BRPS

who is going to be / has been appointed the UK distributor for Normark Rods.. I've been told by Masterline that they cannot honour the 10 year guarantee because they ceased distribution of Normark / Rapalla approx. 3 months ago.. Shimano are the new Rapalla distributor but they're highly unlikely to be distributing Normark rods as well!. Can anyone help please?????????????

To be honest I haven't fished it so far this season. However , in recent seasons there's been something of a revival of the roach shoals in the Thames.

I've found that Geranium oil works very well when added to maggots for Thames roach. As with any essential oil you need to use it most sparingly.

I experienced the same problem myself. Used to be able to buy longish lengths of silicone rubber in various diameters which could be cut into the desired length. Seems that the unpopularity of river float fishing has destroyed the market for these. However , I have found that Preston Innovations sell a pack of silicone float rubbers for bigger floats that is just the ticket. Expect to pay £1.20 per pack.

Don't be a cheapskate, buy a hooktyer , they're only a few quid. They make tieing spade ends a doddle..

In my opinion he's nothing more than a cheat and a thief , simple as....

Having experienced a similar problem myself I found the solution was to spread my shotting pattern out " shirt button style " . I seldom use shot larger than a no.6 prefering to group them in two's or three's nearest to the float , then singles , then no.8's ..... On occassion , it's neccessary to hold back hard but be prepared for the float to bury the second you release it to the flow.

I am priveledged to own some in size 16 and smaller. Not sure if they're still manufactured. Try a search of the net..

A beautiful reel indeed. Will only get better wiyh age. Wish I had one..

If money is no object you'll not beat the G Hard barbless hooks by Gamakatsu . For the guage of wire they're phenominally strong , but bloody expensive..

Congratulations , you've certainly been more successful than me. So far , I've fished both the Hampshire Avon and Thames , trotting a selection of baits , but , the rivers seem strangely out of sorts... Could someone please let me know from whom I can order one of the excellent AN centre pins ( in black of course ).

where I might be able to source some of these excellent hooks in spade end configuration. I was fortunate enough to locate a small supply several years ago but not seen them in any tackle shop since. The closest design to them that I have found are the Owner brand ( another Japanese company ). Thanks...

Trotting the stream. Bossing the float.

It's called a levapiombo ( sic ) . Great little gadget.

Eaglet, give Harefield Tackle a ring they are very helpfull.

Last week I had the misfortune to snap the top 6" from my Normark Titan 3000 float rod ( my fault entirely, the line had wrapped around the blank whilst landing a brown trout of approx. 3.5lbs weight , only for the bugger to escape succeeded by a load crack..) Given that Normark rods carry a 10 year guarantee I duly phoned Masterline and was invited to send the rod to them for a replacement top joint. Today I was in the east midlands on business and decided to use the opportunity to return the rod personally. I must say that the reception I received was first class, no quibble or problems whatsoever. Unfortunately, they were unable to provide a replacement top joint due to the age of the rod. However, I was given free of any charge a new Normark Titan 11 13/14' in lieu. Fabulous service, well done Masterline..

An excellent piece of kit for the style of fishing you describe. Go for it.

where I can obtain these hooks. Some years ago I purchased a quantity of various sizes all in spade end configuration. They are the best hooks that I've ever used. I've tried an internet search but drawn a blank. Perhaps one of you chaps knows of a tackle shop that has some... Thanks..

I too have heard that Wilson can be a most obnoxious character . A good friend of mine had the misfortune to be in the same party as him fishing in Africa for vundu catfish. Boy was Wilson **** off when he was comprehensively outfished . Had a face like a smacked arse all week long.. Unsuprisingly, it's commonplace for the venues he fishes when recording to be prebaited for several days before filming. It's small wonder his catches are so good..

Mike, go for the Normark Titan ( or the slightly beefier Avenger from Tacklebargains ). They're absolutely superb rods and you'll never regret spendind the extra dosh. As with all things in life top quality costs a little more. Personally, I wouldn't touch Shimano because several mates have had bad experiences with them ( joints snapping unexpectedly ). Oh, by the way the titan extension takes it from 13' to 15' without compromising it's balance. Beautiful rods...

I wholeheartedly agree Tony. Paid over £300 for mine but it's so good I don't begrudge a single penny. At £199 they're an absolute steal!.

That should do an admirable job..

How old are your waders?. You might be able to get a replacement pair if the leak is as a result of a manufacturing fault. If not, acquaseal is as good as any product to repair them with.

I am fortunate to own several Normark rods and can verify that they are well worth every penny that I paid for them. Superb pieces of kit that I hope will last me a lifetime.

I had the misfortune to snap the tip off of my stick float rod . Since it's several years old the manufacturer's , Daiwa, no longer stock replacement sections. In it's day it was their top of the range amorphous version and is/was a delight to fish with. Can anyone recommend an experienced rod repairer worth his salt who would be able to splice a new tip into the rod??.