Rivers Lambourn & Kennet, Newbury, Sunday 17th January 2010

Well what a brilliant day, not for the fish caught but for the whole fishing experience.

I started at the Lambourn Shaw stretch at about 10:00am, the river was still a bit high but a lot less coloured than yesterday underpinning the reliable nature of this venue. A Grayling was tempted first cast. I say first cast but it was actually just a dob in the water while I lit a ciggie, thereafter not much happened but the sun was out and the wind was kind so it was altogether a very nice session.

After a couple of hours I moved to the Walton Way stretch really to see how the EA are doing with the work there. Access is limited and so I couldn’t get down to the serious mud plugging but from what I did see we are in for a treat when it’s completed. Two bigger Grayling accommodated me and a couple more were bumped off so again a worthwhile visit.

After that I couldn’t resist having a look at the Northcroft sidestream. As expected levels where high with more colour than normal so I didn’t expect great results. My expectations were met with a blank BUT it was pure pleasure twirling away in balmy temperatures under a low sun and no wind just hoping that the Chub were still in residence at their February 2009 location. The tree branches on the far bank at this particular swim now dangle into the water more than last year so the current kicks out towards midstream taking your float with it. It’s almost impossible to trot really close to the slack behind the trees so in coloured conditions I doubt if the bait is even seen.

Never mind, I’m getting used to the rod and thoroughly enjoyed the session.