Last day session of the week, and this one was always going to be more about the company than the carp. I was meeting Ian for a social, so I set up on the south bank — a good, versatile stretch that gives us options. We could either spread out and cover more water or fish side by side and put the world to rights.

Realistically, I wasn’t sure what our chances would be. The two areas I’d caught from yesterday were now occupied by the night anglers. Like them, I suspected the open water might be hard going. The sunshine was back again, though, and that always adds a layer of optimism.

I started by fishing over the dead pads — a classic early-season holding area. Historically, they love it in there at this time of year. That said, I haven’t seen much activity in that zone recently. My gut tells me their current sanctuary is the huge fallen tree in the water nearby — a proper safe haven and exactly where you’d expect them to gravitate.

Tactically, I stayed consistent with yesterday’s approach: small PVA bags and tidy presentations. The only addition was a light scattering of Jurassic Particles via a small Spomb, just enough to create interest without overcommitting. All three rods were positioned in open water. Search and respond. they were also all on the Orange Blank Savers now.

08:45 hrs — Ian arrived and set up next door. Perfect. Rods out, chairs close, coffee on.

We soon spotted a couple of carp show within range, which lifted confidence considerably. Seeing is everything. But as the hours ticked by and 14:00 approached without so much as a liner, doubts inevitably crept in.

Then it happened.

The middle rod suddenly rattled into life and pulled round properly. A positive take, no hesitation. After a steady fight in clear water, a lovely common slipped over the net cord.

18lb Common

That one felt earned.

The rest of the afternoon was spent exactly as planned — chatting, laughing, drinking coffee in the sunshine. A proper social session. One bite between us, but it hardly mattered.

Ian’s already counting down the weeks until Airfield Lake reopens. There’s definite anticipation building. I’ll be joining him toward the end of March once Meadow Lake closes for the season. No doubt I’ll squeeze in a couple more nights on the club water before then.

Next week, it’s back to overnighters — normal service resumed.

Until next time,

Richard

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