The Pike Anglers Club has not declined to pay for membership of fishing's new governing body the Angling Trust, as the Great Yarmouth Mercury reports.
The PAC - which is also not known as the National Pike Angling Club - belongs to one of the organisations responsible for its formation, the Specialist Anglers Alliance.
Chairman Colin Goodge said: "As a member of the SAA, we automatically became a member of the Angling Trust on January 5 and will be continuing this membership when it becomes due for renewal, as the PAC's national committee believes the unified angling body is a necessary step for the sport."
Friday, January 09, 2009
Follow the Pike Anglers Club on Twitter
The PAC now has a Twitter feed - if you use this phenomenally successful site to keep in touch with family, friends or colleagues why not follow us..?
Follow the link to find us - http://twitter.com/PikeAnglersClub
Follow the link to find us - http://twitter.com/PikeAnglersClub
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Gord heads for 100th Windy twenty
Weee Haaah...! Gord Burton's on track for his 100th twenty from Windermere, claims local rag the Formby Times.
"Local angler Gord Burton is almost in the record books with Lake Windermere," writes angling correspondent Ron Anderson.
"Gordon, nicknamed the ‘Piking Pirate’, has caught 99 20lb pike and only needs one more 20lb fish to reach the magical 100.
"This has never been achieved by any angler from one water and the angling press are all waiting for the final 20lb rod-bender."
"Local angler Gord Burton is almost in the record books with Lake Windermere," writes angling correspondent Ron Anderson.
"Gordon, nicknamed the ‘Piking Pirate’, has caught 99 20lb pike and only needs one more 20lb fish to reach the magical 100.
"This has never been achieved by any angler from one water and the angling press are all waiting for the final 20lb rod-bender."
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Angling Trust gets under way
At long last there is a unified body to represent angling. You can read about the formation of the Angling Trust from the merging of the Anglers Conservation Association, Fisheries and Angling Conservation Trust, National Association of Fisheries and Angling Consultatives, National Federation of Anglers, National Federation of Sea Anglers and Specialist Anglers Alliance here.Visit the Angling Trust website to find out more about it's aims and the benefits of membership. You can also now join on-line.
Spanish catfish are getting bigger
VIVA ESPANA: Catfish Capers customers with a giant catCatfish Capers boss Martin Walker has sent us this update on how things have been going down in Sunny Spain.
Don't forget - a trip with Martin's outfit is top prize in this year's PAC Winter Raffle.
While not as many cats were caught in 2008 as there were in 2007, they're getting bigger, writes Martin.
We had three over 180lbs and 4 others over 170. One lucky chap, Percy Anscombe, landed cats of 184, 179 and a 160 a terrific result for the top lake. The carp are also packing on weight 2008 saw us landing over sixty 40lbers topped by Chris Smith's 51lber. I can see a greater number of carp anglers coming out this year.
Catfish Capers bookings are up on last year which must mean we're doing something right, but on the down side the pound has taken a real hammering. When our prices were set at the beginning of 2008 the £ was worth 1.30 Euro.
To raise our prices now would be suicide so I've looked closely at other ways to make saving/sales. Historically August (because of the heat and family beach holidays) and December/ January (too cold??) have been very slow to book but if you take a look at our catch returns the fishing is slower but still a lot better than staying at home in the UK.
Rather than having apartments empty it makes more sense to have them filled - they are already paid for (rented annually). Another reason for the deal I am about to offer is that I now own a Bar "The Jolly Fisherman" (yeah yeah I can hear it now what's a grumpy old git like me doing naming something Jolly ha ha ha).
When I have no clients out the bar is empty and no locals come in (not good) but when the bar looks busy with my clients in it the locals come in as well so hopefully you will eat and drink in the bar and we'll all be Jolly Fishermen!.
So to fill up these quieter months (January, August and December) I have the following offer
£150 for a week part-guided
So what do you get for this:
Free pick up from and drop off to Zaragoza airport;
Shared room in apartment;
Breakfast in the bar (full English);
Packed lunch;
All tackle (please bring your own reels and terminal bits if you wish to fish for carp);
Fishing licence;
Use of boat;
Guides will get you to the river and get you going, and return later to take you home at end of session.
I have already had a good response to this offer (it's been on the web site a week) so don't take too long making your mind up.
As for the rest of the year several months are now nearly full.
For more info click here to go to their website, or tel: 01494 488382 or mob: 07973 230957.
Picture claimed to be 60lbs pike
A French blogger has published pictures of what are claimed to be pike of 30 and 24kg.
Click here to see them.
Click here to see them.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Freeze-up hits piking latest
ICE BREAKER: Mark McLaughlin clears some water to fish.Not everyone's bothered by a bit of ice, according to Irish piker Mark McLaughlin.
In an e-mail to the PAC in response to a forum post about frozen waters, he reports: "Here's one of a large irish water and me breaking the ice in the boat - and we still caught...."
Things are looking grim as an unseasonal cold snap descends on much of the British Isles.
Tonight club member Danny Jones told the PAC Forum: "Three quarters of Llyn Brenig and some of Lake Bala were frozen last weekend.
"Some of the large lakes in Snowdonia are totally frozen, there are photos in the local papers of people skating."
Colin Alchin, from Essex, added: "Essex lakes I've seen in the last few days are frozen solid, mates report Thames Valley gravel pits are also frozen and ice in margins of rivers.
"Sea freezing at Padstow according to the weather man just now. Minus-11 at Benson (south of Oxford) currently. Minus 4.5 currently where I am south of Chelmsford (minus 6.5 this morning)."
Chris Bishop, from West Norfolk, said: "Many of the drains and stillwaters in the Fens are frozen. I'd check the weather if you're thinking of fishing in this part of the world at the weekend, and wrap up warm if you're daft enough to be out."
Click here for more.
In an e-mail to the PAC in response to a forum post about frozen waters, he reports: "Here's one of a large irish water and me breaking the ice in the boat - and we still caught...."
Things are looking grim as an unseasonal cold snap descends on much of the British Isles.
Tonight club member Danny Jones told the PAC Forum: "Three quarters of Llyn Brenig and some of Lake Bala were frozen last weekend.
"Some of the large lakes in Snowdonia are totally frozen, there are photos in the local papers of people skating."
Colin Alchin, from Essex, added: "Essex lakes I've seen in the last few days are frozen solid, mates report Thames Valley gravel pits are also frozen and ice in margins of rivers.
"Sea freezing at Padstow according to the weather man just now. Minus-11 at Benson (south of Oxford) currently. Minus 4.5 currently where I am south of Chelmsford (minus 6.5 this morning)."
Chris Bishop, from West Norfolk, said: "Many of the drains and stillwaters in the Fens are frozen. I'd check the weather if you're thinking of fishing in this part of the world at the weekend, and wrap up warm if you're daft enough to be out."
Click here for more.
Accidental angler flosses Thames pike
TV's Accidental Angler, aka Norfolk-based fishing correspondent for The Field Charles Rangeley-Wilson, chronicles a day's pike fly fishing on the Thames on his blog.
Pour yourself a warming glass of something, sit down and click here to enjoy a trip with the Pike Whisperer.
Pour yourself a warming glass of something, sit down and click here to enjoy a trip with the Pike Whisperer.
Skaters take to the f-f-frozen Fens
ROCK HARD PIKE FISHING: Ice sets in as temperatures plummet.Tha'ss a bit hard for pike fishing in the Fens - so get yer skates on...
Ice skaters took to the frozen Welney Washes today for the first time in more than a decade, the Cambridgeshire Times reports today.
The vast wetlands, between the Delph and Hundred Foot River, on the Norfolk/Cambridgeshire border, were once the home of great skating contests, when skaters flocked from across the country to challenge Fen folk to races.
Many anglers are hanging up their rods, as waters up and down the country freeze.
Temperatures are tipped to dip as low as -10C tonight - colder than the Antarctic, as an unseasonal cold snap grips much of the country.
Forecasters predict warmer weather by the weekend. But many pikers are faced with an unexpected break in their winter campaign unless the ice clears.
Click here for a report from the Daily Mail on the cold snap.
***To check the forecast where you're hoping to fish, click here to access the excellent Metcheck service. Just enter your postcode, county or the nearest town and click on the tabs for an advance forecast.
Metcheck also allows you to set up e-mail alerts, to receive the following day's forecast for your chosen location direct to your inbox each afternoon.
RA 31 Change of Speakers
Due to unforeseen circumstances (work commitments) Mark Green has had to cancel his talk for Region 31 this Wednesday, I have replaced him with a two part talk:
Martin Salisbury - Author of the book 'Where to fish in Lancashire', Martin is a very passionate angler, he is an all round specimen hunter and a Committee member of Region 31 PAC. Martin will be talking on his all round exploits fishing for many species including pike and some VERY large continental catfish, this is the first time Martin has presented his slideshow and its one not to be missed
Martin James - Angling legend and BBC Radio DJ, Martin has entertained thousands of anglers over the years with his BBC Radio show 'At The Waters Edge' and has presented slideshows throughout the UK for over two decades, Martin will be presenting a general 'mixed bag' talk including question and answers.
Upstairs function room Caledonian Hotel, 154 Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 8PF (next to Tesco garage). Entry £3 for non-Region 31 Members and £2 for region 31 Members. Wednesday 7th January 8pm.
Jon Neafcy
R/O Region 31
Martin Salisbury - Author of the book 'Where to fish in Lancashire', Martin is a very passionate angler, he is an all round specimen hunter and a Committee member of Region 31 PAC. Martin will be talking on his all round exploits fishing for many species including pike and some VERY large continental catfish, this is the first time Martin has presented his slideshow and its one not to be missed
Martin James - Angling legend and BBC Radio DJ, Martin has entertained thousands of anglers over the years with his BBC Radio show 'At The Waters Edge' and has presented slideshows throughout the UK for over two decades, Martin will be presenting a general 'mixed bag' talk including question and answers.
Upstairs function room Caledonian Hotel, 154 Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 8PF (next to Tesco garage). Entry £3 for non-Region 31 Members and £2 for region 31 Members. Wednesday 7th January 8pm.
Jon Neafcy
R/O Region 31
A 20lbs fly-caught pike on the radio
A 20lbs fly-caught pike is one of the highlights of BBC Radio Ulster's Days Like This slot, where presenters talk about a memorable day in their lives.
Click here to listen on BBC iPlayer. Hat tip Daniel Cook for posting a link on the PAC Forums.
Click here to listen on BBC iPlayer. Hat tip Daniel Cook for posting a link on the PAC Forums.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Ouse lost a boat before Christmas..?
Police are trying to trace the owner of what could be a pike angler's boat found on the River Ouse in Cambridgeshire.
The three-metre craft, with a camouflaged brown and white paint scheme, was found at Eacon Socon on December 19.
Anyone who might know the owner should call PCSO Alan Newman, at St Neots Police Station, on 0845 456 4564.
The three-metre craft, with a camouflaged brown and white paint scheme, was found at Eacon Socon on December 19.
Anyone who might know the owner should call PCSO Alan Newman, at St Neots Police Station, on 0845 456 4564.
Mark Green and Peter Green at RA 31
Mark Green & Peter Green are presenting a slide show on Yorkshire Piking at Region 31 South Lancashire on Wednesday 7th January at 8pm.
Pete & Mark have a wealth of Pike fishing experience, Pete has served with the PAC Committee.
The venue is the Caledonian Hotel, 154 Bolton Road, Ashton-In-Makerfield, Wigan, Lancashire, WN4 8PF.
£2 entry for region members - £3 for those who aren't a member of the region.
Prize raffle - first prize a copy of PAC 30 signed by some of the contributors. All welcome.
Hope to see you there.
Jon Neafcy
R/O Region 31
South Lancashire
Pete & Mark have a wealth of Pike fishing experience, Pete has served with the PAC Committee.
The venue is the Caledonian Hotel, 154 Bolton Road, Ashton-In-Makerfield, Wigan, Lancashire, WN4 8PF.
£2 entry for region members - £3 for those who aren't a member of the region.
Prize raffle - first prize a copy of PAC 30 signed by some of the contributors. All welcome.
Hope to see you there.
Jon Neafcy
R/O Region 31
South Lancashire
Thursday, January 01, 2009
A New Year's message from the PAC
Most of the country is suffering from the current cold snap seeing many waters with a lid on them, writes PAC president Phil Wakeford in a New Year's message to pike anglers.
"This means that for many of us any sport to be had is limited to fishing running water. If you are anything like me you feel the pull of the water to get you out for a few hours and wet a line.
"I did that yesterday and even though I was only rewarded with a small pike the effort was extreemly worthwhile in clearing the head and working up even more appetite for the New Years Eve celebrations.
"How many times has it been said that "there is so much more to fishing than catching fish" (I don't expect an answer) but for the vast majority of us it is so true.
"Seeing the waters in their Winter glory, the water fowl and other wildlife, trying your luck and perhaps being rewarded with a decent fish are all enough to get some of us out of the house.
"As far as the PAC is concerned we are alive and kicking. Our membership numbers are healthy and we are financuially sound. We could always do with more on both counts and are always searching for ways to achieve this.
"We can look back at successes during 2008 and indeed never let a serious threat to our species and the sport it can provide go unchallenged. For 2009 there are a number of isues building up that will require our collective attention.
"How will we ensure that pikers get a voice in the potentially mega Angling Unity group? How can we influence the outcome of the revision of The Angling Bill to our benefit, to name a couple of matters that will need our attention.
"Such is our lot and we will not shy away from it, what is more we are able to demonstrate serious strength in depth in the club as will be revealed when we announce the names of the incoming committee around May.
"So my message to the membership is a simple one. Stick with us and support the club. Try to encourage new members especially young ones or others who's membership has lapsed the battle will never be over. And above all, enjoy your pike fishing."
"This means that for many of us any sport to be had is limited to fishing running water. If you are anything like me you feel the pull of the water to get you out for a few hours and wet a line.
"I did that yesterday and even though I was only rewarded with a small pike the effort was extreemly worthwhile in clearing the head and working up even more appetite for the New Years Eve celebrations.
"How many times has it been said that "there is so much more to fishing than catching fish" (I don't expect an answer) but for the vast majority of us it is so true.
"Seeing the waters in their Winter glory, the water fowl and other wildlife, trying your luck and perhaps being rewarded with a decent fish are all enough to get some of us out of the house.
