
Q: I recently bought a lure called a sling jig. I plan to use it off the pier at the ocean.It weighs 2 oz. and what in your opinion would be the best way (and alternative ways) to fish this lure? The salesman said to cast, let it sink to the bottom, then rip it up and let it sink again taking up the slack while it is sinking. I would like your thoughts. Thanks!!
From: Steve Thatcher
A: This lure can be used as a jig lure, especaily of a boat or as you say a pier with deep water, cast and let it hit the bottom then wind a bit then let it drop again, repeat till it reaches the surface can be very effective, or by casting away from you with a method we call sink and draw, basicaly wind again then stop then again repeat this until back to the rod and best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hello andy can you help me please?
I have got some pebbles and i wish to drill them and put swivels in,to fish a very snaggy section of the local River Severn.Is this possible,as i loose many ledgers and have been advised to do this,but not sure what drill to use
From: alan mckee
A: Hi i would personaly try a masonary drill, ask your local harware store for best option.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I am going to the coast of South Carolina and plan to do some pier fishing. I am a die hard crankbait person when it comes to bass. What crankbaits would you reccomend to be used from a pier? I am just fishing for anything that wants to bite! What is your opinion of using a Rapala Original Floating Minnow in saltwater? Thanks for your time.
From: Steve Thatcher
A: Rapala Original will work very well as will a lure called waterdog, plus the Shakespear little and big S also have a look at the Luhr Jenson range of lures they have some superb bass lures.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: are barbed hooks illegal to use in uk.
From: paul
A: No barbed hooks are not illegal in the UK, but many independant fisherys and clubs ban the use of them, so best to check when fishing any water in the UK
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: No question-just a statement. I want to thank for not only answering my question, but doing in such a PROMPT way!!! THANK YOU!
From: Steve Thatcher
A: You are very welcome, all part of the service, tight lines.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Is cheese a good carp bait?
Can I use either a drop shot or carolina rig for carp-Which is better??
From: Steve Thatcher
A: Yes cheese is a very good traditional bait which many carp anglers neglect and drop shot would be better.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy,
Can you stil supply croc lures etc as when you advertised on videos. I lost the last one recently and am looking for more
From: Pete Wilson
A: Hi Pete,
Sadly am no longer in the tackle trade and no one else in uk supplying them, they are made bu Luhr Jennson and you could by them on line via the Bass Pro shop in the states best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: what is a waggler, and how is it used
From: peter
A: A waggler is a float that is normally used on still water like lakes and canals and normally has a small bulb shape on the bottom of th float and the line is attached only at the base with 2 pieces of shot and makes is sensative to bites and for coarse fishing,
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: thanks but i meant could you use a feeder rod instead of float rod for float fishing near margins if so which tip would you use viz heaviest? thanks
have a short feeder rod all my wagglers are 13ft
From: jack brisco
A: Yes you can but not ideal and tip size depends on size of fish you after, but if you flaot fishing still use your 13ft and just sit back a little further from the margin.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can you use a feeder for float fishing near margins if so what tipviz. heaviest?
From: jackbrisco
A: Sort of un-conventional and would have to be a big float to take the weight and if fishing the margins negates it somewhat as you can loose feed next to the float, personaly would use either or.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy Thanks for your reply. Are there any other clear water spate rivers in this area I could possibly look to fish? I currently have syndicate fishing on two north east rivers, however I am
always fishing blind for Salmon & really like the idea of targeting individual fish as you demonstrated. I would be prepared to join a syndicate if required. Many Thanks Phil
From: Phil
A: Hi Phil,
Not so sure exactly which area you in the North East covers a big
area and I know the Tyne and Wear has now good runs of Salmon and Seatrout,
but as yet never fished them, my fishing is in the Lake District in Wasdale
on the river Irt and on the river Duddon and Crake and sadly no syndicates
but there are day ticket waters and weekly tickets available on the river
Irt, I do offer a guiding service but obviously on the rivers I fish and
possibly others, if you would like to contact my contact details are as
below and look forward to hearing.
For Further details
Contact Andy Nicholson M.D and Chief Editor
01948 871282 or 01948 871392
Mobile 07855 418881
E-Mail andy@anglingnews.net
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: how do you get the spool off a d.a.m.cte 135 reel
From: Keith Stockton
A: Hi Keith,
Its a bit of a fiddle, first take the cover off, then hold the handle and press down on cover of spool and twist hard clockwise, then still holding the handle, bat it hard with your fingers again clockwise and should spin of so you can access the spool and reverse operation for returning the spool.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I was thinking of goin to loch lubhair or dochart
Fishing with the maggot and worm on the bottom
Just to see if anyone knows much about
These two lochs thanx
From: peter donnelly
A: Yes good methods on those lochs would fish those baits with a feeder and a good time of the year.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: what tackle should i take on holiday to goa [river fishing]
From: dave lawson
A: Not so sure what rivers near to Goa, as it is a costal resort, please contact my India reporter Misty Dhilion who will let you know more infor from the ground.
mahseer.info@lycos.com
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: best way to fit drennan olivette (not in line type)?
thanks
From: dave
A: Would suggest useing the thin plastic sleeves.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy
Thanks for the info on Wastwater. The National Trust I believe allows canoes and such on the lake by arrangement and I'm sure I saw somewhere on a website that the canoests were allowed to fish from their craft. I wish I'd made a note of the website but because I'd been trying to find out about fishing the little note stuck in my memory. Incidently the Lingmell Beck seems to dry up in summer but there are pools which contain small fish I've seen them and the river is still flowing below the gravel in between which seemed odd. I have seen a heron fishing in the Mosedale beck, unfortunately he was very camera shy. The Mosedale beck never seems to run dry. I spotted small trout rising in the pool under the bridge at the back of the Wasdale Head Inn beer garden. The guy who runs the WasdaleWeb Website told me that the lake also has the odd rainbow trout though where they came from if true I don't know. I found out from the Ecology and Hydrology Centre at Lancaster that they are reviewing fish stocks this coming year.
Best regards
Bob Ferguson
From: Bob Ferguson
A: Hi Again Bob,
Have never actually spotted fishing from canoes, and not sure what stance the N.T take on this, however words of caution, Wastwater can whip up in an instance from flat calm to high waves and safety first. Re the becks you mention, yes they are spawning areas and it is likely that the fish you have seen are in fact salmon or sea trout Parr, have been present when E.A bailiffs have done electro fishing to identify how many parr and what they are and in all my years have never encountered or seen a rainbow, there are no fish farms within the system, it is un-likley, there is a specie of lake trout that could be mistaken for a rainbow.
The last major fish stocks survey that took place was back in 1964 undertook by Charlotte and Kippling instigated by the fisheries department at Windermere and lead by Fred Buller.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Is there any fish or fishing in Wastwater? I've been facinated by this lake during recent climbing trips to Wasdale. A diver friend says it's virtually empty of fish yet the incoming becks contain small trout I know I've seen them. Diving websites confirm my diver friends info. An old National Trust hand book from the 1970's lists trout, charr, salmon, sea trout plus pike and perch.
From: Bob Ferguson
A: You have asked the right man on this one, I knew this lake like the back of my hand and have been one of the very few anglers to have fished it over the last 30 years, as I own beats on the river Irt, which flows out of Wastwater, I have fished and holidayed in these parts for the last 51 years. Very little is written about Wastwater, fishing wise, if anything and the National Trust who own it openly discourage angling, but cant stop you of the bank, it is free fishing, there is no pike nor perch in the lake, only resident Char that are very small, lake trout, brown trout and Ferrox, I have caught them to 9lbs. Salmon and Sea Trout do run up the river to the lake, then up certain stream running into the lake to spawn, from around late May, but very difficult to catch, as yet due to the clarity of the lake I have failed to catch sea trout, as they are very wary and you need to fish Irish Loch style drift fly fishing from a boat in extremely rough weather. Boats are not allowed to be launched nor used on Wastwater, so you are restricted to the bank. For a period of ten years I was allowed a boat on the Wastwater as an experiment, where I caught many char, Salmon and the various species of trout, but thousands of hours were expended exploring and working it out. For bank fishing a good spot is where the island is near to the road, float fished worm or spinning small mepps and the other good spots are where the various streams enter the lake including the three at the top of the lake and worm fishing ledgered can also work and you can catch some big eels. For a chance of a Salmon you need to fish a copper/brass small 2 inch spoon dulled down along the scree side a long walk and hard going. The lake is far from empty of fish, again due to the clarity divers scare the fish away, best of luck and please let me know how you get on.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy thanks for for the reply mate. Got another Q for u. Going fly fishing at loch lubhair do u know any good spots and what flies work well cheers gavin.
