After a short period of 'lurking' I thought I'd do the decent thing and introduce myself.
An angler man and boy, my career started on a tributary of a tributary of the Exe in the Mid Devon village I grew up in. I coarse fished around the Exeter area with varying success between '69 and '80 before changing codes and taking up the fly rod full-time. Ultimately, I was lucky enough to have the honour of representing my country in International fly fishing matches on a few occasions.
Tiring of the hurly-burly of competitive fishing about 8 years ago, I've gradually returned to the coarse fishing fold - at least in winter- on the Thames and its tribs around my W Oxon home (only to regularly be told "You should have been here 40 years ago, mate."
....oh well....!).I still thoroughly enjoy dry fly fishing for spotties especially on running water, but the chub and roach of the Thames drainage exert quite a hold on me come November....
I've recently acquired a Milwards Floatrover and Chapmans 500, and hope to gain the knowledge to make a stab at refurb/restoring them via the kindness of the knowledgeable doyens who inhabit these (virtual) pages.
Have also shelled out on a Rapidex Speedia and my first Mitchell 300 for 45 years!
(why is it that when I turn the handle - in my head I can hear Noddy Holder in full roar!?? - Oh, the power of association!). Look forward to learning to use the pin properly as well 
Good to be here!
to the forum 
