forays…
"It is an uncomfortable truth that only men can write about the real countryside. They understand its camaraderie between mammals, the elements, humour, the pub fireside and each other. In this, the Bart and the Bounder have produced a five-star book, which is a blazing beacon on a distant hillside."
Rory Knight Bruce, Country Life
" Endangered Species [is] a book in which the duo record their colourful encounters with numerous horny-handed sons of toil – poachers, rat-catchers, gillies, game-keepers, spud-pickers, fishermen – and present readers with glimpses of a vanishing but still vibrant rural community… There are some fine descriptive passages and many amusing anecdotes. I particularly enjoyed reading about Bart’s Christmas visitor, Mariga, Princess of Urach, estranged wife of Desmond Guiness, heir to the brewery fortune. Living in a house on the Antrim coast without electricity or heating, she was caught driving over the limit and lost her licence. She lent her clapped-out Citroen to a farmer to use as a chicken coop. On recovering her licence she wickedly parked it, covered in chicken muck, on the driveway of her ex-husband’s castle. Amusing, too, is the scam of a Yorkshire ex-miner who paints supermarket eggs to resemble rare osprey, golden eagle and other forbidden collectors’ species and sells them on eBay. Even the experts are fooled."
Val Hennessy – Critics’ Choice, Daily Mail
"Mike Daunt and his cousin Sir Richard Heygate embarked on a year-long journey across the length and breadth of the British Isles. This book, which is perfect for dipping into, describes their adventures as they sought out the eponymous “endangered species” of countrymen. Learn from their mistakes (such as eating hedgehog) and laugh with them over a pint of real ale. Their tales provide a fascinating insight into country ways of life that are more usually hidden. You should be left feeling, as Daunt and Heygate do, that you have been privileged to discover such a rapidly fading aspect of the world."
Mary Skipwith, The Field
Where to Buy:
WWW.BARTANDBOUNDER.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES, TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO CLIPS AND ORDER THE BOOK ON LINE
For further information please contact:
Anya Noakes / Rebecca Dix
020 7483 2005
anya@prmatters.biz / rebecca@prmatters.biz
UK Fisherman would be delighted to here from you if you would like to comment on any of our sale items. To do so, use the comment box below.
Alternatively if you would to submit a sale item of your own, please visit the CONTACT page.
A Guide to Fishing in Andalucia - By James Clear
Description:
A chance day trip to a reservoir near Ronda in the province of Cadiz, revolutionised James's views on fishing in the Spanish region of Andalucia. Despite spending many holidays in southern Spain, he had never considered the untapped potential for fishing in this stunning part of the world. This day trip got him thinking and having decided to research the subject, it soon became apparent that there was a serious lack of information available regarding angling in Andalucia, a fact that partly helps explain why fishing in this region remains largely undiscovered ....
.... and so, Carp, Barbel and Paella - A Guide to fishing in Andalucia was born !!
Review:
Let me say that from the outset, this is a quality piece of work and provides an indispensable guide to fishing in the region for those new to the area and also to those who have fished the region before. If you are thinking of taking a fishing holiday in Andalucia, you must buy this book - you won't regret it.
A Guide to Fishing in Andalucia is a comprehensive guide to fishing in the Andalucian region of Spain. It is well structured and set out in a number of sections which include:
- species and methods
- rules and regulations
- the provinces of Andalucia
- travel tips and what to bring
- useful phrases
- tackle and bait shops
- festivals
Chapter 1 - species and methods:
This is an excellent section which will appeal to all anglers whether you are visiting Andalucia of not. It details what you can expect to catch when fishing in Andalucia. Did you know for example that there are 7 species of barbel that can be caught there and one of best summer baits to catch them is .... crickets !!! This section also contains some excellent advice on baits and tactics that work well for barbel, carp, pike, trout, bass and eels as well as the more unusual species to be found in Spanish waters such as Allis Shad, Cacho, Saboga, Colmilleja and Pardilla amongst others.