From: Gavin hughes
A: Again this loch is fished best from a boat and on the drift and fly’s very much depend on the time of the year early on the duck fly then the may fly turning to stickleback fry flies later on in the year, but as stressed earlier, gaining local knowledge is paramount when either fishing a new method of a new loch. Even if you just talk to other anglers on the bank or getting ready to go out in boats.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy great site mate. I fish at loch earn alot and use swimfeeders with maggot and recently started to use open end feeders. could u suggest any rigs or tips for the above for catching trout. cheers
From: gavin hughes
A: Fishing for Trout on Loch Earne, a very different prospect that coarsew fishing with feeders, trout are preditors and eat flys, one way would be to try spinning from the shore with small mepps, or even float fishing with a worm and they will take a maggot, but by far the best way would be fly fishing from a boat, try and ask in ther local tackle shop and as see if you can tye up with anglers that fish this method on the Loch and am sure will give you some good advice.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy, i am quite new to fishing, my problem is when am feeder fishing on my local pond there is no bite indication on the quiver tip but when i rel in the maggots have been sucked to bits. hope you can help, many thanks
From: rob archer
A: Hi i think your problem can be solved by using the finest quiver tip you can buy and scaling down to finner line, smaller hook and using say a single maggot, with a smaller swimfeeder and make sure that the line is tight with a slight bend in the quiver tip.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: How do you change a spool on aDAM CTE135 its turning but not coming off
From: m muddiman
A: From memory this is a closed faced reel? if so hold the handle and tap the spool hard in opposite direction and then should come free and spin off.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: what is the best sort of line to use for tying hook lengthe.
p.s i pole fish cheers dave
From: dave
A: Obviously depends on the size of fish you are going for, but i prefer clear lines, like stren berkly and dernnan make a good clear line in all the right sizes.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: What are drop offs when used in conjunction with rod-pods
Thanks
From: Dave
A: Drop offs could mean two things the drop off where you cast to where the lake sunndenly gets deeper the shelf, or the indicators that are attached to your rod pod and when you get a bite or a take the indicator drops off the line.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hello there
i have just purchased a shakespeare polestar 204o with top 2 power tops and top 3 match kits.I am not sure how to elasticate the top 3s should i elasticate the 3 sections as telescopic or just the 2 sections and leave the 3rd section as take apart
From: alan mckee
A: I would personally eleasticate top 3 sections and keep as telescopic asnd if you bought from a dealer take it in andam sure they will assist you in getting all the right parts and fitting.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hello andy,what is your favourite sea trout fly
From: william walker
A: I have several, for varying conditions and times of the year, however my top two are tube flys, that have a silver body wraped with black and a thin black hackle and a single fly, with a gold body wrapped with orange and a hot orange hackle.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I think i have invented a new spinner(lure).Where or who can i ask for help on the idea i have.What i have in mind should be a hit.
From: Steven Bentham
A: To Patent an invention is really expensive, your best bet would be to approach a lure maker and ask them before showing your lure to sign a confidential agreement to protect yourself. Harris Lure in the UK may be interested but they are suppliers not makers and most makers of lures are from abroad, however it has to be bourne in mind that most ideas and new angling inventions are imediatley copied in India, without any come back and sold cheaply in the Uk and other countries, best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: i am looking at buying a 18ft rod for fishing my local River Severn.I have seen a second hand 4 piece abu ambassadeur elite for saleD o you think this would be suitable for the river where i will be targeting winter roach?
thanks
Alan
From: alan mckee
A: An 18ft rod to me is rather big for roach fishing on the severn and the ABU rod would suggest is not fine enough, be better getting a standard 12ft float rod, which you could pick up from any decent tackle shop for not alot of money and explain to shop dealer fish and area you will be fishing.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: What is the current record for arod caught silver Bream. According to the current (1988) list it stands at 15ozs. is this correct?
From: Mike baker
A: The British record for a silver bream just keeps on being smashed at Mill Farm Fishery in Bury, near Pulborough, West Sussex. After standing at 2lb 2oz for years, the record was broken three times in a week during May. First, fireman Phil Morton thought he had beaten the record by 2oz when he landed a 2lb 4oz specimen - only to find his catch had been topped the day before by local angler Doug Plant with a silver which topped the scales at a record-shattering 2lb 11oz.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: i am looking to join a fishing club with ponds and rivers to fish around cleveland and north yorkshire can you help me. with clubs and prices thank you kevin.
From: kevin
A: Go to this link, pleanty to choose from
http://callaweb.click4webs.co.uk/html/fishing_clubs.html
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: i have used this bait called MAROS MIX xxl carp and a yellow bread mix its fantastic got a 40lb bag Have you heard of it and where can i get it from
From: sam
A: Looks like this bait is from abroad and try this link, best of luck.
http://www.carpfishingonline.eu/aziende/fbi/catalogo/Catalogo_Fbibaits_2008.pdf
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hello Andy. I have always used fixed-spool reels, but I am interested in using multipliers for lure and surf casting. However, I am puzzled by the fact that almost all multipliers seem to be right-hand wind. I am right-handed and wind a fixed-spool reel with my left hand, so is there any reason I shouldn't do the same with a multiplier? Many thanks, Mark.
From: Mark Risdon
A: Yes you are right in the main, this is just how multipliers have evolved over the years, especaily for the big game ones, however ABU used to make left hand wind ones and possibly shimano, best to have a search around on the net and ask your local tackle dealer if he can source one for you.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: have been fishing many years using shimano perfection rods 6010 reels great stuff , now just bought biomaster xta 8000 reels as i am going to france what rods should i get to match soz carp fishing .thank,s tosh.
From: tosh foster
A: I would personally get Shimano rods to match, long range 2.75lb test curve and best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Ay Up Andy! Just read the last question r.e Ribble, maybe worth noting Copper is an effective colour when Settle Water (Peat Stained) is in the Ribble; a local and very effective fly is the Verminator which is copper with a hackled body, everything from tubes, wattingtons pot bellied pits, doubles, trebles, Salars work. I like Copper Alys Shrimp also!
From: Clint Waddington
A: Very many thanks Clint any extra on the spot advice is great.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy.
I`ve been fishing my local River the River Ribble , just recently(mid July) and the water was heavily peat stained and running at about 1 foot above normal.
Have you any suggestions on what flies to try and the size.
P.S The water temp was in the High 60s.
Many thanks Ian.
From: Ian Reid
A: In heavily peat stained rivers best to step up a few sizes to say 4s and 2s and use bright flys with silver and gold bodys ali shrimp and other shrimp fly patterns, when the water drops go down to wee doubles say size 12s and 14s, best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy i was wondering if you could tell me of a supplier for the plastic tops that go into the tube worm controllers or sometimes known as jumping jacks not the rubber ball type thanks kenny.
From: kenneth gillett
A: Sorry to say not available any parts for the worm controller, only available as a whole item.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: What is the advantage of using double elastic in a pole?
From: Alan Chapman
A: Normaly only use double elastic when fishing for big fish, for extra strenght
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy i was wandering if you can help me please im looking for K-Class Globetrotter carp rod and cant seem t find one or any dealers of globetrotter. Please can you help me, many thanks lee
From: lee
A: Hi Lee,
Likewise i can not find any refferance, suggest you post this in our message board and in our free buy and sell section , hope you get one.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy.
I have been watching a video,Cracking the Code by Henrik mortensen In which he is fishing the Riffle Hitch and making it look very easy.Have you or any body you know tried it in the UK. if so do you think it would be worth trying it on the River Ribble or any other North country River.
