Barry McConnell, author of the highly regarded book, The Eel Angler, recounts his time spent in pursuit of zander on The Great Ouse Relief Channel in the Fens. Often on the bank for days at a time, alone and at one with nature, the author also shares his observations of the birds and other animals that feature in the Fenland landscape.
A great addition to the relatively small literature of British zander fishing books.
Designed and produced by Stephen Harper of Harper Fine Angling Books. Only 700 copies were printed and the author has now sold out. I have just a few copies left. Once they're gone - they're gone!
"These true-to-life tales of epic zander-fishing sessions, weave a lyrical charm over the natural surroundings and bring to life day and night-time experiences beside the river."
"The chapters within this book are about just one river: The Great Ouse Relief Channel. Tales are recounted about zander fishing for several days at a time from a bivvy, with three or four rods and bite alarms. However, this book is about more than just fishing. A passion for the Fens is portrayed, as much of the time is spent watching nature, the elements, and the great outdoors; enjoying night-time experiences that rouse nocturnal instincts; revelling in sunrises and sunsets so incredible they remain forever imprinted in the memory; and communing with the countryside and nature as birds come so close to the bivvy you can almost touch them. The bivvy is a hide and the angler on a nature watch; and so the second part of each chapter in this book reflects this with its observations that describe in detail 'the nature of the Fens'." (From the introduction).
Contents include:- Dedication and introduction; 'The Crown on the Channel' by Barry McConnell; Preface: The Great Ouse Relief Channel; Foreword: The Great Ouse Relief Channel 1963 to the Present Day by Neville Fickling; Zander alley (1995); The mussel beds and Denver (1995 - 1996); Tail Sluice (1997); Alf's bridge (1997); The furthermost swim (1997); The lonely bed of reeds (1997); Winter (1997 - 1998); End of season (1998); The Sheepfield: best-ever catch (2000); Decline of the Channel zander (2004 to 2008); Return to the Channel (2016); Zander fishing tips; Tackle and rigs; Birds recorded on the Great Ouse Relief Channel in February.