The angling column

Budliegh Salterton angler George Drew has been out and about in the last week, sometimes fishing in awful conditions, but his perseverance has paid off with him landing a Bass in excess of 5lbs locally and fine Cod of 10lbs 10oz on a visit to Minehead.
Suzy Decodts took her 10 yearold grandson to Princess Pier in Torquay on his first fishing trip, where he landed several Mackerel.
Spring Ponds, Rocombe held their Christmas Match on a wet Saturday and, with the water the colour of drinking chocolate, they found the fish feeding. Top weight was Jason Fay with 66lbs 8oz, fishing the long pole with corn and pellet.
Steve Barrell took second spot with 56lbs 2oz using his favoured waggler tactics, with Graham Fay in Third with 31lbs 8oz fishing the pole and corn. All anglers went home with Christmas-related prizes, with the top anglers taking home cash.
Matches continue into the new year, all socially distanced and following Angling Trust Guidelines. On a pleasure session at the same water, Steve Prior landed Carp to 8lbs, Perch to 1lb 7oz and a beautiful golden Koi Carp.
Saleem Ali took his young son Cohen to a private fishery chasing Pike and helped him land a decent fish.
I recently heard the sad news that Torbay Angler and Master Caster Phil Hyde had died. Phil was well known in angling circles and had owned a tackle shop in Paignton, which I remember he opened one Boxing day, so that I could get some bait. Our thoughts are with his family.
I am looking forward to getting all your pictures from your fishing trips over the festive period, hopefully trying out those new rods and reels. Please send them to johnsherlockfish@gmail.com
Look out for our new fish of the month competition starting in January, sponsored by Newbarn farm and Sidewinder lures. Full details will appear in the next issue.
The Angling Trust continue to keep us updated with the current guidelines with the Tier system that we find ourselves in - their website is worth a look.
Tight lines and stay safe.