Many thanks Ian from Blackburn
From: Ian Reid
A: Hi Ian,
Yes is the answer, freind of mine came back with some after fishing them in Iceland, we tried them on the Balckwater Ireland to good affect and have since treid them on the Dovey Wales for sea trout, best fished on rippley glides, not too rough water and the takes are quite spectacular, best of luck and well worth a try on your rivers.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi is there a contact number 4 drennan i need 2 replace a top section 4 super specailist rod that thay dount make any more.can u help please
From: jeff
A: Drennan dont appear to have a web address nor e-mail, contact phone number is 01865 748989, hope they can help.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: My friend and I having bought our fishing licences would like to know how we go about fishing in our local area of Redcar and Cleveland. We are interested in the pond on Grew Grass Lane at Marske redcar. I think er need to join Middlesbrough Angling Club. Please help
From: kathleen Foster
A: Contact: Steve Wilson, 46 Westminster Close, Middlesbrough, Cleveland TS6 9NR Email: Wansbeck and Cramlington Angling Club .
www.maggotdrowning.com/club_directory.htm - 92k
Would also sugges getting a guide from the Enviromental Agency they are free for all licence holders for your area and will give you lots of options.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I have a rod which is old antique and would like to sell it, it's a kane rod and is called 'The Trevey special' would you be able to give me an idea how much i could sell it for and where to sell it. Thanks.
From: Lewis Davies
A: Please have a look at the following contact, a great mag and am sure will be able to help.
Classic Angling
Address: PMA House, Free Church Passage, St Ives, Cambs, England, UK, PE27 5AY
Tel: 44 (0)1480 463565 Fax: 44(0)1480496022
Web Site: http://www.classictitles.com
E-Mail: angling@classictitles.comcom
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy, im 15 years old and new to the carmarthen amateur club, i would like to know what are the best flies to use for sewin in may when the river is low. thanks. lewis.
From: Lewis Davies
A: Low water small flies order of the day during the day, black pennel, teal blue and silver along with peter ross, those type and at night 1.5 inch tubes black and silver along with hot orange and gold, best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi there
i have got esp reflex rods and the inner eyes have fallan out could you please tell me there web/email address many thanks dean
From: dean carr
A: Sorry Dean, you got me there dont know maker of ESP is there another makers name, or maybe someone out there can help?
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy
IN your film occasional Salmon where abouts was you shrimp fishing and on what river & Tarn.
many thanks Ian Blackburn
From: Ian Reid
A: The river was the river Irt, West Cumbria which runs out of Wastwater to Ravenglass, the Tarn was on the river Craike which runs out of Coniston again Cumbria, sadly a totaly private fishing syndicate, however some fishing is available on the river Irt, via Millom Anglers.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: how much does it cost to fix the end eye of a carp rod when the braid ring has fallen out?
From: lewis
A: You could fix yourself for the cost of an eye, buy the one that you can super glue very easy then, taking to the shop will more than likley cost you over £15.00
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy
I have a Garbolino Watford carp rod unfortunatly I have broken the top section , could you please supply me with an address where I could get a new top section thank you Ken
From: Ken Brackenbury
A: Contact Garbolino direct on paul.allen@garbolino.fr web site www.garbolino.fr cant find a uk distributor.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi Andy
can you tell me the difference
between a baitrunner reel and a freespin reel
From: mick
A: The bait runner reel has a device or switch that once on allows the line to run freely, unlike a normal fixed spool reel, where to allow the line to run freely you have to take the bail arm off, or you maybe refering to a centre pin reel, which is basicaly a drum where the line is held on a simple reel with no bail arm, you just wind.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, To Whom It May Concern,
I dropped you an email to this address last week about an event that we were running in Victoria Park? About getting people down to go fishing with Bob Nudd? Does this ring any bells?
I just wanted to let you know that the launch was an absolute success! We filmed a video and took a whole bunch of photos and wanted to see if this was something that you might be interested in?I’ve pasted in the Flickr album and YouTube link, but if you would like these available in any other different format ; please do feel free to get in touch.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/discoveryshed/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qVTy6FrV4o
Also, I’d be more than happy to re-email the press release over, if this was something that you might be interested in. Let me know, Ravi
From: Ravi Pau
A: Yes it does ring bells and please by all means send a press release and will be posted in our news section and pleased to hear all went well.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, being new to pole fishing, can you give me a guide to what elastic to use for say, fish to 5 lbs, 10 lbs, and 15 lbs. cheers, tight lines.:-)
From: steve
A: Keep it simple to start with light for fish up to 5lb, medium up to 10lb fish and over that use heavy.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: How do i obtain licence to fish in france? probably carp fishing
From: John Durrant
A: Depends on the region where you will be fishing, once there go to the local post office and am told they issue licences.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I`ve just bought a pole at a local tackle show, and i was wondering what elastic rating it has. it`s a lineaeffe new starter 8008 roubaisienne. can you help!
From: steve
A: I dont know this pole, but most poles will take the strongest elastic, what is important is that you use the right strength elastic for specie you are targeting and type of fishing.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: How many 0.6 weights do I need to use to balance to a 1 Gram weight?
From: John Appleton
A: Difficult to say as different makers vary in weight, however would suggest approx 3 to 4 size 0.6 weigghts will do the trick.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy,
What would you say is the best bait for catching grass carp Cheers Jack
From: Jack
A: Last time i fished for Grass Carp was in Metz and used a ball of cheese, mixed in with actualy grass and weed from the lake, but will take traditional carp baits and floaters, buy my video The Carp Experiance will show you how and can be found on this site under books and videos Beckman Visual, best of luck
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I have just watched Occasional salmon & Enigmatic sea trout DVD's, and been told you designed specialist rods for worming and shrimping, I have tried all over to find a supplier without success, please advise ? I am in Scotland.
From: John Barber
A: Hi am sorry to say these rods are no longer made, Hardyd used to make them for me but have transfered a great deal of rod making to China and had to buy large ammounts and i wanted them British made, maybe trawl through e-bay, only suggestion i can make. Sorry
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi does anyone now where i can get a spare section 3 for a Moby Dick 10.80m Pole.
From: Neal
A: I think Maver make this contact at
info@maver.co.uk or 01527 406300
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi Andy,what waters do middlesbrough angling club have access to.where would i join and how much is it.also a contact number please. any help will be much appreciated
From: Bill Howe
A: Middlesbrough Angling Club 01642 863067 dont know thre joining fees best to ring them and find out.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q:
i have been gifted a shakespeare rod wondered if you can help as to its use?is it for carp fishing/float or what,it has the number 1845on it also has b.25 action written it and the name strike
From: mickb
A: Hi, i know this rod and it is a basic float fishing rod and not really built for big carp, just a general purpose rod.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy,I have never used tuna while carp fishing which would you recomend oil or brine? thanks ken
From: Ken
A: Would deffinatly use oil as is more of an attractant to the carp and stays on the bait longer, giving of a great smell.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: thanks andy for your reply.A dollaghan is a rare wild lough neagh trout that can grow up 10lbs and over .We fish at night as sea trout and they will rise to a dry.The average trout is 2lbs but there are some monsters.Feel free to come over to fish for these large brown trout
From: william walker
A: Many thanks for further info on these rare fish and the kind offer to cast a fly for them, one of these fine days, i will try and make it over. Tight Lines.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hello andy,just would like to know anything about dollaghan trout and the flies people use
From: williamwalker
A: Very interesting question of this little known fish, found i belive in the Foyle system nth Ireland and one i would dearly love to fish for, i gather they run the river in August to spawn and from the few i have talked with that have caught them they use and deploy sea trout night fly fishing tactics and flies, as they catch them at night, 2" black and silver tubes and size 8 teal blue and silver, along with brass bodys and hot orange singles, hope this helps.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hello andy,ive got a question about sea trout flies.in your view what is the best fly and why.
