Redmire revamp
NOT TO BE SOLD REVAMP IN SEPTEMBER
Latest news on the big changes being made to historic fishery
THE most iconic water in carp fishing history is no longer to be sold, and will instead benefit from a dramatic revamp, Angling Times can reveal.
Set in the rolling hills of Herefordshire, Redmire Pool is widely considered to be the birthplace of modern carp fishing.
The three-acre lake is steeped in angling history and is famous for producing British record carp to angling legends Dick Walker and Chris Yates.
But late last year the Richardson family – who have run the estate for over 30 years – announced that the pool was to be put up for sale.
As carp anglers the length and breadth of the country reeled in shock at the announcement, the destiny of the historic venue was left hanging in the balance.
The question on everybody’s lips was: what would the future hold for Redmire and its prestigious stocks?
However, the carping community can breathe a huge sigh of relief this week following the welcome revelation that the iconic lake will no longer be sold.
Instead, it is set for a dramatic renovation in the form of a major
conservation project.
Angling Times spoke to fisheries scientist Mark Walsingham, who will be overseeing the project. He told us: “Redmire is rapidly dying, and it needs tender loving care to restore it. I’ve been working alongside the Richardson family for three or four years, working on the conservation of the estate and pools while creating a plan.
“The family’s children have now decided that they want to keep the estate for another generation and revive the lake, with a vision of bringing it back to its former glory.
“There are a number of problems at Redmire, and de-silting is a major aspect of the work. It’s an invasive process and care must be taken, as there’s always a risk to the fish. To prevent future silt build-up, traps will be installed, and agricultural ground surrounding the lake will be used for grazing as opposed to farming. We will also inspect the dam to make sure it’s sound and secure, and plans are in place to otterfence the fishery to protect the stocks.
“All this work is as much about preserving the fish as it is the lake. The rogue ghost carp that ended up in the water will be removed, as will any fish that aren’t in photographs from 14 years ago. This will ensure that the remaining stock will be from the true Galician carp bloodline of Donald Leney’s stocking all those years ago. We also have to sustain the element of mystery at Redmire, so only a select few will be around for the netting process.
“If this all goes right no-one will say a word – if it goes wrong people will be saying Mark Walsingham ruined Redmire! Fingers crossed it will lead to another 50 glorious years!”
Les Bamford, who will continue to run the fishery, said: “I’m really pleased all this is going to happen. This will be my 30th year managing the water, and I’m over the moon!”
Angling Times understands that work will begin in September – bookings for the venue will be taken until then. For further information, visit: www. redmirepool.biz/bookings