The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Let us not forget to raise a mug, cup or glass to the late great Bernard Venables at some stage to-day.

Bernard would have been 110.

Perhaps a new flag at the top of the page Mark rather than the old Pete Thomas one?

Yes indeed Shaun, a toast to Bernard tonight.

That picture becomes ever more poignant as the years go by.

Thank-you Bernard




This book still gives me goosebumps after over 50 years. It's like a portal to my childhood. And let's face it ....that landing net has become an icon.

And who doesn't remember this drawing?




Or this?

\\\I hope Bernard would cock a wry smile at this adaption. It certainly demonstrates what the sport has unfortunately become.

Mr Crabtree Goes Fishing and a rather large single malt on standby for this evening.

Only the finest single malt will do this evening......Thank you Bernard for the inspiration, the wonderful prose and the artwork which draws you in to the point where you imagine you are there....

Rather surprised myself at the number of faces I recognise in that picture. I don't usually on a school night, but I may drag the wife around the local to toast BV. At 37 he's not really of my time, but he is certainly a feature of my timeline now, thanks mainly to APFA and the TFF.

A glass will be raised this evening.