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HOW'S THE FISHING & TOPICAL ITEMS

"Wayne's World"

Wayne Cramp, together with his wife Wendy, (we've collectively nicknamed them "W W dot") own what is undoubtedly the best restaurant in Dartmouth, R & B's Diner in Lower Street, only a few yards up the road from the Lower Ferry.

If you would like to sample Wayne's most enjoyable food and hospitality, you can book your table on 01803 832882. Patsy and I thoroughly recommend it to you. It won't cost you a fortune.

The size of your meal and his hand selected wines will tempt you back time and time again.

Reliable Local Marine Engine Servicing -

Many of you will already know Will Bower.

He is a member of Brixham SA.

Will was a Senior Marine Engineer at Darthaven Marina for a number of past years.

Will has recently set out on his own business in Marine Engineering Services.

I have known Will for many years as a good friend and angling companion. I would certainly trust him to service my boat engine.

I wish him well in his new venture.

If you need his help you can contact Will via
07831 614542

Fuji CWDBSG line guide
whipped on with Royal Blue
"Guidebrod" thread and finished
with "High Build" two pack epoxy
by Mike Concannon
12th January 2008
Marbled finish on 20 lb class boat rod
built by Mike Concannon
Mid Blue, mixed with Cobalt base colour
overlaid with mid blue lightened by a touch
of chromium white plus a touch of pearlescent
pigment, then some swirls of gold and copper
pigments added to finish it off

Call Mike on 01803 883 500 (from 3rd Nov 2009) or 07970 409938

or Email mike@fishingdartmouth.co.uk

8 foot 9 inch 2-piece 20 lb class boat rod by Mike Concannon.
12 x Fuji Concept guides under-whipped in metallic ice blue thread
Gunmetal Pearl Finish with multi-swirled coloured marbling on lower section
5th May 2009

If this web page appears wider than the screen on your computer so that you have to scroll sideways to read
the whole page width, please check that the screen resolution on your computer screen is set to a high resolution.

Right click your mouse on your screen and then left click on PROPERTIES
Select the SETTINGS tab at the top of the display properties page and
move the SCREEN RESOLUTION slider to the right until you can view the page width properly

For example my own Dell 30" Monitor is set to 2560 x 1600 pixels
My 19" Sony Monitor is set to 1280 x 1024 pixels
My 14" screen on my laptop is set to 1024 x 768 pixels
all work just fine, as do other computers on which I have viewed this page

I have several items of my own sea fishing tackle which I have decided
to sell, as they are surplus to my personal requirements.

If you would like to buy or view any of these items, please call me on
01803 883 500 (from 3rd Nov 2009) or 07970 409 938
or Email mike@fishingdartmouth.co.uk

I promise you that you will not be disappointed.
All these items are little used and in pristine condition.

Please Left-click your mouse on this button to view details

Updated 6th November 2009

BBC COASTAL WATERS FORECAST FOR DARTMOUTH FOR NEXT 3 DAYS

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Charter Dates - I constantly receive calls from anglers who would like to go "Fishing Dartmouth" so I've asked some of our most popular Skippers to provide some dates when they are happy to take individual anglers. Thanks Dave, Ian and Chris. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Just single left click your mouse on the photo of the charter boats below, to see a list of dates and trips when these very helpful Skippers are happy to take individual anglers or larger groups to fish for all sorts of varieties of fish and in various locations. I know you will thoroughly enjoy a day aboard any of these excellent local charter boats.

"Gemini" - out of Dartmouth

"Samuel Irvin 3" - out of Dartmouth

"Outlaw" - out of Dartmouth

"Anglo Dawn III" - out of Salcombe

Monday 8th March - Torbay & Babbacombe ASA Shore Competition Results - Email received from my good pal Nigel Foord, fish recorder for Torbay & Babbacombe ASA, together with some photos from another good pal, Kevin Rouse. Thanks chaps, your input is always very welcome. I remember when I used to go beach angling on golden sands in bright Spring sunshine. Well done chaps. Here's what Nigel wrote:

Torbay & Babbacombe Exmouth competition was a great success on Sunday despite the strong Easterly breeze. The members did well with a number of Flounders, the biggest fish weighed-in at just under 2 pounds. All fish were returned alive and well.

Results were as follows :-

1st Dave Sandford Flounder 1-14-00

Dave Sandford won the
Torbay & Babbacombe ASA
shore competition at Exmouth
with his shore caught Flounder
1 lb 14 ozs

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Kevin Rouse

2nd Kevin Rouse Flounder 1-13-08

Kevin Rouse took 2nd Prize
in the Torbay & Babbacombe ASA
shore competition at Exmouth
with his shore caught Flounder
1 lb 13 ozs 8 dr

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Kevin Rouse

3rd Dave Wood Flounder 1-12-12

4th Micky Davis Flounder 1-09-12 [New member]

5th Kevin Rouse Flounder 1-06-12

Kevin Rouse also took 5th Prize
in the Torbay & Babbacombe ASA
shore competition at Exmouth
with his shore caught Flounder
1 lb 6 ozs 12 dr

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Kevin Rouse

Charter Spaces Available out of Dartmouth at Short Notice -

3 Individual Spaces Available aboard Ian Noble's "Samuel Irvin 3" Chartering out of Dartmouth Wreck Fishing - Friday 12th March 2010

4 Individual Spaces Available aboard Ian Noble's "Samuel Irvin 3" Chartering out of Dartmouth Wreck Fishing - Sunday 21st March 2010

due to late cancellations. Please don't delay, call Ian Noble on 07780 970 803 or 01803 834 598 to be certain of your space.

6/8 Individual Spaces Available aboard Owen Mallia's "Outlaw" Chartering out of Dartmouth Wreck Fishing - Friday 12th March 2010

5 Individual Spaces Available aboard Owen Mallia's "Outlaw" Chartering out of Dartmouth Wreck Fishing - Sunday 14th March 2010

Some anglers were unable to make it. Please don't delay, call Owen Mallia on 01803 832 897 or 07891 498 023 to be certain of your space.

"Anglo Dawn III" Ling & Pollack - My good pal Chris Roberts, who charters his golden yellow hulled Evolution 38 "Anglo Dawn III" out of Salcombe, was at sea last Friday, 5th March. Chris Emailed to say that his anglers caught some Ling over the slack water and a better amount of Pollack, though not of great size. They enjoyed a successful day.

"Gemini" Mid-Channel Pollack - Dave Harrison, who charters his big bright orange Blyth 33 catamaran, "Gemini" out of Dartmouth, called me on Saturday. he was at sea on Friday the 5th March, fishing the distant mid-Channel wrecks with a group of anglers who were trying it for the first time. Dave was proud to report that they all caught some excellent Pollack, although he did not manage to capture any photos, as his digital camera died.

Lucky Jim Rides Again - Jim Attwood, my Daughter's partner, was out again fishing down to the west of Dartmouth aboard his private boat. They caught several wreck Ling and Pollack, until Barry Hoskins, aboard his Plymouth based commercial boat, shot gill nets on the wreck where they were still fishing, which killed their sport.

"Outlaw" Mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - Email received yesterday from my good pal Owen Mallia, who took a party of anglers to sea, aboard his charter boat, "Outlaw of Dartmouth" on Friday 5th February. Thanks Owen. Your input is much appreciated. Here's what Owen wrote:

It was good to meet yesterday morning down on the pontoon at Kingswear, (in anticipation of the exciting day ahead) thank you for the group photo of the lads on Outlaw of Dartmouth (I’m sure I will be able to use that one for promotional work), your new Camera certainly does look the business.

The lads aboard "Outlaw" alongside at
Darthaven Marina, Kingswear
(l to r) Richard Dudka, Carl Jones
Allan Painter, Brian Currey
and Billy Cavill

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

I had two parties and one individual out with me on Friday for a mid-channel wrecking trip, the weather was promising so we pushed on to one of the ‘deeper’ wrecks to see how we would fare. Well, it is fair to say that the winter fish have now started to arrive in numbers!

Best fish of the day fell to Ian Robson from Paignton – a fine winter Pollack of 17lbs on a Jelly Worm.

Ian Robson from Paignton
proudly holds the best fish of the day
a fine specimen Winter Pollack 17 lbs
caught on a "Jellyworm" soft lure
from a mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Next best was a number of fine fish landed by Allan Painter from Caldicot, Wales (best to 15lb) using various Sidewinders.

Allan Painter from Caldicot,
Wales, proudly holds one of his
Pollack caught from a mid-Channel
wreck aboard Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

My old mate Brian Currey from Looe in Cornwall also landed a number of fine fish to 15lb (Brian used to live in Chepstow and is an old pal of Allan Painter and his party), he was using (on my advice) a ‘Joey Sidewinder’ for most of his day, he also had good success with an American JellyWorm I imported from the States last year.

Brian Currey from Looe, proudly
holds one of his Pollack caught from
a mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Brian was joined by another of my good buddies, ex-Penarth angling Skipper Billy Cavill, who now resides down in Looe and runs a fishing Tackle shop which is owned by the Eddystone Eel group of companies (Dave Beer), although Billy got off to a slow start, not to be outdone by the others, it wasn’t long before he caught up with the gang - landing a number of fine fish throughout his day.

Ex Penarth angling Skipper, Billy Cavill,
who now lives in Looe, proudly holds one of his
Pollack caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Other notable specimens were also coming aboard consistently throughout the day from Carl Jones and Richard Dudka (who are also both from Caldicot, Wales), Carl and Richard were using Sidewinders and Jelly Worms to catch their bounty, both chaps landed fish to 15lbs.

Richard Dudka from Caldicot,
Wales, proudly holds one of his
Pollack caught from a mid-Channel
wreck aboard Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Mallia

Once again our last drift came around and just for devilment I actually managed to hook up with a nice winter fish myself before I got the kettle on and headed for home in the sunset, whilst the boys cleaned their fish all the way back – we didn’t stop until we were at the Range coming in to Dartmouth, another picture-perfect day out on Outlaw of Dartmouth.

local Skipper Owen Mallia,
proudly holds his Pollack caught
from a mid-Channel wreck aboard
his Dartmouth charter boat "Outlaw"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Thanks for the updates and a great site.

Saturday 6th March - "Samuel Irvin 3" Mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - Yesterday I enjoyed another superb day at sea aboard Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter boat, the big white and blue, Blyth 33 catamaran, "Samuel Irvin 3".

We left Port just after 7.15 am and headed out to a mid-Channel wreck mark, an outbound journey of a tad under 2 hours. The group consisted of Rodger Leviston and his pals from Clevedon, Weston, and Burnham in Somerset. Peter Gage and his Son, Richard, together with Mike Cogswell from Kingskerswell. Another good pal, Charlie Sayers, who lives on the banks of the River Dart, next door to Agatha Christie's former home and Bill Morris from Gloucester completed our party of 11 anglers, all of whom are long-time friends.

The sea which had been stirred up by recent easterly winds noticeably calmed as we approached our chosen mark. Ian set up the first drift of the day and the lads were almost immediately into good fish. I watched as Bill Morris bent his rod into a hard fighting Pollack.

Bill Morris from Gloucester
bent his rod into a hard fighting
Pollack on a mid-Channel wreck
mark aboard Ian Noble's Dartmouth
charter boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

On this early drift, Charlie Sayers, Mike Cogswell and Bill Morris all caught some excellent Pollack.

(left to right) Charlie Sayers,
Mike Cogswell and Bill Morris
all caught these excellent Pollack
on the same drift over a mid-Channel
wreck mark aboard Ian Noble's
Dartmouth charter boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

On the very next Drift, Steve Howell, from Weston-Super-Mare hooked into his first fish of many during the day, another good Pollack.

Steve Howell from Weston-Super-Mare
caught his first Pollack of the day on a
mid-Channel wreck mark aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Roger Leviston was eventually top rod on the boat, with 21 Pollack to his credit. Richard Gage strived hard to out-do his Dad too.

Rodger Leviston (left) from Clevedon
was eventually top rod of the day with
21 Pollack to his credit while Richard Gage
(right) caught quality fish throughout the day
on a mid-Channel wreck mark aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Bill Morris caught what was probably the best specimen Pollack of the day, by just a whisker. It was in excess of the magic 16 lbs specimen weight.

Bill Morris from Gloucester
caught the best specimen Pollack
of the day, in excess of 16 lbs, taken on
a Rhubarb & Custard 6 inch "Sidewinder"
soft lure from a mid-Channel wreck mark
aboard Ian Noble's Dartmouth
charter boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Steve Howell went on to catch still more good Pollack taken on an assortment of "Sidewinder" and "Jelly Worm" soft lures.

Steve Howell from Weston-Super-Mare
caught Pollack consistently throughout the
day on a mid-Channel wreck mark aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Kevin Perry from Somerset caught another excellent Pollack. which brought a smile to his face.

Kevin Perry from Somerset
caught his specimen Pollack from a
mid-Channel wreck mark aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Peter Gage fished hard throughout the day and was rewarded by several excellent Pollack.

Peter Gage from Kingskerswell fished
consistently throughout the day to catch
several fine Pollack over a mid-Channel
wreck mark aboard Ian Noble's
Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Fred Sherin from Burnham-on-Sea fished steadily throughout the day, consistently catching good quality Pollack on black "Jellyworm" lures with a fire red tail.

Fred Sherin from Somerset fished
consistently throughout the day and caught
lots of excellent Pollack on Red and Black
"Jellyworm" soft lures on a mid-Channel
wreck mark aboard Ian Noble's
Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Richard and Peter Gage had yet another Father and Son day angling together. These memories will live on.

