Joined the BAA yesterday (Birmingham Angling Association) and decided to try one of the rivers today.

Chose the river Teme and set off at 7 this morning. After correcting the rather poor directions from autoroute I finally managed to find the right place at about 9am.

It was a beautiful setting, fishing just down from a small bridge. On the one rod I was ledgering maggots, and on the second I tried just about every bait imaginable. Got quite a few small chubb and gudgeon, and I mean small - about 1-2 inches long, on the maggots, but nothing on the other rod. The weather was nice and I was catching regularly so I didn't mind too much though.

About 3:30 I was starting to wish for something with a bit more weight, if only an ounce or two. So on the second rod I stuck a 14mm halibut pellet on using a bait ring.

Bang!, My first ever Barbel at 6lb, what a thrill. I was shaking like a leaf and nearly fell in the river because my legs were like jelly. A nice barbel was what I really wanted, and had hoped for, but I'd given up on anything like that. I then proceded to land another 4 barbel, all on halibut pellets with my largest coming in at just over 7 lb.

What a beautiful fish and a wonderful fight, if only I had a camera with me to capture the moment. I can't wait to get back out there!

Just thought I'd share that, I'm feeling pretty good

[ 26. August 2004, 10:03 PM: Message edited by: lardvader ]

Nice one, well done! It really is a lovely river isn't it?

It sure is Paul, the prefect setting I had in mind, set in some fantastic countryside. Just the place to get away from it all. Doesn't always pan out that you get the right setting and the right fishing go hand in hand.

Excellent result. Isn't it great when it all comes together?

Good stuff lardvader, pleased you had such a good session.

What's the situation with regards to night fishing BAA waters these days. I did hear they were going to allow it on some venues?

Lifted from the BAA website Anthony, although the booklet I got with the membership implies it's only allowed on certain stretches, but doesn't give any further details:-

NIGHT PERMITS
Night permits are available to full members (not day tickets), for certain venues at a cost of £5. Night tickets are only on sale from BAA H.Q. and must be purchased in advance.

Here's their contact details:-

John Williams - Secretary
Birmingham Anglers Association Limited
106 Icknield Port Road
Rotton Park, Birmingham
B16 0AA
Tel: 0121 454 9111
Fax: 0121 454 9717
Mobile: 07976886558
E-Mail: baajnw@btinternet.com

For personal calls we are open 9:30 - 1:30pm Monday to Friday

For many years the Teme had a very special place in my heart, but sadly I've neglected it in the last couple of seasons or so. But I do intend to get back on there one day.

When I first passed my driving test when I was 17 it was one of the places I used to visit a lot. Great memories.

Thanks lardvader, much appreciated.