Boarhunt Bridge was the stretch of river but very nearly wasn't as two other cars were in the lay by, meaning the river could be crowded. Parking up Fatty ran through the options and decided if he could get hold of the swim he had in mind then all would be well, if not a move was on the cards.
Frabjous joy, the swim was not occupied, so tackle was fetched and set up. Today's rod was a Wallington Greenheart made by Old Rod paired with a Homer's Flick'em, small Waggler, 3lb Maxima and punched bread.
First cast a nice roach of about 10oz dropped by followed by half a dozen of his mates. Bites dried up with the cause making itself evident:
Two marauders in quick succession. They put up a splendid fight disturbing the swim spectacularly.
It was at this juncture that a Wally resident came a lurking in the undergrowth....non other than young Wallyboy Rob checking who was singing badly on his river. One look at the short fat fisherman told him all there was to know. He stayed about half an hour listening and relating tales of derring do of a piscine nature.....you know the usual drivel when two anglers meet. The talk quite put Fatty off his ability to catch as all the fish whilst Rob was there all fell off apart from a few small roach. Fortunately a new PADAS member sort out Robs advice on the river....none better if truth be told as he has encyclopedic knowledge of every stretch and swim on the Wallington.
Whilst Rob was away a few more roach made their presence known as did a ravenous hoard of minnows. If they move in, the angler is left with few choices. Either move on, change bait or plow through the little blighters.
Indecision, what to do?
It was at this juncture Rob returned offering his surplus maggots as he was off home as WallyRoy was giving him a lift. Talk about manna from heaven. After he had gone the location of a Gonk Nest revealed itself. So many threw themselves on the hook......
A sample of the quality Gonks on offer from the Wallington
The rain stopped play. On the way home Fatty stopped at the chippy in Wickham for a marvelous fish and chip nosebag.
Matron
was in a good mood especially at the sight of her Staff Car returning in one piece and two well wrapped portions of cod and chips.Serendipity.
As ever,...
Moley
