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My local water is…
Rycroft Fishery is less than 10 minutes from my home, and I’ve been there quite a few times since taking up fishing two years ago. It was my local Armorduct Angling Club that introduced me to the venue. My mates in the pub were always talking about fishing, so I decided to give it a go and I’m absolutely loving it!
Favourite swim
Although there are many swims at Rycroft I haven’t fished, my favourite would have to be peg 2 on the Specimen Lake, where I won my very first match. It’s an easy swim to fish, with lots of options to try. You’ve got an island to chuck to straight in front of you, as well as water to go at on either side.
Best moment
It has to be my first match win. I’d come close on several occasions, sometimes missing out by just a few ounces, so I was made up to weigh in 18lb 12oz for the win. As it was so windy on the day, all I did was set up a Method feeder and chuck it to the same spot. For the first few hours I landed the occasional carp, and afterwards I picked up skimmers. I’ve not stopped talking about it for ages, and I reckon my mates are fed up of seeing the winning catch pic!
Go-to method
Keep things simple, focus on one part of your peg and be patient waiting for bites. You’ll catch in spells, so just keep the bait going in and eventually the fish will come to you.
Inside tip
One of the most successful baits at Rycroft has been dead red maggots. When fishing the Method I use three on the hook and fill the feeder with micro pellets and groundbait.
On site
There’s a nice café on site, and the owners are brilliant. They come to your peg, take your order, and then bring your food right to you!
In the area
There’s the Old Crown pub five minutes away, and they do homecooked food. The Harrington Arms is slightly further away, but it’s where our club is based and is a really good pub. If you’re travelling, there are places to stay in nearby Shardlow.