From: william walker
A: A very loaded question and dependant on personal choice and importantly what you have confidence in, For night fishing, i like a 2" black and silver tube, tail, with a dropper of hot orange and brass body single, for day time flys wee doubles of the D.A.B and haslam, size 14s, why because i have had the most success with them, after trying many different tyings, but many out there will disagree, all down to fishing them with confidence and presentation.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy
where do the grayling go in the summer months, do the migrate enywhere ? thank you.
From: james henvey
A: The grayling dont migrate, but re-locate during different periods in the year, in the summer months, they tend to spread out looking for food, in the winter months, they tend to shoal up in deeper water, rather than in the streamy water, come end of May June time, they will move to the spawing areas, shallow gravel areas, but not the same places as where the trout spawn, natures way of making sure no over cutting of redds.
The only time Grayling move is down to lack of food and can either go up stream or down river.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hello there,
My name is Curt Ingram and I own
Three Rivers Resort and Guide Service in Washington State, USA.
I'm Trying to get in touch with Mikael Thiesen of Atlantik Travel. Would you happen to have his e-mail address, as it appears that he has done business with you in the past. We are trying to work out a Salmon deal, however Lars has not been very available.
From: Curt Ingram
A: Hi,
These are the details i have on record for him, he has an advert on this site and a report.
Atlantik
Address: Trekronergade 126F, 2500 Valby, Copenhagen, Denmark
Tel: +45 70 20 38 86
Web Site: http://www.atlantik.dk
E-Mail: info@atlantik.dk
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy im jusy wondering how the river irt or the esk has been fishing .i fish the river derwent by broughton and had a good salmom season for 2008 having caught 22 salmon and 5 sea trout but all the sea trout were caught out of season i belive there are day tickets avalible for some beats ,it would be good to no what time of year salmon and sea trout run on those rivers, as my favorite fishing is sea trout at night. rivers any advice would be verry greatfull
regards craig
From: craig burns
A: Sound like you have done very well on the Derwent, if you have a look at your E.A return sheet, it gives the figures for the Irt and Esk, the Esk has done better than the Irt, especaily on the sea trout, but has imense fishing presure from the Prince Albert Club, Milom club on the Esk has a small beat where day tickets are available, the seatrout start to run around May and then the mid summer Salmon through to the end of the season best month September. The Sea trout on the Irt, over the last few years has collapsed, very few running and being caught, lots of small herling towards the back end of the year, The salmon, a few mid summer and main runs now, again last two months of the season, not too bad this year, read the Irt reports on this site, again Millom club have water on the tidal regions of the Irt and tickets are available from the garage in Holmrook, but very few night fishing spots, unlike the Esk, hope this informs you as to the picture on both those rivers.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: IS THERE ANY PLACES YOU CAN BIVVY UP AND NIGHT FISH ON LOCH AWE AS LONG AS YOU HAVE A PERMIT
From: HARVEY
A: Yes there is at the top end of the Loch, near to the castle, park in the castle viewing car park and walk down, before you get to the castle on the left, you can bivy and fish there, was there earlier this year and some good pike comming out then.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hello andy iam trying to find the correct method and set up for beachcasting for carp fishing.
From: roy selby
A: You will need a long carp rod minimum 13ft, along with a beach tripd rest to elevate the rod while waiting for a bite, a heavy style lead with the line tight to it while on the rest and then a leader, down to your hook lenght of say 2ft, should do the trick.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Sea Fishing-How do you make sure the hook and line dont get caught up with the float when and after casting.only tried for the firts time yesterday and when I reeled in the bait was wrapped around the top of the float??
From: Nick Heather
A: Simple to solve, you need to ues a sliding float rig and to stop bait wrapping round the float, you need to place a weight about 2ft away from your hook and bait, this will make casting easier and stop tangling.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: what is the largest ferox cought in loch awe, what was its weight and when was it cought.
From: helen
A: The current UK rod caught record stands at. 14.4 kg (31lb 12oz) – a fish from Loch Awe in Argyllshire in 2002
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy ive just bought a pole and would like to know how to attach a rig
From: adrian
A: Really depends if you have a telescopic pole or a take apart, with a take apart, you can buy a stonflow system where the elastic is hidden and located in top section of the pole, and for the tele pole, you can simpley tye the pole elastic to the small eye at the tip, easiest way to rig, is buy ready made rigs from your dealer, dependant on where you are fishing and for what species, then simpley attache to your pole, your dealer will advise you which is best for you.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: are leeda sea fishing rods any good? how do they compare with, say, diawa
From: alan woodhead
A: Very many of these rods come from the same source in China and just re-branded, so the Leeda will compare well and will just be down to proice comparison.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, (love your site)
I have aquired a DAM Quick CTE 135 but am having aproblem getting the spool off to remove the old line and load new can you please tell me how to get the spool off. (The spool cover comes off ok)
Thanks
Regards Jim
From: Jim Mason
A: Many thanks for your kind words, sorry but not familiar with that reel, would be best to contact the main supplier direct for help, however if it is thre closed faced reel i think it is, you have to hold it tight and batt with plam of hand the spool anti clockwise and should come of.
Best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: when is course fishing (not pike)permitted at llandegford res. S.Wales? Do you have a contact number /e-mail address for the venue?
From: Russ
A: I am un-certain as to when coarse fishing is or is not allowed, so best to check with them direct. Permits
Available from the Ranger’s office on site or a machine (bank permits only) at:
Sluvad Water Treatment Works, Sluvad Road, New Inn, Pontypool, NP4 0TA.
Tel: 01291 673722
Fax: 01495 769283
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Not a question. 2 things - thanks for replying to my question and I notice John C Smyth asked for email address of Shimano but you gave him geographic address. He can email Shimano if he goes to this web address
http://www.shimanoservicecentre.co.uk/contact.php
thanks
From: Julien Ellis
A: Many thanks for the correction and the web link.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: when talking about seat boxes what are the winders or winder trays and what function do they perform
thanks
From: mickb
A: Winders are normally for ready made float rigs and pole float rigs and the winder trays that fit into the seat box is to keep them all neat and tidy. You can buy the ready made float rigs from your local tackle shop or make them your self, buty just buying the winders, line, hooks and shot.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy.
Great site, just found it and have learned so much in the past few days reading most of the Q & A's top marks i think !
Anyway...Can you please tell me if Keenets has gone bust or not as i don't seem to get any reply from the address and phone number i have for them.
I have one of their K-Class Globetrotter carp rod 2.75tc and would like another one.I was wondering, if anyone reading this questions has one and would like to sell it, if they could contact yourself and you could pass on my or their detals, it all helps right !
Thanks again.
all the best.
Barry.
From: Barry Ryan
A: Very many thanks for your kind comments, Keenets has not gone bust but bought out by the Sharpes group, contacted on 0800 032 8172 or info@sharpesgroup.com and hope you find another rod.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: how do i get my line to sink when float fishing tried wash liquid thanks
From: mick
A: No problem, go to a shop that sells fly fishing tackle and ask for a pad that greases your line with either a sinking agent or floating, or you can buy a tub of just sinker.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy, I have only just stumbled across your Q&A site because I wanted to ask an expert about a fish I caught recently in a lake somewhere on the cambridgeshire fens.
I was fishing for carp using balled method with boilie and sweetcorn hook bait. i caught what immediately felt like bream and I will now describe it. It was 12" deep and 18" long and had no slime and the scales felt rough and it was silver (not white) and because I'm a beginner, I though it must be a silver bream, not realising that they are tiny fish usually confused with skimmers. Any ideas as to what I might have caught?
Thanks in anticipation
jules
From: julien ellis
A: A tadge difficult without seing a photo, however i belive this to be a hybred a cross between a roach and a bream, quite common, hope this helps.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: i would like to know how to fix floating crust to the hook
From: pete
A: Very simple, buy fresh crusty bread and use the outer crust area of the bread, pierce the hook through the bread into the crust part and then back again so the point sticks out, then gently cast out.
Should do the trick.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: HI ANDY THAHKS FOR THE UPDATE ON CONISTON,CHARR. DO YOU KNOW THE OWNERS OF GREYRIGG TARN,I USED TO FISH THERE WITH MY FATHER,YEARS AGO ,AND ALL THE TARNS AREOUND KENDAL YOURS DON
From: DON KIRKMAN
A: Have made some enquiries about Greyrigg Tarn and most people haven't even heard of it and those that have don't know anything about it, so can only assume that it is privately owned.
