I rang the changes and tried a different NAA lake for a change, mainly as Dobsons has many more bankside trees and vegetation to provide shade on what threatened to be a hot day. Another benefit is the ability to fish with two rods (it's one only at my usual Willows and Alders), meaning I could toss a method feeder out to my right, and float fish near the overhanging willow to my right.

I opted for the shallower end (my swim was around 8ft deep one rod length out,  anticipated fewer bites and was not disappointed! The only morning action came after I'd fluked a method feeder cast inches away from the defunct swim position by the opposite bank. Within seconds the rod was almost pulled into the water and whatever it was, turned the afterburners on full. In a few seconds it was gone, the 4-inch 10lb method link snapping below the loop. I'd tested it earlier and was annoyed as well as shaking. I feel I have been let down a few times by commercially-purchased hook lengths in this way. I don't really want to go up any higher in thickness - let me know if you any ideas? Turns out it was the only touch on the method all day.

Finally, bites started to come in on the float. Sweetcorn accounted for a lovely 5lb 4 tench and then three sparkling roach, around the 6 to 8 ounce mark.

Yes, Alders or Willows would probably resulted in more fish, but it was great fun and those few hours of shade in a more natural-looking environment was much appreciated.