"As far as the PAC is concerned we are alive and kicking. Our membership numbers are healthy and we are financuially sound. We could always do with more on both counts and are always searching for ways to achieve this.
"We can look back at successes during 2008 and indeed never let a serious threat to our species and the sport it can provide go unchallenged. For 2009 there are a number of isues building up that will require our collective attention.
"How will we ensure that pikers get a voice in the potentially mega Angling Unity group? How can we influence the outcome of the revision of The Angling Bill to our benefit, to name a couple of matters that will need our attention.
"Such is our lot and we will not shy away from it, what is more we are able to demonstrate serious strength in depth in the club as will be revealed when we announce the names of the incoming committee around May.
"So my message to the membership is a simple one. Stick with us and support the club. Try to encourage new members especially young ones or others who's membership has lapsed the battle will never be over. And above all, enjoy your pike fishing."
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Proper pike fishing weather's coming
Brrrrr... There's going to be a seriously Siberian feel to the weather over New Year.
So if you're one of those people who thinks pike fishing's better in the cold, you're going to be in your element.
Forecasters reckon temperatures could dip to nearly minus 10 over the next few days.
Click here for one of many weather stories.
So if you're one of those people who thinks pike fishing's better in the cold, you're going to be in your element.
Forecasters reckon temperatures could dip to nearly minus 10 over the next few days.
Click here for one of many weather stories.
Pike Anglers Club events update
Get out your diaries... There are still some places available on a number of PAC access events between now and the end of the season.
They include the Warping Drain (Lincs) on Saturday, February 7; Hykeham Pit (Lincs) on the weekend of February 14/15; Ecton Jigsaw Lake (Northants) on Saturday, Fenruary 21 and Saturday, March 14; and Quays Pit (Surrey) over the weekend of March 21/22.
Application slips with details of ticket prices were included in the last Pikelines.
Events organiser Mark Skinner said: "If you have lost your slips for these events, all you need to do is write your name, address on a sheet of paper include your PAC number the event you are applying for and a cheque payable to the PAC for the number of tickets required and an A5 stamped address envelope."
They include the Warping Drain (Lincs) on Saturday, February 7; Hykeham Pit (Lincs) on the weekend of February 14/15; Ecton Jigsaw Lake (Northants) on Saturday, Fenruary 21 and Saturday, March 14; and Quays Pit (Surrey) over the weekend of March 21/22.
Application slips with details of ticket prices were included in the last Pikelines.
Events organiser Mark Skinner said: "If you have lost your slips for these events, all you need to do is write your name, address on a sheet of paper include your PAC number the event you are applying for and a cheque payable to the PAC for the number of tickets required and an A5 stamped address envelope."
Scientists seek answers over eel decline
A £2.5m European study is under way in a bid to find our more about the breeding habits of the eel and why the species is in sharp decline.
Click here for more.
Click here for more.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Membership Reminder
All September, November and December 2008 expiring memberships have received reminders.
If you have forgotten to renew please click on this link http://www.pacgb.co.uk/aboutpac/joining.html and rejoin, we need your support.
Regards
John Cahill
Membership Secretary
If you have forgotten to renew please click on this link http://www.pacgb.co.uk/aboutpac/joining.html and rejoin, we need your support.
Regards
John Cahill
Membership Secretary
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
MPs to be lobbied over fish baits loophole
While plans to outlaw the killing of coarse fish for food were included in the Marine Bill set to become law next year, the use of fish as bait by anglers seeking predatory species was excluded.
Today the Eastern Daily Press reports an as-yet un-named individual or group is set to lobby MPs in the new year - presumably to prhobit the use of fish for bait.
EA by-laws currently allow anglers to use fish up to 10cm long in most regions provided they are caught from the venue on the day.
Today the Eastern Daily Press reports an as-yet un-named individual or group is set to lobby MPs in the new year - presumably to prhobit the use of fish for bait.
EA by-laws currently allow anglers to use fish up to 10cm long in most regions provided they are caught from the venue on the day.
Fishing for Big Pike - the return
Barrie Rickards has re-written 70s classic Fishing for Big Pike, which he famously co-authored with the late Ray Webb.
Cambridgeshire-based Barrie, a founder member of the PAC, revolutionised the sport when he first penned his theories about hotspots on Fen drains and the effects of air pressure on pike fishing.
Medlar Press are tipped to publish the book next autumn.
Cambridgeshire-based Barrie, a founder member of the PAC, revolutionised the sport when he first penned his theories about hotspots on Fen drains and the effects of air pressure on pike fishing.
Medlar Press are tipped to publish the book next autumn.
Merry Christmas from all at the PAC
Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year - and may your next run be a monster if you're lucky enough to be out pike fishing over the holidays.
Looking back over a busy year for the club, 2009 already looks to be another one.
Please do all you can to help us spread the word. We've made some real strides over the last 30 years or so, but there's plenty more to be done when it comes to safeguarding the pike and pike fishing.
Looking back over a busy year for the club, 2009 already looks to be another one.
Please do all you can to help us spread the word. We've made some real strides over the last 30 years or so, but there's plenty more to be done when it comes to safeguarding the pike and pike fishing.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
EU set to impose quotas on sea anglers
Some pike anglers buy their sea deadbaits, others catch their own, while many more enjoy the odd sea fishing trip.
Today it emerged the European Union wants to impose catch quotas and ban anglers from selling their catches.
EU officials believe sea angling is now so popular that anglers could have an impact on species like cod and ling.
Defra has confirmed it plans to hold talks with angling organisations next month, today's Sunday Times reports.
Click here to read the report in full.
Today it emerged the European Union wants to impose catch quotas and ban anglers from selling their catches.
EU officials believe sea angling is now so popular that anglers could have an impact on species like cod and ling.
Defra has confirmed it plans to hold talks with angling organisations next month, today's Sunday Times reports.
Click here to read the report in full.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Sign up and help the RNLI
Sea angling friends have asked us to pass this on - please spare a second or two to sign their petition.
Lifeboat crews fear being scuppered by crippling new charges for using their radios from Ofcom, the communications regulator. The RNLI could see the price of using its VHF emergency frequencies rise to £250,000 under plans to charge the full commercial rate.
The charity, which saves hundreds of lives every year, currently pays an annual £48,000 at a discounted rate of 50 per cent. It relies on donations and fears the move will have a disastrous impact on fundraising.
Peter Bradley, RNLI operations staff officer, said: "It's a lot of money when you think in terms of lifeboat days and little old ladies collecting pound coins. We could buy several inshore lifeboats for the same amount.
"The Government rely on us to provide this search-and-rescue service, at a cost of £124 million a year, but they want to charge us for doing it. Ofcom has set out plans to bring 'market forces' into maritime and civil aviation communications in a policy it calls Administered Incentive Pricing.
"£250,000 represents an awful lot of charity collections, even more so in the current economic climate so, if like me you feel strongly enough about this, please sign the petition below."
Click here to sign it.
Lifeboat crews fear being scuppered by crippling new charges for using their radios from Ofcom, the communications regulator. The RNLI could see the price of using its VHF emergency frequencies rise to £250,000 under plans to charge the full commercial rate.
The charity, which saves hundreds of lives every year, currently pays an annual £48,000 at a discounted rate of 50 per cent. It relies on donations and fears the move will have a disastrous impact on fundraising.
Peter Bradley, RNLI operations staff officer, said: "It's a lot of money when you think in terms of lifeboat days and little old ladies collecting pound coins. We could buy several inshore lifeboats for the same amount.
"The Government rely on us to provide this search-and-rescue service, at a cost of £124 million a year, but they want to charge us for doing it. Ofcom has set out plans to bring 'market forces' into maritime and civil aviation communications in a policy it calls Administered Incentive Pricing.
"£250,000 represents an awful lot of charity collections, even more so in the current economic climate so, if like me you feel strongly enough about this, please sign the petition below."
Click here to sign it.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Deesox - a different kind of pike blog
Meet Deesox - aka Dave Edwards, a thinking man's kind of fishing blogger from Cheshire, with some interesting observations on fly fishing for pike and other species.
More and more PAC members are blogging these days and you can keep in touch with all of them if you set up an RSS feed reader on your computer.
Make sure you add Dave and the some of the other bloggers we come across, or save them to your favourites for those slow Friday afternoons at work.
Click here to go to Deesox.
More and more PAC members are blogging these days and you can keep in touch with all of them if you set up an RSS feed reader on your computer.
Make sure you add Dave and the some of the other bloggers we come across, or save them to your favourites for those slow Friday afternoons at work.
Click here to go to Deesox.
Pike and Predators - new issue out
January's Pike and Predators has hit the news stands. And we've been sent a sneak preview.
Simon Everett explores a new way of getting afloat for pike
Phil Blakey tackles the thorny issue of the best conditions for catching pike with lures
Mike Kelly explains some of the tactics he uses to place the odds more firmly in his favour
Neville Fickling reports on the latest happenings on the trout-water pike scene and tries to put the problems with Irish piking into perspective
George Higgins is interviewed about his long and successful pike fishing career
James Holgate suggests you throw away the rule book when it comes to catching pike on lures in the colder months
Graham Booth delves into the history books to ask why pike have exerted such a fascination on so many anglers
Plus, we ask whether your life jacket would really save your life?
Simon Everett explores a new way of getting afloat for pike
Phil Blakey tackles the thorny issue of the best conditions for catching pike with lures
Mike Kelly explains some of the tactics he uses to place the odds more firmly in his favour
Neville Fickling reports on the latest happenings on the trout-water pike scene and tries to put the problems with Irish piking into perspective
George Higgins is interviewed about his long and successful pike fishing career
James Holgate suggests you throw away the rule book when it comes to catching pike on lures in the colder months
Graham Booth delves into the history books to ask why pike have exerted such a fascination on so many anglers
Plus, we ask whether your life jacket would really save your life?
Government pledges £1.56m to angling
Press Release from the Angling Development Board
Angling has received a £1.56 million boost this week as Sport England announced its plans to support the Governing Body to deliver angling opportunities for all over the next four years.
Last summer the Angling Development Board (ADB) was invited by Sport England to demonstrate how angling could contribute to government targets of increasing participation in active sport, especially through encouraging young people and retaining them as active participants as they grow older. Sport England also wanted to develop the talent pool of anglers trying to compete at international level and proposals to improve anglers’ satisfaction with the management of their sport: a process already underway with the formation of the Angling Trust.
David Moore, Chairman of the ADB explained. ‘The ADB responded to Sport England’s challenge with a package of proposals to grow and sustain the sport of angling. Our Plan is based on a vast amount of market research, much of it from the Environment Agency’s data from millions of rod licences and information held by Sport England right back to an NOP survey 40 years ago.
‘The first area identified was the problem of young people who are introduced to the sport but are not converted into long-term anglers. Other sports have much better links between schools, coaches, clubs and facilities whereas these are widely fragmented in angling. The funding package from Sport England will help start a regional development network which can access local and regional funding and bring schools, clubs, coaches and facilities together.
“After six months’ hard work by the ADB team, the timing of this announcement coincides perfectly with the transition of the ADB into the newly constituted Angling Trust during 2009. We are already making good progress in achieving Sport England’s recognition of The Angling Trust as the Governing Body for angling in England.’
The ADB plans to start recruiting Regional Development Officers and details will be available on our website www.anglingdevelopmentboard.org.uk during February.
Angling has received a £1.56 million boost this week as Sport England announced its plans to support the Governing Body to deliver angling opportunities for all over the next four years.
Last summer the Angling Development Board (ADB) was invited by Sport England to demonstrate how angling could contribute to government targets of increasing participation in active sport, especially through encouraging young people and retaining them as active participants as they grow older. Sport England also wanted to develop the talent pool of anglers trying to compete at international level and proposals to improve anglers’ satisfaction with the management of their sport: a process already underway with the formation of the Angling Trust.
David Moore, Chairman of the ADB explained. ‘The ADB responded to Sport England’s challenge with a package of proposals to grow and sustain the sport of angling. Our Plan is based on a vast amount of market research, much of it from the Environment Agency’s data from millions of rod licences and information held by Sport England right back to an NOP survey 40 years ago.
‘The first area identified was the problem of young people who are introduced to the sport but are not converted into long-term anglers. Other sports have much better links between schools, coaches, clubs and facilities whereas these are widely fragmented in angling. The funding package from Sport England will help start a regional development network which can access local and regional funding and bring schools, clubs, coaches and facilities together.
“After six months’ hard work by the ADB team, the timing of this announcement coincides perfectly with the transition of the ADB into the newly constituted Angling Trust during 2009. We are already making good progress in achieving Sport England’s recognition of The Angling Trust as the Governing Body for angling in England.’
The ADB plans to start recruiting Regional Development Officers and details will be available on our website www.anglingdevelopmentboard.org.uk during February.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Hear, hear - US site on pike lure sounds
We've all heard of buzzbaits and lures which are designed to kick out vibes to attract the pike.
Now Mepps have put some audio clips on their website, to give you an idea of how different lures make different noises.
"It's pretty easy to see the flash of a Mepps spinner blade as it's pulled through the water, but hearing just what it sounds like has been a well kept secret up until now," the site says.
"It took us a while, but we've managed to digitally capture the sound of several Mepps spinners as they are retrieved. And, what we recorded even managed to surprise us.
"Remember, what you are about to hear are the actual sounds produced by Mepps spinners as they are retrieved. These sounds have not been enhanced or altered in any way. We make no claim as to how fish interpret these sounds, but fish do hear them."
Of its Aglia "Musky Killer" spinner, it adds: "The sound of the #5 Aglia blade is steady and deep with a rapid repetitive thump. The Magnum Musky Killer blade sounds similar, but, the thump is deeper and slower.
"Both sound like a slow moving locomotive, and both are very easy to hear underwater."
Click here to go to the sound clips, then just roll you cursor over each spinner to hear what it sounds like.
Now Mepps have put some audio clips on their website, to give you an idea of how different lures make different noises.
"It's pretty easy to see the flash of a Mepps spinner blade as it's pulled through the water, but hearing just what it sounds like has been a well kept secret up until now," the site says.
"It took us a while, but we've managed to digitally capture the sound of several Mepps spinners as they are retrieved. And, what we recorded even managed to surprise us.
"Remember, what you are about to hear are the actual sounds produced by Mepps spinners as they are retrieved. These sounds have not been enhanced or altered in any way. We make no claim as to how fish interpret these sounds, but fish do hear them."
