In 1997, I moved to Hampshire from Suffolk, I’m certainly an avid carp angler and embarked on a year filled with exciting carp fishing adventures. As an experienced angler, Richard had honed his skills over the years and was ready to tackle new challenges and explore different venues in pursuit of his passion for carp fishing.
One of the standout features of my carp fishing journey in 2010 was his commitment to exploration. He ventured into various waters, from picturesque lakes to serene rivers, seeking out new and uncharted fishing spots. Each location presented unique opportunities and required different strategies, keeping me engaged and challenged throughout the years.
One of the highlights of his 2014 carp fishing escapades was his discovery of lesser-known lakes and hidden gems. my passion for exploration led him to some remote and tranquil waters, where he could enjoy the peace and solitude of the natural world. These off-the-beaten-path locations allowed him to connect with nature on a deeper level and provided him with a sense of serenity that only such secluded spots could offer.
In his pursuit of carp fishing excellence, I continued to refine his angling techniques and gear. He constantly updated his tackle box with the latest advancements in carp fishing equipment, ensuring that he was well-prepared for any situation he might encounter on the water. Whether it was experimenting with new rigs, bait formulations, or innovative tackle, I was committed to staying at the forefront of carp angling technology.
Throughout the years, I was also dedicated to conservation and responsible angling. He upheld catch and release practices, ensuring the carp he caught were returned to the water unharmed. His commitment to preserving the health of the fish populations and their natural habitats was an essential part of his angling philosophy.
my angling adventures were not just about catching carp. They were a journey of self-discovery, patience, and resilience. Carp fishing demanded unwavering dedication and an ability to adapt to changing conditions. my determination to learn from every session, whether successful or not, allowed him to grow as an angler and deepen his understanding of these elusive creatures.
As the seasons changed, so did the challenges faced. From the cold, early months of the year to the scorching summer days, he adapted his strategies and gear to meet the demands of the weather and the carp’s behavior. It was a constant learning process, one that enriched his carp fishing experiences over the years.
But my angling journey was not without its share of memorable catches. In the quiet moments of dawn and dusk, he connected with the carp, landing impressive specimens that showcased the rewards of his dedication and skill. These triumphant moments were a testament to his love for carp fishing and the fulfillment it brought him.
Beyond the pursuit of the biggest and most elusive carp, my angling story was about camaraderie. He often shared his adventures with fellow anglers, strengthening the bonds of friendship forged on the water. The exchange of stories, techniques, and the thrill of a fellow angler’s success added an extra layer of enjoyment to his carp fishing endeavors.
In summary, my carp fishing journey over the past 27 years in Hampshire was a few years filled with exploration, learning, and unforgettable moments. It showcased his unwavering commitment to responsible angling, his passion for connecting with nature, and his continual quest for self-improvement as an angler. As the year came to a close, he looked forward to new challenges and experiences in the ever-evolving world of carp fishing.
I’ve nearly been here longer than I was in Suffolk, I do prefer this part of England, less bring on the next few years.
Richard
I would like to give a brief snap shot of my life and introduce myself;
My name is Richard Handel and was born in 1965 in Suffolk. I have worked as a UK Operation & Intermodule Manager for a shipping company. I live in Hampshire now and am married with 2 young children, both girls so I am a bit outnumbered even the cat is a girl!
I have been fishing since I was about 7 years old. I started on small local rivers in Suffolk, then moved onto gravel pits and then carp fishing. My personal best is a 39.08 mirror, over recent years I have started river fishing again, on the Hampshire Avon, this is a nice break from the carp lakes.
My life has turned a big corner this year, the company I was working for relocated their Operation centre to Estonia. I was offered a job at the head office in London. This would have meant a 5 day commute and working in Stratford. As a family, we did not fancy this, as I would hardly spend any time with the children (and the Mrs). So after 22.5 years, I was given a nice redundancy package and with my wife is working full time. I became the house husband.
This has meant a complete turn around in my fishing, as I can pick and choose when I go. I have found a splendid new syndicate to fish this year, which includes 5 lakes and some 8 miles of river with only 150 members. It's an amazing change to the way I am able to fish.
I am now trying to start my own tackle business and make a bit of a name for myself in the world of fishing, as I have retired from real work.
Richard
One of the highlights of his 2014 carp fishing escapades was his discovery of lesser-known lakes and hidden gems. my passion for exploration led him to some remote and tranquil waters, where he could enjoy the peace and solitude of the natural world. These off-the-beaten-path locations allowed him to connect with nature on a deeper level and provided him with a sense of serenity that only such secluded spots could offer.
In his pursuit of carp fishing excellence, I continued to refine his angling techniques and gear. He constantly updated his tackle box with the latest advancements in carp fishing equipment, ensuring that he was well-prepared for any situation he might encounter on the water. Whether it was experimenting with new rigs, bait formulations, or innovative tackle, I was committed to staying at the forefront of carp angling technology.
Throughout the years, I was also dedicated to conservation and responsible angling. He upheld catch and release practices, ensuring the carp he caught were returned to the water unharmed. His commitment to preserving the health of the fish populations and their natural habitats was an essential part of his angling philosophy.
my angling adventures were not just about catching carp. They were a journey of self-discovery, patience, and resilience. Carp fishing demanded unwavering dedication and an ability to adapt to changing conditions. my determination to learn from every session, whether successful or not, allowed him to grow as an angler and deepen his understanding of these elusive creatures.
As the seasons changed, so did the challenges faced. From the cold, early months of the year to the scorching summer days, he adapted his strategies and gear to meet the demands of the weather and the carp’s behavior. It was a constant learning process, one that enriched his carp fishing experiences over the years.
But my angling journey was not without its share of memorable catches. In the quiet moments of dawn and dusk, he connected with the carp, landing impressive specimens that showcased the rewards of his dedication and skill. These triumphant moments were a testament to his love for carp fishing and the fulfillment it brought him.
Beyond the pursuit of the biggest and most elusive carp, my angling story was about camaraderie. He often shared his adventures with fellow anglers, strengthening the bonds of friendship forged on the water. The exchange of stories, techniques, and the thrill of a fellow angler’s success added an extra layer of enjoyment to his carp fishing endeavors.
In summary, my carp fishing journey over the past 27 years in Hampshire was a few years filled with exploration, learning, and unforgettable moments. It showcased his unwavering commitment to responsible angling, his passion for connecting with nature, and his continual quest for self-improvement as an angler. As the year came to a close, he looked forward to new challenges and experiences in the ever-evolving world of carp fishing.
I’ve nearly been here longer than I was in Suffolk, I do prefer this part of England, less bring on the next few years.
Richard
UK Carp & Coarse Fishing 