The Love Of My Life - Angling by Leslie Holt |
| Angling has a huge following, and I’ve been an enthusiast since my early teens, often camping at the side of a river whole week ends, or gravel-pits with my trusty tank aerial, built into a thirteen foot all rounder. My Mitchell spinning reel loaded with two pound plus line, an home made creel complete with carrying strap. A selection of lead shot weights and floats with a packet of tied 16s barbed hooks to one and half pound line, bait consisting of maggot and or worms. Way back in the very early fifties. The fishing shops were scarce then, or so it seemed and once one settled on regular visits to one’s favourite anglers store; one soon become friends with the staff. One often met other anglers there and soon their tales were every bit the attraction of these fascinating suppliers of tackle and baits. New rods and reels always the centre of attention. Information too, was broad and wide as it was edifying. I learnt a lot in my visits to tackle shops, from how to set up rigs for catching big bream, tench and carp where and when to fish certain hot spots. The shop owners knew lots about the licensing and seasons, which tickets covered one specific section or area. One always had to have a rod license; and the tackle shop sold these, very often one could join many of the various fishing clubs there too; and one usually got lots of interesting information besides. Their knowledge of the area and the local fisheries was always paramount to young keen beginners and professional anglers alike. Today, in this modern day and age; the exclusivity and importance of angling shops might well have evolved to what are emporiums of a fisherman’s fantasy but not one has lost it’s magic where information and a warm reception accompanied by comradely sense of belonging; and a welcomeness equal to any families warmth and friendliness still exist. Try one of Blackpool’s well established shops and test the veracity of what I say. Information from these shops are exclusive to you who support them. |
| Date Added: August 21, 2009 01:04:10 AM |
| Author: Leslie Holt |
| Category: Sports: Fishing & Angling Equipment |
|
