Well this is proving to be a tough years fishing for the Anglian Region. Undoubtedly not helped by the low clear river conditions, and now as the New Year starts the very unsettled cold weather. Without doubt the Nene (fish to 18lb), Lea (fish to 16lb) and Ouse (fish to 15 lb) have fished better than other rivers in the region such as the Stour, Yare and Waveney.

Further 90% of the fish seem to have come to 10% of our members. Blanks have been the norm for many … but ‘perseverance’ is the key. That said, some, understandably, have no doubt kept their captures quiet. A sign of the times with the circuses that can turn up overnight. One notable capture however, was that of Gary Johnson’s 19lb 4oz fish which has been accepted by the BS as the new river record for the Nene. Congratulations Gary.

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Three fish-ins have taken place on three different rivers. Our idea (John and Chris) was to offer members a choice around the Region. The first was on the Nene, 21st August, and is fully described by John in Barbel Fisher Issue 42. The second was on the Ouse, 15th October. Sadly, following a change in weather we only had a single Pike to show for our efforts. The third was on Kings Weir in early December but following some severe frosts again the weather was against any Barbel being put on the bank. However, members were offered a variety of venues throughout 2016, some taking advantage to fish new venues and the all-important banter between attendees made up for the lack of fish. Further, the bacon butties and tea was well received: thanks Chris. Our thanks go to both Peterborough and District and Vauxhall Angling Clubs together with their bailiffs, together with Andy Tredgett at the Kings Weir Fishery. Also to those that travelled long distances to join us whose support was and is well appreciated.

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As this newsletter goes to print John and Chris are in discussion with members in organising the close season meeting. At this point it looks like a pub meeting, on the A1, without a main guest speaker. Instead, we are opting for a number of members volunteering to speak for ten minutes each on various topics, e.g. best catch of the season, lessons learnt, new tackle and terminal rigs used, etc. This should provide for a varied presentation and offer a sound base for some good and enlightening discussion to follow.

For those interested in a real opportunity read on. Andrew Tredgett, of Kings Weir Fishery, is holding the third whole weekend Fish-In on the 11/12 March 2017. This is an opportunity to fish both the Weir and the Members section of the river, through the whole night. An opportunity not normally available to anyone. Normally BS members have to be off the fishery at 8pm, syndicate 10pm. At the last weekender Barbel from 3oz to 16lb 12oz were banked, supported by quality tench, bream, roach and dace. The primary aim is to raise funds for the stock tank project, to which end their will be the now traditional raffle and BBQ together with the entry fee. The fingerlings are really putting on some weight now and it has been a joy to watch them grow. Usually the local curry house also plays a leading role. If you are interested contact Andy at Kings Weir direct. But don’t dally, numbers are limited.

Whilst vaguely on the subject of R&C the EA have been active. Their latest support has seen a stocking on the Nene, in five locations, of 2,500 one to two year old Barbel. This can only enhance the future of the Nene as an even better Barbel fishery than it is today.

Well that’s almost it for 2016.

We cannot, and both feel we should not close, without mentioning the sad, and early, loss of Tony Miles in December. A loyal supporter of both the Barbel Society and the Anglian Region the Ouse meant something really special to Tony. It is without doubt that many, both BS, region members and locals alike and many others will miss him on our banks. We can however, assure his wife and family that he will never be forgotten.

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So welcome to 2017. We look forward to seeing you all at the Barbel Society Show on 3rd and 4th June and on the bank in 2017. A happy new year to you all and tight lines,

John Newman and Chris Jones
Anglian Regional Organisers