Father and Son (l to r)
Richard and Peter Gage from Kingskerswell
spent a memorable day angling together
catching prime Pollack from a mid-Channel
wreck mark aboard Ian Noble's
Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Richard Gage rounded off his day when he caught a good sized Whiting in perfect condition. It took a slice of fish flesh, presented on a 6/0 hook close to the sea bed.

Richard Gage rounded off his day when
he caught a good sized Whiting on a
fish bait from a mid-Channel
wreck mark aboard Ian Noble's
Dartmouth charter boat
"Samuel Irvin 3"

Friday 5th March 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Ian and I were kept busy throughout the day, netting fish and generally helping the anglers. I know that I enjoy that as much as when I am catching fish myself. Neither of us had time to fish in earnest ourselves, but there will be many other days during the coming season, when we can wet a line. I was particularly happy for the opportunity to shoot some fishy photos with my new Canon EOS 50D camera, which has replaced the EOS 30D which I used for the past 5 years.

All too soon it was time to head for home. The lads were kept busy filleting their catch of very fresh top quality fish, ready for their family table. We arrived back in Port around 5.0 pm and after dropping off our anglers headed to re-fuel "Samuel Irvin 3".

Thank you Ian for another excellent day afloat with a top Skipper. Thank you lads for your friendship and good company. We'll do it again very soon.

Thursday 4th March - Brixham SAC Wins Angling Trust Sea Angling News Trophy for 6th Consecutive Year - I'm 65 today. I have just received the best news I could wish for, from Norman Berry, Editor & Proprietor of Sea Angling News and the England Shore Angling Team Manager. It is an even better Birthday present than my entitlement at long last to my OAP.

The more than 300 recreational sea angling clubs across the UK, which are affiliated to the Angling Trust, (formerly the N.F.S.A. before it became a component of the Angling Trust), compete each year for the Sea Angling News Trophy, which was donated by Norman Berry, several years ago.

It is awarded each year to the affiliated club which submits the most fish of, or exceeding, 100% of specimen size to the AT.

Eric Gerrey of the AT, maintains records and sorts out the certificates and medals for members of the competing clubs across the Country. Eric confirmed yesterday evening, that Brixham SAC members submitted 102 successfully ratified entries during the past year, which is the most for any sea angling club.

I am therefore proud to disclose that Brixham SAC and its members have won this valued Trophy for a 6th consecutive year, which clearly confirms the club's reputation as probably the most successful sea angling club in the UK. No other club has won this award for so many consecutive years.

Norman Berry has confirmed to me that he will once again attend the annual presentation evening at Brixham SAC on Saturday 17th April 2010 to present his Trophy.

I hasten to add that although it is my home club, and I do write my regular "Fishing Dartmouth" pages every month for Sea Angling News, that I had absolutely nothing to do with the decision to award the Trophy to Brixham SAC. It is simply awarded on the merit of numbers of specimen fish submitted, by an affiliated club, to the National Governing Body for consideration.

Well done lads. Please give yourselves a pat on the back. Our collective thanks go to Norman Berry for sponsoring this Trophy and to Eric Gerrey and the Angling Trust for impartially administering it.

Wednesday 3rd March - Coming Very Soon "Red Gill Evo" Soft Lure - I spoke today with my good pal Alex McDonald, who works for Swift Tackle Ltd, the Exeter based UK distributors to the Trade of "Sakuma" hooks and "Red Gill" soft lures.

I hope to have some of the new "Red Gill" Evo soft lures very soon to try myself. They should shortly be available in a tackle shop near you. I had a small part in their design and conducted sea trials with early samples. The production version has a weighted body, to help it sink more easily than the original did, and a top quality "Sakuma" hook moulded into the lure. They will, I feel certain, be far more durable then many competing soft lures. I know how well they catch fish. The original "Red Gill" is a well tried and proven lure.

Alex crept out to sea with his pal Gary a couple of days ago and gave the final version a thorough work out. They both caught some very fine Pollack on the new "Red Gill Evo" lures.

Alex McDonald proudly holds his
quality Pollack caught from a
mid-Channel wreck on a
blue "Red Gill Evo" soft lure

March 2010

Photo courtesy of Alex McDonald

Gary Tucker proudly holds his
quality Pollack caught from a
mid-Channel wreck on a
blue "Red Gill Evo" soft lure

March 2010

Photo courtesy of Alex McDonald

Monday 1st March - Merv Yalland Big Shore Whiting - Derek Caple, Chairman of Dartmouth Angling & Boating Association sent this report. Thank you Derek, your input is much appreciated. Here's what Derek wrote:

I've sent you a photo of Merv Yalland, a long-time member of Dartmouth Angling & Boating Association, with a specimen Whiting, 1 lb 9 ozs 12 dr, which he caught when fishing in a club Winter League shore match at Slapton Middle Car Park, on the evening of Sunday 17th January.

Mervyn Yalland a member of
Dartmouth Angling & Boating Association
proudly holds his specimen Whiting
1 lb 9 ozs 12 dr caught from shore
during a Winter league club match
at the War Memorial Car Park area of
Torcross Beach, Slapton

Sunday 17th January 2010

Photo courtesy of Derek Caple

This was the best Whiting of three that Merv caught, all of which were in excess of 1 lb in weight. The shore caught specimen weight for Whiting is only 1 lb 8 ozs.

During the evening our members caught a total of 91 Whiting, many of which were weighed and recorded immediately and returned alive to swim, breed and fight again another day.

European Parliament Non-Binding Resolution on the Green Paper on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy - Email kindly forwarded this morning by my good pal Leon Roskilly, to whom I am most grateful. Leon has picked out the main parts that refer to the recreational angling sector:

Just a few clauses (those that mention 'recreational') extracted from:

European Parliment non-binding resolution on the Green Paper on reform of the common fisheries policy

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+TA+P7-TA-2010-0039+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN&language=EN

European Parliament resolution of 25 February 2010 on the Green Paper on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (2009/2106(INI))

–   having regard to the EIFAC Code of Practice for Recreational Fisheries, adopted in May 2008,

R.   whereas, in order to be more inclusive and effective, the CFP should be organised in such a way as to take a multidisciplinary approach to involving all groups directly or indirectly connected with the sector, such as commercial and recreational fishermen, aquaculture producers, the processing sector, retailers, vessel owners, the representatives of those groups, civil society (including environmental and development NGOs), the scientific community and institutional stakeholders,

30.  Reiterates that fishing is a vital activity, not just in food terms, but also in social, recreational and cultural terms, and that in many of Europe's coastal regions, it constitutes the main – and in some cases the sole – means of obtaining a livelihood for the numerous families who depend on it directly or indirectly, while helping to enliven the coasts and knit together their socio-economic fabric, in conjunction with other maritime activities;

38.  Maintains that the CFP should adopt an ecosystem approach, which should be taken into account equally in all of the economic activities carried out, where these affect the marine environment, with emphasis being placed on integrated management of coastlines where complex ecosystems are to be found and where a very delicate ecological balance must be struck between environmental, economic, social, recreational and cultural interests; calls on the Commission, in this respect, to ensure that the CFP reform includes the measures adopted to combat climate change and provides for adequate funding to implement these measures;

47.  Stresses that Member States must, as stated in the new Control Regulation adopted on 20 November (Council Regulation 1224/2009, Article 55(1)), 'ensure that recreational fisheries on their territory and in Community waters are conducted in a manner compatible with the objectives and rules of the Common Fisheries Policy';

142.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee, the Advisory Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Regional Advisory Councils, the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee, the Sectoral Social Dialogue Committee for Sea Fisheries and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

"Outlaw" mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - Email received late yesterday from my good pal Owen Mallia, who charters his very smart "Outlaw" from Dartmouth. Owen was probably the only local charter boat to get to sea over the past weekend. Owen seized a rare opportunity amongst the adverse weather. Thanks Owen, your input is much appreciated. Here's what Owen wrote:

We were out again on "Outlaw of Dartmouth" yesterday, (Saturday), with two local groups, fishing the mid-channel wrecks, although the weather was awkward to start with. Thankfully due to her excellent speed and sea-keeping ability, Outlaw made it out to our destination comfortably and in good time and we proceeded to fish the ebb tide as it started to build nicely.

With the Southerly breeze and reasonable swell, the drifts were a challenge to start with and not much was happening, but after I suggested to the anglers to persevere and make a couple of tackle changes, the fishing just ‘switched on’ and the activity soon gained pace.

First man in to a decent winter Pollack was ‘young’ Richard Gage who consistently continued his form throughout the day, most of his fish were over the 10lb mark topped off with a couple of fine 15lb examples, his choice of lures for the day were Sidewinders & Jelly worms. Well done Richard, you are a fine fisherman.

Richard Gage proudly holds his
Pollack 15 lbs caught over a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's charter boat
"Outlaw of Dartmouth"

Saturday 27th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Richard was out on this trip with his Father – Peter Gage from Kingskerswell, now not to be outdone by his Son, Peter also managed to get in on the action with a number of sporting engagements throughout the day, most of his success was had using various styles of Sidewinder lures.

Peter Gage from Kingskerswell
proudly holds his brace of good
Pollack caught on Sidewinder soft lures
over a mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's charter boat
"Outlaw of Dartmouth"

Saturday 27th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Our other party out with us today were from Dawlish in the form of Tony Rushton and Stephen Meakin. Tony closely followed suit with Richard Gage and ended his day with about ten fish for his efforts, this included a fine 15lb example, he loyally stuck with his Red Gill lures throughout the day and proved how well they really work. Tony was getting the most ‘takes’ on every drift!

Tony Rushton from Dawlish proudly
holds his quality Pollack caught on
an orange Red Gill soft lure over a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's charter boat
"Outlaw of Dartmouth"

Saturday 27th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Tony’s mate Stephen (a keen course angler who is originally from London) baptised himself today with his first experience of catching a hard-running winter Pollack, he was elated!

Stephen Meakin from Dawlish
proudly holds his first ever Pollack
caught over a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Owen Mallia's charter boat
"Outlaw of Dartmouth"

Saturday 27th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Stephen continued his success throughout the trip and wound up landing the last fish of the day on our very last drift, most of Stephen’s action was had on Sidewinder lures – nice one geez!

Stephen Meakin from Dawlish
proudly holds a brace of fine Pollack
caught over a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Owen Mallia's charter boat
"Outlaw of Dartmouth"

Saturday 27th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Conditions were a lot kinder as the day wore on and everyone was able to clean their catch comfortably as we headed back home to Dartmouth, as the chaps were sorting their fish I knocked up a few bacon sarnies for the team - as a sort of ‘reward’ to ourselves for the good day’s sport we had experienced.

Sunday 28th February - Government's Chief Scientist Makes £500,000 from Fishery Firm "Jeopardising" Sea Life - Item gleaned from today's edition of the "Times On-Line", from the Sunday Times, kindly forwarded by my good pal Leon Roskilly, to whom I am most grateful. Thanks Leon. What chance to Recreational Sea Anglers have when people such as this are the main advisors to HM Government? Is it any wonder that we have such little faith in DEFRA or other Government Authorities?

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/earth-environment/article7043938.ece

From The Sunday Times - February 28, 2010 - By Charles Clover and Jon Ungoed-Thomas

THE government’s chief scientist and his wife have made £500,000 in the past year in a company overseeing commercial fishing that allegedly threatens one of the world’s most pristine marine environments.

Professor John Beddington and his wife, Caroline, are joint shareholders in Marine Resources Assessment Group (MRAG), a London-based consultancy that manages fisheries and provides specialist advice around the world.

Conservationists claim that a fishery managed by the company in British territorial waters in the Indian Ocean has been catching threatened species including blue sharks and manta rays. It is estimated that between 2003 and 2008 more than 120,000 were caught as “bycatch” from commercial tuna fishing.

David Miliband, the foreign secretary, is now considering banning fishing to protect the area, which has some of the finest coral reefs in the world.

Seas and Oceans: Environment Protection: Environment Food and Rural Affairs: Written answers and statements, 23 February 2010

Tim Boswell (Daventry, Conservative)

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps his Department is taking to improve the (a) coverage and (b) consistency of its long-term monitoring of the marine environment.

Huw Irranca-Davies (Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Marine and Natural Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Ogmore, Labour)

In response to the recommendations from 'Charting Progress', the Government's State of the Seas Report published in 2005, the UK Marine Monitoring and Assessment Strategy (UKMMAS) was created. The UKMMAS is comprised of approximately 250 stakeholders from more than 20 organisations, including Government Departments and devolved Administrations, and has developed a co-ordinated approach to marine monitoring across the UK as a whole.

UKMMAS co-ordinates and brings together data, including that of long-term monitoring, from a large variety of sources. It is currently involved in producing 'Charting Progress 2'-the second integrated assessment of the state of UK seas, which is internationally peer-reviewed. This is scheduled for publication in July 2010.

DEFRA also funds a number of research projects and data initiatives, some of which have helped continue important data series so that we can make assessments of marine trends over time and monitor progress. One such project, funded since 2002, is the Marine Environmental Change Network (MECN). The network consists of UK and Isle of Man organisations working together to collect long-term time series information for marine waters. It also brings together scientists working on various components of marine ecosystems, enabling them to share data and carry out more robust analysis of trends. One of the project aims is to be able to analyse marine environmental change over long periods and determine what is being driven by humans (anthropogenic change) and what change is due to natural variation.

The Government have recently published the first UK Marine Science Strategy, produced by the Marine Science Co-ordination Committee (MSCC). The strategy recognises the key importance of sustained observations to marine science and includes a commitment by the Committee to work with others to develop a prioritisation framework to ensure the provision of secure, long-term data sets. This action is being taken forward by the MSCC's Long-Term Monitoring Working Group.

