R.I.P. John Darling

[jklangshaw]

I was lucky enough to both fish and shoot with John. I have just returned from abroad after a wonderful fishing vacation...but it's spoiled now.

 

I lost touch with him a while ago and meant to make contact again....should have tried harder.

 

My condolences to his family.

 

We have lost a good friend and advocate of the sport.

[Seahog]

So sad, extremely well thought of, and much missed.

[Smart]

Only found out about J.D whilst reading the letters page in Sea Angler this month - missed it in March edition. Being 42 yrs young, I remember avidly looking forward to his articles in sea angler and angling times as a fifteen year old - no other angling writer has ever got close in my opinion. I still have some old articles he wrote, and never tire of reading them. I never knew him, but was lucky enough to meet and speak to him for a few hours before he gave a talk on bass fishing, at the AGM of the B.A.S.S several years back. Meeting your 'hero' is often disappointing, but not with J.D - he exceeded my expectations. His laid back style, quality slides and enormous knowledge of the subject were a dream come true. A room full of the countries leading Bass anglers (not me included), hung on every word - a truly humbling experience. I have joined this site purely to get this off my chest - my condolences to his family and friends - a true great.

[Newt]

Smart - welcome and now that you are here, join in the discussions.

[Elton]

Smart,

 

In all the years I've run this site, I don't think I've ever seen a nicer first post.

 

Welcome.

 

Elton

[Alan Taylor]

Smart, I hope you hang around, we could do with a few more with your attitude.

 

Alan(nl)

[Cerberus]

Hi All,

 

I too am new in here. Some of you may already know me though.

 

To be frank, I had never heard of John Darling but but that is my great loss. However, to read so many touching tributes to him, I feel that the fishing world will be at a loss to find another like him.

 

My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.