Of its Aglia "Musky Killer" spinner, it adds: "The sound of the #5 Aglia blade is steady and deep with a rapid repetitive thump. The Magnum Musky Killer blade sounds similar, but, the thump is deeper and slower.
"Both sound like a slow moving locomotive, and both are very easy to hear underwater."
Click here to go to the sound clips, then just roll you cursor over each spinner to hear what it sounds like.
PAC forums - are you missing out..?
Bite indication on the Ouse when it's pushing through, should gags be outlawed and the best kind of life jacket or flotation device for fishing afloat.
These were three of the most-debated topics on the PAC's Members Forums tonight, as membership neared the 700 mark and we checked our stats and found we'd had more than 2.6m page views.
All kinds of bait, lure and even fly fishing are covered. The forums also provide members with a quick and easy way to interact with the club's regional organisers and committee.
Members ask why we don't do more to promote the forums. They've got a point.
So if you're a member of the club and you haven't already signed up, why not join and have a look at what you're missing.
Just click on the Message Board link on the main PAC website and follow the instructions to register - NB you need to use your full name as your sign-in and include your PAC membership number, which we need to check before confirming your account.
These were three of the most-debated topics on the PAC's Members Forums tonight, as membership neared the 700 mark and we checked our stats and found we'd had more than 2.6m page views.
All kinds of bait, lure and even fly fishing are covered. The forums also provide members with a quick and easy way to interact with the club's regional organisers and committee.
Members ask why we don't do more to promote the forums. They've got a point.
So if you're a member of the club and you haven't already signed up, why not join and have a look at what you're missing.
Just click on the Message Board link on the main PAC website and follow the instructions to register - NB you need to use your full name as your sign-in and include your PAC membership number, which we need to check before confirming your account.
Eel come to your meeting and do a talk
One stall that drew plenty of interest at this year's Pike Anglers Club Convention was the National Anguilla Club.
Now they're offering to bring their roadshow along to any PAC region looking for an evening's eel fishing-themed entertainment
Travel might be an issue in more far-flung areas, but the NAC's Dave Smith says get in touch to see if they can arrange attendance.
They're not looking to charge - though a few quid towards the fuel bill would probably be welcome.
Founded in 1962, the NAC is one of the few predator angling groups which are even older than the PAC.
If you're looking to find out more about fishing for one of this most mysterious of fish, click here to check out their website.
To invite the roadshow, e-mail Dave Smith at webmaster@nationalanguillaclub.co.uk .
Now they're offering to bring their roadshow along to any PAC region looking for an evening's eel fishing-themed entertainment
Travel might be an issue in more far-flung areas, but the NAC's Dave Smith says get in touch to see if they can arrange attendance.
They're not looking to charge - though a few quid towards the fuel bill would probably be welcome.
Founded in 1962, the NAC is one of the few predator angling groups which are even older than the PAC.
If you're looking to find out more about fishing for one of this most mysterious of fish, click here to check out their website.
To invite the roadshow, e-mail Dave Smith at webmaster@nationalanguillaclub.co.uk .
ET Roadshow rolls into King's Lynn
Eddie Turner will be bringing the ET Roadshow to King's Lynn on Saturday, for a day of demos at Steve Younger's Specialist Angling Supplies.
There'll be tackle displays, book signings and even a barbecue. Steve will also be offering a 20% discount on tackle in his shop all day.
It's being held at Unit 15, Hamburg Way, on the North Lynn Industrial Estate, Kings Lynn PE30 2ND.
Click here for map and more info.
There'll be tackle displays, book signings and even a barbecue. Steve will also be offering a 20% discount on tackle in his shop all day.
It's being held at Unit 15, Hamburg Way, on the North Lynn Industrial Estate, Kings Lynn PE30 2ND.
Click here for map and more info.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
The best pike fishery in all England..?
Bristol Water today published an end of year round-up for its trout waters, including pike catches from Chew Valley Reservoir.
"A total of 21 fish weighing over 30 pounds were captured, the biggest being a huge fish of 36.12 landed by Shaun Hoskins," it said.
"And another 127 twenty pounders were also landed perhaps confirming what many think - that Chew Valley is the best pike fishery in England."
Dates for boat and bank fishing for next year, together with booking details are included in local paper the Weston Mercury.
Click here for more details.
"A total of 21 fish weighing over 30 pounds were captured, the biggest being a huge fish of 36.12 landed by Shaun Hoskins," it said.
"And another 127 twenty pounders were also landed perhaps confirming what many think - that Chew Valley is the best pike fishery in England."
Dates for boat and bank fishing for next year, together with booking details are included in local paper the Weston Mercury.
Click here for more details.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Pike filmed in its element
More and more video clips of pike filmed in their element are appearing on Youtube these days.
Click here to see a pike back pedal slowly as two divers approach it, before it slinks off and sulks almost motionless on the bottom as a shoal of prey swim past seemingly oblivious to its presence.
Click here to see a pike back pedal slowly as two divers approach it, before it slinks off and sulks almost motionless on the bottom as a shoal of prey swim past seemingly oblivious to its presence.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Matching the hatch lures pit 20 for Matt
Matt Hayes lands a 23lbs pike from an Oxfordshire gravel pit on a drifted rudd bait in this video clip from YouTube.
Click here to view it.
Click here to view it.
Big pike pictures on French blog
This French catch and release blog has pictures of some seriously big pike from all corners of Europe.
Check out this fish - with a claimed weight of 21.5kg (just under 47lbs 6oz...) making it higher than the current 46lbs 13oz British record. Not sure what the gnome on the end's doing.
Click here to see the blog, which today features PAC member and acclaimed UK pike hinter Mick Brown..
Check out this fish - with a claimed weight of 21.5kg (just under 47lbs 6oz...) making it higher than the current 46lbs 13oz British record. Not sure what the gnome on the end's doing.
Click here to see the blog, which today features PAC member and acclaimed UK pike hinter Mick Brown..
Former Pike Anglers Club RO slams trebles
Suffolk's former Pike Anglers Club organiser Bob Copping has come out of the closet in favour of the use of the single hook and actually encourages all predator hunters to take his advice and follow his example in order to eliminate what he regards as a serious risk of killing a pike during the unhooking process, reports the Norwich Evening News.
Click here for more.
Click here for more.
PAC's online shop gears up for Xmas
December 18 is the last guaranteed posting day before Christmas. So don't forget to order by then if you're thinking of treating someone - or even yourself - to a little present from the Pike Anglers Club's online products shop.
We'll still be taking orders after that. We just can't promise they'll make it onto Santa's sleigh.
Click here to visit the PAC's online shop.
We'll still be taking orders after that. We just can't promise they'll make it onto Santa's sleigh.
Click here to visit the PAC's online shop.
Friday, December 12, 2008
New pike fishing permit for Horsey Mere
A new permit system will be run on a trial basis when Norfolk's Horsey Mere opens up in March for the last two weeks of season.
Instead of buying a day ticket from the bailiff's boat, two week permits will be issued in advance at a cost of £30 per boat.
Today the Thurne Fisheries website said: "The purpose of this is to facilitate both easier access and reduce the need to visit each boat and collect permit fees, this often risking the disturbance of the areas being fished and causing friction with the anglers. The plan is to issue a 14 day period permit at a fee of £30.00 per boat.
Only limited access to the Horsey is permitted during the winter months to avoid disturbance to over-wintering wildfowl.
There was friction earlier this year, when anglers were accused of fishing areas set aside as wildfowl refuges by Natural England.
But shortly after threatened prosecutions made the papers, it emerged Natural England and the broads Authority - which was so quick to condemn anglers for disturbing the birds - had already discussed secret plans to abandon the Upper Thurne system to the sea, robbing the birds of their habitat forever.
As anger erupted over plans to allow the sea to flood Horsey, Hickling Broad, the Martham Broads and Heigham Sound, anglers were told no further action would be taken.
Instead of buying a day ticket from the bailiff's boat, two week permits will be issued in advance at a cost of £30 per boat.
Today the Thurne Fisheries website said: "The purpose of this is to facilitate both easier access and reduce the need to visit each boat and collect permit fees, this often risking the disturbance of the areas being fished and causing friction with the anglers. The plan is to issue a 14 day period permit at a fee of £30.00 per boat.
"This will allow the preregistered boat to fish without the inconvenience of a bailiff cruising through the fishing areas disturbing the swim, to collect permit fees. To see this work effectively it would require the prior registration of the boat to be used and for the registration number/name of the boat to be clearly displayed whilst fishing. Boats using this system will immediately be recognisable and will not be subject to a visit from the bailiff.
"If all users would make use of this system it will ensure that the whole broad is allowed to settle once everyone is fishing and optimise the chance of picking up a fish."
Click here for more information and to download an application form.Only limited access to the Horsey is permitted during the winter months to avoid disturbance to over-wintering wildfowl.
There was friction earlier this year, when anglers were accused of fishing areas set aside as wildfowl refuges by Natural England.
But shortly after threatened prosecutions made the papers, it emerged Natural England and the broads Authority - which was so quick to condemn anglers for disturbing the birds - had already discussed secret plans to abandon the Upper Thurne system to the sea, robbing the birds of their habitat forever.
As anger erupted over plans to allow the sea to flood Horsey, Hickling Broad, the Martham Broads and Heigham Sound, anglers were told no further action would be taken.
Smart tip for colouring pike spoons
Here's a tip we haven't seen before - use an indelible pen to colour up a plain silver spoon.
Or Click here.
Or Click here.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Pike hits a lure in slow motion
Watch this fish hit a hook-less Canadian Wiggler lure - then stay tune for the action replay in slow motion.
Or Click here to see it.
Or Click here to see it.
Neville heads to Northern Ireland
Neville Fickling is set to share some of the ups and downs of his incredible pike fishing career with RA111 over in Northern Ireland in the new year. You can catch up with him at Armagh Community Centre on Thursday, January 8.
See flyer for more details of what promises to be a well-attended evening's entertainment.
Billy's Backbiters launch new drop-off
Billy's Backbiters are well on their way to becoming one of those cult products for what their inventor Steve Bown calls "pukka pikers".
As well as a offering a modified arm with ball clip and adjustable weight fitted to his own alarms, Steve - aka Billy Two Fish - is now offering the arms on their own, for those who still prefer a front alarm with a drop-off attached to the rear rest.
Follow this link and scroll down. Then scroll down a bit more because they're quite near the bottom, under all the other options and modifications now on offer following feedback from his growing band of customers.
.
As well as a offering a modified arm with ball clip and adjustable weight fitted to his own alarms, Steve - aka Billy Two Fish - is now offering the arms on their own, for those who still prefer a front alarm with a drop-off attached to the rear rest.
Follow this link and scroll down. Then scroll down a bit more because they're quite near the bottom, under all the other options and modifications now on offer following feedback from his growing band of customers.
.
Pike fly fishing - great blog
Here's a great pike fly fishing blog which turned up in a google alert the other day. It's got plenty of fly patterns, reviews and a host of links top fellow enthusiasts' online writings.
Click here for a gander.
Click here for a gander.
All go for Angling Unity - press release
Angling groups due to join forces in a single unified governing body today issued the following press release:
Last Pieces of Unity Jigsaw in Place
All the organisations participating in the creation of the Angling Trust have now undertaken the necessary constitutional steps to wind up their existing operations and form the Angling Trust on 5 January 2009.
The National Federation of Anglers (NFA) held an Extraordinary General Meeting at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham on Saturday 6 December to approve the dissolution of the NFA and the transfer of its assets and staff to the Angling Trust. The meeting was attended both by individual and club members who voted 30 to 2 for the resolution.
The National Federation of Sea Anglers (NFSA) held an EGM at Buckfastleigh in Devon on Saturday 6th December at which the membership approved the proposals to allow the winding up of the NFSA and the transfer of its assets to Angling Trust. Including proxy votes, the membership supported the 3 proposals by a margin of 418 to1, 418 to 1 and 412 to 8 respectively.
The Anglers' Conservation Association (ACA) held its EGM in Birmingham on Monday 8 December and agreed to change its name to Fish Legal and to become a part of the Angling Trust with a proxy vote of 1,484 in favour to 67 against the change.
The National Association of Fisheries and Angling Consultatives (NAFAC) and the Specialist Anglers Alliance (SAA) had both approved the merger with their respective memberships earlier in the year and therefore there are now no constitutional reasons for the merger not to go ahead as planned at the start of 2009.
All the organisations are now writing to their existing individual, club, riparian and fishery owner members with information about the benefits on offer from the Angling Trust. These include free public liability insurance for individual members, along with the innovative Fish For Free scheme which can earn Angling Trust members more than the cost of their subscription in cashback on fishing tackle and the annual rod licence. For angling clubs and riparian and fishery owners, there is a new discounted insurance package on offer which will offer savings of hundreds of pounds on existing cover.
Terry Fell, Chairman of the NFA commented, "This is a very historic occasion both for the NFA and the sport of angling as a whole. The NFA has been in existence since 1903 and has a wealth of history; however the board believes that now is the right time to bring together all of angling's assets and create one Governing Body for the sport. There is a huge wealth of expertise and experience in the Angling Trust and we are all looking forward to working with the other parties involved. The success of the Angling Trust will rely upon the support of the angling community and I would urge anyone who has an interest in the sport to join up and support The Voice of Angling: the Angling Trust."
Richard Ferré, Chairman of the NFSA said, "The NFSA is proud to be a part of the formation of the Angling Trust. Sea anglers share an interest in many issues with their freshwater counterparts and we will be much stronger if we pool our resources. The new Angling Trust will build on the work we have undertaken for many years, lobbying for greater protection for marine fish stocks and running national and international competitions on and off shore."
Stephen Marsh-Smith, Chairman of the ACA said, "The ACA's unrivalled record of taking polluters and others to task will be continued by the Angling Trust under a new brand: Fish Legal. All clubs, fisheries and riparian owners in England should join the Angling Trust and Fish Legal to benefit from this unique legal protection. Now that we are one organisation, we will be able to link the legal work with proactive campaigns to change policy and practice and to stop damage to fisheries happening in the first place."
Mike Heylin, Secretary of SAA said, "We have finally achieved the dream of a united front for angling with Angling Trust. Now we have to do the hard work of delivering for the nation's anglers and the fisheries they enjoy. I urge all anglers to join as soon as they can. It takes money to defend angling from national as well as European policymakers."
Martin Read, Executive Chairman of NAFAC said, "It has been a long time coming, but now the talking is over its time for action."