Tuesday 23rd February - Mike Johnson's British Record Thornback Ray From Shore Has Finally Been Accredited - Back on the 16th March 2008, I was very happy to report that Mike Johnson, a member of Paignton SAA, had caught a potential new British Rod Caught Record Thornback Ray from Shore at Salcombe.

Mike Johnson a member of Paignton SAA
proudly holds his British rod caught record
Thornback Ray 22 lbs 11 ozs 8 dr caught from
Shore at Salcombe

16th March 2008

Photo courtesy of Barry Aymer

Following their meeting on the 10th February, the British Rod caught Record Fish Committee have circulated a press release dated today, 23rd February 2010, recognising this fish as the new British record for that specie from shore.

It has taken 1 year and 11 months for it to be recognised as a new British Record.

Yes. I know that they have to be careful in relation to such matters and that they only meet as and when required. Yes I know that their Hon. Sec. David Rowe, was previously Chief Executive of the now defunct National Federation of Sea Anglers, which has since been incorporated into the far more efficient and user friendly, Angling Trust, a little more than 12 months ago. I recognise the inevitable problems which undoubtedly ensued from the change over. But I have to say that in my personal opinion, a 2 year wait for accreditation is really unacceptable.

I note that the records for Grayling, which date back to a fish of 4 lbs 4 ozs 8 drms, caught by Mr Paul Mildred back on the 13th August 2009, in a Wessex River; and a Sting Ray, which weighed 67 lbs 12 ozs, caught by a Mr Kenneth Canning, on the 5th June 2008 at Pagham, Sussex, have also been accredited.

I do hope that now the dust has settled, that future record fish may be recognised with a little more speed and efficiency. 2 years to accredit a record fish is simply too long.

Reply received from Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive of the Angling Trust - Ref above item - "Thanks Mike and the very constructive feedback noted."

Monday 22nd February - Government Response to Petition on Article 47 - Many months ago I signed a petition on the 10 Downing Street web site, asking the Prime Minister to "Resist the proposed changes from the EU, in relation to Recreational Sea Angling". The Prime Minister's Office has now responded to that petition , as follows:

Read the Government’s response

The UK Government opposed the proposals in their original form because of their potential impact on recreational sea anglers. Our discussions with stakeholders including the Angling Trust, supported and further informed our assessment of the impact of the original proposal as a complicated and unwieldy measure that would have introduced strict controls without any real appreciation of the impact of recreational fishing on the wider marine environment. As a result of the opposition mounted to the proposal, the scope of the measure has been confined to recreational fishing from a vessel and only for stocks subject to multiannual plans (cod, hake and certain sole and plaice stocks). It does not include fishing from the shore. Also, recreational catches for these stocks are no longer required to be counted against quota – as was set out in the original proposal. Member States are though required to monitor such catches by way of a sampling plan.

Before Article 55 of Regulation 1224/2009 (previously Article 47) is implemented further detailed rules must be adopted. These will be negotiated in the coming months and will include agreement on the form the sampling plans must take. The UK Government will look for rules that allow it flexibility to target its efforts in those areas and on those vessels likely to be having the greatest impact on threatened fish stocks, but which do so in a way that will not place undue burdens on the vast majority of recreational sea anglers.

The UK Government will consult stakeholders, including angling representatives, before finalising its national arrangements.

MC Commented: We can really make a difference when we act together in unison. Thank you to the many visitors to this web site who signed the same petition. Your worthwhile efforts are very much appreciated.

Sunday 21st February - Bonus Bumper Ballan Wrasse from Shore - My good pal, Nigel Foord, Fish Recorder of Torbay & Babbacombe ASA, Emailed this evening. Thanks Nigel. Much appreciated, here's what Nigel wrote:

I am pleased to report some success for two more of our Torbay & Babbacombe ASA members today.

Gary Harding had a Ballan Wrasse from the Bay from the shore of 5 lbs 4 ozs 14 drams, a very good fish.

Gary Harding a member of
Torbay & Babbacombe ASA
caught a really good Ballan Wrasse
5 lbs 4 ozs 14 dr from a local shore mark

Sunday 21st February 2010

Photo courtesy of Darren Scott

But, not as good as his mate, Paul Scott ,who had one of 5 lbs 13 ozs 4 drams.

Paul Scott a member of
Torbay & Babbacombe ASA
caught a superb Ballan Wrasse
5 lbs 13 ozs 4 dr from a local shore mark

Sunday 21st February 2010

Photo courtesy of Darren Scott

Shame these fish were caught a week after our 2 day rover competition ended, but none the less, they are great fish.

Saturday 20th February - Nick Best's Plaice from Boat - Nick best a member of Torbay & Babbacombe ASA. He fishes aboard his own small boat out of Dartmouth. Nigel Foord, Fish Recorder for T & B ASA sent me a photo this evening of Nick with a beautiful Plaice which he caught yesterday, Friday 19th February, from his own boat. Thanks Nigel. As always your input is very much appreciated. It's great to see photos of something other than Pollack, nice though they are. Here's what Nigel wrote:

Torbay & Babbacombe ASA Committee member, Nick Best's quality Plaice of 4lb 4oz caught on Friday 19th February from his own boat, out of Dartmouth. It was a big fish, but particularly thin. It was returned alive, after it had been weighed and photographed, so it's still out there for you to catch.

Nick Best a Committee member of
Torbay & Babbacombe ASA caught
this top quality Plaice which weighed-in
at 4 lbs 4 ozs from his own boat out
of Dartmouth

Friday 19th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Nigel Foord

Chris Martin's Big Ling - Chris Martin, a member of Brixham SAC, enjoys angling from his own boat out of Dartmouth. Jason Upham Emailed a photo of Chris holding an excellent specimen Ling, which he caught while wreck fishing today. Thanks Jason and well done Chris, once again it makes a welcome change from Pollack. Here's what Jason wrote:

I've just weighed this ling for Chris Martin which he caught today while out wrecking aboard his own boat. Chris' Ling tipped the calibrated scales at Brixham SAC to 24 lbs 15 ozs 10 dr.

Chris "Ralph" Martin a member of
Brixham SAC caught this excellent
big Ling while fishing aboard his
own private boat out of Dartmouth

Saturday 20th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Jason Upham

"Gemini" Mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - Email received late yesterday evening from Dave Harrison, who charters his big orange hulled Blyth 33 catamaran, "Gemini" out of Dartmouth. Thanks Dave, much appreciated, as are the other 6 piccies you sent me of last Wednesday's trip, which I have also added a little way further down this page, below the "Poem". Here's what Dave wrote:

Friday 19th February, We enjoyed another very good day's fishing on the mid-Channel wrecks, aboard my boat "Gemini", out of Dartmouth, with Mike Wood's charter , of the group of lads from Southport, who have been fishing with me for over 10 years.

We were fishing for Pollack in the winter. They also come down for a couple of days, seeking those big conger in the summer.

We fished 2 wrecks today. Our best fish caught by Dave Wetherby, weighed just under 19 lbs.

All our fish were caught on "Sidewinders" and "Shads".

Dave Wetherby from Southport proudly holds the best Pollack of the day, 19 lbs caught on a "Sidewinder" soft lure over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Friday 19th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Mark Rogan from Southport proudly holds his Winter Pollack caught on a soft lure over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Friday 19th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Mike Woods from Southport proudly holds his Winter Pollack caught on a soft lure over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Friday 19th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Paul Jones from Southport proudly holds his Winter Pollack caught on a soft lure over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Friday 19th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
John Enis from Southport proudly holds his Winter Pollack caught on a soft lure over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Friday 19th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Alan Hilton from Southport proudly holds his Winter Pollack caught on a soft lure over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Friday 19th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison

Friday 19th February - EU Commissioner on Recreational Sea Angling - Report gleaned from the pages of the UK Commercial Fishing publication, Fishing News dated 19th February 2010:

Commissioner's sea angling pledges to 'farcical' hearing 'worthless'

A PLEDGE by EUfisheries commissioner Maria Damanaki during her confirmation hearings before the European Parliament's fisheries committee that there would be "no community regulation of recreational sea angling" has been branded worthless. This follows her promise in a newspaper interview just weeks later that "no fishery, not even leisure fishing, will be unregulated".

Statements regarding the monitoring of leisure fishing were equally misleading, it is claimed, as she told MEPs that the effect on stocks was already factored in by experts, while she told Fishing News (FN 12 February) that this process was "just starting".

UKIP MEP Nigel Farage, a member of the fisheries committee, said that she "appeared to be prepared to say whatever she thought the audience immediately in front of her wanted to hear". He said: "To MEPs, she said there would be no regulation, and the effect of leisure fishing was already accounted for.

To commercial fishermen via Fishing News, she said that there would be regulation of leisure fishing, and that the' effect was not yet accounted for.

"Which of these two contradictory statements is true?

She has reduced the debate to a farce and demonstrated that she simply can't be trusted. "More worrying is the idea that the collection of data, which she told MEPs she already had, was in fact just beginning.

Charter boat skippers and even individual anglers will face mountains of paperwork to account for days at sea and catches landed.

"Clearly this is the thin end of the wedge, and where draconian reporting requirements are put in place, equally draconian regulation will be sure to follow. For sea anglers, this can only cause serious problems."

Jan Kappel, Secretary General of the European Anglers' Alliance Commented - Email received this afternoon from Jan Kappel, Brussels, Secretary General of the European Anglers Alliance. Jan refers to the new Fisheries Commissioner at the EU and you can view the 64 page document which details the full Commission Decision, dated 18th December 2009, by left clicking your mouse pointer on the hyperlink in this article. Thank you Jan, your efforts are thoroughly appreciated by recreational sea anglers here in the UK. It is well worth reading. It will undoubtedly impact on our boat angling starting in 2011.

Well, be fair give her a chance to move into office.

Until now the newly appointed European Fisheries Commissioner has had to rely on the people around her (DG MARE staff), of which, some don't know a fig about recreational fisheries and others who want us to go somewhere else. Recreational fisheries is a very small fish within DG MARE. She will learn latter who we are.

I might meet with her "soon".

Just today I got this:

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2010:041:0008:0071:EN:PDF

COMMISSION DECISION of 18 December 2009

Adopting a multiannual Community programme for the collection, management and use of data in the fisheries sector for the period 2011-2013

In that one you'll find information to the Member States about recreational catches to be monitored. This time for the first time sharks have been included.

So now recreational catches/species are to be monitored are (not in all places - see areas and details in the paper):

eels

sea bass

cod

tuna

salmon

sharks

The Commissioner will be told "some day" by her staff I am sure.

Seabed Habitats being Ploughed Up - This article from today's edition of the Western Morning News was kindly forwarded by my good friend, Leon Roskilly, to whom I am most grateful for his continuing long-term support. Thanks Leon.

http://www.thisiswesternmorningnews.co.uk/news/ban-seabed-habitats-ploughed/article-1849313-detail/article.html

Friday, February 19, 2010, 10:00

Squat lobsters on a cold-water coral reef off the coast of Ireland.
Deep-sea trawling poses a particular threat in temperate regions.
Photograph: University of Plymouth

DEEP SEA "bottom trawling" is causing untold damage to fragile reef ecosystems around the world, many of which are thousands of years old, a leading marine expert warned.

The heavy fishing nets, dragged along the seabed on large rubber rollers called "rockhoppers", smash and flatten coral outcrops that provide vital refuges for fish and other marine species, said marine biologist Dr Jason Hall-Spencer, from the University of Plymouth.

He is calling for concerted international action to ban all bottom trawling from at-risk habitats, many of which are yet to be identified.

Bottom trawling involves scouring the seabed with huge nets 60 metres wide that ride over obstacles on "rockhopper" rollers weighing as much as several hundred pounds.

The technique was originally employed to catch fish such as flounder and haddock in shallow water areas with relatively smooth floors.

But in the past 20 years, dwindling fish stocks and technological advances have led bottom trawlers to descend to ever-greater depths.

Some nets are now sunk thousands of feet below the surface, accessing sensitive seamount habitats that were previously out of reach.

Work by scientists involved in the Census of Marine Life (CoML) – a major worldwide project cataloguing life in the oceans – is now bringing to light the true extent of the destruction wrought by bottom trawling.

Dr Hall-Spencer, a leading CoML researcher, said: "Less than 1 per cent of the estimated 50,000 seamounts have ever been surveyed and our research visits have revealed pristine coral reefs and many species that are new to science.

"However, over the past five years, these surveys have also worryingly revealed that all over the world, deep sea habitats are suffering severe impacts from bottom trawling down to depths of 1,000 metres and more.

"I myself have looked at about 20 reefs, and all but one of them has been badly damaged.

"But my colleagues from around the world have seen hundreds and they all say the same thing.

"It doesn't matter what ocean you go to, these habitats are being trashed by international fishing fleets.

"What is urgently needed is a network of protected areas where any type of fishing gear that involves dragging equipment across the seabed is banned."

Dr Hall-Spencer, who spelled out his fears at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in San Diego, California, described the telltale signs of bottom trawling damage.

"The most obvious thing you see is trenches ploughed through the seabed that extend for kilometres," he said.

"You can see that the coral is pulverised and broken. You get this gravel of smashed-up coral with few outcrops remaining. The fish are gone, because fish like to hide behind coral heads.

"It's more like mining than farming, since you're removing a resource and not allowing it to renew itself.

"The typical thing is for a trawler to criss-cross over an area about 33 kilometres square, and that's a very large area being ploughed up."