Sorry on this occasion I cannot help you.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: What combinations and flavours are best used for the Vaal Dam (Cilliers) if possible.
From: Wayne Hiscock
A: Sorry but am not familiar with this fishery or water, nor can find any info on it other than trying contacts through this link http://www.essentialtravelinfo.com/accommodation/fishing/southern_africa/south_africa/free_state/vaal_dam/index.html
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi again andy,just started charr fishing again after a 8 year lay off (had a stroke)got electric motor,tried coniston to no avail,not even one ring,talking to locals who said not even trevor fishes for the charr,says the lake is dead,can you find any info on this,or maybe sell my gear . DON
From: DON KIRKMAN
A: Have made enquiries and Charr still being caught, but not many anglers fishing nowadays, they will not have gone and still catching them on Windermere, best month is May, would suggest electric motor might not be presenting baits as well as rowing action, try alternating speed and cutting engine of to replicate the way the boat moves while rowing.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can you tell me what to put on the end of whip rod just got a new one
From: ANITA FEARN
A: Two ways you can sort this out, first is to buy some pole elastic and use the connectors then tie on your pole rig, which you can also buy from your dealer, complete with hook and floats already weighted, or simpley tie stright to whip, which should have a loop on the tip, your rig directly.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy can u tell me anything about the new exploding swimfeeders and where i can buy them thanks eric
From: eric
A: Try this company http://www.aquamania.co.uk they should be able to help.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I would like to make my own bouncing betty weights, but cannot find anywhere I can buy the lead weight moulds from.
Can you direct me to a retailer?
From: Stephen Egerton
A: As these weights are made out of moulded rubber, it is quite a complicated engineering task and are not created in lead moulds but mass made in metal injection moulds, it would be far easier and cheaper to buy them from Luhr Jennson, or from the Bass Pro shop, i dont know of any stockist in the Uk.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Can I have the email address for Shimano U.K.
I dont see it on their site. Thank you John C.
From: John C. smyth
A: Unit 1A Vale Park Buissnes centre, vale park, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 1GD 01386 425826.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi please could you tell me the best bait (new or old) and best tactics for catching barbel on the river severn around ironbridge? many thanks
From: richard
A: I have found the best method and bait is to touch leger with sweetcorn with an open end feeder full of corn, exciting way of catching them, other is by laying on with flavoured meat, sausage section or meat balls, am not an advocate of the new fangled method of high protein bolies for barbel and heavy baiting, but they do work.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: andy could please tell me what a
back lead is iknow its a weight but what exactly is its purpose
From: mick blissett
A: The back lead is used for drop back takes, when the fish has taken the bait and does not move away, but goes towards the lead, this helps with hooking.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: i have a 2.5ssg float how much shot should i use on this as i am learning many thanks
From: catherine
A: When you buy shot, either assorted or single tubs they are size marked and if the float has the marking of what shot size and how many, equally space out the ammount of shot the float states, if not gues what shot is required, if the float sinks, too many if it lays flat, not enough, you need the float to stick out of the water about half an inch.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy Some weeks ago I asked you about how to get the fish feeding in a pond that has not been fished for years thanks a million for your answer I am now having a great time carp up to 28lb keep up the good work Ken.
From: Ken Brackenbury
A: Delighted to be of help, long may your good fishing continue and dont forget this time of year floating baits work well, dog biscuits and floating crust, many thanks for your kind comments.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi i have just bought a match pro 4m margin telewhip pole from argos it doesnt have anywhere to connect to anyone no how to connect the rig to the pole
From: Jean-paul
A: This is one of the problems when buying through these stores, you dont get the back up and advice as you would from a tackle shop, basicaly you need to go to a tackle shop, to buy the connectors and pole elastic and they will advise how to fit.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: What fish are in the Towy is it the Ali shad or the Twait Shad ?
From: David Makings
A: Both of the Shad run the river, also resident Brown Trout can be caught along with the odd big Pike in slower reaches and of course the runs of Salmon and Sea Trout
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: would you know how to open a fishery in the costa del sol area?
From: nicky matthews
A: Would suggest a great deal of reasurch is required along with visiting the area and searching for the correct venue or lake and then making sure you had all the correct planning permission and consent from local councils.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi , what waters do middlesbrough angling club have acess to , where would i join and how much is it
cheers mark
From: mark blackwood
A: These are your contacts
Contact: Steve Wilson, 46 Westminster Close, Middlesbrough, Cleveland TS6 9NR Email:. Wansbeck and Cramlington Angling Club ...
www.maggotdrowning.com
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi i have just brought a 5 metremargin telewhip. i have never used one before.do i just tie my rig onto the ring of the pole at the end. or do i have to use other tackle.
From: paul turner
A: You can do that, but would suggest best to tie a lenght of pole elastic to ring first and then tie your rig to elastic and you can buy connectors from any good shop for both line and to connect to ring at end of pole.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hiya i would like to take up beach casting and would like to know where i could get some tuition.i lve in bradford yorks.many thanks neilh
From: neil compton
A: Suggest you contact the National Federation of Sea Anglers
www.nfsa.org.uk they will be able to inform you of local tutors in your area and what help you can recevie.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Who is world champion beachcaster?
From: Matthew
A: Good Question and sorry to say i dont know, but hopefully someone out there will know??
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, im new to beach casting, ive been offered a beachcaster,shakespeare,TYPHOON BEACH,I cant find out anything about it can you help please,its in new condition, about how many £ notes
Regards
Reg
From: Reginald Benson
A: Best contact them direct, they will give you chapter and verse 01527 510570
sales@shakespeare-fishing.co.uk
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Type of knot
What is the type of knot to tie that automatically rotates the fish hook into the fishcom
From: Brad Hull
A: Use a very tight full blood knot and tie so it is offset rather than in normal way.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, I have just got some bouncing betty bait controllers from a friend. Could you please tell me the best way to use them. I fish on the river Girvan in Ayrshire for salmon and sea trout. Thank you.com
From: John Wason
A: Simple rig in way you would a rolling weight from hook to a swivel the rod side of swivel a bead then the boucing betty, cast slightly up-stream, hold the rod high and feel it down the run or pool, obviously have to gauge current to sizer of weight, i did a visual demo on The Enegmatic Sea trout Video and can be purchased from Beckmann Visual Publishing.
Address: Milntown Lodge, Lezayre Road, Ramsey, Isle of Man, British Isles, IM8 2TG
Tel: 01624 816585
Web Site: http://www.beckmanngroup.co.uk
E-Mail: smack@beckmanngroup.co.uk
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can you please advise on pva bags
how to make them up at home before fishing and how to fish with them ie how to fix to line do you need a ledger etc
thanks
alan
From: alan mckee
A: Because PVA disolves in water and in damp conditions, it is best to fill them and prepare on the bankside, if you are using the bags you will be ledgering and the best way is to tie them around your hook bait, so your hook bait will lay with the loose feed in the bags, simple as that.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I have just stood on the butt section of my Maver Moby Dick. Where can I get a replacement or can it be fixed ? There is only a small crack of about 1.5cm on the joint. I would appreciate any help
From: Kev
A: Best to contact Maver direct 01527 406300 or info@maver.co.uk
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: pls give me the traditional method of drying and smoking fish in africa and ashia country.thanks.reply
From: kingsley
A: The old traditional way is very simple, by hanging the fillets to first dry on a line or twigs, then lighting a smoldering fire of any sort of hard wood chips, or shavings, sometimes pine and letting the smoke waft over the fillets for quite some time often a day or so, the longer the stronger the flavour.com
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Bought a fishing pole and i need to no how to attach a rig im new to it al. get back as soon as possible!
From: Georgia
A: Really is a case of how long a piece of string! so many methods, types of fishing and species you might be fishing for!? best to go back to store you bought your pole from and ask for advice, explain where and what you will be fishing for, buy some basic books and try joining an angling club, where you will gain some good advice and help.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy site looks great however I tried to follow a link re a Hardy Gem rod on your Q&A page and gave up.
