Self-isolation isn’t a problem...

THIS WEEK I’d like to be talking about the glut of remarkable catches made by river anglers over the final few days of the season, something that didn’t look remotely possible given the biblical flooding just a few short weeks ago.

But then the reality of the Coronavirus epidemic hit home, and everything since has paled into insignificance. It’s a grim outlook, but if there’s one crumb of comfort to be taken from the situation, it’s that our beloved hobby is better placed than many to guide you through these troubled times. This is because most anglers, by their very nature, tend to self-isolate out of choice.

Over the past 40 years the two questions I’ve been asked most by members of the public while I’m fishing are: ‘Do you throw them all back?’ (answer: a resounding ‘Yes’); and ‘Don’t you get lonely or bored?’ (answer: an unequivocal ‘No’). It’s not that we’re a miserable bunch, more that most of us fell in love with the sport in the first place because of the solitude it offered. We’re happier than most in our own company. It’s man versus quarry, at its base level, and crowds of people aren’t particularly conducive to good sport. So, now that the stillwater season is upon us, it’s time to use common sense, while also trying to remain optimistic and giving yourself something to look forward to. If you’re fit and able, why not use the next few weeks to seek out those lakes and ponds tucked away off the beaten track that you’ve always fancied tackling for spring tench, or that deserted canal stretch that you’ve always suspected may hold big perch?

In such uncertain times, one thing’s for sure – the fish will be hungry!