GET SPOOKED AS YOU BAG UP BIG TIME!
THE 3000m-long Blisworth Tunnel can be found on this stretch of the Grand Union Canal, and it offers excellent fishing for predator anglers as well as a host of harrowing tales to chill the blood.
Perch and zander are the primary targets, and a roving approach with a light-actioned rod and soft plastic lures works well when the water is clear.
Try using natural colours such as pearl and olive, and fish close to the bank.
A braided mainline also helps to detect the delicate bites you often experience when fishing with small lures, and enables you to be in instant contact with a fish immediately after striking.
Small deadbaits can also work well for the zander, and legered roach heads on large single hooks can pick out the resident predators. Casting into the mouth of the tunnel itself can work well – however, be sure to listen out for haunting cries from within.
During its construction in the 18th Century, the Blisworth Tunnel claimed many lives, and while exact figures are not known, it is estimated that around 50 people were killed in the building work. These include 14 navvies who hit quicksand and caused a partial roof collapse. A few years later, another tragic incident occurred when smoke billowed into the tunnel from a broken boiler, causing two boats to collide in the inky blackness.
In the ensuing chaos several
people drowned, and they do say that the victims’ wails and frantic splashing can still be heard today.
CONTACT: Northampton Nene AC, 07833 967186
PRICE: £5 day ticket