Many of the most threatened sites were coldwater coral reefs in temperate zones that were still in the process of being discovered and explored, he said.

Studies indicate that the total global coverage of coldwater coral reefs might equal or exceed that of more familiar warm water reefs.

Dr Hall-Spencer carried out one of the first manned submersible dives on the world's biggest coldwater reef off the north-west coast of Norway.

The Rost Reef, discovered in 2002, is a 3km-wide strip teeming with life that stretches for almost 40 kilometres (25 miles) at a depth of 450 metres.

"Unlike every other reef I've seen, this one was pristine," said Dr Hall-Spencer. "It hadn't been touched by human activity."

The Rost Reef is an important success story for conservationists, having been given the protection of a complete bottom trawling ban imposed by the Norwegian government.

Dr Hall-Spencer said similar bans existed at a number of other sites around the world, but more needed to be done.

"The good thing is that people are waking up to the problem," he added.

MC Commented: There is more to this general technique than appears in this report. Some smaller inshore commercial vessels drag a spiked roller in front of a hopper. It's purpose is to rake out Scallops from the shingle in areas such as the Skerries, even in that protected area, where trawling is prohibited at all times. The spiked roller impales flat fish, which crew members of such vessels commonly refer to as "Spiked Fish". This method too needs urgent review. It causes untold havoc amongst our marine species.

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"Gemini" and a Poet - or - What A Load of Old Pollacks - Email received late yesterday, from my good pal Brian Coles, who was at sea on Wednesday, with several other good pals aboard Dave Harrison's "Gemini", chartering out of Dartmouth, to fish the mid-Channel wrecks for those big Pollack. Brian waxed lyrical. He Emailed this sonnet which I reckon is pretty good, though perhaps more Bacon than Shakespeare. Thanks Brian, your input is always most welcome. Here's what Brian wrote:

Look what turned up after our trip on Wednesday. I believe Dave has some photos.

We’ve noticed lately that your website is good for a tale

So we are forwarding this one before it goes stale

It’s about our fishing trip on "Gemini" out of Kingswear

The forecast was good, the weather was clear

The excitement was building to near fever pitch

Hoping the trip would go ahead without any hitch

Like many good things there’s a sting in the tail

The Skipper said, “We will go for a 6-30 sail”

It’s easy to think that he had evil intent

It later occurred that is not what he meant

“The fishing is best when the tide is in flood”

But my thoughts were “Hell - my crew will draw blood”

I set about phoning with fear in my heart

“We are sailing at the crack of sparrow……song”

It went fairly well until I rang one of our number

To tell him we will deny him of some of his slumber

“My wife will kill me, I am going to suffer

I don’t know if things can get any rougher

I can’t work the alarm clock” is what he said

“It’s worse than that – it’s on her side of the bed”

Another wag told me “What? Sailing at half-six?

If we catch nought we’ll look a right load of ……idiots

My missus told me I’m obsessed with the Pollock

And if I wake her I’ll get a kick in the…….backside”

The trip out to the wreck was a lumpy old ride

But at least we were fishing the best of the tide

We caught plenty of fish and had a great day

And that just leaves me with the following to say

Look after your dearest is the moral of this story

And you can go fishing without any worry

Sod Valentine’s Day, red roses – just take a white flag

And get home to the missus and hope for a good……meal

But one of our number who will remain nameless

Said, “That to me will be totally aimless

After this morning I will have no such luck

There’s no chance on earth I will get a good…….reception

Anonymous - 18^th Feb 2010

Dave Harrison Emailed subsequently to tell of this trip. Cheers Dave. Much appreciated. Here's what Dave wrote:

We were out, aboard "Gemini" fishing on the mid-Channel wrecks on Wednesday. The fishing was good, with some quality Pollack coming aboard.

As you can see by the pictures all our fish were caught on a mixture of lures, by a group of my regulars, who have fished with me for years. All pictures are of local anglers.

	Alan Edwards proudly holds his Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Wednesday 17th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Brian Coles proudly holds his Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Wednesday 17th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Dudley Figg proudly holds his Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Wednesday 17th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Jamie Hopwood proudly holds his Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Wednesday 17th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Richard Wilson proudly holds his Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Wednesday 17th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Stuart Shorthouse proudly holds his Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Wednesday 17th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison

Wednesday 17th February - Politicians Fish for 3 Million Votes - Press release dated today, received this morning from the Angling Trust:

The Angling Trust today launched a campaign strategy to highlight the concerns of Britain’s 3 million anglers in the run-up to the General Election.

The comprehensive strategy includes calls for the government and its agencies to:

• Protect fish stocks from commercial overfishing by reforming the Common Fisheries Policy and enforcing existing legislation;
• Implement the Water Framework Directive to address diffuse pollution, low river flows and habitat damage;
• Allow greater controls of cormorants by anglers suffering excessive fish predation on their waters;
• Provide more accountability about how anglers’ £26million from freshwater rod licences is actually spent;
• Stop the march of non-native invasive species such as signal crayfish, giant hogweed and floating pennywort;
• Ensure that none of the thousands of new hydropower installations planned on our rivers damages fisheries;
• Protect the rights of anglers to go fishing and to access piers, ponds and to park near beaches;
• Support efforts to encourage more people to get into fishing;
• Protect fish from diseases imported from abroad.

Angling is more popular than ever, with freshwater rod licence sales soaring last year to 1.5 million from 1.3 million in the previous year. The Trust is aiming to sustain and continue this growth and ensure that there are plenty of fish to catch and safe and clean places for people of all ages to catch them.

Six Members of Parliament recently signed up as Parliamentary Supporters of the Angling Trust, the organisation which represents anglers in England, at a meeting of the All Party Angling Group at the House of Commons. The Group is chaired by Martin Salter MP (Reading West), a long-standing supporter of the Trust and the Labour party spokesman for angling and shooting and includes Richard Benyon (Newbury), the Conservatives' fisheries spokesman.

Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive of the Angling Trust said “We are very grateful to these busy Members of Parliament for agreeing to support the Angling Trust. Millions of anglers in England need a listening ear in Parliament to hear their concerns about pollution, over-abstraction, commercial over-fishing at sea, access restrictions and a host of other issues which affect the quality of our sport.”

Mike Heylin, Chairman of the Angling Trust said: “We look forward to working closely with these parliamentarians to ensure that the anglers’ voice is heard. In the run-up to the General Election, the Angling Trust will be working hard to ensure that issues affecting the nation’s anglers are taken on board by candidates of all political parties.”

New Accurate 2-Speed BX2-400 Reel - Yesterday, I popped down to Snowbee (UK) Ltd, at Plympton, on the outskirts of Plymouth. Snowbee are the UK importers of Accurate reels. I bought myself the very latest model Accurate 2-speed reel. Those of you who know me well, will be aware that I generally only use the USA manufactured Accurate brand of reels, in various sizes, for all of my angling. They are by far the best that I have ever encountered. I have been a consistent user of their products for the past 14 years.

The model I chose is the Accurate BX2-400 which is approximately equivalent in size to an Abu 7000.

Accurate BX2-400 fishing reel

Visit www.accuratefishing.com

or www.snowbee.co.uk

to see more

The two-speed version has its own internal gearbox. With the press of a single button, you can change for 6:1 to 3:1 retrieve ratio.

It has no level wind, which suits me just fine. It's something else which cannot go wrong. I can easily lay the line flat on the spool as I retrieve, using my left thumb.

The body and spool are both machined from solid blocks of aircraft grade aluminium. It's weight is 20 ounces, which balances any rod perfectly.

Accurate's main manufacturing business, which is based in Corona, California, USA, centres around the production of jet turbine blades, so you can be certain that these reels are manufactured to the finest tolerances. All major components are machined in-house, so spares are readily available, though rarely needed.

The spool holds 275 metres of 20 lb BS Monofilament line, or 411 metres of my preferred braid line. I will fill it with with 300 metres of 30 lb BS braid line over around 150 metres of mono backing.

It features the Accurate world patented twin drag system. There are titanium disc and fibre washer clutches on both ends of the spool, which make the drag very smooth, with absolutely no jerkiness whatsoever. The drag is pre-set by the user and operated by a very solid lever on the end plate of the reel, as is the case with all Accurate multiplier reel models.

It has 7 class 5 ABEC stainless steel bearings.

The gears are machined from stainless steel. The entire gear train has been beefed up from previous models to easily deal with the most aggressive and hard fighting fish species you are ever likely to encounter anywhere in the world.

The blue anodised crank handle is very comfortable and solid. It feels very secure and "chunky". This model is available in a choice of left or right hand handle, which suits all comers perfectly.

This beautiful fishing reel retails in the UK for £489 inclusive of VAT. If you are really serious about your angling, whether that is for Tuna, or other hard fighting tropical species, or big fish in our home UK waters, I know you will consider it excellent value once you have handled and used it.

My current favourite reel is the predecessor to this model, the B2-270 which has been superseded by this more recent model. Yes, I'm a tackle tart, I already own 8 other Accurate reels across their range of sizes for different angling applications. At one stage I owned well in excess of 100 reels. To date, I have not used any reels which come close to matching the quality of the "Accurate" range.

I intend to fill the spool with some 30 lb class mono backing, topped off with 300 yards of 30 lb B.S. Tuf-Line XP braid line which is also distributed by Snowbee (UK) Ltd, and is available in yellow or dark red. I use the dark red version, which disappears to become almost invisible within 10 feet of the surface of the water. The 30 lb B.S. has a line diameter of just .28 mm, which really is very fine.

Tuf Line XP
30 lb B.S.
.28 mm diameter
Braided Line

www.snowbee.co.uk

You can be certain that I will give you an honest review of both these products, when I have used them for several serious angling adventures.

Another good friend, Graham Dryer, Chairman of Brixham SAC and Proprietor of Brixham Bait & Tackle has also bought himself an Accurate BX2-400 reel in the left hand wind version. I shall be sure to seek his view, before I finally tell you our verdict.

Inclusion of Persons with a knowledge of Sea Angling in the new IFCAs which supersede Local Sea Fishing Committees - This most important item was sent by my good friend Leon Roskilly, to whom we are all very grateful. It is up to anglers to apply for representatives to represent their interests on these new committees, if our views are to be heard and considered:

In the advice that DEFRA has issued on the appointment of members to Inshore Fisheries and Consultation Authorities
( http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/fisheries/documents/fisheries/ifca-appoint-guidance.pdf ), there is a section headed 'Balance of Membership'

"There was a consensus during the Parliamentary process of the Act that IFCAs should have a more balanced membership than currently exists in Sea Fisheries Committees ....... "

One of the general categories of membership included is 'recreational sea angling'

It has been long argued that sea angling interests should have at least equal representation as commercial fishing interests, given the economic value of RSA and the number of participants and dependent business opportunities.

However, the DEFRA advice recognises that the balance will be different for each district, so does not attempt to define the balance that should apply.

eg. This will be decided by argument, supported by relevant information and data for each district (and no doubt 'politicking' by vested interests.

My own sea fisheries committee currently has only one DEFRA appointed sea-angler (myself), and a much larger number of commercial fishing people (both directly and indirectly appointed as such).

At the next meeting (22nd February - http://www.kentandessex-sfc.co.uk/id18.html) an item on the agenda includes 'Appointment to IFCAs which contains:

"....It is intended that the percentage of representation from each sector may vary from district to district and therefore the Committee may wish to make recommendations regarding what balance it feels would be appropriate for this region...."

"...The Committee is asked to consider the contents of this document and give INSTRUCTIONS regarding a response. DEFRA have agreed that comments may be submitted by the 23 February."

My view is that the recommendations from the outgoing SFCs will be given weight, and it's perhaps unfortunate that the SFCs recommending the future balance of representation are themselves unbalanced and are therefore likely to give unbalanced advice!

Current angling members are unlikely to have to hand detailed data and information to argue a good case for increased representation on anything other than an anecdotal basis, easily dismissed by other sectors which will not be happy to see their level of representation decreased to enable an increase in the representation of what most will regard as a competing sector.

Given that the new IFCAs will have considerably more interest and the powers that can be used to manage and regulate Recreational Sea Angling in their districts, it's important to ensure that the information and data on a district by district basis is available to argue the case for better representation of the RSA sector within IFCAs, both to existing committee members, and to affected angling organisations that must make a case to the Marine Management Organisation who will be responsible for the setting up of IFCAs, so that they can receive the advice given by SFCs in a context favourable to changing the existing 'balance'.

This is something that is in the process of happening now, and if not addressed urgently, will haunt Sea Angling for several decades to come.

Of course, having established a 'fair' balance, this will go out of the window if insufficient anglers of the calibre needed have not applied to sit upon IFCAs, something else that needs publicising and addressing urgently.

(Visit http://www.ifcamembers.co.uk/ to apply)

"Dalora" mid-Channel Pollack - Ashley Cockram, a gifted boat and shore angler, who is now a member of Teignmouth SAS Emailed yesterday. Thanks Ash, it's always good to hear from you. Here's what Ashley wrote:

Teignmouth saS have a monthly trip out with the Torquay charter boat, "Ann Claire", skippered by Kevin Tait.

We organise a year-long series comp. The comp is well supported.

There were a few nice Pollack caught from 11 lbs to 15 lbs, all in good condition.

The best one on board, was Michael Tapper with a super junior fish and and he broke the junior record 16 lbs 11 ozs.

Mike Tapper a Junior member of
Teignmouth SAS proudly holds his
Pollack 16 lbs 11 ozs which set a new
Junior club record for that specie from
baot while he was fishing a mid-Channel
wreck mark on board Kevin Tate's Torquay
charter boat "Anne Clare"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Kevin Tapper

Nigel Drew caught a specimen Pout, which weighed-in at 3 lbs.