Trevor Johnson, Chairman of Milton Keynes Angling Association, commented, "One body - speaking with one voice for England's anglers - is now the only way forward if our sport is to survive and prosper. But let no-one think that it is all done and dusted...that all we have to do now is go fishing. If this is going to work anglers have to put their hands in their pockets and give Angling Trust their support - whether they fish for bass off Cornwall, carp in Milton Keynes or trout in a northern beck. Old rivalries and narrow interests are going to have to be put aside and everyone, at all levels, must work for the common good of our sport. That will not be easy for some...but it has to done."
Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive of Angling Trust commented, "the Angling Trust will not only continue the work of all these bodies, but it will also do much more. We will now be able to represent all anglers much more efficiently and effectively. All the staff of the organisations involved are working flat out to make sure that everything is in place for the launch in January. We all hope that every angler's New Year resolution will be to join the Angling Trust."
Last Pieces of Unity Jigsaw in Place
All the organisations participating in the creation of the Angling Trust have now undertaken the necessary constitutional steps to wind up their existing operations and form the Angling Trust on 5 January 2009.
The National Federation of Anglers (NFA) held an Extraordinary General Meeting at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham on Saturday 6 December to approve the dissolution of the NFA and the transfer of its assets and staff to the Angling Trust. The meeting was attended both by individual and club members who voted 30 to 2 for the resolution.
The National Federation of Sea Anglers (NFSA) held an EGM at Buckfastleigh in Devon on Saturday 6th December at which the membership approved the proposals to allow the winding up of the NFSA and the transfer of its assets to Angling Trust. Including proxy votes, the membership supported the 3 proposals by a margin of 418 to1, 418 to 1 and 412 to 8 respectively.
The Anglers' Conservation Association (ACA) held its EGM in Birmingham on Monday 8 December and agreed to change its name to Fish Legal and to become a part of the Angling Trust with a proxy vote of 1,484 in favour to 67 against the change.
The National Association of Fisheries and Angling Consultatives (NAFAC) and the Specialist Anglers Alliance (SAA) had both approved the merger with their respective memberships earlier in the year and therefore there are now no constitutional reasons for the merger not to go ahead as planned at the start of 2009.
All the organisations are now writing to their existing individual, club, riparian and fishery owner members with information about the benefits on offer from the Angling Trust. These include free public liability insurance for individual members, along with the innovative Fish For Free scheme which can earn Angling Trust members more than the cost of their subscription in cashback on fishing tackle and the annual rod licence. For angling clubs and riparian and fishery owners, there is a new discounted insurance package on offer which will offer savings of hundreds of pounds on existing cover.
Terry Fell, Chairman of the NFA commented, "This is a very historic occasion both for the NFA and the sport of angling as a whole. The NFA has been in existence since 1903 and has a wealth of history; however the board believes that now is the right time to bring together all of angling's assets and create one Governing Body for the sport. There is a huge wealth of expertise and experience in the Angling Trust and we are all looking forward to working with the other parties involved. The success of the Angling Trust will rely upon the support of the angling community and I would urge anyone who has an interest in the sport to join up and support The Voice of Angling: the Angling Trust."
Richard Ferré, Chairman of the NFSA said, "The NFSA is proud to be a part of the formation of the Angling Trust. Sea anglers share an interest in many issues with their freshwater counterparts and we will be much stronger if we pool our resources. The new Angling Trust will build on the work we have undertaken for many years, lobbying for greater protection for marine fish stocks and running national and international competitions on and off shore."
Stephen Marsh-Smith, Chairman of the ACA said, "The ACA's unrivalled record of taking polluters and others to task will be continued by the Angling Trust under a new brand: Fish Legal. All clubs, fisheries and riparian owners in England should join the Angling Trust and Fish Legal to benefit from this unique legal protection. Now that we are one organisation, we will be able to link the legal work with proactive campaigns to change policy and practice and to stop damage to fisheries happening in the first place."
Mike Heylin, Secretary of SAA said, "We have finally achieved the dream of a united front for angling with Angling Trust. Now we have to do the hard work of delivering for the nation's anglers and the fisheries they enjoy. I urge all anglers to join as soon as they can. It takes money to defend angling from national as well as European policymakers."
Martin Read, Executive Chairman of NAFAC said, "It has been a long time coming, but now the talking is over its time for action."
Trevor Johnson, Chairman of Milton Keynes Angling Association, commented, "One body - speaking with one voice for England's anglers - is now the only way forward if our sport is to survive and prosper. But let no-one think that it is all done and dusted...that all we have to do now is go fishing. If this is going to work anglers have to put their hands in their pockets and give Angling Trust their support - whether they fish for bass off Cornwall, carp in Milton Keynes or trout in a northern beck. Old rivalries and narrow interests are going to have to be put aside and everyone, at all levels, must work for the common good of our sport. That will not be easy for some...but it has to done."
Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive of Angling Trust commented, "the Angling Trust will not only continue the work of all these bodies, but it will also do much more. We will now be able to represent all anglers much more efficiently and effectively. All the staff of the organisations involved are working flat out to make sure that everything is in place for the launch in January. We all hope that every angler's New Year resolution will be to join the Angling Trust."
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
New bill outlaws fish theft
Powers to prohibit the taking of fish caught on line from our rivers are included in the new Marine Bill.
Angling groups including the Pike Anglers Club are still poring over the finer points of the bill, which is expected to become law next summer after its inclusion in the Queen's Speech.
Notes accompanying the bill say it will outlaw the taking of fish caught on rod and line for the pot.
Recent seasons have seen widespread anger among many anglers over the authorities' apparent unwillingness to tackle what has become a widespread problem in many areas of the country, from the River Wissey to the Wye.
Pike often bear the brunt of this because they are prized as a food fish by some cultures. They are also vulnerable to capture by roving anglers travelling light with just a lure rod and a carrier bag to carry your catch in.
Defra's website states: "Whilst the custom in England and Wales is for the catch and release of coarse fish it is not actually a legal requirement on rivers.
"We will remove the current right for fishery owners, and anyone with their permission, to remove freshwater fish by rod and line.
"This undermines any catch and release byelaws the EA may introduce to address fish theft."
Reading West MP Martin Salter, the Labour Government's spokesman on angling issues, said: “It has been a long campaign but we have finally got the chance to do something to protect our fisheries, to give the police and the Environment Agency real powers to clamp down on those who remove fish for either the pot or for private gain.
"The current hotch potch of fishery by-laws are unintelligible and unenforceable and I know for a fact that the EA are starting work on a national catch and release by-law which I want to see implemented as soon as possible.
"Catch and release must become the norm in freshwater with exceptions available in clearly defined circumstances such as put and take trout fisheries."
Many conservation groups were celebrating after the legislation was included in last Wednesday's Queen's Speech, in which the Government set out its priorities for the next parliamentary session.
The bill signals a new approach to protecting the marine environment that will include conservation zones, a new planning system, reform of fisheries and access to the coasts, along with a new agency to manage the seas around our coasts.
Defra - the Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs - said freshwater fisheries would also benefit from the "modernised and more flexible powers" it contains.
A statement on its website adds: "These will give the Environment Agency the tools to better manage fisheries for the benefit of anglers and commercial fishers."
To date there has been one prosecution for taking fish for the pot - the widely-reported case earlier this year, when two migrant workers were ordered to forfeit boats and equipment worth thousands after they were caught catching fish and barbecuing them on the bank during the close season.
Click here to read a court report from our archives.
Click here to read Defra's summary of the Marine Bill's proposals for freshwater fisheries.
Angling groups including the Pike Anglers Club are still poring over the finer points of the bill, which is expected to become law next summer after its inclusion in the Queen's Speech.
Notes accompanying the bill say it will outlaw the taking of fish caught on rod and line for the pot.
Recent seasons have seen widespread anger among many anglers over the authorities' apparent unwillingness to tackle what has become a widespread problem in many areas of the country, from the River Wissey to the Wye.
Pike often bear the brunt of this because they are prized as a food fish by some cultures. They are also vulnerable to capture by roving anglers travelling light with just a lure rod and a carrier bag to carry your catch in.
Defra's website states: "Whilst the custom in England and Wales is for the catch and release of coarse fish it is not actually a legal requirement on rivers.
"We will remove the current right for fishery owners, and anyone with their permission, to remove freshwater fish by rod and line.
"This undermines any catch and release byelaws the EA may introduce to address fish theft."
Reading West MP Martin Salter, the Labour Government's spokesman on angling issues, said: “It has been a long campaign but we have finally got the chance to do something to protect our fisheries, to give the police and the Environment Agency real powers to clamp down on those who remove fish for either the pot or for private gain.
"The current hotch potch of fishery by-laws are unintelligible and unenforceable and I know for a fact that the EA are starting work on a national catch and release by-law which I want to see implemented as soon as possible.
"Catch and release must become the norm in freshwater with exceptions available in clearly defined circumstances such as put and take trout fisheries."
Many conservation groups were celebrating after the legislation was included in last Wednesday's Queen's Speech, in which the Government set out its priorities for the next parliamentary session.
The bill signals a new approach to protecting the marine environment that will include conservation zones, a new planning system, reform of fisheries and access to the coasts, along with a new agency to manage the seas around our coasts.
Defra - the Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs - said freshwater fisheries would also benefit from the "modernised and more flexible powers" it contains.
A statement on its website adds: "These will give the Environment Agency the tools to better manage fisheries for the benefit of anglers and commercial fishers."
To date there has been one prosecution for taking fish for the pot - the widely-reported case earlier this year, when two migrant workers were ordered to forfeit boats and equipment worth thousands after they were caught catching fish and barbecuing them on the bank during the close season.
Click here to read a court report from our archives.
Click here to read Defra's summary of the Marine Bill's proposals for freshwater fisheries.
Monday, December 08, 2008
Marine Bill could see close season change
Powers to alter the dates of the traditional close season on Britain's rivers to adapt to climate change are contained in the new Marine Bill which now looks set to become law.
Explanatory notes to the bill say: "The draft Bill removes statutory close seasons and close season lengths. The current provisions impose an unnecessary restriction on the EA’s ability to determine appropriate evidence-informed close seasons.
"The draft Bill gives the EA the power to set close seasons through byelaws, and whilst initially we do not envisage signicant changes to the current close seasons, there will be more flexibility to adapt to future challenges such as different spawning times brought about by changes in water temperature due to climate change.
"This will allow the EA to protect fish stocks when they are most vulnerable."
So could we see a situation where pike in our rivers could come under the protection of an extended close season in areas of the country where they are known to begin spawning before March 14..?
Explanatory notes to the bill say: "The draft Bill removes statutory close seasons and close season lengths. The current provisions impose an unnecessary restriction on the EA’s ability to determine appropriate evidence-informed close seasons.
"The draft Bill gives the EA the power to set close seasons through byelaws, and whilst initially we do not envisage signicant changes to the current close seasons, there will be more flexibility to adapt to future challenges such as different spawning times brought about by changes in water temperature due to climate change.
"This will allow the EA to protect fish stocks when they are most vulnerable."
So could we see a situation where pike in our rivers could come under the protection of an extended close season in areas of the country where they are known to begin spawning before March 14..?
Friday, December 05, 2008
FISHINGmagic closure threat
One of the most popular fishing websites faces closure unless a buyer can be found.
The future of FISHINGmagic, which has more than 53,000 members, has been uncertain since editor Graham Marsden retired two months ago.
Today he told the site's forums: "Since I retired, the management at Magicalia have been trying their very best to accommodate FishingMagic in the company’s long term plans.
"We launched the site together 10 years ago and would love dearly to carry it on but sadly we cannot find a way to continue publishing FM.
"So it is with much regret from me and all at Magicalia that I have to announce that the site will close on Friday, December 19, unless a new owner is found."
Site owner Magicalia publishes a series of leading websites covering outdoor pursuits like cycling and canoeing.
Potential buyers are being urged to contact the company to discuss the site's future under new ownership.
Marsden offered members a ray of hope, adding: "FishingMagic is one of the best, if not the best, fishing websites in the UK with over 100,000 users every month and more than 50,000 members.
"It’s a very strong site and I know there are people interested in taking it on so, fingers crossed, FishingMagic may be back."
The future of FISHINGmagic, which has more than 53,000 members, has been uncertain since editor Graham Marsden retired two months ago.
Today he told the site's forums: "Since I retired, the management at Magicalia have been trying their very best to accommodate FishingMagic in the company’s long term plans.
"We launched the site together 10 years ago and would love dearly to carry it on but sadly we cannot find a way to continue publishing FM.
"So it is with much regret from me and all at Magicalia that I have to announce that the site will close on Friday, December 19, unless a new owner is found."
Site owner Magicalia publishes a series of leading websites covering outdoor pursuits like cycling and canoeing.
Potential buyers are being urged to contact the company to discuss the site's future under new ownership.
Marsden offered members a ray of hope, adding: "FishingMagic is one of the best, if not the best, fishing websites in the UK with over 100,000 users every month and more than 50,000 members.
"It’s a very strong site and I know there are people interested in taking it on so, fingers crossed, FishingMagic may be back."
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Winter raffle tickets are on their way
A catfish holiday to Spain and a host of other prizes are up for grabs in the Pike Anglers Club's legendary winter raffle. Tickets are now on their way to members, so make sure you get selling them when they turn up as they're a vital source of funds for the club.
LLyn Brenig pike fishing re-opens in Feb
Pike fishing re-opens in February at the enigmatic Llyn Brenig, says a local paper report which claims two scraper twenties as the best fish recorded during recent trials.
Click here for more.
Click here for more.
Beware pike in village ponds
Is the message finally getting through when it comes to some of those shock, horror stories which sometimes make the pages of the mainstream media involving those voracious old pike..?
You might be forgiven for thinking so, if you've ever taken the time to pore over the Daily Telegraph Stylebook.
Required reading for all hacks on the quality daily, the copious online guide to the Queen's English includes the following sage advice when it comes to questioning the facts:
"Aim for common sense and question apparent nonsenses, such as pike in village ponds that swallow small dogs.
"Use your own yardstick as to what is feasible but do check. Good journalism at all levels is largely about the development of judgment."
While the small dogs of Home Counties suburbia sleep safer in their beds, pike anglers fishing village ponds can clearly rest assured that more conventional baits offer the best chance of nailing their quarry.
You might be forgiven for thinking so, if you've ever taken the time to pore over the Daily Telegraph Stylebook.
