Just bought some worms for the Wally Jolly...

[Aitch]

[Northern_Nomad]

You’ll regret it when the minnows keep pestering you all day

[Crucian]

Well, if that worm is indicative of the size of the gudgeon you're expecting, then it should be a very good day.

[Duckett]

Why do I get the feeling it would eat the Gonk!

Phil

[MWithell]

I've just had to throw away the dandybeanoes (or whatever they're called) I had. I assume they got too cold. They were in an unheated building so probably froze to death. I hadn't realised they'd feel the cold that much. I have a pint of maggots so let's hope that's enough to satisfy the hunger of the mighty gonks and any ronks, donks, ponks or chonks that might put in an appearance.

[Wallyboy Rob]

Half a pint will be plenty Malcolm, you don't need to loosefeed much

[MWithell]

I'll have some left, then, which will be up for grabs, as we're going away for the week on Monday so I won't be using them.

[Moley]

Hi Malcolm

Maggots and a few slices of Mothers Shame for punch are all that you need.

Two rods maximum one longer for the more open areas, few and far between, say about 10ft 6in and shorter rod 8/9ft if you have one for the frequently cramped swims.

If you've got two rods set up the longer on the waggler and the shorter with a small stick or even a castable pole float. Top and bottom though to give a different presentation as sometimes one way is wanted by the fish over the other.

If you want to pick up the bigger Gonks, fish over depth and slow everything down. Laying on works well too.

The depth, even in flood, will be only a few foot so no worries there but be on the watch for deeper holes as there be Gonks within.

Take a tape measure to ascertain your specimen Gonk size and camera, as there will be doubters.

Because of the floods many swims will contain bits of tree and other float snaring hazards so be prepared for losses. Overhanging trees are another joy so take more than one float and make sure it is not a family heirloom or you could end up pining for that lost float like young Wally Boy who still tears up at the mention of it.

Bring plenty of scran and tea, watch the dodgy element and the day will be an experience you will want to repeat.

Trust me I'm a Doctor.......

As ever,...

Moley

[Dave Burr]

I suggest a baguette rather than sliced bread for that one.

[MWithell]

Thanks for the practical advice, Moley. I have a special Wally rod I bought for the occasion - a 10.5 ft Young's of Harrow Otter - but the only shorter one apart from a fly rod is a 9 ft Sundridge leger rod which is rather stiff, and a cheap 6ft telescopic job.
I'll bring them all, plus a selection of reels.
It's ages since I've fished a river, apart from a day with Martin James in October, when I used a leger, so it will be a refresher course for me.
I assume we can expect low, clear water as there's been no rain recently. These days I'm no fan of roving so if I find a fishable spot I'm likely to park myself in it for the duration.
I don't drink tea if I can help it, but I'll bring a flask of coffee and some diabetic-friendly food.
See you at 4 am on Saturday, or more likely quite a bit later!