A good day was had by all.

I will forward the pictures on via a separate message asap. MC Commented: I'll add the photos to this report just as soon as I receive them.

"Happy Days" mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - I received an Email late yesterday evening from that "old romantic", my pal, Aaron Lidstone, who charters his Starfish, "Happy Days" out of Dartmouth. Thanks Aaron, your input is as always very much appreciated. Aaron fished the mid-Channel wrecks last Sunday, together with a couple of his regulars. Here's what Aaron wrote:

I was far to busy, whispering sweet nothings to my Wife on Sunday, Valentine's Day, but I did manage a trip in amongst all that romance with some promising results.

MC Commented: You have to seize any opportunity that presents itself - for fishing I mean ! I reckon it's your "curlers" that are the vital ingredient Aaron !

We were on the mid-Channel wrecks, aboard "Happy Days" out of Dartmouth, fishing with "Eddystone Shads" as our preferred lure. We managed to catch a good few Pollack, close or into double figures. Although the morning fishing was very hard work, we more than made up for it in the afternoon.

Aaron Lidstone holds his quality brace
of Pollack caught from a mid-Channel
wreck on an Eddyustone Shad soft lure
aboard his Dartmouth charter
boat "Happy Days"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Aaron Lidstone

Barry Littlelegs holds his quality brace
of Pollack caught from a mid-Channel
wreck on an Eddyustone Shad soft lure
aboard Aaron Lidstone's Dartmouth
charter boat "Happy Days"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Aaron Lidstone

Geoff Vendal holds his quality
Pollack caught from a mid-Channel
wreck on an Eddyustone Shad soft lure
aboard Aaron Lidstone's Dartmouth
charter boat "Happy Days"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Aaron Lidstone

Tuesday 16th February - Angling Trust Update - Press release received today. I have published those parts that touch on recreational sea anglers, but there is lots more in this newsletter for fly fishermen and coarse anglers too. Do what i did, pay your £20 per year and please join as a personal member:

Angling Trust is now just over a year old. The set up of the new organisation is nearly complete and so it seemed a good time for us to set out in more detail what we are planning to do on your behalf over the coming year, and what we could do if we had more resources.

We have written a detailed new strategy, called Fighting for the Future of Your Fishing , which will be launched to the media this week. We want your views about this plan, as your subscriptions are paying for it to be delivered. Please let us know if you’d like to see a bit more of this, or a bit less of that, or if we’ve missed something out completely which is important to you. Please also let us know if you like it! You can make public comments on the Angling Trust Forum or e-mail them to admin@anglingtrust.net

Please download a PDF of the document from our web site. In the next few weeks, the whole web site will be rebuilt around the headings in this strategy to make it clearer to new visitors to the site what the Trust is all about.

Meet the Board

The Angling Trust public subscribing members’ AGM will be held on Saturday 5 June in the Midlands – this is the opportunity for individual members and those representing clubs to hear and ask questions about our progress since our formation in January 2009. The business will also include the nomination of Board Directors from the membership. The AGM will also include an opportunity to hear and ask questions about the work of Fish Legal. More details about these meetings will be circulated with the next newsletter. You can see who is on the Board at the moment by clicking here.

Membership On The Up

Great news: membership renewals and new member recruitment in January were both well ahead of budget. We now have 13,825 individuals and 1,322 clubs in membership and all categories are growing steadily. Please spread the word! We are sending out second reminders this week to those members whose renewal date was in January and whose subscriptions remain overdue. Please renew your membership promptly and if at all possible pay by Direct Debit, which is much more convenient and cost-effective for us both.

More "Gemini" MId-Channel Wreck Pollack - My good pal Dave Harrison, who charters his big orange Blyth 33 catamaran, "Gemini" out of Dartmouth was at sea on Monday 15th February, with the well known writer from the Angling Times, Martin Bowler. You will have to buy that newspaper to read a full report, but Dave Emailed a "quickie" of their day afloat, for which I am very grateful. Here's what Dave wrote:

We were out on the mid-Channel wrecks on Monday the 15th February.

The fishing was very good with Jamie Hopwood's personal best Pollack. It weighed over 20 lbs at the time of capture and 8hrs later, on calibrated scales at the Brixham SAC, it weighed 19 lbs 8 ozs. The full story and more pictures will appear in Angling Times, in Martin Bowler's sea fishing pages.

Jamie Hopwood a member of
Brixham SAC proudly holds
personal best Pollack 19 lbs 8 ozs
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
during a trip with Angling Times
writer Martin Bowler over a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Dave Harrison's Dartmouth
charter boat "Gemini"

Monday 15th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison

"Gemini" MId-Channel Wreck Pollack - My good pal Dave Harrison, who charters his big orange Blyth 33 catamaran, "Gemini" out of Dartmouth was at sea on Sunday 14th February, with a group of anglers from the Rhondda SAC, from South Wales. Dave Emailed a report of their day afloat, for which I am very grateful. Here's what Dave wrote:

I was out on the mid channel wrecks on Sunday with the Rhondda SAC.

We fished a total of 5 wrecks, which produced some nice fish and one Ling, which took a blue "Sidewinder". All our fish came on a mixture of lures. The fish size is starting to improve.

	Jamie Hopwood a member of Brixham SAC proudly holds his specimen Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Sunday 14th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Keith Martenko proudly holds his specimen Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Sunday 14th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Matthew Williams proudly holds his fine Winter Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Sunday 14th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Paul Evans proudly holds his fine Winter Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Sunday 14th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
	Nigel Bleaken proudly holds his fine Ling caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Sunday 14th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison
Paul Selby proudly holds his fine Winter Pollack caught over a mid-Channel wreck aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini" Sunday 14th February 2010 Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison

St Valentine's Day on "Outlaw" and Lovin' It - Email received this morning from Owen Mallia, who charters his Vigilante 33, "Outlaw" from Dartmouth. He enjoyed another successful day on Sunday 14th February, fishing the mid-Channel wrecks together with the lads from Cwmbach Predators SAC, from Wales. Thanks Owen for your input which is much appreciated. Here's what Owen wrote:

In between inclement weather we managed to get out on Outlaw of Dartmouth to the mid-channel wrecks last Sunday, the 14th.

Mike Morgan and the ‘Cwmbach Predators’ from Wales were with me on board and enjoyed a really great day’s sport with many decent size Winter Pollack consistently coming aboard all day.

Mark Nelson a member of the
Cwmbach Predators SAC from
Wales bends his rod into a hard
fighting winter Pollack over a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's Dartmouth charter
boat "Outlaw"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

As usual with most groups, there were many humorous incidents onboard and friendly rivalry amongst the gang, which only led to an excellent time.

Kevin Robinson a member of the
Cwmbach Predators SAC from
Wales bends his rod into a hard
fighting winter Pollack over a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Owen Mallia's Dartmouth charter
boat "Outlaw"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Largest fish of the day was coaxed aboard on one of our last drifts by Matthew Riddler of Aberdare and tipped the scales just under 20lbs.

Matthew Riddler a member of the
Cwmbach Predators SAC from
Wales proudly holds his hard
fighting winter Pollack the best
fish of the day a tad under 20 lbs
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Next best fish fell to Wayne Pontin from Aberdare with a feisty Pollack at 18lbs.

Wayne Pontin from Aberdare
a member of the Cwmbach Predators SAC
from Wales proudly holds his hard
fighting winter Pollack 18 lbs
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

The man of the day award fell to Rob Thomas, also from Aberdare, who was extremely consistent throughout the trip with a number of fine fish up to 16 lbs and a total in excess of ten fish for his day. I believe Rob rewarded himself with a can of something cool once he reached his personal target – well done Rob.

Man of the day, Rob Thomas from Aberdare
a member of the Cwmbach Predators SAC
from Wales proudly holds his hard
fighting winter Pollack, one of more
than 10 fish he caught fom a mid-Channel
wreck aboard Owen Mallia's Dartmouth
charter boat "Outlaw"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Owen Mallia

Thankfully, as a sort of ‘peace keeper’ we all had a decent fry to take home to the better ‘arf...... (after spending the whole of Valentine’s Day away from our loved one’s out fishing on Outlaw of Dartmouth!)

After the recent North Easterly winds the sea was slightly lumpy first thing on our way out, but improved throughout the course of the day, finally when we pointed Outlaw for home we were fortunate to have a flat calm sea state and a beautiful Western sunset whilst filleting our catch back to Dartmouth.

Picture-perfect day!

"Anglo Dawn III" Pollack out of Salcombe - My good pal Nigel Foord, fish recorder for Torbay and Babbacombe SAA, enjoyed a day angling, on sunday 14th February, together with members of SESAS, over the mid-Channel wrecks, in Chris Robert's ever popular Salcombe charter boat "Anglo Dawn III". Nigel Emailed his fishy tale, which is very much appreciated. Nigel has said he will forward a couple of photos which I will add to this report as soon as I receive them. Here's what Nigel wrote:

Just a quick report from Sunday. Torbay and Babbacombe members and SESAS members combined to charter Chris Roberts "Anglo Dawn III".

We had a good day with the wind calming down. Rhubard and Custard coloured 6 inch "Sidewinder" soft lure was flavour of the day.

The biggest Pollack was caught by new Torbay & Babbcombe member Mark Hanley with a good fish of 14 lbs 13 ozs 4 dr.

Mark Hanley a member of
Torbay & Babbacombe ASA
proudly holds the best Pollack
of the day, 14 lbs 13 ozs 4 dr
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Chris Roberts' Salcombe
charter boat "Anglo Dawn III"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Mark Hanley

Closely followed by old boy Kevin Rouse with one of 14 lbs 12 ozs 12 dr.

Kevin Rouse proudly holds his excellent
Winter Pollack 14 lbs 12 ozs 12 dr
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Chris Roberts' Salcombe
charter boat "Anglo Dawn III"

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Mark Kevin Rouse

I had the only Ling, a small one of 8 lbs, which took a small white "Sidewinder" lure.

Monday 15th February - "Silver Sea" Mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - I enjoyed an excellent day at sea yesterday, aboard "Silver Sea" chartering out of Brixham, together with a group of members of my home club, Brixham SAC. Our Skipper for the day was keen sea angler, Mark Criddle, Coxswain of the RNLI, Torbay Lifeboat, who is also a long-time member at Brixham.

We set off from Brixham Harbour at 7 am. There was lots of back chat and reminiscing with the lads. As we left the comparative shelter of Torbay, the sea was quite "lumpy", whipped up into a "Channel chop" by an easterly breeze. Around 6 miles from land, mark slowed "Silver Sea" to check that everyone wanted to continue. We were unanimous, we wanted to fish on the mid-Channel wrecks.

As we headed further from land, patches of blue sky peeped through the cloud cover and the breeze decreased.

We were quickly into fish, with the preferred lure being the 6 inch "Sidewinder" in the most successful shades of white or blue, which accounted for the majority of our fit, hard fighting Pollack.

Liam Ford, bettered his previous personal best for this specie, when he caught a prime specimen, which he quickly bettered yet again with an even bigger fish, which was weighed-in on calibrated scales on return to Port , where it registered 11 lbs 4 ozs 8 dr. It certainly brought a smile to Liam's face.

Liam Ford proudly holds
his personal best specimen
Pollack 11 lbs 4 ozs 8 dr
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Brixham charter boat
"Silver Sea" Skippered by
Mark Criddle

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Best fish of the day was a specimen Pollack, which later weighed-in on calibrated scales at 18 lbs 4 ozs 12 dr, caught on a white 6 inch "Sidewinder" by Club Fishing Chairman, Doug Mosedale, who is experiencing something of a personal "purple patch" at the moment. Doug took out £1 per head sweep for the best fish. Don't worry Doug, we all view this as nothing more than a short-term loan !

Doug Mosedale, Fishing Chairman of
Brixham SAC proudly holds his best
Pollack of the day 18 lbs 4 ozs 12 dr
caught from a mid-Channel wreck aboard
Brixham charter boat "Silver Sea"
Skippered by Mark Criddle

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Our club raconteur, psychopathic comedian and all around good guy, Rob "Rocky" Marshall, caught quality fish steadily throughout the day, but he just couldn't quite pip Doug.

Rob "Rocky" Marshall proudly
holds a brace of quality Pollack
caught from a mid-Channel wreck
aboard Brixham charter boat
"Silver Sea" Skippered by
Mark Criddle

Sunday 14th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Everyone caught several excellent Pollack each. There was no shortage of fresh fillets for supper for everyone on-board.

All too soon, the sun dipped lower in the sky. By this time the wind had turned to the north and abated to little more than a whisper. Mark gunned the engine and we cruised homewards on a flat sea, into a golden sunset.

Thank you Mark and thank you lads for another memorable day afloat in excellent company.

Saturday 13th February - Alex McDonald, Flounder from Shore - My good friend, Alex McDonald, who works for Swift Tackle, the Exeter based distributors to the trade of Sakuma Hooks and Red Gill lures Emailed. Thanks Alex, your input is always very welcome. Here's what Alex wrote:

Thought I would just drop you a line to say hello and forward you a picture of a Flounder that I had the other day. It would have been a good fish but was empty and thin and only weighed 2 lbs 2 ozs.