Chapter 2 - rules and regulations:
Travelling abroad can often be confusing when it comes to local laws and regulations which is why this section is a great help in shedding light on the legal aspects of fishing in Andalucia, particularly in regard to what licences are required, how much they cost, where to obtain them along with useful contact numbers and adresses. Did you know, you need a licence to sea fish in Spain?
Chapter 3 - the provinces of Andalucia:
The bulk of this excellent guide concentrates on the various provinces within Andalucia, starting with a brief description of each province. Each is then split into individual fishing venues, detailing what you can expect to catch there and the best bait and tactics to employ. Each venue also includes a useful map of the location as well as details of how to get there. This is a really in depth section and contains loads of really useful information.
Chapter 4 - travel tips and what to bring:
Another useful section on how to make the most of your trip along with some ideas about what tackle and bait to take with you. It also includes some brief detail of things to watch out for ... like the fighting bulls that can turn up anywhere (especially around Cadiz) and the dreaded mosquitos.
Chapter 5 - useful phrases:
For those not fluent in Spanish, the Guide to Fishing in Andalucia also includes a section of useful fishing phrases and words, basically everything anglers will need when visiting tackle shops and venues etc (believe it or not, not everyone speaks English in Spain !!). Phrases like la aguja pesca (baiting needle), la pesca al la inglesa (waggler fishing) and el asticot (maggot) are not phrases you are likely to find in your standard Spanish phrase book.
Chapter 6 - tackle and bait shops:
A useful list of addresses and phone numbers of tackle and bait shops in Andalucia.
Chapter 7 - festivals:
Brief details of the many festivals and fiestas that take place in Andalucia - just in case you get an hour or two off from fishing !!
Price:
A Guide to Fishing in Andalucia is available worldwide at the following prices.
delivery within UK - £14.24 *
delivery in Europe - £15.13 *
delivery to US - £19.13 *
delivery worldwide - £19.19 *
* all prices include postage and packing
Summary:
A quality piece of work. If you are unfamiliar with the Andalucian region of Spain and the fishing it offers, this guide is invaluable if you are thinking of visiting the region. A great deal of thought has gone into producing this book and as it is written by an angler it is much more useful than your standard holiday guides. It basically includes everything you will need to think about when fishing in Andalucia.
The only problem I see with this book is that it could seriously damage your bank balance. With its descriptions of the various fisheries in Andalucia, complemented by well chosen photographs, this book will make you want to head down to the nearest travel agent, dust off your fishing rod and head to Andalucia to experience the delights on offer yourself. You have been warned !!
Paul@ Uk fisherman
Score:
highly recommended !!
Where to buy:
For more information about A Fishing Guide to Andalucia and to purchase the guide, please visit www.go-fishing-spain.com
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When Dave Havers of Tacklebargains.co.uk called me to say he’d got a batch of carp rods in for reduced clearance, I must say, I was over to see him in a shot. Don’t get me wrong, I’m more than happy with the Sportex rods I had built around four years ago, but just lately there have been just one or two occasions where I have felt the need for something a touch bigger.
In a word, my 2.25TC Sportex rods are fantastic. However, they were built to fulfil two main requirements at the time; as the vast majority of my carp angling is done on old estate lakes and I’m rarely chucking more than 50 yards I wanted a low test curve. Secondly, as I like to feel the fish I’m playing, I also wanted a proper ‘all-through’ action.
Built as such, I’ve had some fantastic tussles using the rods and won’t have a word said against them, but over the last year when fishing the Top Pool or whilst on Birch Grove, there have been occasions where they have been slightly outdone in the heat of battle.
In the main the problems are down to big fish weeding me in the Top Pool where I could do with just a little bit more power to try and get them up and moving again. On Birch Grove the problem is that you can be fishing at big distances close up to snags and you really need a little more ‘beef’ to get the upper hand quickly at the beginning of the battle, before they reach the snags.
Of course the problem is money, I can’t afford to go out and get another four rods made up, so I’ve not really done anything about it… until now! On seeing the rods Dave had to offer I knew they were just what I was looking for, and at around half the retail price, I was able to jiggle finances in order to get four of them sorted - just in time for my week on Birch Grove next month!
