I was loading my car when I heard the news about Spotted Fin closing down. My post about this is available on my website. I’m glad I’ve got about 60 kilos in the freezer. I’m going to put some thought into which direction I go next. I’ve always said I would stop all my sponsorship work and take a break. I’m turning 60 next year, and after having my heart attack, I do feel it could be time to say goodbye to social media. Between now and January, I will give it some serious thought. I still very much enjoy making videos and writing, so we’ll see.
Back to this trip
My original plan was to go via The Airfield Lake, but I wasn’t in the mood for that anymore. However, at the junction that would take me to Meadow Lake, I decided to take the Airfield Lake option. I had promised myself I would take a look, and since I was running early – why not?
I drove around to the island, which seemed like my best option given the wind direction.
The first swim didn’t appeal to me, but my favorite, not-so-secret swim, certainly looked and felt good. A carp topped right on cue, so I thought, “Let’s give it a go.”
I set up the bivvy first and then proceeded to get the tackle ready, which turned into a nightmare. I had to unload half the kit from the barrow twice to stop it tipping over. By the time I got to my swim, the air was blue.
Luckily, I know this swim very well, but I still got my marker rod out to check things, and yes, the spots were still there. I filled them in with my ever-faithful Classic Corn Boilies. What will I do when I run out?
I’m sticking to my tried-and-tested method from this spring and summer, and hopefully, it will pay off.
2001 and the right-hand rod was away and attached to a very agreeable Airfield Lake common. It behaved pretty well and came in via underneath the other rod after a quick fight under the rod tip.
10lb Common
The rod was soon back on the spot, and I’m not going to complain too much, as I haven’t blanked. I just need to improve on the size.
0634 – The right-hand rod was away again, with another classic Airfield Lake common. You can’t choose what grabs your hookbait, but something bigger would be nice, please carp gods.
10lb Common
It was a lovely morning. You could tell autumn was settling in, with plenty of dew and a chill in the air for the first time. The forecast even suggested the possibility of frost in the countryside.
The sunshine was out, accompanied by a good north-west blow on the water. Unfortunately, the air pressure is building up over the coming days.
We’ll have to see how the coming nights pan out—fingers crossed for something special.
Steve arrived around 1400, and we had a quick chat before he set up in the first island swim. I put out more bait and then popped over for another chat. I came back around 1630 and cast the rods out. We had a heavy downpour around 1800, and from then on, it felt very cold. I made my tea around 1900, which warmed up the bivvy, and soon I was in my sleeping bag, watching TV.
2053 – The right-hand rod was away again, and this time it felt better. In the margins, it wasn’t given an inch, but it finally slipped over the cord.
18lb 3oz Common
They are getting bigger.
0015 – The right-hand rod was away again, but unfortunately, halfway in, the hook popped out as it sometimes does here.
0253 – The right-hand rod was away again. This one came straight in and started to fight under the rod tip, but after 5 minutes or so, I slipped it into the waiting net.
15lb 7oz Common
I’m still hoping for a 20 or a 30. Unfortunately, not fishing this spot for a few months seems to have pushed the bigger carp away. The margin rod hasn’t produced a bite yet, and I’m thinking I might move it out into open water if that’s still the case tomorrow afternoon.
0522 – The same rod was away again. This time, the carp was on a mission to my right, searching for old weed beds. I had a few carp do this on previous trips, which usually resulted in a hook pull. I had to take things gently, especially with the water levels a good foot and a half down. I hoped that my chances were more in my favor, and as luck would have it, I guided the carp away from dangerous spots and around the overhanging trees to the right of the swim. Then I slowly played the carp out under the rod tip.
20lb 7oz Common
Perfect—a lovely-looking carp with a massive tail. No wonder it fought so well.
By the time I had everything sorted, it was close to 0600. I thought it best to try and get some sleep as you never know what might happen tonight. I was woken by the gentle vibration of my phone on the table around 0845, with my wife checking in on me (Editor’s note – he normally messages me by 7.30 am).
I’ve been thinking of moving the margin rod to open water since it’s not producing anything at the moment. I’ll give it until the afternoon before making a final decision.
A few rain showers are expected today, so I need to get my swim topped up without getting wet. Lol.
1154 – Would you believe it, I finally got a bite on the left-hand rod after considering moving it. I’ll probably just leave it there. After an extremely entertaining battle, I landed this lovely golden one.
12lb 6oz
Now, what to do? I reeled both rods in and sat chatting with Steve. I concluded I had no alternative but to stick with it. I baited both spots and flicked the rods back out, then started to prepare lunch.
1715 – The right-hand rod was off again, only for me to pick up the rod and find the carp bumping it off—just the joys of the Airfield Lake.
The rod was quickly back on the spot, and hopefully, it wouldn’t take long to go off again.
1840 – The margin rod was away with a lovely, small but stunning-looking carp. It certainly gave me a runaround and picked up the other line, causing a few issues along the way.
10lb Common
0200 – Disaster struck. I woke to flashing Delkim lights—some sort of carpy silent disco going on. I picked up the rod that was taking line, which had become entangled with the other line. I didn’t have my glasses on, and my brain was still asleep. I decided to put that rod down and gain some line, enough to put the rod back on the pod so the tip was close to the bank. I then picked up the other rod to figure out how to untangle them. This was soon sorted, and I started to gain line. I have absolutely no idea how long the rave lights had been flashing or how far the carp had gone out into the pond. It turned out the carp was probably stuck in a weed bed and had wrapped itself around a boulder. Unfortunately, despite leaving the rod on the rest for about 45 minutes and making a brew, I ended up pulling for a break—something I never like to do.
I checked my buzzer, and they were working perfectly, so I’m totally perplexed as to what happened.
That was my only action of the night, and it was now time to pack up and head home.
Until next time,
Richard
Get 10% off Deeper With Code – RICHARD10
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 