Alex Mc Donald who works for
Swift Tackle, the Exeter based
trade distributor of Sakuma hooks
and Red Gill Lures caught his
Flounder 2 lbs 2 ozs from Shore
at Kingsbridge on a worm bait
presented on a tiny size 6 hook

February 2010

Photo courtesy of Alex McDonald

It's been hard work since Christmas on the Kingsbridge/Salcombe Estuary, with only the odd fish here and there. It hasn't been that much better on the coast either, but have had Dab, Plaice and Thornbacks, but not to any size and all have been caught "scratching" around with small worm baits on size 6 hooks.

Tuesday 9th February - Give me a hand - I reported a couple of weeks ago, that I had recently been into Hospital for a minor Op, to have scar tissue removed from the back of my right hand, on the site of an injury I sustained 6 or 7 years ago, from the teeth of a big Ling, while I was removing a Shad lure from its mouth. It never did heal properly. The Surgeon did a really neat job, for which I am most grateful. I will have the stitches removed on Thursday, 14 days after the Op.

Please be careful when you are removing lures from big fish which have teeth. Take it from me that prevention is better than cure.

Scar on the rear of Mike Concannon's
right hand where he had an Op to
remove tissue which would not heal
from a bite from a big Ling, 6 or 7
years ago, which happened while
removing his lure from its mouth

Tuesday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Patsy Concannon

It took me quite some time to work out how to take a photo of my right hand, using a heavy SLR camera in my left hand ! After several failed attempts, I gave up and got Patsy to shoot it for me.

"Gemini" mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - Dave Harrison, who charters his orange Blyth 33 catamaran, "Gemini" out of Dartmouth Emailed this morning. Thanks Dave, your input is as always, most welcome. Here's what Dave wrote:

We were out aboard "Gemini", fishing the mid-Channel wrecks last Sunday. We had the same problem as Ian. No big fish. Our best was about 10 lbs.

Lack of tide, plus wind against tide, kept the boat on a very slow drift. All our fish was caught on "Sidewinders", "Shads" and "Jellyworms". The two photos are of our biggest Pollack.

Tony Wilcox from Torquay caught a nice Winter Pollack.

Tony Wilcox from Torquay
caught this fine Pollack from
a mid-Channel wreck aboard
Dave Harrison's Dartmouth
charter boat "Gemini"

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison

So did Mark Couldrick, from Wellington.

Mark Couldrick from Wellington
caught this fine Pollack from
a mid-Channel wreck aboard
Dave Harrison's Dartmouth
charter boat "Gemini"

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Dave Harrison

We start a run of 11 charters from Thursday, so I hope the weather improves, and the size of fish, with the bigger tides.

"Samuel Irvin 3" mid-Channel Wreck Pollack - Ian Noble, who charters his white and blue Blyth 33 catamaran out of Dartmouth Emailed early this morning. Thanks Ian, your input is always very much appreciated. Here's what Ian wrote:

Sunday was a funny old days fishing, a bit of a south east wind, freezing temperatures and small tides, that did not make things any easier, but a good day was had.

The fish were hard to find and we found we were fishing banks up to 400 yards off the side of the wreck to hook into the Pollack.

The run of fish was mainly male and around the 7 to 11lb weight.

On gutting the fish we saw they were full of Sand Eel, which had obviously tempted the fish away from the wreck itself.

Mark Wood, from Wales, caught several nice Pollack, including this quality fish.

Mark Wood from Wales
proudly holds his quality
Pollack caught from a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter
boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Ian Noble

His pal, Rob Wales from Newport was also well into several good Pollack.

Rob Wales from Newport
proudly holds his quality
Pollack caught from a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter
boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Ian Noble

Richard Stanley from Staffs caught several excellent fish.

Richard Stanley from Staffs
proudly holds his quality
Pollack caught from a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter
boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Ian Noble

John Pigeon from Wales thoroughly enjoyed his day and caught some fit Winter Pollack.

John Pigeon from Wales
proudly holds his quality
Pollack caught from a
mid-Channel wreck aboard
Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter
boat "Samuel Irvin 3"

Sunday 7th February 2010

Photo courtesy of Ian Noble

"Samuel Irvin 3" is now out of the water for the next 2 weeks while she undergoes her annual scrub-up and makeover.

Monday 8th February - "Gemini" and "Samuel Irvin 3" mid-Channel Pollack Sunday 7th February - Dave Harrison who charters his "Gemini" and Ian Noble, who charters his "Samuel Irvin 3", out of Dartmouth, both popped in home this morning. It was rather like an "Anglers Reunion". They told me they fished the mid-Channel wrecks yesterday. It was not an easy day, with the fish spasmodic to find. Ian told me they had to fish 3 wrecks before they caught a worthwhile Pollack, on the small tide. Ian found the fish feeding away from the close vicinity of the wrecks and those they caught were regurgitating fresh Sandeels. This suggests they are feeding on the open ground and are therefore more difficult to locate. Dave said the fishing was "patchy".

Gill Nets - A pair of gill netting boats from Grimsby are presently down here, working our local area, plus local gill netters from Brixham, Plymouth and Mevagissey, which is pretty much normal for this time of the year.

Sunday 7th February - Lloyd Saunder's "Saltwind of Dart" Sold - For the past couple of years, Lloyd Saunders has been advertising his Dartmouth charter boat, "Saltwind of Dart" for sale on www.findafishingboat.co.uk . I note that she no longer appears for sale on that site. Word of mouth rumours which are presently circulating, suggest that she has been sold to Dave Riddels, a local pleasure boat operator, who will use her for wild life viewing tours and some fishing, from alongside the Embankment at Dartmouth.

Sponsors Support Team England Angling - Press release from the Angling Trust, dated Friday 5th February:

The Angling Trust is delighted to announce a new sponsorship package for Team England Shore Angling with Tronix, the West Sussex based tackle company. George Cunningham from Tronix attended a recent Angling Trust Marine National Team & Competition Group meeting where he met with Mike Heylin, Chairman of the Angling Trust to seal this deal. All of the Angling Trust Marine shore teams will be given product support while the England World Junior Shore Team will get a £1,500 cash injection for the next three years. Without such support it would not be financially possible to send teams to such events.

The Angling Trust can also confirm that Fox International is supporting some of the England Teams with product support: those attending the World Junior Shore Championship will each receive a top of the range multi-tip 16ft rod which should prove ideal for the Championships being staged in Portugal.

Kamasan UK are once again providing the Home International junior and youth teams with top of the range Kamasan hooks which could well give them the cutting edge during their Championships, which will be staged in Scotland during July.

Angling Trust Chairman Mike Heylin said: “The Angling Trust is committed to securing funding to support Team England in game, coarse and sea angling disciplines. This will enable the best participants to represent their country and will raise the profile of competition angling to attract more participants to matches at all levels.”

Climate Change Report - An interesting report on changing climate conditions, received via Grahame Garry, my good pal from Australia. Thanks Grahame, much appreciated. I was intrigued by the twist at the end:

The climate is warming up, icebergs are growing scarcer and in some places the seals are finding the water too hot, according to a report to the Commerce Department yesterday from Consulafft, at Bergen , Norway .

Reports from fishermen, seal hunters and explorers all point to a radical change in climate conditions and hitherto unheard-of temperatures in the Arctic zone. Exploration expeditions report that scarcely any ice has been met as far north as 81 degrees 29 minutes.

Soundings to a depth of 3,100 meters showed the gulfstream still very warm.

Great masses of ice have been replaced by moraines of earth and stones, the report continued, while at many points well known glaciers have entirely disappeared.

Very few seals and no white fish are found in the eastern Arctic, while vast shoals of herring and smelts, which have never before ventured so far north, are being encountered in the old seal fishing grounds. Within a few years it is predicted that due to the ice melt the sea will rise and make most coastal cities uninhabitable.

More below:

I'm sorry! I neglected to mention that this London Telegraph report was from November 2nd,1922, reported by AP and published in The Washington Post.

Friday 5th February - Parliamentary Questions & Answers ref Common Fisheries Policy - A verbatim report of questions and answers in the UK Parliament yesterday:

http://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2010-02-04a.439.0&s=speaker%3A11727#g440.0

Common Fisheries Policy - Oral Answers to Questions — Environment, Food and Rural Affairs - House of Commons debates, 4 February 2010, 10:30 am

Robert Goodwill (Shadow Minister, Transport; Scarborough & Whitby, Conservative)

What his Department's objectives are for reform of the common fisheries policy; and if he will make a statement.

Huw Irranca-Davies (Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Marine and Natural Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Ogmore, Labour)

The UK's response to the Commission's Green Paper on the reform of the common fisheries policy sets out our objectives to achieve the prosperous and sustainable exploitation of fish stocks. The response makes it clear that there must be more regionalised decision making, genuine integration of fisheries with other marine policies, longer-term management planning, greater flexibility and certainty in the system and a mechanism to ease the transition to a sustainable and profitable future.

Robert Goodwill (Shadow Minister, Transport; Scarborough & Whitby, Conservative)

Does the Minister agree that the two key elements are the devolution of day-to-day management to local and regional stakeholders and a land-all policy linked to a secondary market for fish that cannot otherwise be marketed to form a feed stock for the aquaculture industry?

Huw Irranca-Davies (Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Marine and Natural Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Ogmore, Labour)

We are very supportive of that. In fact, we have been playing a leadership role in promoting the idea of a regionalisation of management, which would still involve ministerial accountability and the overarching strategy. The hon. Gentleman is right about the idea of a land-all policy. We need to consider innovative approaches, such as the agreement that we signed last year to look at electronic monitoring on vessels, with the agreement of skippers, to land more and kill less. That relates especially to the abhorrent issue of discards, which skippers, as much as anyone else, abhor.

John Robertson (Glasgow North West, Labour)

My hon. Friend will be aware that fishing is very important in Scotland, and I am sure that he has heard from fisheries people there on many occasions. However, does he appreciate that they have to have a say in what is happening? It is important in Scotland in particular, which has such a large fishing community, that they have a say in the strategy.

Huw Irranca-Davies (Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Marine and Natural Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Ogmore, Labour)

I agree entirely with my hon. Friend, and we have had a great deal of engagement already in bringing forward our proposals, which I note have a wide sign-up from Scottish fisheries and their leadership and more widely in the UK. However, we will continue that engagement, including through another marine and fisheries stakeholder forum to be held in May and a North sea regional conference on CFP reform in March, where I hope to speak. We will continue the engagement with all parts of the UK.

Richard Benyon (- Shadow Minister, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Newbury, Conservative)

There is a widespread view around coastal communities that if people disagree with the Minister's Department, they get cut out of negotiations on important issues. I was contacted just today by the Thanet Fishermen's Association, which has been waiting since the beginning of last November for a reply on the transfer of unused quotas. Will the Minister give the fishing community and other organisations interested in CFP reform the firm assurance that they will be involved in negotiations on this important matter, even if they disagree with his Department's stance?

Huw Irranca-Davies (Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Marine and Natural Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Ogmore, Labour)

Yes, absolutely, but that is not to say that we will always agree. In fact, fishermen often accuse me of over-consulting and over-engagement, which can make it difficult for them to get to meetings and to engage with these matters. I guarantee that we will do as the hon. Gentleman asks, but that does not mean that we should walk away from the difficult decisions on moving from where we are now to achieving a long-term sustainable future. I know that, in his heart of hearts, he agrees with that.

New Video Editing Software - I bought the latest version of my video editing software suite yesterday. I anticipate shooting some new videos during the coming months for your enjoyment via YouTube and on this web site.

Moves to Protect Silver Eel - It is a well known fact, that the Silver Eel population breeds in the Sargasso Sea. It returns to our home waters as a tiny Eel, known as an "Elver", where it grows and breeds, before making its own mammoth return journey to breed in the Sargasso Sea.

In recent years the numbers of Eels returning to our shores has declined to somewhere around 1 percent of their former numbers, due to a viral disease, which has adversely affected their numbers.

I reported several weeks ago on this web page, that the EEC is in the process of completely protecting the Silver Eel. It will become an offence to take or to kill them. This may ensure that those few Silver Eels, that become resistant to the virus, may in the future breed and multiply.

Mike Bailey, Hon. Sec. Emailed yesterday to say that, at the Committee of Brixham SAC, which met on Tuesday 2nd February, 2010, it was decided that in future, the Club will, with immediate effect, bring in a voluntary ban, "i.e: catch and release. Possibly weigh Silver Eels, but always return them to the sea alive."

This seems to be the right decision, in view of the incontrovertible scientific evidence.

Coincidentally, on Thursday 4th February, a major seafood supplier removed Silver Eels from their product list:

M&J Seafood has announced that it will no longer supply European Eel to the catering trade from end of March 2010 due to the species being classified as critically endangered' on the IUCN Red List.

The decision to remove all European Eel from its frozen and fresh product portfolio comes as part of M&J’s continued efforts to support sustainable sourcing and champion under-utilised species.

The company has also taken the decision to ban all North Atlantic Halibut sourced from ‘target capture fisheries’. Now M&J’s frozen Halibut steaks will be sourced from sustainably certified Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) fisheries in the Pacific Ocean and fresh Halibut, will be sourced from Wild Pacific, Canadian and Alaskan MSC certified fisheries (season April –Nov) as well as Farmed Scottish and Norwegian suppliers.

M&J Seafood is working closely with suppliers, WWF, Goodcatch and the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to ensure its fish supply is not taken from threatened or depleting stocks, and is committed to raising awareness of sustainable sourcing in the foodservice industry.

Mike Berthet, group director, fish and seafood at M&J comments: “At M&J we believe the catering industry operators and suppliers have an enormous role to play in supporting the sustainable management of our fish stocks. By refusing to sell endangered species and taking the initiative to help customers understand the issues and the alternatives open to them, suppliers like us can generate real change and help slow down and reverse over-fishing.”

