Audio slideshow: The Eel Man of the Fens

Audio slideshow: The Eel Man of the Fens.

Peter Carter's family has been eel fishing in the Cambridgeshire Fens for the past 500 years.

The 45-year-old, from Outwell, near Wisbech, believes he may be England's only remaining eel catcher who makes and uses traditional willow traps.

Mr Carter has been working with the Environment Agency to help stem the decline of eels in UK waters and is concerned for the future of his family's traditional way of life.


Taken from the BBC website.

August Bank Holiday - Bishops Bowl nr Leamington

With very few free days to rest let alone go fishing in the middle of wedding season - I noticed that Bank holiday Monday was free - "I'm going fishing" was the statement I made to Kate and paused for the refusal... I was greeted by silence... I checked if she had heard me which she had and subsequently approved my request!

After searching the Fisheries.co.uk website for a variation in location, I narrowed down the choice to either Weston Lawns or Bishops Bowl, both within 30 minutes drive of Coventry. After feedback from Jeff on his preference on venues I have opted for Bishops Bowl. My reasoning is the appeal of the rather wild and uncharted Green Hill lake.

I have managed to tempt my Dad along for the day, he retired nearly twelve months ago and I think he needs to go fishing!

I would appreciate any knowledge or advice about tactics/bait etc. I even found a post about barbel being present - true or false? If any one wants to join us we plan to be there about 8-8:30am Bank Holiday Monday (30/8/10).

Bank Holiday Fishing Plans

Just wondered if the cov/warks bloggers had any plans for the bank holiday Monday coming up? Thought it might be fun to meet up and get a few hours of fishing in somewhere local? Any suggestions/takers?

Reels

Fixed Spool Reels:

Ryobi Target XR350.

This is my main reel for feeder fishing, it has a mammoth capacity taking over 350 yards of 15 lb line. I use 4 lb line with plenty of 8 lb backing line. This is fantastic for distance casting and has a rear drag system.

 

Abu Garcia Enticer.

This is a new addition and yet unused addition to my kit. I wanted a second spool for the Ryobi but with a price tag of over £20 I opted for a secondhand reel (which actually came with a spare spool). Not as well constructed as the Ryobi however the rear drag is more robust. Fitted out with 4 and 8 lb lines.

Closed Faced Reels:

DAM Quick CFM

Given to me by one of my fishing mentors in my early escapades, this reel has served me well and worked perfectly even after 15 years of being sat in the shed. Made in West Germany indicates its age but those Germans certainly know how to build a quality product! This lives up to its nickname of 'the coffee grinder' with its distinctive noise made from its geared innards. I can't fault it! Loaded with 4.4 lb Drennan float line

Abu 501

I haven't pictured this as I need to drop it back to my Dad so he can start to enjoy his retirement. A quality little Abu closed faced reel - need I say more?