There are so many old links and the listing is endless.
Is there any way you can drop a search box in that area.
It will save a lot of time scrolling through the dead wood
Tom
From: Tom McDonald
A: Many thanks for your positive comments, will have a look at this and see what can be sorted.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Dear Andy
Many thanks for the hours of pleasure I have had watching the enigmatic sea trout & occasional salmon.
I fish the River Towy and would be very grateful if you could advise what the best fly and means of presentation would be for day time fly fishing for sea trout in high water.
Cheers
Davecom/b.
From: David Evans
A: Hi David,
Very many thanks for your kind comments, day time fly fishing can be terrific and best to think small flys, wee doubles, size 14s and 16s use a dropper and best fished on a dropping river, but still with colour in it and use an intermediate line, we use this method on the Dovey to great affect, fished just one day on the Towey last year beat two on Golden Grove and between 6pm and 9pm, took 11 sea trout between 11lb and 4lb on this method and an hour before had a 17lb plus salmon, flies like haslam work well, plus small black and silver flys tied on silver hooks, best of luck.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: the carp in the pond are common and mirror a 14lb common is the best so far do you still recomend bloodworm ? Thanksc
From: Ken
A: Nope would suggest then as mentioned that you need to educate them, over a period of time, keep feeding a bed of hemp along with your chosen hook bait, such as corn, pelletts and even boiles and in the summer time introduce floates such a crust and dog biscuits.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy I have been given the sole use of a small to medium carp lake there is quite a good head of fish but I only catch 1 or 2 in a day ,it is surounded by woods what am I doing wrong or will there be to much natural food in the water there is also a small head of roach and bream. looking forward to your replycom
From: Ken
A: They could be Crucians if so very difficult to fish if not fished regulary in the past, try blood worm and keep feeding, corn also a good bait, it is a matter of edcuating them and other species, just a matter of experimenting.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Are barbed hooks illegal in the uk?ript>http:/
From: Steve
A: No they are not however a great many clubs and private fishery owners ban there use, especaily Salmon Fisheries when part of the season is catch and release.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, I would like to know if there are regulations concerning taking used fishing rods on holiday to Slovakia. I let out cottages there & a fisherman asked if he could take his own angling equipment or whether he should hire over there. many thanks helenacom/b.js
From: helena plowright nee Sisolakova
A: Hi Helena,
There are no regulations against taking tackle, but there is against taking live bait, i.e maggots, worms and live fish, other than that he should be fine.ript>ript>http://www.ad
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can you tell me how much a billy lane mark three match rod is worth please?
From: simon bodycote
A: Please have a look at the following contact, a great mag and am sure will be able to help.
Classic Angling
Address: PMA House, Free Church Passage, St Ives, Cambs, England, UK, PE27 5AY
Tel: 44 (0)1480 463565 Fax: 44(0)1480496022
Web Site: http://www.classictitles.com
E-Mail: angling@classictitles.com
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, my 12yr old son has started fishing in the past 5months, He already has a Rod Licence, & is a member of Aldin Grange junior fishing club based in [Bear Park] Co Durham. Can you advise me as to where i can get him a River Board licence, & what the cost of this will be. Thankyou for your help with this enquiry. regards, Sonia Cowan
From: sonia
A: Rod licences expire on March 31, 2008. Buying a new licence couldn’t be easier – around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets sell them; a direct debit can be set up, and they can be purchased over the phone (0870 1662662) or on-line at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence any time, day or night.
Licence type Category 1/4/2008 – 31/3/2009
Non-migratory trout, char, Full annual £25.00
freshwater fish (coarse fish) Concessionary annual £16.75
and eels Junior annual £5.00
8-day temporary £9.00
1-day temporary £3.50
Salmon, migratory trout (sea trout), Full annual £68.00
non-migratory trout, char, freshwater Concessionary annual £45.00
fish (coarse fish) and eels Junior annual £5.00
8-day temporary £22.00
1-day temporary £7.50
Media enquiries: 020 7863 8710 or outside normal office hours, please contact the
National Duty Press Officer on 07798 882 092.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy,
I have a shimano 6000 gte baitrunner and the handle has broken do you know if i can get it repaired, also a fox micron sx has been tightened up to much at the base and has split the front and back casing, where would be the best place to get these repaired.
mant thanks Garyhtt
From: gary
A: A good local tackle shop should be able to provide a reel repair service if not contact the companies
ukinfo@shimano-e.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I am carrying out a study to determine numbers of a small fish and would like to buy minnow traps. Do you know of any Uk based companies who would be willing to ship out to Malta?
From: Marion Zammit-Mangion
A: Try Kenley company 01386 45031 or ace.tackle@virgin.net, if they dont have they might know who will, but an easy task to make them, using an old wine bottle, the ones that have the base inverted, knock out the glass and bait it.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: would you be able to give me the link to the drennan website pleasehttp://www.adw95.com/
From: robert
A: It appears Drennan do not have a web site nor e-mail address, their tel no is
01865 748989.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: My question is who sells those special sinkers that rattle. i seen them used onT.V to rattle up walleyes or to attract them with this sound. if you know how many ounces do they come in.htt
From: JOHN ONDER
A: With you living in the States, you best range is from Luhr Jennson and they do many with rattles of varying weights and you can buy them on-line from the Bass pro shop.ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.js>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Dear Mr Nicholson
My name is Helen Bennett and I am a third year geography student at the University of Hull. I am currently undertaking my third year dissertation. The title of this dissertation is "Conflicts surrounding the rights of access on Welsh Rivers between different leisure groups and landowners".
I am a keen white water kayaker which is why I have an interest in this chosen subject. I am trying to get an overall opinion from both the leisure groups of anglers and kayakers in Wales and equally from riparian land owners.
For my research it would be very beneficial for me to interview people from all sides of the access debate. Would be possible for you to put me into contact with some Welsh anglers, prominant in the access debate so that I could get some opinions on the problems of access from the viewpoint of anglers?
My only problem is that I am on the other side of the country in Hull and due to timetabling and third year ties the logistics and timing of a trip to talk to you in person would be very difficult. Therefore if you were able to allow me to interview you, would it be possible to conduct it over the phone. This interview would be recorded, only for the purpose of transcribing the conversation. The recording would then be deleted.
I am contactable through this email address or on 07522-948-119.
Regards,
Helen Bennett
From: Alan Parker
A: Hi Alan,
I wish those happy days were still hear! and more carp could be caught from your pond, my dear friendript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.js>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I have just started carp fishing using a baitrunner and I am experiencing line twist problems, is it the way I am loading the reel line, I am using Kristonite super mono, how would you suggest I load the reel?
Thanks
Terryhttp://www.ban
From: Terry
A: Hi Terry,
First pay the line out through the rod, along the grass, then wind back through grass with putting tension with finger and thumb back onto reel, best way of loading line on reel, is get a freind to hold spool under tension and again place tension yourself in same way when winding on to reel, this should elveiate the twist, but every so often run it through the grass to take twist out.com/b.js
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I need to repair my favorite pole
a Shakespeare rod. (ugly stick) Could you please tell
me how to contact manufacturer?http://www.banner
From: john taylor
A: Hi John,
Yes shakespeare have a very good repair service contact on 01527 510570 or
sales@shakespeare-fishing.co.ukript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.co
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Can you name all the pools on the river spey ? The only one I can remember from childhood is the 'Chamber Pot'.
Thanks.http://www.banner8
From: Rab
A: Hi Rab,
Nope can't name them all personaly, but if you go on the Speyside web site, you will find all the beats and names of pools.ript>ript>ript>http:
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I live down here in West Sussex,Chichester to be more precise.I would like to know where would be the best place to dig for ragworm/lug.Me and my friend went digging for bait at Chichester Mariner,we got a few ragworm,but I feel sure someone knows where a good place would be to dig bait.Any advice would be appriciated.Thank you.http://w
From: D.Richardson
A: Hi,
Don't know that area intematley, but find muddy sand banks after tide gone out, estuarys the best, river mouths, or harbours etc.ript>ript>ript>http://www
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Dear Andy.