Required reading for all hacks on the quality daily, the copious online guide to the Queen's English includes the following sage advice when it comes to questioning the facts:
"Aim for common sense and question apparent nonsenses, such as pike in village ponds that swallow small dogs.
"Use your own yardstick as to what is feasible but do check. Good journalism at all levels is largely about the development of judgment."
While the small dogs of Home Counties suburbia sleep safer in their beds, pike anglers fishing village ponds can clearly rest assured that more conventional baits offer the best chance of nailing their quarry.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Save 10% on Broads boat hire
If you're looking at fishing the Norfolk Broads, you've got to go afloat.
The Pike Anglers Club is happy to announce a new partnership with Wroxham-based Broads Fishing Ltd, which gives members a 10% discount off a day's boat hire.
Broads Fishing have 12 or 14ft aluminium dinghies or moulded dories for hire, with an outboard and a tank of fuel for £35 or £40 a day which includes insurance. They can also supply your deadbait needs.
Click here to check out their website - and make sure you mention the PAC when you book and take your membership card with you when you fish.
The Pike Anglers Club is happy to announce a new partnership with Wroxham-based Broads Fishing Ltd, which gives members a 10% discount off a day's boat hire.
Broads Fishing have 12 or 14ft aluminium dinghies or moulded dories for hire, with an outboard and a tank of fuel for £35 or £40 a day which includes insurance. They can also supply your deadbait needs.
Click here to check out their website - and make sure you mention the PAC when you book and take your membership card with you when you fish.
Pitsford 39 is new venue record
Wayne Hewitt's first-ever pike fishing trip was one to remember.
The 24-year-old from Northampton landed a 39lb 2oz specimen from the margins of Pitsford Water - a new venue record - say local paper reports.
The 24-year-old from Northampton landed a 39lb 2oz specimen from the margins of Pitsford Water - a new venue record - say local paper reports.
Watto speaks in Norwich
Broads legend John "Watto" Watson will be giving a talk and a Q&A session at the Angel Gardens Pub in Angel Road, Norwich, on Monday, December 1. It starts at 8pm, admission £1.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Region 31 Christmas Bash
Piking Legend Steve Ormrod will be presenting his awesome slideshow on Northern Reservoir piking to Region 31 South Lancashire on Wednesday 3RD December.
FREE Buffet & prize raffle.
All welcome.
This is not one to be missed.
Entry £3 to non Region 31 members & £2 to Region 31 members on the door.
Caledonian public house - upstairs function room 8pm onwards. Bolton Road Ashton in Makerfield, Nr Wigan Lancashire (next door to Tesco garage) .
Hope to see you ALL there.
Tight lines Jon Neafcy RO Region 31 - Wigan Piker!
FREE Buffet & prize raffle.
All welcome.
This is not one to be missed.
Entry £3 to non Region 31 members & £2 to Region 31 members on the door.
Caledonian public house - upstairs function room 8pm onwards. Bolton Road Ashton in Makerfield, Nr Wigan Lancashire (next door to Tesco garage) .
Hope to see you ALL there.
Tight lines Jon Neafcy RO Region 31 - Wigan Piker!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Sea eagles set to return to our skies
Conservation groups are backing a bid to reintroduce sea eagles to Britain's coastline.
But they say the giant birds aren't likely to prey on coarse fisheries including the Broads if the RSPB and Natural England get the go-ahead to release them in Norfolk next summer.
Click here for more.
But they say the giant birds aren't likely to prey on coarse fisheries including the Broads if the RSPB and Natural England get the go-ahead to release them in Norfolk next summer.
Click here for more.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Chertsey event sold out....
The PAC's first access event on Chertsey Pit has now sold out.
Events organiser Mark Skinner said those who had been unsuccessful for the first-come, first-served event, on February 28, would go onto a reserve list and would be offered a place if anyone drops out.
Events organiser Mark Skinner said those who had been unsuccessful for the first-come, first-served event, on February 28, would go onto a reserve list and would be offered a place if anyone drops out.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Steve Younger at Ely/Fenland PAC
All round predator angler Steve Younger will be talking about his experiences of fishing for everything from amberjack to zander at the British legion, Sutton, Ely, Cambs, on Wednesday night.
Admission is £3 for PAC members £5 for non members and the evening starts at 7.30pm
Steve will also be displaying items from his new tackle shop SAS (Specialist Angling Supplies), and copies of PAC30 and Zander A Complete Guide will also be for sale on the night.
Admission is £3 for PAC members £5 for non members and the evening starts at 7.30pm
Steve will also be displaying items from his new tackle shop SAS (Specialist Angling Supplies), and copies of PAC30 and Zander A Complete Guide will also be for sale on the night.
War of the Roses 2
Firstly can I say a massive thank you to all that took part in this event. it was snowing, cold, raining and windy but you all turned up. Many, many thanks
It was a brilliant day and we handed over to Jane Furnace from the Macmillan Nurses a mind-blowing £2,800 - and when some of the outstanding sponsorship comes in it will go to over £3,000.
It just show how much all anglers feel about this charity and how much good they do. I don’t know if we can match it next year but only you lads will tell
Thanks and tight lines to all,
Pete Green
It was a brilliant day and we handed over to Jane Furnace from the Macmillan Nurses a mind-blowing £2,800 - and when some of the outstanding sponsorship comes in it will go to over £3,000.
It just show how much all anglers feel about this charity and how much good they do. I don’t know if we can match it next year but only you lads will tell
Thanks and tight lines to all,
Pete Green
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
EXCLUSIVE: World Record 80lbs pike claim
This grainy black and white picture is claimed to be of an 80lbs pike from Eastern Europe.
It arrived at PAC HQ with a brief caption:
Gentlemen, I am enclosing a picture of what is surely the largest Pike ever caught, never mind seen. This Pike must have been around 80+ lbs if not more.
Regards
Duncan Monrom, Bansko, Bulgaria
There are no details of when, where or how the fish was caught, or the identity of its captor and his friends.
We've asked Duncan for a few more details on the fish. In the meantime, why not tell us what you think on the PAC Members Forum.
Roll up, roll up for the PAC Winter Raffle
Never mind the Arctic cold snap about to descend on us - you could be jetting off to the sunny Spain next summer on a free holiday.
A week-long trip with moggy guides Catfish Capers is the top prize in the PAC's Winter Raffle.
Other prizes so far confirmed include a trio of ET bait rods courtesy of up and coming tackle outfit Esox And More, a day's fishing with Neville Fickling, books from Mark Barrett and two Golden Menteith tickets (NB you have to be a member to use these...).
PAC advertising manager Mike Kelly : "It's a wonderful start and considering that the draw is not until next May at the AGM, I'm very confident that we will have the best Winter Raffle ever.
"I urge all our members to support the club by returning their tickets with the payment and buying as many extras as they can afford."
Tickets will be sent out soon, but you can obtain extra books by sending a SAE to Mike at 47 Yew Tree Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0BG.
A week-long trip with moggy guides Catfish Capers is the top prize in the PAC's Winter Raffle.
Other prizes so far confirmed include a trio of ET bait rods courtesy of up and coming tackle outfit Esox And More, a day's fishing with Neville Fickling, books from Mark Barrett and two Golden Menteith tickets (NB you have to be a member to use these...).
PAC advertising manager Mike Kelly : "It's a wonderful start and considering that the draw is not until next May at the AGM, I'm very confident that we will have the best Winter Raffle ever.
"I urge all our members to support the club by returning their tickets with the payment and buying as many extras as they can afford."
Tickets will be sent out soon, but you can obtain extra books by sending a SAE to Mike at 47 Yew Tree Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0BG.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
EA cracks down on Cut-Off Channel
Eighteen anglers - most of them pike fishing - have been booked in an EA crackdown on fishing stretches of Norfolk's Cut-Off Channel where no fishing is allowed.
Fishing is banned between Wretton Bridge and Barton Mills because of steep banks.
Click here for a local paper report.
Fishing is banned between Wretton Bridge and Barton Mills because of steep banks.
Click here for a local paper report.
Jon Neafcy to talk at Selby Region
Wigan Piker Jon Neafcy will be presenting his slideshow entitled Stepping Stones covering milestones and targets in pike fishing on Thursday, November 20, for the Selby region of the PAC.
Talk starts at 8pm at The Crown Inn Public House, Main Street, Hemingbrough, Selby, North Yorkshire, Y08 6QE
Talk starts at 8pm at The Crown Inn Public House, Main Street, Hemingbrough, Selby, North Yorkshire, Y08 6QE
Monday, November 17, 2008
Membership ducks the credit crunch
Membership of the Pike Anglers Club remains on an upward curve - despite the credit crunch.
Times is hard out there but with renewals flooding in and up to 20 or more new members a week, the PAC seems to be weathering the downturn.
Membership secretary John Cahill said members were staying loyal to the club.
"This year has seen losses at a lower level than for the last three years," he said in a report to the club's committee, as it prepares to hand over the reins next May.
"This is very encouraging as we look to maximise members for the incoming committee."
There's plenty going on behind the scenes as the club looks ahead to maintain the momentum built up over the current committee's term.
As ever, we thank everyone who supports our work to conserve the pike and pike fishing.
Times is hard out there but with renewals flooding in and up to 20 or more new members a week, the PAC seems to be weathering the downturn.
Membership secretary John Cahill said members were staying loyal to the club.
"This year has seen losses at a lower level than for the last three years," he said in a report to the club's committee, as it prepares to hand over the reins next May.
"This is very encouraging as we look to maximise members for the incoming committee."
There's plenty going on behind the scenes as the club looks ahead to maintain the momentum built up over the current committee's term.
As ever, we thank everyone who supports our work to conserve the pike and pike fishing.
BRRRR - cold weather on the way
Reach for those thermal long-johns... This weekend is going to see the winter start getting its own back, after an unseasonly mild snap.
Many pike anglers are fascinated with the weather and the effect it has on their fishing.
This site gives you the overview as far as advanced forecasts are concerned, along with ways of setting up your own weather alerts.
Many pike anglers are fascinated with the weather and the effect it has on their fishing.
This site gives you the overview as far as advanced forecasts are concerned, along with ways of setting up your own weather alerts.
Check us out at Donnington
The PAC will be at this weekend's Donnington Carp Show.
Our stall will be selling the full range of PAC products and PAC30 books, along with memberships and renewals.
Click here for more on the event.
Our stall will be selling the full range of PAC products and PAC30 books, along with memberships and renewals.
Click here for more on the event.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
See you at Sandown
The Pike Anglers Club will be among the many stalls at this year's Sandown Carp Show.
We'll be selling PAC products, books and memberships - come along and see us if you're there on Saturday, November 29 or Sunday, November 30.
Click here for more on the event.
We'll be selling PAC products, books and memberships - come along and see us if you're there on Saturday, November 29 or Sunday, November 30.
Click here for more on the event.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
PAC special events update
Applications are flooding in for a clutch of PAC members' events arranged towards the back-end of the season.
Chertsey Gravel Pit, the Warping Drain, Hykeham Gravel Pit, Ecton Lakes and Quays Pit offer a variety of waters to go at.
See Pikelines for more details.
Chertsey Gravel Pit, the Warping Drain, Hykeham Gravel Pit, Ecton Lakes and Quays Pit offer a variety of waters to go at.
See Pikelines for more details.
Foreign weed invades Broads
Pennywort - a fast-growing alien species of weed which chokes waterways - is infesting parts of Rockland Broad, off Norfolk's River Yare, and the upper reaches of the River Waveney.
Efforts are under way to stem the invasion. Click here for more.
Efforts are under way to stem the invasion. Click here for more.
Fly casting tuition up for grabs
Fly casting instructor Peter Hartley has a few places on a teach-in for those wishing to learn to cast predator flies.
It's being held at Graffham Water on Sunday, December 7.
Peter can accommodate 6 anglers at a cost of £90 [£15 each if 6 attend]. He'll have fly rods available to use.
A couple of places have already gone. If you'd like to attend, e-mail Colin Brett at colin_brett@ntlworld.com
It's being held at Graffham Water on Sunday, December 7.
Peter can accommodate 6 anglers at a cost of £90 [£15 each if 6 attend]. He'll have fly rods available to use.
A couple of places have already gone. If you'd like to attend, e-mail Colin Brett at colin_brett@ntlworld.com
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Relief for channel anglers after survey
Once the stamping ground of the 70s A-list, the Great Ouse Relief Channel has fallen from favour with today's generation.
Siltation of sluices and the tidal ouse have meant water from the river has been released via the Channel, causing many fish to be washed through the tail sluice into The Wash.
But Denver's sluices have now been re-opened, reducing the need for run-offs via the Channel.
And now controlling club King's Lynn AA has revealed a recent EA survey found large numbers of fry, along with predators taking advantage of the food source.
Check out the perch - not to mention trout - in these slideshow pictures.
Click here to see them.
Siltation of sluices and the tidal ouse have meant water from the river has been released via the Channel, causing many fish to be washed through the tail sluice into The Wash.
But Denver's sluices have now been re-opened, reducing the need for run-offs via the Channel.
And now controlling club King's Lynn AA has revealed a recent EA survey found large numbers of fry, along with predators taking advantage of the food source.
Check out the perch - not to mention trout - in these slideshow pictures.
Click here to see them.
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Pikelines is on its way
Pikelines is on its way to PAC members and as usual it's packed with news and views from all four corners of the UK and beyond.
Pike Angler of the Year Graham Slater lets us in on some of the secrets of the mobile approach he adopts fishing the Lincolnshire drains.
Darren Ward povides a salutary lesson on safety afloat, with an account of the terrifying day his boat sank.
Mick Gleeson waxes lyrical about his love of river piking, while PAC stalwart Eric Edwards gives a revealing interview to PAC President Phil Wakeford.
There's a full report on the landmark court case, when two men were prosecuted for killing and eating fish on Norfolk's River Wissey.
Last but not least, there's a picture of what's claimed to be a world record pike weighing 82lbs. Is it for real..? We'll let you decide.
Pike Angler of the Year Graham Slater lets us in on some of the secrets of the mobile approach he adopts fishing the Lincolnshire drains.
Darren Ward povides a salutary lesson on safety afloat, with an account of the terrifying day his boat sank.
Mick Gleeson waxes lyrical about his love of river piking, while PAC stalwart Eric Edwards gives a revealing interview to PAC President Phil Wakeford.
