A Tale of Two Aquatic Communities
Number 1 is the angling syndicate and the second ourselves, of course. Better fish
(40+lb carp), improved facilities and discretion in membership has enabled
Papercourt to become a prestigious angling venue. The anglers pay a lot (to us) for
their sport and that subsidises what we pay for our sailing. They also look after their
own ‘swims’ (the areas of the lake anglers are actively fishing and cast from), assist
in our work party activities, man our weedcutter and have their own bailiffs (who
police the angling activities).
An understanding and a few common-sense rules enables both sports to be enjoyed
at our one location. I thought it worth running through the main points - primarily for
the benefit of new members.
Fish often swarm near the clubhouse end of the lake, meaning that the anglers
would naturally like to fish there at such times. When there are sailors out, they must
use “ledger” (weighted) gear and line that sinks to the bottom of the lake. When
sailors are not out, they may choose to use floats etc - whatever is most suitable for
current conditions.
That can cause a problem at the end of sailing sessions if anglers believe that sailing
has finished for the day. They may change tackle but someone may then decide to
go out sailing again. It’s a case of being aware of what is going around you – which
includes the anglers. Keep the centreboard up some way if possible to avoid their
lines and ask the fishermen where their lines are. They are approachable and willing
give out such information – it is in their own interest.
If hailed by a fisherman, it’s probably because you’ve snagged and are pulling out
their line; it’s not personal. They are concerned about the tackle at the end of the
line, which can be very expensive. (As an angler of too many decades ago, I was
surprised at the complexity, technical aids and digitisation of the sport now).
Race course setting should ensure that fishermen’s swims are not sailed over Again,
actively engaging with the bank-side anglers will prevent incidents and promote good
relations.
And Talking of Good Relations...........................................................
Special boat precautions during fish spawning
Please note that our anglers have closed the lake for fishing activities for approximately two weeks whilst the fish spawn. In reality this period will probably be less than that.
The main area of activity is near the south-west bank (on the left as you go up the lake) where some small orange buoys mark off shallow water. A less likely, but possible area, is the bay like area on the north-east corner at the top of the lake - to the right of the top pylon.
It will be obvious when fish are spawning as there will plenty of fish around, movement in the water and eggs on the surface.
During this time fish get inattentive to normal hazards such as boats and particularly the propellers of power boats.
We can minimise the risk of damage to fish by:
· Staying away from the spawning areas for sailing activities, other than for normal transit if necessary.
· Taking especial care with power boats in speed and direction.
· Please text the key bailiffs directly if anyone is seen fishing (with location, date, time etc).
These are Duncan on 07414 618846 or Matt on 07557 908151.
(Please Do not approach any anglers yourself; the bailiffs will handle the situation).
Thanks for your co-operation.
Barry Alford Estate Manager
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