In the current lull of activities, with uncertain plans ahead due to the ongoing tooth issues, I found myself sifting through numerous fishing photos posted on Instagram and Facebook. Rather than dwelling on future plans, which remain uncertain in these unpredictable times, I decided to embark on a nostalgic journey, breaking down my fishing adventures of the past 40-odd years.

As I delved into this retrospective, I uncovered a treasure trove of memories. However, to my dismay, I realized that a significant portion of my carp captures had been lost or misplaced over the years. Undeterred, I began recounting my angling escapades, starting with the very first carp I ever landed.

“In the Beginning”: This carp marked the beginning of my fishing journey. Ill-equipped and enthusiastic, I hooked a few carp before but struggled to land them successfully. Back then, any catch was a victory, and I fondly recall a day when I also hooked a nice pike. From fishing the nearby river on a pushbike to spending nights on lakes, my passion for angling has been unwavering since 1981.

“Then I moved on to Weybread Middle Pit for a year or two” and other chapters: The narrative continued with tales from various lakes like Barham Pits and Weybread. Each chapter unfolded a different facet of my fishing odyssey, capturing the essence of different locations and the unique challenges they presented.

“My Old Setups and How Far We Have Moved On Since the 80s”: The story took a humorous turn as I reminisced about outdated fishing gear and setups. From wave lock brollies to wooden bivvy tables and primitive bedchairs, the evolution of fishing equipment over the years became a source of amusement.

“And My Up to Date Setup”: Transitioning to the present day, I shared glimpses of my modern fishing setup, complete with an Aqua M3 Compact, Fox flatline bedchair, and a 5-season sleeping bag. Reflecting on the advancements, I expressed appreciation for the improved comfort and technology in contemporary angling.

“Then I Moved Down to the Southampton Area”: The narrative shifted to my experiences in the Southampton area, showcasing captures from lakes like Nutsey, Embley, Awbridge, Broadlands, Hatchets Pond, Butlocks, Peewit, Rookesbury, and more.

“The Ressy” and Other Pictorial Stories: Capturing moments from the Ressy, Petersfield Heath Lake, Sinah Warren, Westhampnet Lake, and Ringwood syndicate, I painted a vivid picture of diverse fishing environments, each with its own challenges and joys.

“Until Next Time”: In closing, I reflected on the cyclical nature of my fishing journey, expressing contentment with my current state of angling happiness. Despite the ups and downs, I emphasized the joy of being on the bank, catching carp, and relishing the fresh air—a sentiment especially poignant in the present times.

As I signed off with “Until Next Time, Richard,” the storytelling journey through 40 years of fishing adventures came to a satisfying conclusion.

until next time

Richard