Visit Brixham SAC's pages within this web site to learn more. Just left click your mouse on the button:

Thursday 4th February - Ciaran Farley and Wyvern Fish of the Month Awards - My good pal Russell Farley Emailed late yesterday, to tell how pleased his Son, Ciaran was to collect his Angling Trust Wyvern Division Certificates and Medal for Fish of the Month.

Saturday 30th January - Brixham SAC Juniors dominated the shore prizes and although the boat prizes went almost entirely to commercially caught Pollack, they won't be allowed this coming year, so hopefully we can do better.

Graham Dryer won one of the principle prizes with his excellent Black Bream of over 5lbs.

Brixham tackle dealer and
Chairman of Brixham SAC
Graham Dryer won the prestigious
Local Assocaition Cup, presented
for Best Fish from Wreck, during
Torbay Festival with his super
Black Bream 5 lbs 3 ozs 8 drams
taken at a Lyme Bay wreck from
Mark Criddle's charter boat, "Silver Sea",
out of Brixham. The fish was 160.577%
of specimen weight

Sunday 13th September 2009

Picture courtesy Mike Millman

Ciaran Farley is pictured having collected his FOM Medal and certificates.

Ciaran Farley a Junior Member of
Brixham SAC proudly holds his medal
and certificates for Fish of the Month
at the recent Angling Trust Wyvern
Presentation Night

Saturday 30th January 2010

Photograph courtesy of Russell Farley

Following in Dad's Footsteps - Email received late yesterday evening from my good pal Zyg Gregorek, proprietor of Angler's paradise, in North Devon, and a world renowned Big Game angler. Thanks Zyg, you input is always very welcome and much appreciated. Here's what Zyg wrote:

Just back from Watamu, Kenya, fishing next door to the home of the Somali pirates and flying the flag of St George.

Our party consisted of myself, my wife Rose, my daughter Zenia and her husband Joe and my daughter Anna and her boyfriend Andy.

In 6 days fishing, on board “Tega” with Steve, we had a total of 35 Billfish of which 25 were Marlin including 2 Blue Marlin and 2 Black Marlin and 10 Sailfish. At one stage, Anna’s boyfriend Andy, Zenia’s husband Joe and myself, all fought Marlin at the same time and got them in.

Anna and Zyg Gregorek
with a little help proudly hold
a magnificent Marlin caught
off Watamu, Kenya

January 2010

Photo courtesy of Zyg Gregorek

My wife Rose and I also had simultaneous Marlin strikes and brought them both in.

I'm proud to say that my daughter, Zenia Gregorek, caught her first ever Marlin and ended up qualifying for a "Billfish Grand Slam" in the process, by catching a Black Marlin, Striped Marlin and Sailfish on the same day, a very rare achievement. As far as I know, she could be the first person to have done this when catching her first Marlin.

Zyg's Daughter, Zenia Drury
with a little help, proudly holds
her magnificent Marlin caught
off Watamu, Kenya

Friday 29th January 2010

Photo courtesy of Zyg Gregorek

The whole family caught their first Marlin, except Zenia, who went one stage further and following her Marlin went on to achieve her Grand Slam, which even I have not had the pleasure of achieving, although being close several times.

(left to right)
Steve (Skipper) - Zyg Gregorek
Zenia and Joe Drury proudly
stand alongside the notice
displaying Zenia's Bill Fish
"Grand Slam" at Watamu, Kenya

Friday 29th January 2010

Photo courtesy of Zyg Gregorek

All the Billfish were tagged and released.

An outstanding few days fishing, which prompted Jason Schratweiser of the IGFA to say, "“I can tell you however, that is some of the most incredible Marlin action that I’ve heard of for some time! “

Friday 29th January - IFCA Committee Membership Applications Being Taken Now - Email received this morning via Leon Roskilly, to whom we are all most grateful. If you want to take a place on what were formerly the Local Sea Fisheries Committees, in our case the replacement IFCA which will cover Devon and Dorset, the application details and process are listed below. It is important that recreational sea anglers are properly represented on these new bodies:

The new Inshore Fishery and Consultation Authorities (IFCAs) will not only regulate both commercial and recreational sea fisheries and become responsible for the marine environment within their district, but will also regulate bait digging and bait collection, so it's important that anglers are well represented upon the makeup of each district IFCA.

They are now beginning the recruitment process and aim to have shadow IFCAs up and running in the Autumn of this year.

http://www5.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_capita01.asp?newms=info5

Recruitment Process

Application Process

The recruitment process will be carried out in-line with “Nolan Principles”, which underpin the Commissioner for Public Appointments Code of Practice. These principles ensure that fair, open and transparent processes are in place to ensure the correct people are appointed to IFCAs, to guarantee public confidence in the procedure.

Further information can be found at: www.publicappointmentscommissioner.org/Code_of_Practice/ef8446f3551.html (link opens in a new window)

The recruitment process will be open, transparent, objective and fair for all candidates.

The closing date for the receipt of all applications is 12 midnight on Monday 12th April 2010. We cannot guarantee that late applications will be accepted. It would help us if you could quote reference: IFCA0001 in all communications.

Should you have any queries regarding these appointments, or require any further information on the application process, please contact us using the phone number 01256 383669 or e-mail verity.holloway@capita.co.uk

Selection Process

Once the closing date has passed, shortlisting for informal interviews will take place. This will be done regionally by a team of members of the DEFRA / MMO project team and Independent Assessors. Applications will be assessed against the role profile.

If you are successful at shortlist you will be invited to discuss your application. These interviews will be held regionally. Final decisions on appointments will be made upon a combination of the information contained in the application form and our discussions with you.

Offers of appointment will be made in writing following the interviews.

Successful or not, we promise to let you know the outcome of your application. Feedback is available on request.

Recruitment Process	Timescale
Advertising & Communications Campaign Commences – Opening date for applications	28th January 2010
Closing date	12th April 2010
Shortlisting	Completed by w/c 17th May 2010
Invitation to interview	During w/c 17th May 2010
Letters to unsuccessful candidates	During w/c 17th May 2010
Regional Interviews	1st June - 13th July 2010
Letters to successful / unsuccessful candidates	w/c 2nd August 2010
Shadow IFCAs in place	Early Autumn 2010

Equal Opportunities

The MMO is committed to providing real equality of opportunity irrespective of race, nationality, colour, ethnic or national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, age, gender assignment, work pattern, or membership or non-membership of a Trade Union.

You are asked to complete the Equal Opportunities questionnaire but can reassure you that it will be removed before your application is assessed. It is used for monitoring the selection process only. If you do not wish to have these details recorded please return the form uncompleted.

If you or someone that you know are interested, visit

http://www5.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_capita01.asp?newms=info1

and click on the 'Apply' button on the left (It's a bit long-winded so do it when you have some time. Or you can always come back and complete the application at a later date)

Fishy Bites - About 6 years ago, while unhooking a big Ling from my line, as I removed a "Shad" soft lure from its jaws, I cut the back of my right hand on its rows of very sharp teeth. Whether there is an anti-coagulant or simply bacteria on the fish's teeth, I do not know, but whatever the reason, the wound never did heal properly. It left a hard scab which would intermittently peel off revealing another scab below it.

Several months ago I had a skin cancer removed from the bridge of my nose. At the subsequent check-up and all clear, the Surgeon remarked on the wound on the back of my hand and offered to cut it out, just to be safe and tidy.

Yesterday, I had the job done at Torbay Hospital. It's quite a gash, which has to be kept dry and covered with bandages for several days. I have the dozen or so stitches removed in around 2 weeks time.

I shall take far more care in future when handling big fish with rows of sharp teeth. Prevention is far preferable to cure.

Wednesday 5th August - Snowbee "Offshore" Sea Angling Clothing Update - Back in mid-April 2008, more than a year ago, I reviewed the range of breathable Snowbee "Offshore" Sea Angling Clothing. I purposely used it for several weeks and wore it hard, interspersed with frequent washing, to keep it looking fresh and new; that was before I reviewed it. You can read my original in-depth review on my web site at www.fishingdartmouth.co.uk/tackle_tips_22.htm

Mike Concannon poses
wearing Snowbee Offshore
Over-Trousers with 5/8ths
length Jacket

Wednesday 16th April 2008

Photo courtesy of Patsy Concannon

I have worn it every time I have been to sea since then, that's more than another 15 months of hard use in some appalling conditions. This Summer has been one of the wettest on record, with more than three times the average rainfall for this time of year.

I have worn the Salopettes every time I have been to sea, which has been often, as I have spent this Summer crewing aboard Ian Noble's Dartmouth charter boat "Samuel Irvin 3", plus numerous "Fishing Dartmouth with Mike Concannon" days aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini", and other days aboard numerous different local boats.

I didn't realise how much I would love the side holster built into the Salopettes with a "D Ring" where I can attach and access my "Accurate" pliers and cutters, ready for instant use. Snowbee really have thought of everything.

I have worn the 5/8th length jacket far more than the blouson jacket. This has been entirely the fault of circumstances. I love the "Bomber Jacket" style blouson top. I anticipated it would be ideal during the Summer months. Indeed, had we enjoyed a normal Summer, that would have undoubtedly been true.

Consequently, I have made more use of the 5/8th length jacket, which has an integral hood and storm cuffs. It has afforded the best protection from this Summer's frequent driving rain and high winds.

The outside of my suit is a little marked by stains from hard use, but is otherwise completely in-tact and thoroughly waterproof. The seams do not leak. There are no loose threads. It is comfortable in use and does not trap perspiration, quite unlike so many other suits I have owned over the years.

It is not a cheap item of clothing, but in my view it has been worth every penny. It's the best weatherproof clothing I have ever owned. I thoroughly commend it to you.

You can contact Snowbee (UK) Ltd at Drakes Court, Langage Business Park, Plymouth, PL7 5JY, telephone +44 (0) 1752 334933 or Email flyfish@snowbee.co.uk for details of your nearest retailer.

Wednesday 29th July - "Channel Cut Pro" High Tech Dyneema Braid Line - Those of you who fish with me will know that I have for many years been a strong advocate of braid fishing line. It's far thinner than its monofilament equivalent, which reduces the profile against the pressure of the water, particularly at greater depths, where more line is let out. It has virtually no stretch, which means that you can feel every touch and can set a hook at distance with no problem. My only caveat is that you need to use a softer tipped rod to introduce a spring cushioning effect and please set the clutch on your reel properly at between 33% and 70% of the stated breaking strain of your chosen braid line.

I was looking for a thinner braid for my preferred 30 lb b.s., for use for general wreck fishing. I chanced upon a new High Tech Dyneema Braid Line, "Channel Cut Pro", which is plain grey in colour, and has a stated diameter for 30 lb bs at just 0.23 mm, (comparable to around 8 lb bs mono in diameter). I compared this with Berkley Fireline Crystal Braid line, which has a stated diameter for the same bs of 0.38 mm, (and is directly comparable in diameter to 12 lb b.s. mono line).

Channel Cut Pro Braided Line is advertised as being 4 x thinner than its monofilament equivalent.

The supplier is on the Internet at www.rodringsandthings.co.uk Mine arrived within 24 hours via Royal Mail.

It is available in b.s. of 15, 20, 30, 40, and 50 at a cost of just £19.99 for 300 metres (328 yds).

It arrived in a very neat package, on a wide plastic spool.

I loaded it onto my "Accurate" B2-270 2-speed reel, over a couple of layers of 30 lb b.s. monofilament backing and attached 5 metres of monofilament leader to the end. It filled the spool perfectly, without cutting into itself.

I looked closely at its construction. As I said, it's colour is a pale grey. It is noticeably very supple and it was easy to attach the leader and backing with my usual "double grinner" knot.

I looked closely at its unusual construction. It does not appear to be twisted as is the common practice, but appears to have a woven construction, which is good, as it was noticeable that it does not unravel itself where it is cut. I took a very close look with a magnifying glass to confirm this.

My overall first impressions are most favourable. Over the coming weeks I will get my pals to try it out on my rod and reel and seek their opinions. I'll let you know how it goes when we have used it more in all conditions and have given it a very thorough work-out.

www.rodringsandthings.co.uk offer a wide range of lines, hooks, guides, whipping threads, reel seats and other assorted goodies. I shall be shopping there myself again.

Monday 22nd June - "Samuel Irvin 3" Divers in Re-Breather Equipment on Mid-Channel Deep Water Wrecks - As a young man I was a keen diver. In those days back in the early 1960s we just used compressed air in aqualungs. Our protective clothing was of a different age too. The modern sport diver has much in common with anglers.

I enjoy helping Ian Noble, who was also a keen diver, aboard "Samuel Irvin 3". Ian also takes parties of divers, who use very modern and sophisticated equipment costing several thousand pounds per person, involving gas mixtures such as compressed air with helium or nitrogen and re-breathers which remove the Co²by scrubbing the air they breathe underwater and allowing them to re-use it.

For the past 2 days we have been out with group of visiting divers, who dived some of the larger mid-Channel wrecks at depths of up to 240 feet. I know it isn't fishing, we're back angling again today.

Here's some video footage I shot yesterday. Sorry I haven't got an underwater camera, but I can show you just a snippet of what diving involves above the water on a modern charter boat. We do also get to learn a lot in the process about the condition and marine life on many of our local marks in significant detail. Enjoy.

Two days of catching
huge Congers with
3 around 90 to 100 lbs
aboard "Samuel Irvin 3"
out of Dartmouth

Story and several Videos

Tuesday 2nd &
Wed 3rd June 2009

Sunday 17th May - How to Successfully Tie a Braid Line to a Monofilament or Fluorocarbon Line - I am often asked to show fellow anglers a successful way of tying a braid fishing line to a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader line. I recommend and use the "Double Grinner" knot, which works and has never let me down.