First impressions are impressive. The rods are the new 2003/4 version of the Masterline Super Specialist, and as far as I’m aware, they aren’t even out on the market yet! The rod builders made up the rods with rather large stickers on the blanks, so they are being sold off as cosmetic seconds, amazing really as all you have to do is peel the stickers off!
The blanks have a really nice woven graphite finish, with lined three-legged guides in gunsmoke finish and jet black whippings. The reel seat and but protector are also finished in black. The rods are 2 piece 12ft.
Although I’ve not hooked a biggie with them yet, initial sessions have shown them to be exactly what I was hoping for. I’ve had a play with them up at the little club water I’m involved with, taking a couple of nice doubles with ease - I’m also getting that little extra ‘poke’ I was after for distance work, which of course is also helping on the cast. In fact, my first cast up on the Top Pool resulted in me casting a fully loaded PVA bag right over the water and into the marginal undergrowth on the far side… Doh!
I can’t put across just what a bargain these rods are for the money involved. Let’s just say that I’ve purchased four of them, and since seeing mine, my friends have bought a further ten between them!
As far as I’m aware the rods will retail somewhere between £90.00 - £100.00 each. You can purchase these cosmetic seconds from Tacklebargains.co.uk for just £49.95 each, or a pair for just £89.95! (Editor's note: now just £40 each!)
Julian Grattidge - www.AnglersNet.co.uk
Score:
Where to buy the Masterline Signature Super Specialist Rods:
If you are in the market for some rods, I’d snap up some of these before they disappear for good! Visit Tacklebargains.co.uk to buy online.
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.
There are many occasions in life when you find yourself getting really excited in anticipation of an event, only to be let down when it finally happens.
I’m happy to say that this definitely was not the case when I eventually got round to ordering a few of the Traditional Handmade Floats from TackleBargains. I’d seen these floats available some time ago and was immediately drawn towards them. It was the combination of materials and colours, and the fact that they were hand made, that made me bookmark that page for a day when I had a few quid to spend!
I eventually ordered a few trotting floats, as I’ve recently been to a couple of Anglers’ net fish-ins, organised by forum members, and have been re-introduced to the delights of river fishing. With a heavy workload, a new baby and various other ‘things’ going on in my life, I’d neglected my local river. Not any more • I’m addicted to the place! The ones I’d chosen were the Balsa Bodied Avons and Fluted Body Trotting Floats.
When the floats arrived, I couldn’t wait to get them wet. They looked exactly as I imagined and I was over the moon! The photos on the site really don’t do them the justice they deserve.
They look hand made…..and I mean that in a positive way. I’ve since found out that they are made by just one man and you can tell that he has put years of experience and knowledge into each one. The paint finish, in my opinion, is fantastic. The Avons, in particular, are superb, as they have a few ‘bands’ on the tip that make spotting shy bites particularly easy. This has proven to be particularly useful with the roach on my local stretch. The perch, however, drag them straight under!
I’m not going to start pretending that a float, just because it’s hand made, will catch you more fish. What these floats offer is something a bit different from the usual production line products that you may be used to. For me, sitting there on the river at the crack of dawn seeing the effects of a small roach on my bobbing float is real Huckleberry Finn material. I just love it. I suppose I’m old before my time.....or maybe I was a decent angler in a previous life!! Having said that, these floats do perform well and I've already had plenty of fish using them.
Some of these floats may be a little more expensive than their factory counterparts (they range from £1.77 to £4.12), but they won’t break the bank. I think they’re worth every penny. You should have seen my face when I thought I’d lost one in a far bank tree!!
There are various floats available in this range, including Pike Sliders, Goose Quills, Porcupine Quills and Crow Quills. If coarse fishing is your thing, treat yourself! Click here to go straight to the Traditional Handmade Floats page.
Elton Murphy - www.AnglersNet.co.uk
Score:
Alternatively if you would to submit a review of your own or submit an item for review at UK Fisherman, please visit the CONTACT page.