A Search for Perch, aka A Nice Stroll up the Cut!

Although yesterday was hot and bright I decided to have a go for perch on a nearby stretch of the Oxford Canal. I just took my 8' spinning rod and was using some new 3" shads - perch, roach and trout look-alikes.

This stretch meanders north from Banbury through some very pretty countryside with a few nice old farms and houses.

First cast, bounced the perch off the far edge, perfect! Except that it snagged on something serious. Despite the 30lb braid I was using it failed at the crimp. Bugger! Note to self, re-do all traces when I get home.

I walked about 2 miles or so up and then back again (obviously) and only saw 2 moving narrowboats but plenty moored - which I examined with the roach.  No plucks or takes.

Still, as the title says, it was a nice stroll up the cut.

Last Knockings

After an enjoyable but fishless day at Bury Hill with Martin and Jeff I decided to get a day on the river before the Close. Previously the Cleeve Prior stretch on the Avon had proved fruitful so that's where I headed.

I was the only one there when I arrived at about 8:30 and after 6 hard hours I thought "don't blaim them for stopping in!".

Around 3 ish, having had just 1 small jack and a couple of chub, I decided to pack up. However, before I had time to break down the quiver rod the tip pulled round and I was into what I was sure was one of the larger bream to be found on this stretch. It stayed over towards the far bank and just hugged the bottom. By the time I'd got it nearer to me it woke up and then decided it wanted to play. By now I decided it was a barbel so I paid a bit more attention! Eventually it slipped into the net and my first one of the year brought the scales around to a healthy 7lbs 11oz.