The "Double Grinner" knot is what is known as a 100% knot, which means that because it does not cut into itself, it is 100% as strong as the breaking strain of your line. Many other knots will weaken the integrity of the lines by as much as 50% of their breaking strain and I do not use them for that reason.

Watch this video clip which I have recorded for your information and learn to tie this useful knot in the comfort of your own home, until you can tie it without any problem, particularly when you have to do so on a rocking boat in a rough sea. It lasts around 7¾ minutes and is easy to view on a Broadband connection.

How NOT To Do It - I have also shown you in my next video clip, a superficially similar knot which is NOT a 100% knot, and which I actively discourage you from using. Watch, learn, and understand why. This clip lasts around 4¾ minutes and is easy to watch on a Broadband connection.

I want to see you all catch very big fish, without any tears and troubles. Preparation goes a very long way towards eventual success.

SMALL REGISTERED FISHING BOATS ON "SKERRIES" BOARDED BY MCA ON EASTER SUNDAY

Steve Birchenall called this morning to tell me that he was fishing for fun last Sunday on the "Skerries", on board a registered fishing vessel, (with the required registration numbers displayed on it), which a pal had borrowed from a friend, for a recreational fishing trip; the Brixham SAC member's "Skerries competition.

"MCA Falcon", a boat with staff from the Marine and Coastguard Agency has been conducting similar checks in other areas, and is now based at Brixham to investigate offences.

Steve told me that "MCA Falcon" came alongside and the officers demanded to know if the three people on-board held the necessary "Sea Survival"; "First Aid"; "Firefighting"; and "Safety Awareness" Certificates. One person aboard the vessel must also hold a licence to operate a VHF Radio, if fitted. Steve holds the necessary qualifications.

I have spoken this morning to Andi Lloyd of the Marine and Coastguard Agency at Brixham. Andi told me that all personnel aboard every UK registered commercial fishing vessel, at all times, are required to have successfully completed all of the above certificated courses.

These qualifications are obtainable via courses organised by Western Sea Fish Training at Plymouth, at a cost in excess of £400 per person.

Andi warned that a formal notice has been displayed on the Fish Quay at Brixham advertising this requirement for more than the past 12 months.

Andi also reminded everyone that If you go out on an unlicensed charter boat, then the Skipper and everyone aboard commit serious offences.

Of course. if you are an angler on a properly licensed charter boat, such as all of those listed on this web site at www.fishingdartmouth.co.uk/charter_boats.htm , it only applies to the "Skipper" who must be fully qualified, or if you are a non-paying passenger aboard a private boat, then none of this applies to you, except that one of those on board requires a licence to use the VHF radio, if one is fitted.

These random checks have initially acted as a warning, following which, those in charge or crewing on commercial fishing vessels which do not comply on future occasions, will be prosecuted.

The offences carry heavy fines and allow for detention of an offending vessel.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED

Wreck Website Updated - The particularly informative diving and angling wrecksite database www.wrecksite.eu was again updated towards the end of October 2009 with all 25,600 UKHO wreck reports, with the latest versions from UKHO. Some 75,000 records on positions, history, and wreck today have been updated and a significant number of new wrecks have been added.

To avail yourself of lat long GPS references down to the three figure seconds, together with access to the UK Hydrographic Office full colour marine Charts, you will need to pay a fee of 25 Euros per year to access those essential features. I reckon it's worth every penny if you fish or dive from your own boat, or you operate charter boats.

Saturday 14th February - Article 47 - This irreverent but factual video which currently features on YouTube was sent to me late this evening by another good pal. Tongue in cheek but well worth watching so long as your computer is connected to Broadband. Thanks Barry, some may say it is in poor taste and far too close to the truth, but it had me in stitches:

Tuesday 11th March - New Address for PENN & SHAKESPEARE Servicing - Please note the new address and contact details if you have any Penn or Shakespeare reels for servicing, or require spare parts through the official supplier. They have moved, following their amalgamation:

Penn / Shakespeare UK Ltd
Unit 15, Evans Business Centre
68 - 74 Queen Elizabeth Avenue
Hillington Industrial Estate
Glasgow, G52 4NQ

Tel: 0141 880 9029

Email: service@pennfishing.com

Friday 5th October - Bill Harkness LIght Line Record Attempt aboard "Gemini" out of Dartmouth - Yesterday, my faith was very much restored in sea angling when I thoroughly enjoyed a day afloat aboard Dave Harrison's Dartmouth charter boat "Gemini". Bill Harkness, who is already the holder of the 20 lb line class record for a Conger Eel which weighed-in at 86 lbs on 20 line attempted to better his own World, European and British records. Unfortunately Bill did not succeed in doing so on this occasion, but we did enjoy an interesting and enlightening day together in great company.

I shot some video of our efforts which I have published via YouTube. You can view it here via your Broadband Internet connection, to see what transpired. Just double left click your mouse on the > play button in the bottom left hand corner of the video screen.

Saturday 28th April - DEFRA "Fishing Focus" Journal - Here's a link where you can read all issues of DEFRA's regular magazine "Fishing Focus" on-line. You can see the current issue, published today, in addition to all the back copies too. We have a good working relationship with Dr. Marilyn Rawson of DEFRA, and if you want to be fully in the picture as to progress and current affairs as reflected by the relevant Government Department, this is your best source. It is well worth keeping up to speed on such matters. Just left click your mouse on the hyperlink:

www.defra.gov.uk/fish/about/index.htm

RIVER DART BASS NURSERY AREA

An Email received from a good pal said: I spoke to some guys coming ashore in a 12ft dinghy in at Stoke Gabriel on Sunday. I asked them if they had any luck? They told me they had caught 8 Bass spinning from a boat in the river by Dittisham. They said they had returned 3 but kept the rest that were each about 1 1/2 pounds. I thought that taking Bass from the river was banned?

Here's my reply: The River Dart is a designated Bass nursery area. You are not allowed to catch Bass from a boat within the River Dart and outside, to an imaginary line drawn between Inner Froward Point and Coombe Point, about ½ a mile outside the Castles, although you may do so from shore.

I suggest you might like to call Devon Sea Fisheries Office at Brixham on 01803 854648 to report what you saw direct to them. I'm not absolutely certain who has the final jurisdiction over Bass Nursery areas - whether it is the local Devon Sea Fisheries Committee, or whether it falls within the Environment Agency's remit - DSF would be able to tell you for certain - I'd be interested to know.

PLEASE KILL FISH HUMANELY

Bob Elley Emailed from Bath today. Bob is a keen sea angler and regular visitor to the Dartmouth area.

I was down on Slapton Beach last weekend.

Sunday evening the Mackerel were about in numbers and lots of anglers were enjoying catching them, can I ask some of these 'anglers' after catching Mackerel to KILL THEM QUICKLY.

I saw Mackerel being chucked live on to the beach to gasp to death or seemingly worse put live into a plastic bag to die just as slowly. I wouldn't want to die that way and I suspect neither would they.

I fish and I kill the fish I want to keep quickly.

Break the neck or use a rock on the back of the head to kill it quickly and as humanely as possible. It's not nice for non anglers to see live fish being chucked into a plastic bag to flap around until they die.

Patsy showed a couple of youngsters on Dartmouth Embankment last Monday how to quickly kill live Mackerel by breaking their necks. You put your thumb into their mouth and bend their head straight back, thus quickly and cleanly breaking their neck.

We prefer to return fish that are not wanted for the table alive and unharmed, but agree that if a fish is to be retained to eat, then it is only proper to quickly and sympathetically dispatch it with the minimum fuss.

To fail to do so provides ready made ammunition to the anti-fishing lobby.

Thanks Bob for focusing renewed attention on this unpleasant annual phenomenon.

CARELESS CASTING - SOUTH EMBANKMENT - DARTMOUTH

Monday 17th January 2005 - Today I met, together with Tim Bird (Paignton SAA); Mervyn Yalland & Dave Drury (Dartmouth Angling & Boating Assoc.); David Pakes (Dart Angling Assoc.); Mike Spiller (NFSA Wyvern Division); a member of Dartmouth Town Council; two representatives of the operators of the River Dart Castle Ferry, (one of whom is Julian Distin, Chairman of Dart Harbour & Navigation Authority); and the new Harbour Master, Captain David White. No representative appeared from South Hams District Council although their Property Manager had been made fully aware of the meeting in advance.

The meeting had been convened by Julian Distin, Chairman of DHNA at our collective request.

The sole purpose was to discuss the danger to vessels, their crew and passengers, and pedestrians caused by alleged unskilled and indiscriminate casting of feathers and leads by anglers from the South Embankment at Dartmouth.

All parties were unanimous in their view that the problem is not caused by experienced and responsible sea anglers, but in the main, by occasional fishermen, particularly holiday makers with limited skills, during the busy summer months when the Mackerel are in the river and many people vie to catch them.

After much heated and prolonged, sometimes vociferous discussion, we all agreed on common ground.

DHNA will approach South Hams District Council, asking that they will erect notices on the South Embankment with a simple message to all anglers such as "Please Cast with Care."

We agree that leaflets will be prepared and distributed during the height of the Summer via local Schools, Guest Houses, Tourist Information Office, etc. advising on safe sea angling practice.

We all realise that those few irresponsible anglers who cast into the path of boats, or without due regard for pedestrians or vehicles on Dartmouth Embankment could jeopardise future access for the responsible anglers who are the vast majority.

Dart Harbour Navigation Authority staff will also distribute the leaflets to casual holiday anglers and dispense friendly advice where needed.

We all know that those people who cast dangerously, or leave litter and discarded line, or dead and dying fish, do a great disservice to every caring responsible sea angler. It is up to every one of us to actively discourage such bad practice whenever we see it. Set a good example to others and please speak to anyone you see doing these unhelpful acts.

In return, we are hopeful that a new permit system may be introduced by DHNA to allow responsible local sea anglers, who can prove they are insured by schemes such as the NFSA automatic £5,000,000 cover against injury or damage to 3rd parties while fishing, to gain access to the Dart Harbour Pontoons where all fishing is presently forbidden. This would be a great asset for our local Mullet chasers in particular.

Access to pontoons by permit holders would mean that dedicated and responsible anglers would be around the moored boats alongside the pontoons late at night, which would prove a great deterrent to marine crime. Only last summer several boats on the "walk on" pontoons off Coronation Park had their windows broken by untraced offenders; some on more than one occasion. The presence of sensible anglers may just help to prevent such destructive behaviour.

If any permit holder was ever found to have acted irresponsibly, then DHNA would be able to withdraw their permit from that person.

We have no desire to see any angler jeopardising boats , pedestrians, or vehicles on the River Frontage at Dartmouth. We abhor such practice.

It's true that when interested parties can gather around a table for a frank, honest and open discussion about problems which exist, so very much can be achieved towards common understanding and clearly thought out solutions.

The lesson learned for the future is to approach and deal with such issues at a far earlier stage. It is not beneficial to let such issues ferment. Neglect generates far more heat than illumination.

My thanks, and those of every thinking sea angler go to all those people concerned in addressing this matter.

UNUSUAL FISH REPORTS

Wednesday 6th August - Email received from Charles Sayers - thank you Charles - your information is much appreciated:

I had a fantastic day on the Skerries. Spotted a huge shark 1 mile south east of Dartmouth. I passed a local fisherman who was laying his pots when I saw what I thought was a Dolphin off my port bow.

I slowed down and saw two fins gently thrashing ,one being its dorsal, the other its tail. It then swam right under the boat; that's when I got a good look at it.

IT WAS A SHARK and must have been at least 12 foot long with a wide body and pointed nose. I'm sure it was a Mako, as I've seen several whilst fishing off the Canaries. It certainly wasn't a Blue and I've never heard of a Porbeagle on the surface so close inshore.

Ed: This info has been passed to Dr Douglas Herdson at Plymouth.

Coincidentally Doug Emailed me on the 7th Aug, requesting any info ref. Shark sightings.

November 2008 - Doug has since Emailed me again :

Unfortunately, financial difficulties at the National Marine Aquarium have lead to restructuring, and in the process, my post has been chosen for redundancy. Hence, I will be finishing here at the end of November.

I still intend working in marine biology, fisheries and conservation, environmental education where I can, probably on a freelance basis. I want to remain active in the rare fish work, so please keep me in touch and let me know what turns up. If anyone knows of any work going I would be grateful if you could let me know.

Although I shall no longer be working at the National Marine Aquarium, I will continue to maintain my interest in unusual fish and changes in their distributions.

I am still prepared to try to identify uncommon or problem fish, BUT please contact me first on 01752 405155. Also, please realise that the time I am able to dedicate to this work may be limited.

I would be grateful if you could use your website to alert people to the fact that I am interested in any reports of unusual fish; including Sunfish, Triggerfish, Seahorses, Red Band Fish and all the Sea Breams except Black and Gilthead.

Contact details Douglas Herdson: 01752 405155
or Email: Douglas.Herdson@btinternet.com

Thanks - Doug

Related Links

Seas and Oceans: Environment Protection: Environment Food and Rural Affairs: Written answers and statements, 23 February 2010

Read the Government’s response

Meet the Board

Membership On The Up

Common Fisheries Policy - Oral Answers to Questions — Environment, Food and Rural Affairs - House of Commons debates, 4 February 2010, 10:30 am

Recruitment Process

Application Process

Selection Process

Equal Opportunities