There's a full report on the landmark court case, when two men were prosecuted for killing and eating fish on Norfolk's River Wissey.
Last but not least, there's a picture of what's claimed to be a world record pike weighing 82lbs. Is it for real..? We'll let you decide.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Wars of the Roses pike fish-in
This just in from Peter Green regarding the Wars of the Roses....
"Friends, Romans, Countrymen, lend me your ears" – oh sorry, wrong script (apologies to Mr Shakespeare)!
Calling all adopted "Yorkshiremen" from the North of England and ye Lancastrians and Cheshiremen. "Sir" Peter Green has once again called on all true gentlemen or others to take up their fishing rods for the next battle in this series.
This will take place at Dam Flask reservoir, near Sheffield on Sunday 23rd November 2008 commencing at 8am ‘til 4pm. Tickets will be available from "Sir" Peter to be purchased in advance at £10 for 2 rods. Places are limited to 75 so it is "first come, first served" Please apply by post as soon as possible with a cheque payable to Peter Green along with a stamped self addressed envelope to:
17 Lincoln Street
Wakefield
WF2 0EB
Tel 01924 782705
Maps of the venue along with sponsorship forms will be sent out by return. All money gathered will once again be given to the MacMillan Nurses Cancer Care charity at an event at the end of the day. Full details will be announced later. Peter asks that all anglers gather as much sponsorship as possible so that we can give a huge amount to this absolutely fantastic and well deserving service. Last time we raised over £1800, let’s make that look like small beer this time!
If people prefer they can contact his serf Chas White for tickets etc. in advance on 01642 765332. We hope to see as many as possible of you there!
"Friends, Romans, Countrymen, lend me your ears" – oh sorry, wrong script (apologies to Mr Shakespeare)!
Calling all adopted "Yorkshiremen" from the North of England and ye Lancastrians and Cheshiremen. "Sir" Peter Green has once again called on all true gentlemen or others to take up their fishing rods for the next battle in this series.
This will take place at Dam Flask reservoir, near Sheffield on Sunday 23rd November 2008 commencing at 8am ‘til 4pm. Tickets will be available from "Sir" Peter to be purchased in advance at £10 for 2 rods. Places are limited to 75 so it is "first come, first served" Please apply by post as soon as possible with a cheque payable to Peter Green along with a stamped self addressed envelope to:
17 Lincoln Street
Wakefield
WF2 0EB
Tel 01924 782705
Maps of the venue along with sponsorship forms will be sent out by return. All money gathered will once again be given to the MacMillan Nurses Cancer Care charity at an event at the end of the day. Full details will be announced later. Peter asks that all anglers gather as much sponsorship as possible so that we can give a huge amount to this absolutely fantastic and well deserving service. Last time we raised over £1800, let’s make that look like small beer this time!
If people prefer they can contact his serf Chas White for tickets etc. in advance on 01642 765332. We hope to see as many as possible of you there!
New EA fisheries boss is pike angler
Pictured with a pike, the Environment Agency has revealed its new head of fisheries.
Mathew Crocker is a keen angler who has worked for the Environment Agency since it was formed took over from Dafydd Evans this week.
More here.
Meanwhile, another EA official has revealed his "secret" method of catching pike - sparking a thinly-veiled attack on livebaiting from a regional press angling correspondent.
More on that one here.
Mathew Crocker is a keen angler who has worked for the Environment Agency since it was formed took over from Dafydd Evans this week.
More here.
Meanwhile, another EA official has revealed his "secret" method of catching pike - sparking a thinly-veiled attack on livebaiting from a regional press angling correspondent.
More on that one here.
James "the doc" talks in Sussex
Big fish specialist James 'The doc' Gardner, talk on his piking experiences down in Sussex on Tuesday, November 11.
From his methods of tackling the big open trout waters to his more delicate approaches to smaller waters.James has caught pike from many venues around the country and his pike fishing exploits have accounted for pike upto 37lb.
All talks start at 8pm, although it’s advisable to be there early for to catch up with friends and fellow members in the bar beforehand and of course to grab a seat.
Venue is the Kings Head 1 High St East Hoathly BN8 6DR The region asks for £2.50 for PAC members and £3.50 for non members.
As always there will be a raffle on the night with some top prizes on offer and the chance to buy a copy of the PAC book PAC 30. Further details on the blog
Monday, October 13, 2008
PAC Message Board Members
If you are a PAC Message Board user please ensure that your PAC membership is up to date as we will be removing non-paid up users from the 20th October.
Standing Order Scheme Members
Further to our announcement in the Autumn Pikelines advising that the standing order scheme had been cancelled we continue to receive a number of standing order payments.
These will be processed this week where we can identify the payment. If you have paid and do not recieve advice from the membership secretary please send an email to memberships@pacgb.co.uk stating the amount sent and date it left your bank.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Membership numbers reach a new peak
Following the successful convention and a busy week at Membership Towers the club are only 6 days after the year end already seeing numbers surge.
John Cahill and Pete Green both report that the level of renewals are unprecedented and the fact that 45 new members have joined the club in the last 7 days is very encouraging.
Membership processing will be upstraight today, so any late renewal members or new applicants should receive a quick turnaround.
Within 14 days our forum will be reviewed and any members yet to renew will be deleted - so if you have forgotten please be quick and get an application in.
John Cahill and Pete Green both report that the level of renewals are unprecedented and the fact that 45 new members have joined the club in the last 7 days is very encouraging.
Membership processing will be upstraight today, so any late renewal members or new applicants should receive a quick turnaround.
Within 14 days our forum will be reviewed and any members yet to renew will be deleted - so if you have forgotten please be quick and get an application in.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Win a Day with Mick Brown
We are pleased to advise that Mr Brian Green from Hampshire was the lucky winner of the Mick Brown Competition drawn at the Convention.
John Cahill Membership Secretary will now be in touch with Brian to organise the day with Mick.
The PAC Committee would like to thank Mick Brown for his ongoing support of the club and hope Brian will enjoy a fantastic day.
John Cahill Membership Secretary will now be in touch with Brian to organise the day with Mick.
The PAC Committee would like to thank Mick Brown for his ongoing support of the club and hope Brian will enjoy a fantastic day.
Membership Towers under Seige
Having recently got membership requests up-straight the club's 'Engine Room' of John Cahill and Pete Green report a superb level of New members and Renewals from yesterdays convention.
Coupled with recent levels of post there is now a slight backlog in processing which they anticipate will be up-straight in the next few weeks. We would ask members to bear with us as, at year end there are also a number of administration areas that need addressing as we start the new membership year on October 1st.
John Cahill reported at the AGM held on the 27th that Membership numbers will hold at last years figure of 2500, a final number to be advised in due course. However, the level of renewals and recent new members are showing encouraging signs for next year.
Finally John would like to formally thank Pete Green and Brian Birdsall for their fantastic help at the convention.
Coupled with recent levels of post there is now a slight backlog in processing which they anticipate will be up-straight in the next few weeks. We would ask members to bear with us as, at year end there are also a number of administration areas that need addressing as we start the new membership year on October 1st.
John Cahill reported at the AGM held on the 27th that Membership numbers will hold at last years figure of 2500, a final number to be advised in due course. However, the level of renewals and recent new members are showing encouraging signs for next year.
Finally John would like to formally thank Pete Green and Brian Birdsall for their fantastic help at the convention.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Region 31 South Lancashire Calender of Events - 2008-2009
Meetings recommence 1st October. Meetings are held in the upstairs function room of The Caledonian Pub, Bolton Road (next door to Tesco garage), Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, Lancashire.
Meetings start at 8pm on the first Wednesday of each month, October to April inclusive.
The region has a great line up of guest speakers and fish-ins.
October 2008:
November:
December:
January 2009:
February:
March:
April:
For more info contact - roregion31@blueyonder.co.uk or come along to the meetings - ALL welcome!
Meetings start at 8pm on the first Wednesday of each month, October to April inclusive.
The region has a great line up of guest speakers and fish-ins.
October 2008:
- Meeting guest speaker Damien Wood, north-west specimen angling
- Fish in local reservoir
November:
- Meeting Mad Mick Bowen river piker extrodinaire
- Fish in to two Scottish lochs (club boat available for use) & FREE BBQ
December:
- Meeting Steve Ormrod Northern Reservoir piking, FREE BUFFETT
- Fish-in Yorkshire land-drain venue
January 2009:
- Meeting Geoff Parkinson - big fish man
- Fish-in - Pennine Challenge - North-West reservoir
- Fish-in - Local drain system
February:
- Meeting - R31 Members Paul Haughton & Martin Salisbury - specialist angling & big cats
March:
- Meeting - The one and only Neville Fickling
- Fish in - Local reservoir
April:
- Meeting - Presentation night, Awards presented by James Holgate, compare Jon Neafcy, FREE BUFFET
For more info contact - roregion31@blueyonder.co.uk or come along to the meetings - ALL welcome!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Pike anglers set for Stoneleigh bash
Predator anglers from all corners of the UK and even further afield will be heading for Warwickshire for the Pike Anglers Club Convention this weekend.
Piking 2008 is being held at Stoneleigh on Saturday, with a must-see line-up of speakers and a can't-miss bill of trade stands.
Click here for more info on the day's bill of fare.
Whether you're looking for fresh ideas to kick off this winter's campaign, the chance to handle all the latest gear or just to snap up a bargain on the secondhand lure stall, it's an event you can't afford to miss.
Many pike anglers see the Convention as the starting point for their winter's fishing and a chance to catch up with friends old and new.
It's also a testament to work of the PAC, which has been campaigning to safeguard both the pike and pike fishing for more than 30 years.
Tickets are £12 adult member (or member of SAA-affiliated predator club...) on the door, or £10 in advance to members. For non-members, tickets on the door are £14, £12 advance, while up to two juniors (under-16) can accompany each paying adult for free.
Piking 2008 is being held at Stoneleigh on Saturday, with a must-see line-up of speakers and a can't-miss bill of trade stands.
Click here for more info on the day's bill of fare.
Whether you're looking for fresh ideas to kick off this winter's campaign, the chance to handle all the latest gear or just to snap up a bargain on the secondhand lure stall, it's an event you can't afford to miss.
Many pike anglers see the Convention as the starting point for their winter's fishing and a chance to catch up with friends old and new.
It's also a testament to work of the PAC, which has been campaigning to safeguard both the pike and pike fishing for more than 30 years.
Tickets are £12 adult member (or member of SAA-affiliated predator club...) on the door, or £10 in advance to members. For non-members, tickets on the door are £14, £12 advance, while up to two juniors (under-16) can accompany each paying adult for free.
**Secondhand Stall News**
We are pleased to let members know that we are reducing the PAC charge for selling members items of tackle and lures on the clubs secondhand stalls at the convention on Saturday.
The charge for selling members items is reduced to 10% of the total take on items sold, which goes into the club's funds.
We will still be charging £1.00 for items put on the stall for sale, please note this is not per item.
This charge goes towards covering PAC costs in case any members items are not sold.
There is still time for logging in sheets to be emailed to you if you wish to pre-log your items before bringing them on Saturday, this will save you time filling the sheets in on the day, just PM me or Chico for logging sheets to be emailed over.
See you Saturday.
Mark Skinner
The charge for selling members items is reduced to 10% of the total take on items sold, which goes into the club's funds.
We will still be charging £1.00 for items put on the stall for sale, please note this is not per item.
This charge goes towards covering PAC costs in case any members items are not sold.
There is still time for logging in sheets to be emailed to you if you wish to pre-log your items before bringing them on Saturday, this will save you time filling the sheets in on the day, just PM me or Chico for logging sheets to be emailed over.
See you Saturday.
Mark Skinner
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
PAC Convention - can you help..?
Is anyone travelling up to the Convention from within or close to the M25, Docklands or central London on Friday evening..?
If you can offer a lift to a guest, please e-mail chairman@pacgb.co.uk as soon as possible.
If you can offer a lift to a guest, please e-mail chairman@pacgb.co.uk as soon as possible.
Another dour day on Rutland
Two scraper 20s and a sprinkling of smaller pike were caught on the PAC's first event of the season - a day's lure fishing on Rutland Reservoir.
While the weather did not stage a repeat of last year's gale force conditions, many found the 2,500 acre man-made lake a daunting prospect.
Of note were the fact several boats targetted zander using vertical jigging tactics in some of the deeper areas, with some being rewarded with a number of schoolies to 6lbs, showing potential for a different approach.
Little is known about how the species adapts to tout reservoirs, but Rutland is believed to have contained zander for around a decade, with a best fish of 11lbs being recorded in this time.
Anglian Water has now published its predator dates for this season:
Autumn boat fishing for pike with lures & dead sea fish over 18cm (excludes lamprey)
motor boat hire from 08.30am until dusk.
Pitsford £50 for two anglers, 1 October to 23 November, tel 01604 781350
Rutland £55 for two anglers, 6 October to 16 November, tel 01780 686441
Grafham £53 for two anglers, 13 October to 30 November, tel 01480 810531
Ravensthorpe £49 for two anglers, 27October to 23 November, tel 01604 770875
Prices change to £44 for two anglers at all fisheries in November
While the weather did not stage a repeat of last year's gale force conditions, many found the 2,500 acre man-made lake a daunting prospect.
Of note were the fact several boats targetted zander using vertical jigging tactics in some of the deeper areas, with some being rewarded with a number of schoolies to 6lbs, showing potential for a different approach.
Little is known about how the species adapts to tout reservoirs, but Rutland is believed to have contained zander for around a decade, with a best fish of 11lbs being recorded in this time.
Anglian Water has now published its predator dates for this season:
Autumn boat fishing for pike with lures & dead sea fish over 18cm (excludes lamprey)
motor boat hire from 08.30am until dusk.
Pitsford £50 for two anglers, 1 October to 23 November, tel 01604 781350
Rutland £55 for two anglers, 6 October to 16 November, tel 01780 686441
Grafham £53 for two anglers, 13 October to 30 November, tel 01480 810531
Ravensthorpe £49 for two anglers, 27October to 23 November, tel 01604 770875
Prices change to £44 for two anglers at all fisheries in November
Fresh boost for Broads defences
Sea defences protecting parts of the Norfolk Broads are set to be strenghened with hundreds of thousands of tonnes of rock, it emerged today.
There was anger earlier this year, when plans to abandon sea walls protecting th Upper Thurne and its broads were leaked to the media.