Do I need to obtain fishing licience to fish by Fishing Rod in Cornwall seaside? As I am spending my holiday there for a week.
Thanks you.com/b.js>
From: benedict
A: Hi Benedict,
You don't need a liecence to fish in the sea.ript>ript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.j
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy, will be fishing a comp. on the Weaver at Winsdon in Sept..Any contact or information will be greatly received. Regards Simonhttp:
From: simon
A: Hi Simon,
Sorry but no contacts there, however gear up for chub, best way to win the match.ript>ript>ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy, we live in scotland but will be holidaying in north frodingham in september. my husband wants to take his son fishing on the ponds there for a couple of days. what permits will they need @ will it be expensive?http://www.banner82
From: brenda beere
A: Hi Brenda,
You will need an E.A licence and of course a ticket from the pool or pond owner where you intend to fish, you can buy E.A licences on line for just a day or a week.on this site.
http://www.environment-agency.gov.ukript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi, To whome -it-may-concern,
Do I need a Fishing licience,
because I like to fish at the sea side in cornwall which I plan to go holiday for a few days. The first day I would follow the fishing boat trip for 5-8 hours fishing at sea.Pl.let me know as soon as possiable wia, e.mail. Thanks.
From: Benedict Chin
A: Hi Benedict,
For either fishing on shore or pier or boat at sea, no fishing liecence is needed, only for inland lakes, pools and rivers.ript>ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hiya, i just got a fishing boat and i live near ullapool (west coast), and just wondered what sea fishing i can do and what fish i can get ??
thanx
From: darren mackay
A: Hi Darren,
Some great sea fishing round your area, very big Skate, cod, makeral, pollack, Colleys, Congor, Tope, Spurdog and other dog fish, Gurnard and plenty of species to go for.ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi I am a social worker for the Adolesent Fostering team in Essex and have a young lad who is interested in becomming a water balif can you please send me the information required to assist him
From: David Hayden
A: Hi David,
Have a look at the news item i posted on the 17th of this month in our news pages on this link
http://www.anglingnews.net/rep_detail.asp?ID=4181 Effta line test results, they have done extensive testing on all brands, there are contact details within article and will provide you with all the info you need, the general idea is that yes it should break at said poundage, but not always the case many lines, especaily the like's of Maxima, were over strengthed and this gave impression they were stronger than others, best of luck with project.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy, can a carp rod & reel be used for pike fishing?
ta stephenhttp://www.adw95.com
From: stephen
A: Hi Stephen,
Really depends on the test curve of the rod and if you are casting heavy dead and live baits out, if that is the case, you need a rod that is at least 2.5lb test curve and as for your reel, as long as it hold at least 150yds of say 15lb mono, should be ok, free spool reels best for pike fishing.http://www.ba
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: what is the best bait to use on a canal when you are fishinghttp://www.adw95.com/b.js>
From: lance wallbank
A: Hi Lance,
Depends what species you are fishing for, but maggot is always a good bet.ript>ript>ript>ript>ht
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: do you know any feild testing companiesript>ht
From: matt
A: Hi Matt,
Not sure what you mean, can you be more specific please.ript>ript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.j
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I use expander pellets quite a lot and always throw away whats left at the end of a session.Is there a way you can save them as i saw in my tackle shop you can buy them in tubs already done.Just wondered what they put in them to keep them fresh.Thankscom/b.js>
From: Martin Sedgwick
A: Hi Martin,
Would be worth freezing them immediatly after use, think that would be the only way of keeping them freshript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can u give me the best place to go and try my hand at a cat fish in or near the milton keynes area as ive done most of the rest and the cat fish is beating me?com/b.js>
From: vinny
A: Hi Vinny,
Please contact the Cat Fish club of the UK on this link http://www.catfishclub.co.uk and am sure they will point you in the right direction.
ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.js>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy,
Am looking for Weight Mold for Boucing Betty's 3 - 4 oz can't find anywhere ... can you assist.
Paul Victoria, B.C. Canada
The Great White Northcom/b.js>
From: Paul Elworthy
A: Hi Paul,
To my knowledge, Luhr Jennson, only sell them ready made, complicated procces, of moulded hard rubber and for the cost might as well buy them whole.ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.js
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can u give me any tips on catchin carp in the winter
ta stephenhttp://www.adw95.com/b.
From: stephen
A: Hi Stephen,
Carp at this time of the year tend to be very dormant and shoal up in the deeper water, when fishing, best to find deepest water and bait up 4or 5 swims and stick to those, they will move around and then stay on that loose feed, worm is good at this time of the year also.com/b.js>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy.
can you supply me with a contact email address for Browing tackle in the UK.
Thanks.
Tony.com/b.js>
From: Tony Jolley
A: Hi Tony,
Had problems myself locating an tackle reference, in uk, try this link and they may be able to help
http://www.browningint.com/intro.html?totalBytes=277752&loadedBytes=277752&remainingBytes=0&percentDone=100
Think that Browning tackle is no longer supplied in uk anymore!?
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: can you give me any tips on trying to catch grayling on the fly leader set up and what part of the river the run or pools any info would be great
From: ian taylor
A: Hi Ian,
Long leaders at this time of the year, and fish deep, with weighted nymphs or caddis tyings, the fish shoal upo when very cold, inthe deeper slower pools and have to be located, they are more sperad out in summer and won't be now in thin water too cold, fish slow and deep and best of luck.com/b.js><
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy
I was trying to find a BFR Dragonfly 60 fly reel and found that you had suggested in an eralier questions that the best route would be to try Leeda Head Office.
I tried to make contact with them and the department that supplies BFR parts but neither number appears to be available anymore. This could be that they decamped to India, (thanks to the Orvis owners!). Do you have a contact number for Leeda or BFR?
cliffhttp://
From: cliff beddows
A: Hi Cliff, supprised no for Leeda did not respond, try Bob Church company on 01604 661133, this is Leeda again 01527 587401.ript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.j
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I have a medal won by my granddad Jack Page cup winner 29 July 1916
? The Tiger Angling Society Long Eaton
Derby.
Have you any ideas to get information .
I did find a little in the Long Eaton advertiser for 1917 that gave a list of winners for the Walliis Cup held 29 September 1917 at Shardlow but little else.com
From: john page
A: Hi John,
Please have a look at the following contact, a great mag and am sure will be able to help, if anyone that i know, Keith will know.
Classic Angling
Address: PMA House, Free Church Passage, St Ives, Cambs, England, UK, PE27 5AY
Tel: 44 (0)1480 463565 Fax: 44(0)1480496022
Web Site: http://www.classictitles.com
E-Mail: angling@classictitles.comhttp://www.banner8
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi do you know or can you tell me of of any companies that do a spare rod section for the john willson signature avon feeder rod that will accept a screw in swing tip i think if this section was available it would compliment this rod greatly or maybe one of the readers might know where to get hold of one thankyoucom/
From: tom
A: Hi Tom.
