A new work-party record was set today at the reservoir - 15 volunteers braved the mist and fog and came equipped with saws, rakes, loppers, barrows, chain-saws, and a box of matches. I know this looks like only 14, but I was hiding behind the camera.
This fixture was to tackle (geddit?) the casting spots at the reservoir, and to remove some of the obstructions such as the big hawthorn stumps and those annoying willows either side that keep stealing flies. We also cleared up more of the areas for the back-casts and generally transformed the fishing spots to a new standard.
Meanwhile, we raked out huge piles of weed, and left them on the banks for the invertebrates to return to the water, and raked up huge piles of cuttings to feed a very seasonal bonfire.
The bonfire was an integral part of the operation, as it not only disposed of huge piles of cuttings, but was focal point for the traditional coffee break. Once again we were treated to beverages from Nigel, delicious home-made sausage rolls from Andrew, and yummy doughnuts from me (well, from Jempson's really).
The session finished around lunchtime, but a few people stayed on for more porcine delicacies from Chef Andrew, as he grilled some excellent sausages on the fire and served them in rolls, with Mustard and Ketchup. Well worth waiting for.
As for the fishing, despite all the disturbance, the trout were back and rising noisily under the (remaining) willows, and proving as elusive as ever, even if the Rudd were less stand-offish. It's well worth trying to tempt the trout with a dry fly however, instead of exhausting yourself casting across the reservoir. Do be prepared to lose a few flies though.
Definitely a good morning's exercise, and a great social occasion for members to swap tips and experiences while doing something really worthwhile. Contact Nigel if you don't want to miss out on the next one.
Cheers
PeterB
P.S. Thanks to Tony, here are some video panoramas around the Reservoir. They should give you an idea of what you're missing if you've never been there.
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