22/12/10 Not for the faint hearted .

It almost been a month since i've caught a pike but it's not for the want of trying.I've had four blank trips out to Ham Corner and Streatham recently, and the cold snowy weather has got the better of me-not a sniff.For some strange reason, blanking locally is not bothering me half as much as It did on the Broads.I'm still enjoying just being out there especially in the extreme weather conditions we're experiencing,but it would be nice to put something in the net.
To be realistic, the snow melt can't be helping matters as the river temperatures are extremely low, but the clarity and levels haven't been bad which Is why I'm keeping at it.If I could get them, i feel that livebaits would help.When that next pike does eventually turn up, I'm sure it'll give me a great feeling of satisfaction.
Opportunities to get out in the boat have been limited by the weather and, when it has been possible, i've been on shift.Purchasing the boat when i did, and also lacking in experience on the open sea, I expected to have little chance of fishing through this winter and it's really not a problem. However I did get the chance for another 'test run' with Jack a few days ago when we sailed over to Selsey to check out distance, fuel consumption etc.
The trip took about 50 minutes at 12 knots average and the fuel consumed was minimal-a valuable learning exercise as the fishing grounds out there are pretty good come the warmer months and worth the trip.Tweaking the boat is just about done now though I will spend Christmas and Boxing day with her tucked up in the warmth of the fire station appliance bay, whilst I programme the GPS. I'll have nothing better to do.

6/12/10 Messing About In The Boat

At the moment, patience seems to be the name of the game with my fishing. Being philosophical about it helps too.
The forecast looked good for today. Light winds from the North, and a first proper chance at some sea fishing from the boat. Plan was to head for a mark near to Black Ledge but as soon as we left the harbour the wind picked up and were forced to turn back, and resign ourselves (Andy and Me) to spending a bit of time fishing in the lee of the land about half a mile off the back of my house.We were still battered by the bitingly cold Northerly, but at least the sea state was calm.
A few bites and a proper 'run' for Andy but unfortunately nothing connected,  and another blank ensued.The only other boat out there was 'Spirit' probably fishing the Kingmere.
However, basking in the winter sun was very enjoyable, and I learnt a bit more about, and built up my confidence in handling, the boat, which performed faultlessly.A couple more trips out like this during the winter months and I should have Ironed out all the glitches, and sorted out all the switches, before the real fishing begins next spring. .....Wouldn't mind a cod in the meantime though.
One final thought- I have to laugh at myself sometimes. I've probably spent as much time today, prepping the boat, and cleaning it, and all the gear  up afterwards, as we spent with baits in the water.
It'll all be worth it in the long run.

3/12/10 Greatham in the Snow

Just had to get up the river for another crack at getting a picture of a decent pike in the snow. No pike for Dave and me, but some stunning scenery and a pleasant way to spend a morning.
Thing is, at the moment, despite the extremely low temperatures making fishing difficult,the water clarity and levels are good so we've got to take advantage and get out.If it warms up It usually means rain and the rivers will colour up , and probably flood, making fishing Impossible. Catch 22.
Even Dave admitted today that Livebaits would've probably made a difference!