Thousands signed a petition launched by the PAC, while concerned residents eventually won miniterial assurance the coastline would be saved for at least another 50 years.
Now the Environment Agency has revealed plans to ship in roacks by barge to bolster defences.
Click here for more.
There was anger earlier this year, when plans to abandon sea walls protecting th Upper Thurne and its broads were leaked to the media.
Thousands signed a petition launched by the PAC, while concerned residents eventually won miniterial assurance the coastline would be saved for at least another 50 years.
Now the Environment Agency has revealed plans to ship in roacks by barge to bolster defences.
Click here for more.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
So long to Frank who inspired Jaws
A real-life shark hunter who inspired Jaws has sung Spanish Ladies for the last time.
Frank Mundus, who died of a heart attack at the age of 82 last week, inspired Peter Benchley's character Quint, with his capture of a 4,500lbs great white shark in 1964.
Quint, played by Robert Shaw in the 1975 big screen blockbuster, in turn inspired a novel about a Lake District beauty spot plagued not by a shark but a giant pike.
At one point filming was set to commence on The Pike, with a 12ft mechanised esox set to star alongside Joan Collins, but the project never made it onto the silver screen.
Mythical tales about giant pike pre-date Frank Mundus's exploits by centuries, as this recent round-up from The Times reports.
Hysteria about the pike's voracious appetite persists to this day, when the occasional ill-founded story about attacks on pets, livestock or even waterskiers sometimes make the headlines of news-starved local papers.
In the meantime, it's so long to Frank Mundus - whose on-screen characterisation famously observed: "We're gonna need a bigger boat..."
Frank Mundus, who died of a heart attack at the age of 82 last week, inspired Peter Benchley's character Quint, with his capture of a 4,500lbs great white shark in 1964.
Quint, played by Robert Shaw in the 1975 big screen blockbuster, in turn inspired a novel about a Lake District beauty spot plagued not by a shark but a giant pike.
At one point filming was set to commence on The Pike, with a 12ft mechanised esox set to star alongside Joan Collins, but the project never made it onto the silver screen.
Mythical tales about giant pike pre-date Frank Mundus's exploits by centuries, as this recent round-up from The Times reports.
Hysteria about the pike's voracious appetite persists to this day, when the occasional ill-founded story about attacks on pets, livestock or even waterskiers sometimes make the headlines of news-starved local papers.
In the meantime, it's so long to Frank Mundus - whose on-screen characterisation famously observed: "We're gonna need a bigger boat..."
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Convention special offers update
Two special offers for the PAC Convention were announced today by membership secretary John Cahill.
The first is a combined membership and PAC30 book offer at £40, representing a saving for an adult member of £9.50 on usual prices. John said the offer extends to both new and renewing members on the day.
PAC30 was the highly acclaimed book published last year to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Pike Anglers Club, featuring 30 chapters by some of the top names in the sport.
Click here for more on the book, which is usually priced £25 plus £5 p&p from the club's online shop.
Offer two is a special deal for members of the Lure Anglers Society, Pike Anglers Alliance for Scotland and Specialist Anglers Alliance. We're delighted all three will be in attendance with stalls at this year's event.
By way of thanks, we're offering admission to any member of the LAS, PAAS or SAA for £12 on the door - the same price as PAC members - a saving of £2 on normal ticket price on the door for non-PAC members.
Piking 2008 is being held at Stoneleigh, Warks, on Saturday, September 27.
Click here for all the latest news on the pike fishing's don't miss event of the year.
The first is a combined membership and PAC30 book offer at £40, representing a saving for an adult member of £9.50 on usual prices. John said the offer extends to both new and renewing members on the day.
PAC30 was the highly acclaimed book published last year to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Pike Anglers Club, featuring 30 chapters by some of the top names in the sport.
Click here for more on the book, which is usually priced £25 plus £5 p&p from the club's online shop.
Offer two is a special deal for members of the Lure Anglers Society, Pike Anglers Alliance for Scotland and Specialist Anglers Alliance. We're delighted all three will be in attendance with stalls at this year's event.
By way of thanks, we're offering admission to any member of the LAS, PAAS or SAA for £12 on the door - the same price as PAC members - a saving of £2 on normal ticket price on the door for non-PAC members.
Piking 2008 is being held at Stoneleigh, Warks, on Saturday, September 27.
Click here for all the latest news on the pike fishing's don't miss event of the year.
Monday, September 15, 2008
PAC membership team on top of renewals
Following a phenomenal response from the recent edition of Pikelines magazine, the Pike Anglers Club's membership team of John Cahill and Peter Green have been snowed under with renewals.
The backlog has now been cleared and both new member's applications and renewals are being turned around within 24 hours of receipt.
"It's been a great start to the traditional renewal period and we thank everyone who's renewed early and helped us spread the workload," said John.
"We're now at manageable levels again so for those yet to renew please do so and we'll get back to you by return."
Membership benefits include PAC events, like privileged access events on the Lake of menteith and other waters. Please note you must have a current PAC membership card to take part in an event.
John and Pete will be running a PAC Membership stall at the Convention on Saturday, September 27, where members will be able to renew on the day.
There will also be a Convention special membership offer for new members. announced a little nearer the time.
The backlog has now been cleared and both new member's applications and renewals are being turned around within 24 hours of receipt.
"It's been a great start to the traditional renewal period and we thank everyone who's renewed early and helped us spread the workload," said John.
"We're now at manageable levels again so for those yet to renew please do so and we'll get back to you by return."
Membership benefits include PAC events, like privileged access events on the Lake of menteith and other waters. Please note you must have a current PAC membership card to take part in an event.
John and Pete will be running a PAC Membership stall at the Convention on Saturday, September 27, where members will be able to renew on the day.
There will also be a Convention special membership offer for new members. announced a little nearer the time.
Mick Brown on single hooks for pike fishing
Mick Brown has a thought-provoking piece on why he's incresingly turning to using single hooks for his pike fishing on his website.
Click here for the first installment.
Click here for the first installment.
PAC tops Google rankings
Companies spend thousands getting their names and products on the first page of rankings on the search engine Google.
The PAC now occupies the two top spots on google.com and google.co.uk when you tap pike into the search box - thanks to all the other sites who've linked to us and the growing number of people looking for information about pike fishing, who've clicked to find out more about the club.
Click here to google us and see.
The PAC now occupies the two top spots on google.com and google.co.uk when you tap pike into the search box - thanks to all the other sites who've linked to us and the growing number of people looking for information about pike fishing, who've clicked to find out more about the club.
Click here to google us and see.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Piking 2008 - special advance report
With just two weeks to go, it looks like Piking 2008 might turn out to be even bigger than last year's convention - which many attendees rated as one of the best in the 30 year history of the Pike Anglers Club.
We've got some speakers who are really going to get the pike world talking travelling from as far afield as Holland and Sweden sharing the stage with two of the most successful pikers on the current UK scene.
Piking 2008 is being held on Saturday, September 27 at the National Agricultural Showground, Stoneleigh Park, Coventry.
Tickets are £12 adult member on the door, or £10 in advance to members. For non-members, tickets on the door are £14, £12 advance, while up to two juniors (under-16) can accompany each paying adult for free.
For advance tickets, send cheque (with SAE...), payable to PACGB, to Mike Kelly, PAC Promotions Manager, 47 Yew Tree Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0BG.
Click here for more on the speakers.
Scroll down for the day's agenda and details of this year's record number of trade stalls.
We've got some speakers who are really going to get the pike world talking travelling from as far afield as Holland and Sweden sharing the stage with two of the most successful pikers on the current UK scene.
Piking 2008 is being held on Saturday, September 27 at the National Agricultural Showground, Stoneleigh Park, Coventry.
Tickets are £12 adult member on the door, or £10 in advance to members. For non-members, tickets on the door are £14, £12 advance, while up to two juniors (under-16) can accompany each paying adult for free.
For advance tickets, send cheque (with SAE...), payable to PACGB, to Mike Kelly, PAC Promotions Manager, 47 Yew Tree Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0BG.
Click here for more on the speakers.
Scroll down for the day's agenda and details of this year's record number of trade stalls.
Piking 2008 - the batting order
Doors open 9am sharp.
9 - 9.45am Annual Members Meeting of PAC Membership and Financial Reports plus Q and A to the Committee.
9.45am Opening Address by Phil Wakeford, PAC President and MC.
10am Graham Slater PAC ‘Pike Angler of the Year’ with ‘The Way I Fish’
11am Presentation of PAC Awards 2008 Mark Barrett... Swiftly followed by the draw for places on Menteith and the draw to win a day's fishing with Mick Brown...
11.30am Coffee Break
11.45am Michel Huigevoort ‘River Pike Fishing The Dutch Style’
12.45pm Lunch Break
2pm Derek MacDonald presents ‘Planet Pike’
3pm P.A. Hogberg ‘Catching Pike the Swedish Way’
4pm Neville Fickling's Pike Panel... your chance to question the day's speakers...
5pm Auction of PAC30 signed leather-bound number 1
5.15pm Mega Raffle
6pm (approx) CLOSE
9 - 9.45am Annual Members Meeting of PAC Membership and Financial Reports plus Q and A to the Committee.
9.45am Opening Address by Phil Wakeford, PAC President and MC.
10am Graham Slater PAC ‘Pike Angler of the Year’ with ‘The Way I Fish’
11am Presentation of PAC Awards 2008 Mark Barrett... Swiftly followed by the draw for places on Menteith and the draw to win a day's fishing with Mick Brown...
11.30am Coffee Break
11.45am Michel Huigevoort ‘River Pike Fishing The Dutch Style’
12.45pm Lunch Break
2pm Derek MacDonald presents ‘Planet Pike’
3pm P.A. Hogberg ‘Catching Pike the Swedish Way’
4pm Neville Fickling's Pike Panel... your chance to question the day's speakers...
5pm Auction of PAC30 signed leather-bound number 1
5.15pm Mega Raffle
6pm (approx) CLOSE
Convention trade stalls sell out
Piking 2008 won't just have a record number of trade and tackle stalls for you to shop, haggle and give your bank manager nightmares...
For what's believed to be the first time ever, the event has now sold out to the trade, with just about every inch of space booked by stall-holders of all kinds.
You can get your hands on all the latest gear. Pick up a bargain on one of the lively second-hand stalls, pick up a signed copy of brand news books from Neville Fickling and Mark Barrett. Or even splash out on everything from a few lures, all the end tackle you need for the winter, or even a new boat.
So far, the line-up looks like this: Friendly Fisherman...Sovereign Superbaits...Zoota Lures...The Pike Shop...Pike Brittany...Esox & More...Pike & Predators...DIY Lures and Flies...Coch Y Bonddhu Books...Portabote...Bob Buteaux...Catmaster Tackle...Fishing Pool...Fishing Matters...Seastrike Boats...O2 Boats...The Tackle Shop (Gainsborough)...Catfish Pro...Eddie Turner...Dave Lumb Specialist Tackle...ACA...Pike Anglers Alliance for Scotland...Lure Anglers Society...Specialist Anglers Alliance...NAC Zandervan...
There will also be a fly tying/fly fishing demo featuring a top fly fisherman, a casting competition, at least two book launches and all the usual PAC stalls, including membership, products, second-hand tackle and second-hand lures. Last but not least, the popular mega-raffle makes its return.
Click here for more on the event, including speakers, ticket prices etc.
For what's believed to be the first time ever, the event has now sold out to the trade, with just about every inch of space booked by stall-holders of all kinds.
You can get your hands on all the latest gear. Pick up a bargain on one of the lively second-hand stalls, pick up a signed copy of brand news books from Neville Fickling and Mark Barrett. Or even splash out on everything from a few lures, all the end tackle you need for the winter, or even a new boat.
So far, the line-up looks like this: Friendly Fisherman...Sovereign Superbaits...Zoota Lures...The Pike Shop...Pike Brittany...Esox & More...Pike & Predators...DIY Lures and Flies...Coch Y Bonddhu Books...Portabote...Bob Buteaux...Catmaster Tackle...Fishing Pool...Fishing Matters...Seastrike Boats...O2 Boats...The Tackle Shop (Gainsborough)...Catfish Pro...Eddie Turner...Dave Lumb Specialist Tackle...ACA...Pike Anglers Alliance for Scotland...Lure Anglers Society...Specialist Anglers Alliance...NAC Zandervan...
There will also be a fly tying/fly fishing demo featuring a top fly fisherman, a casting competition, at least two book launches and all the usual PAC stalls, including membership, products, second-hand tackle and second-hand lures. Last but not least, the popular mega-raffle makes its return.
Click here for more on the event, including speakers, ticket prices etc.
PAC AGM to be held at Stoneleigh
Following a number of years when attendance has dwindled, this year's PAC AGM will be held before the Convention at Stoneleigh, on Saturday , September 27.
President Phil wakeford said: "The AGM will run from 09.00 to 09.45 as we will need to "get on with the show". There will be BRIEF updates of what is going on in the club, our financial position etc.
"As we hold ourselves answerable to the members we are asking for any Questions that members and/or officers of the club may want to put forward. If any member (attending or not) has a question to put to the committee it would help a lot to know in advance so that we can prepare for it before the day and give a thorough reply.
"Lastly let's try and make the PAC Convention 2008 even more successful than our 30th Bash last year. Bring a friend or hijack people if you like it is going to be a great day out."
President Phil wakeford said: "The AGM will run from 09.00 to 09.45 as we will need to "get on with the show". There will be BRIEF updates of what is going on in the club, our financial position etc.
"As we hold ourselves answerable to the members we are asking for any Questions that members and/or officers of the club may want to put forward. If any member (attending or not) has a question to put to the committee it would help a lot to know in advance so that we can prepare for it before the day and give a thorough reply.
"Lastly let's try and make the PAC Convention 2008 even more successful than our 30th Bash last year. Bring a friend or hijack people if you like it is going to be a great day out."
BBC reports on Norfolk fish theft case
The BBC reports on Friday's landmark fish theft case at King's Lynn magistrates, when two men were ordered to surrender boats and equipment after admitting a string of fishery offences.
Click here for more.
***If you missed our report on the hearing, click here...
Click here for more.
***If you missed our report on the hearing, click here...
Friday, September 12, 2008
Landmark ruling in fish theft case
Two migrant workers caught netting fish and barbecuing them on the bank in the close season have been ordered to forfeit boats and equipment worth thousands of pounds in a landmark court ruling.
