On Sunday 6th June 2010, the Norfolk Anglers Conservation Association (NACA) hosted its annual Open Day at Bawburgh Lakes Fishery near Norwich. Despite a forecast of heavy rain, over 460 visitors attended the event before a thunderstorm at 4.00 pm curtailed activities.
From 10.00 a.m. licensed angling coaches and helpers delivered 107 half-hour coaching sessions on Seamons and Finger Lakes, 43 of these were to children under 12 years of age, which included 13 females and 22 aged between 12 – 17 years of which 4 were females. The fish were not very co-operative this year however roach, rudd and some perch were caught. One specimen tench of 7lbs 8oz was caught from Finger Lake by young Jack Petley on a 3m whip.
NACA members and friends provided tuition and guidance on Bawburgh Lake in the finer points of carp and tench fishing. Whilst, alongside, members from the local Norwich Pike Anglers Club and PAC of Gt. Britain gave lessons on the safe handling of pike and on pike fishing techniques. The ever keen Terry Houseago was on hand to help improve the long distance casting for some.
Pond dipping under the watchful eye of Mark Porter was again extremely popular with junior visitors who were able to examine some of their smaller netted specimens under the microscope in the Environment Agency marquee. Alongside, Mike Smith and friends showed how to make artificial imitations of the larvae and specimens found as well as giving hands on fly casting tuition.
NACA also provided a workshop for children to make bird boxes for the fishery with an option to take them home if you wished. Over 40 bird boxes were assembled on the day.Bait for the coaches was sponsored by Angling Direct and Sensas ground baits.
The Environment Agency was the main sponsor of the event and provided support on the day with a fish tank and pond dipping.
The day drew to a close with the raffle, many prizes for which were donated by supporting business and tackle companies, to whom NACA are grateful.
The Association would also like to say a big thank you to the demonstrators, coaches and volunteers for all their hard work.
A FEW PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE DAY
