On Saturday 20 July we held our eagerly-anticipated summer Open Day at Cannon Hill – our chance to show everyone how the fishery is developing, as well as launching our Junior Section, the Wandle Young Piscators.
In complete contrast to last year’s fears of oxygen crashes, this year’s heat wave weather proved perfect for a day on the lake with professional coaches sponsored by National Fishing Month.
More than 8 species put in an appearance – including roach, rudd, perch, dace and gudgeon – and all who fished were guaranteed regular bites. Jim caught his very first carp, Phil banked a specimen tench, and Jo’s fabulous cake fortified the inner angler when all the excitement on the water got too much!
Lots of other attractions and prizes also helped to draw the crowds, including copies of the recently-published bestseller Fishing with Emma by David Overland (more copies available from the club or directly from Merlin Unwin Books).
Will and Jim helped local kids identify a selection of aquatic bugs borrowed from the Wandle for the day, and a lily-lobbing competition ensured that the lake will soon have lots more hiding places for the fish.
Many thanks to everyone who helped make the day such a success – we’re already looking forward to next year!
Photos: thanks to John O’Brien, Jim Dillon and Stew Ridgway