The Environment Agency's national head of enforcement said the case sent out a clear message that stealing fish from Britain's rivers would not be tolerated and pledged it would take "strong action" to bring offenders to justice.
Last night the Pike Anglers Club of Great Britain said: "We're pleased this test case has come to court and magistrates have sent out a strong message that they will not tolerate the wholesale removal of specimen fish from our rivers for food."
Gunars Kaspers, 39, and Oleg Stepin, 43, had admitted fishing in the close season, fishing without rod licences and the theft of perch, tench and eels from Norfolk's River Wissey at an earlier hearing.
Stepin also admitted using a gill net and an unlicensed boat, on a remote stretch of the Fenland river.
As they entered the dock at King's Lynn magistrates court today Joe Ghiradelo, prosecuting, said: “Mr Stepin and Mr Kaspers were found by officers on May 24 this year. They were seen on the River Wissey between Hilgay and West Dereham.
“They were seen to be engaged in angling, there were two other people with them and all four were arrested.”
One of those arrested did not face charges, the court was told. Another man who jumped bail is now wanted by police and believed to have fled the country.
Mr Ghiradelo said anyone who fished in England and Wales had to be in possession of an Environment Agency Rod Licence and there was a close season between March 15 and June 15, when no fishing was allowed on rivers.
He said by-laws required anglers to return fish alive. The court heard there were signs at access points along the River Wissey explaining this rule.
“When police attended they found rods set up and evidence that the persons involved intended to stay there for some period of time,” said Mr Ghiradelo.
“Fish were found in the water with a wire through their mouths, perch and tench. There were efforts to return them but most did not survive."
Tench to 7lbs were among fish found by police retained on a clothes line tethered to the bank. Mr Ghiradelo said when officers arrived at the river, they saw a net being placed from a boat.
“As they approached, officers saw two people in a dinghy and believe they saw a net being cast from the dinghy," he told the court.
“That net was a gill net, it was not only unlicensed but you wouldn’t get a license for something like that – it was 60m long and 2m deep.”
GILL NET: An EA officer shows the net confiscated on the Wissey
Finding such a large gill net convinced investigators that the men arrested were trying to catch more fish than they could eat during a camping trip, the court was told.
”There’s a concern this was more than for their own use, but might have been to take the fish and sell them on for commercial use,” said Mr Ghiradelo, before he reminded the magistrates that they had powers to make an order for the forfeiture of boats and equipment seized in the swoop.
CAMPSITE: The men's makeshift camp
Pictures shown in court featured the men’s makeshift camp on the banks of the Wissey. They also showed eels, bream and pike being barbecued, while tench to 7lbs were being kept alive on a stringer made from a washing line, which had been threaded through their gills.
“Mr Stepin and Mr Kaspers are both from Eastern Europe where it is customary to catch fish and deal with them in this way,” said Mr Ghiradelo.
“But there has been publicity about this sort of thing in the angling community, killing so many fish can have a serious affect on the fish and the environment.”
BARBIE TIME: Bream and eels being barbecued on the bank.
Tim Bartlam, defending, said Kaspers and Stepin were fishing on the Wissey with friends, as they had done on previous occasions.
He said: “This was not a commercial enterprise and I ask you to bear that in mind. They have no previous convictions, they have been in this country for a number of years and they’re hard working.”
He said Kaspers worked for Ross Foods, while Stepin ran a shop selling Eastern European food. Speaking through an interpreter, both men gave addresses in Aberdeen.
Sentencing the men, chair of the bench Charlotte Paton said: “Mr Stepin you were charged with five offences to which you have pled guilty and Mr Kaspers you have pled guilty to three offences.
“We have taken into account – particularly in the theft offence – that neither of you has been charged with theft previously and you are both of good character.”
Stepin was ordered to pay costs of £60 and to surrender his boat, outboard motor and petrol pump, said in court to be worth around £4000. Kaspars was also ordered to pay costs of £60 and to surrender his dinghy, worth up to £1000.
After the hearing Neil Sampson, national fisheries enforcement officer for the Environment Agency, said: “Although we were disappointed that these men were not given a more severe sentence, the forfeiture of their boats will leave a large hole in both their pockets.
“The result sends out a clear message that illegal fishing practices will not be tolerated - the Environment Agency will take strong action to ensure offenders are brought to face justice. It also highlights the importance of vigilance from the public and how by working together with the Norfolk Constabulary, we were able to bring this case to court.
“Illegal fishing can not only cause environmental damage, but fishing without a valid rod licence disadvantages those anglers who have paid their contribution towards helping maintain fisheries work that benefits all anglers in England and Wales.”
Det Con Ian Young, of Downham Market CID, said: “Following the tip off, our officers attended the scene found fish on a barbeque and several live fish threaded on a washing line and kept alive in the river.
"The live fish, including several tench between four and seven pounds and a two and a half pound perch, all had scale damage. The perch died on its release.
“Police officers seized several items including a boat with an outboard motor, a small dinghy and fishing equip-ment. All four men were arrested. Of the two other men arrested, one was released without charge.
"The other man failed to re-appear and is now wanted by the police. It is believed that he has left the country.
“During the course of our investigation it became clear that the four men were an organised group who had travelled from Scotland to a remote part of Norfolk with the intention of stealing a large quantity of fish.”
The Environment Agency's national head of enforcement said the case sent out a clear message that stealing fish from Britain's rivers would not be tolerated and pledged it would take "strong action" to bring offenders to justice.
Last night the Pike Anglers Club of Great Britain said: "We're pleased this test case has come to court and magistrates have sent out a strong message that they will not tolerate the wholesale removal of specimen fish from our rivers for food."
Gunars Kaspers, 39, and Oleg Stepin, 43, had admitted fishing in the close season, fishing without rod licences and the theft of perch, tench and eels from Norfolk's River Wissey at an earlier hearing.
Stepin also admitted using a gill net and an unlicensed boat, on a remote stretch of the Fenland river.
As they entered the dock at King's Lynn magistrates court today Joe Ghiradelo, prosecuting, said: “Mr Stepin and Mr Kaspers were found by officers on May 24 this year. They were seen on the River Wissey between Hilgay and West Dereham.
“They were seen to be engaged in angling, there were two other people with them and all four were arrested.”
One of those arrested did not face charges, the court was told. Another man who jumped bail is now wanted by police and believed to have fled the country.
Mr Ghiradelo said anyone who fished in England and Wales had to be in possession of an Environment Agency Rod Licence and there was a close season between March 15 and June 15, when no fishing was allowed on rivers.
He said by-laws required anglers to return fish alive. The court heard there were signs at access points along the River Wissey explaining this rule.
“When police attended they found rods set up and evidence that the persons involved intended to stay there for some period of time,” said Mr Ghiradelo.
“Fish were found in the water with a wire through their mouths, perch and tench. There were efforts to return them but most did not survive."
STRINGER: Tench and perch retained on a washing line.
Tench to 7lbs were among fish found by police retained on a clothes line tethered to the bank. Mr Ghiradelo said when officers arrived at the river, they saw a net being placed from a boat.
“As they approached, officers saw two people in a dinghy and believe they saw a net being cast from the dinghy," he told the court.
“That net was a gill net, it was not only unlicensed but you wouldn’t get a license for something like that – it was 60m long and 2m deep.”
GILL NET: An EA officer shows the net confiscated on the WisseyFinding such a large gill net convinced investigators that the men arrested were trying to catch more fish than they could eat during a camping trip, the court was told.
”There’s a concern this was more than for their own use, but might have been to take the fish and sell them on for commercial use,” said Mr Ghiradelo, before he reminded the magistrates that they had powers to make an order for the forfeiture of boats and equipment seized in the swoop.
CAMPSITE: The men's makeshift campPictures shown in court featured the men’s makeshift camp on the banks of the Wissey. They also showed eels, bream and pike being barbecued, while tench to 7lbs were being kept alive on a stringer made from a washing line, which had been threaded through their gills.
“Mr Stepin and Mr Kaspers are both from Eastern Europe where it is customary to catch fish and deal with them in this way,” said Mr Ghiradelo.
“But there has been publicity about this sort of thing in the angling community, killing so many fish can have a serious affect on the fish and the environment.”
BARBIE TIME: Bream and eels being barbecued on the bank.Tim Bartlam, defending, said Kaspers and Stepin were fishing on the Wissey with friends, as they had done on previous occasions.
He said: “This was not a commercial enterprise and I ask you to bear that in mind. They have no previous convictions, they have been in this country for a number of years and they’re hard working.”
He said Kaspers worked for Ross Foods, while Stepin ran a shop selling Eastern European food. Speaking through an interpreter, both men gave addresses in Aberdeen.
Sentencing the men, chair of the bench Charlotte Paton said: “Mr Stepin you were charged with five offences to which you have pled guilty and Mr Kaspers you have pled guilty to three offences.
“We have taken into account – particularly in the theft offence – that neither of you has been charged with theft previously and you are both of good character.”
Stepin was ordered to pay costs of £60 and to surrender his boat, outboard motor and petrol pump, said in court to be worth around £4000. Kaspars was also ordered to pay costs of £60 and to surrender his dinghy, worth up to £1000.
After the hearing Neil Sampson, national fisheries enforcement officer for the Environment Agency, said: “Although we were disappointed that these men were not given a more severe sentence, the forfeiture of their boats will leave a large hole in both their pockets.
“The result sends out a clear message that illegal fishing practices will not be tolerated - the Environment Agency will take strong action to ensure offenders are brought to face justice. It also highlights the importance of vigilance from the public and how by working together with the Norfolk Constabulary, we were able to bring this case to court.
“Illegal fishing can not only cause environmental damage, but fishing without a valid rod licence disadvantages those anglers who have paid their contribution towards helping maintain fisheries work that benefits all anglers in England and Wales.”
Det Con Ian Young, of Downham Market CID, said: “Following the tip off, our officers attended the scene found fish on a barbeque and several live fish threaded on a washing line and kept alive in the river.
"The live fish, including several tench between four and seven pounds and a two and a half pound perch, all had scale damage. The perch died on its release.
“Police officers seized several items including a boat with an outboard motor, a small dinghy and fishing equip-ment. All four men were arrested. Of the two other men arrested, one was released without charge.
"The other man failed to re-appear and is now wanted by the police. It is believed that he has left the country.
“During the course of our investigation it became clear that the four men were an organised group who had travelled from Scotland to a remote part of Norfolk with the intention of stealing a large quantity of fish.”
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Can you help with promoting the PAC
The club are currently carrying a considerable stock of old pikelines which we'd like to put to good use promoting the club.
Membership secretary John Cahill said: "Following a number of good initiatives by regions in using the magazines to promote the club in terms of membership and even given to schools we would like to use this stock for a better purpose.
"Postage costs are prohibitive at present and thus we would like to distribute these at the convention to anyone who will help us. In addition we need to get stocks of membership applications 'out there' pending a reprint of the form next year.
"Can you help us?
"If you are not attending the convention but know someone who is then please ask them to pick up a bundle."
Bulk requests from any member / RO can be made to John Cahill at memberships@pacgb.co.uk who will have them prepacked for collection.
Membership secretary John Cahill said: "Following a number of good initiatives by regions in using the magazines to promote the club in terms of membership and even given to schools we would like to use this stock for a better purpose.
"Postage costs are prohibitive at present and thus we would like to distribute these at the convention to anyone who will help us. In addition we need to get stocks of membership applications 'out there' pending a reprint of the form next year.
"Can you help us?
"If you are not attending the convention but know someone who is then please ask them to pick up a bundle."
Bulk requests from any member / RO can be made to John Cahill at memberships@pacgb.co.uk who will have them prepacked for collection.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Last chance to win a day with Mick
The clock's ticking... Just a few days left to win a day's pike fishing with Mick Brown in the PAC's special membership promotion, which closes on Monday, September 8.
Click here for more.
Click here for more.
Guilty pleas after fish theft swoop
Two men have admitted a string of offences in what will be seen as a test case in the fight to stop fish being taken for food from Britain's rivers.
Gunars Kaspers and Oleg Stepin were arrested after police swooped on Norfolk's River Wissey.
The alarm was raised after a group of men were seen using boats to set nets across a remote stretch of the Fenland river in May.
Detectives and Environment Agency fishery officers found them barbecuing pike and bream on the bank at Roxham Fen, between Hilgay and Wissington.
Live tench and perch were found on a crude stringer made from a clothes line and gill nets and a pair of boats were confiscated.
Kaspers, 39, and Stepin, 43, have entered guilty pleas to stealing fish, fishing during the close season, fishing with an unlicensed instrument and the use of an unregistered vessel.
Both are due to be sentenced by magistrates next week. Another man arrested at the scene has failed to answer bail, while a 35-year-old man has been told no further action will be taken.
The arrests came after high-profile campaigns to highlight the problem of fish theft by King's Lynn Angling Association and the Pike Anglers Club.
A Crimestoppers-style hotline was set up after both groups met with EA officials to discuss their concerns.
Lynn AA changed its bylaws to outlaw the taking of fish from its waters, which include stretches of the Wissey, Great Ouse and Little Ouse, along with drains and stillwaters.
The PAC set up a kitemark scheme for bait dealers, following claims fish were being stolen wholesale for the bait trade.
Gunars Kaspers and Oleg Stepin were arrested after police swooped on Norfolk's River Wissey.
The alarm was raised after a group of men were seen using boats to set nets across a remote stretch of the Fenland river in May.
Detectives and Environment Agency fishery officers found them barbecuing pike and bream on the bank at Roxham Fen, between Hilgay and Wissington.
Live tench and perch were found on a crude stringer made from a clothes line and gill nets and a pair of boats were confiscated.
Kaspers, 39, and Stepin, 43, have entered guilty pleas to stealing fish, fishing during the close season, fishing with an unlicensed instrument and the use of an unregistered vessel.
Both are due to be sentenced by magistrates next week. Another man arrested at the scene has failed to answer bail, while a 35-year-old man has been told no further action will be taken.
The arrests came after high-profile campaigns to highlight the problem of fish theft by King's Lynn Angling Association and the Pike Anglers Club.
A Crimestoppers-style hotline was set up after both groups met with EA officials to discuss their concerns.
Lynn AA changed its bylaws to outlaw the taking of fish from its waters, which include stretches of the Wissey, Great Ouse and Little Ouse, along with drains and stillwaters.
The PAC set up a kitemark scheme for bait dealers, following claims fish were being stolen wholesale for the bait trade.
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