the company Masterline, handle all of the John Wilson ranges of rods, contact on 01684 299000 or on e-mail
masterline@martex.co.ukript>ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy i wonder if you could help me im after 1 No 4 section for a Daiwa Black shadow pole i,v tried every where its driveing me mad i just cant seem to find any one who can help me.http:
From: Andrew coe
A: Hi Andrew,
Best to contact Diawa direct on info@daiwasports.co.uk or 01698 355723.ript>ript>ript>ript>ht
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I would like to take my daughter fishing over the Christmas holiday. Sea or canal it doesn't matter. Can you suggest a good place to go? We live in Manchester, but dont mind travelling to Blackpool, Lancaster way.com/b
From: harry gorton
A: Hi Harry,
There is some good canal fishing, in the Salford Docks area, so would not have to travel too far, but if you wanted to go to Blackpool, there is good cod fishing at present off the beaches and piers, enjoy.ript>http://www.a
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy could you advice me on whitch fishing reel to get at the moment i am using a fixed spool reel and i like them the problem is it has broken and i need a new one i have only just started sea fishing and dont no much about fishing at the moment i only fish on the local beach so i go for long distance casting any advice would apresheated i have about £60.oo to spend kind regards stuart
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: where can i buy mitchell telescopic rods? and what is a good brand for telescopic rod that can be use in salt water?co
From: rommel
A: Hi Rommel,
Leeda Tackle distrabute Mitchell tel 01527 587401, they will tel you of local shops to you, Shakespear also do good tele rods subtable for the sea.ript>ript>http://www.adw95.co
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: how do i use a bouncing betty
how is it fixxed to the linehttp://www.adw95.com/b.js>
From: susan montgomery
A: Hi Susan,
The bouncing betty, has a swivel lodged in the top, the line goes throught the swivel and basicaly hook side put a stop shot on the line, leaving a trace of around 2.5ft.ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: why is it you can not farm garden worms. we are about to farm are own as they cost so much. thankyou veracom/b.js>
From: vera
A: Hi Vera,
Very difficult to grow on the black heads or some call them blue heads, it can be done and there is a major supplier from Canada that succesfully breeds them, however a very specialised form of breeding beyond my knowledge, all i do is keep a good compost area with horse dropping thrown in for good measure and that seems to work.com/b.js>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: me and my mate are wanting to go to billy makins fisheries,i have searched the net but i cant find out if we can night fish. we also have know idea of getting there! how do we get there from the m1 and can we night fish?
regards eddie
From: Eddie Raper
A: Hi Eddie,
Give them a ring on 01455 220502, they will give you all the gen on it and what you need to know and directions.ript>ript>ript>http://www.a
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: any idea where i can obtain a effgeeco fishingcreel from in or around the birmingham area .thanks
From: john roberts
A: Hi John,
Fosters of Birmingham, will be your best bet.ript>ript>ript>ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: hi andy , whats the minimum temperature that wells catfish will feed in england? if known!
From: bob hickinbottom
A: Hi Bob,
I am so sorry tohear of your awful experiance and must say it is a one off, all the fisherys that have disabled access, i have heard or dealt with, always treat anglers with a great deal of help and resepct, my suggestion, would be to contact the DAA, all contact details on this site andf am sure they will investigate and help.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: During the summer i am always plagued with frustration due to missing out on all the carp that turn there nose away from my hook bait floating on the surface. I think they are spooked by the line. What is the best presentation for Surface Fishing on lakes?com/b.js><
From: Stuart
A: Hi Stuart,
Would recomend that you use finer line and clearer and make sure that you hook is well disguised in the bait, this should help.ript>ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: purchased 4 large blue orfe and 10 comets from pond owner. took a long time to catch.very large. 3days have passed and the orfe are not feeding could this be stress, they have come to a larger pond and there is one resident golden orfe same in size Please help-worried
From: Eileen
A: Hi Eileen,
Realy would not worry, they will take time to settle in and could well be feeding on other natural food in the pondript>ript>ript>http://
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I have a pond with several gold fish and a couple of mirror carp. When I went down to the pond this morning I found the two carp and another gold fish really bothering another gold fish. Constantly chasing this fish around and getting real close to the under belly of the fish will this cause the fish stress and what are they up to anyway. Thanks .... petercom/b.js>
From: Peter Thomas
A: Hi Peter,
Would not worry, looks like they want to mate, when any new fish get introduced this can happen and they are naturally curious.ript>ript>ript>
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hi Andy. Caught a beautiful 11" brownie on Tees last night. It's stomach contained two small fish - no flies. One was completely intact and lookes like a tiny cat fish. 2" long with a flat head. Are there cat fish in the Tees??http:
From: Mark
A: Hi Mark,
Highly unlikely it is a cat fish, unless someone placed them in the river illegally, more likley to be a Loach, or stoney Loach or even possibley a small gudgeonript>ript>http://www.a
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I own land next to the River Avon at Bredon, near Tewkesbury and l would like to let it to a fishing or angling club, as l live in Zimbabwe and can't manage to police it. At the moment there are people who have build platforms and left wood with nails in, in the field and the farmer who is leasing the land is concerned it will have his cattle
From: elizabeth Parham
A: Hi Eelizabeth,
Alawys very difficult to control and police fishing from afar, you will be far better of leasing to a very resonsible syndiycate or good angling club, giving then clear resonsibility for the up-keep and saftey of anglers and all livestock, in the field, draw up a clear contract of all their resoponsibilitys and make sure farmer is also aware of them and could ask him to keep you informed of any problems and breaches of contract.c
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Andy
I have been left a 3 piece 13ft hardy match rod in excellent condition but not the original bag. It has a cork handle wiyh the old style slide reel rings. It is of no use whatsoever to me as i don't course fish, have you any idea how much i could ask for it and where could i sell it not e-bay
thankyou
mikec
From: mike bullock
A: Hi Mike,
Please have a look at the following contact, a great mag and am sure will be able to help.
Classic Angling
Address: PMA House, Free Church Passage, St Ives, Cambs, England, UK, PE27 5AY
Tel: 44 (0)1480 463565 Fax: 44(0)1480496022
Web Site: http://www.classictitles.com
E-Mail: angling@classictitles.comhttp://w
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: I use the nash fang hook range I was wondering what sort of rigs suit this hook pattern for carp fishing.com/b.js>
From: andrew duff
A: Hi Andrew,
They will be suited to hair rigs and bolt rig set ups, but however are a good universal hook.ript>ript>ript>http://www.adw95.com/b.js><
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: ive just bought a keep net how do i get it to sit in the water with out the closed end floating all over the placecom/
From: shaun
A: Hi Shaun,
The best way of making sure, it stays sunk and in one place, is to sew a weight into the bottom of the net, say a good size sea weight bought from the tackle shop.ript>ript>http://
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Sorry Andy - i emailed earlier rom a friends address - please reply to my question on the above email address -
we are going on a canal in a weeks time - last time went we did a some fishing bearing in mind we travelled through various counties. We got stopped by one bailif and he threatened to come onto our boat and take all of our gear from us as we never had permits - we all had rod licences but where do we get permits from to fish as we did not fish in just one spot all week we were on holiday? As you can understand you do not stay still all week on a canal boat! - what permits, licences do we need to be able to fish the canal "legally" and can we fish from our boats if we want to . Look forward to your speedy reply.
thanks
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: presently having no luck salmon fishing. can you recommend bait etc which fishes well at this time. also thinking about renewing my equipment to move up from the beginner gear i acquired last year any ideas on what i should invest in and amount involved - budget £150 - £200 for rod reel and the necessary tacklecom/b.
From: terry gray
A: Hi Terry,
Very much dependant on what baits are allowed on the beats that you fish and obviously shrimp and worm, along with the flying C works well at this time of the year, always best to chat to the locals and tackle shops in the area and re tackle, would recomend a good bait runner type reel, Okhuma make some really good ones and a great deal cheaper than Shimano, but they are good reels and go for a 11ft rod with a test curve of around 1&1/4lb this will set you up well.
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Hows things Andy?
Im just getting into the whole fly fishing thing and i was wondering if you could give me a list of flies to use on the Corrib for June,July & august. Also does it make a difference when using 3 wet flies where each one is placed on the cast. Thanking youhttp://www.b
From: Padraic
A: Hi Padraic,
Things are fine thanks, did have a few days on Corrib, early this month, but mayfly not up a few small trout. With regard to flies, really best at that time of year to chat to ghilies and shop owners, to see what they are taking when you arrive, could be perch fry, or several different combinations, always best to check locally and your team of three flies, always best to use a bob fly on top dropper and then equally spaced out to tail fly, but cast no longer than your rod and best of luck.http://www.bann
From: Andy Nicholson

Q: Do you know where I can find Crappie John finger Jigs, 3" or 4" various colors and original lead heads. I used them all the time now I'm out and need more! They used to be located in California USA, and I notice a question that was posted by John Beale, I wonder if this is the same John Beale who was associated with them years ago? I'd love to know how to get more, people alway are blown away when they see what I catch with them, I used my last one catching and landing a thresher shark