At last at last, the trout season is upon us - and - after last year when I missed the entire shebang - I rejoice with all my heart....................well, the portion of my old myogenic pump that is left available for such, after similar jubilation for the start of the salmon season two weeks ago! The difference between the two occasions of course is that the amount of trout fishing in March that is available and worthwhile is legion and the amount of opportunities to catch a March salmon, at least here in Somerset, very limited. But all the same, I habitually celebrate both with gusto.
My first day this year was, unsurprisingly, arranged months ago. Clatworthy and it's 130 odd acres played host to my efforts on a beautiful sunny but cold and blustery day. A boat was cast-off and my little electric motor took myself and my fishing partner for the day across a rippled lake with every bit of power that its 54lb of thrust could summon. It took a while.
It was a wonderful day. We caught a few fish on lures and buzzers fished on slow sinking and floating lines, we lost a couple too, but laughed a lot and generally had a great time. Clatworthy is great. It has a lovely glass fronted lodge where sandwiches can be munched upon and tales exchanged with other anglers and a fleet of boats that feel very sturdy and safe. The scenery is fantastic, the level at the moment good and the fish fighting fit. I can thoroughly recommend the place.
So all straining upon the start has ceased and the game's afoot! Follow your spirit and upon this charge cry 'God for Harry! England! and St. George' ...............or don't bother with all that and just go fishing.
Here are some pics.
