welder

Advice needed, please. Son and I are fishing Clay Lakes in northern France next year and one of the requirements/suggestions is that fish should be handled, or at least unhooked, whilst in the water. I have no problem with this but have never owned waders of any sort. Hints, tips and suggestions as to what to buy will be welcomed. Ian

You don't know what's in a Big Mac yet still we devour them in their millions. Ian.

I agree with every word. Especially the bit about YouTube and fishing........ Ian

My thought of the day. Just how important are "Reality" TV programmes in the real world? I note that The Sun newspaper today has dedicated it's first three pages to something from the telly. The headline reads "EXCLUSIVE: I'M A CELEB IN CRISIS". Apparently one of the contestants (?) went home feeling poorly and can't return, another is taking painkillers and one's fretting because his mom's unwell. Is all this newsworthy? Three pages worth? Know what? I really, really don't care. Ian.

Happy to help. If you visit them have a walk up the yard to Unit 90 afterwards and I'll make you a tea of coffee. Ian.

Hi Griffindor, one of my business neighbours does work in canvas and assorted other water-resistant materials, in the past they've altered a bivvy groundsheet for me. They'll probably be able to make what you need if you have one to copy.. Comptons 2000 Ltd is the company's name and 0121 622 5562 is their landline number., they're in Digbeth, Birmingham. Ask for Steve or Reece Hennessey and tell them that Ian Whitaker passed you their details. Ian.

I'm doing the same but with added sweetcorn. I just have to use corn, it's my go-to attractor. Don't know why, it's a confidence thing. Ian.

I have to agree with Yonny. I don't think that carp change their diets during the colder months, they just feed less often. IMHO If Tigers are what they're used to then just carry on using them. Ian.

That's not far off the truth! Ian.

Fresh air, change of scenery, flora and fauna. Nada? Don't think so. Ian.

Shame of it is that I've never considered Churn to have a weed problem. Hey ho, I'm sure you'll persevere. Give my best to the others, please. Ian.

Phil, have you found the clear gravel patch near where the lake runs into the river? It's about a rod's length out and around 2 metres in diameter. Alan had four good fish from there in one day. Worth a look, mate. Ian.

Or the manufacturers are taking a hit on their profits to make the product seem better value? Ian.

That's exactly what I do, Highy. Ian.

This is something I ought to try.....selling stuff. I just keep accumulating anything related to fishing. This is further complicated by the fact that my son keeps his gear in with my stuff and has the same, hoarding, inclinations. With the amassed bivvies, brollies and shelters we own between us we could establish a small village and give every occupant his own rod and reel. I need a bigger shed. Ian.

Hi Callum, welcome to the forum. I've just had a look on YouTube and found a couple of videos showing how to set up a Sabre Capsule bivvy. I'd suggest that you do likewise, might help alleviate your struggling. All the best. Ian.

I keep meaning to do much the same, back to basics down on the canal. Like many, I served my angling apprenticeship on local canals, there's no shortage of them near Birmingham! Oh, and I still remember when small perch were things of wonder. Kev, I wish you all good luck in your venture. Ian.

Certainly did, Kev. Truth be told I'm daft for dogs, love them and would forgive all mischief. Ian.

Other side of the coin, one of our chocolate labradors would eat anything. Tulip bulbs, plaster and the plasterboard behind it, the front off my PC, a tap-dancing shoe and part of a wellington boot are items that come to mind. Our vet grew wealthy by knowing this dog. Ian.

I spent some time in this gentleman's company at one of the Go Fishing shows at the NEC, some years ago. He was a good laugh and not at all "special" despite being almost a household name at the time. I liked him. Ian.

Sounds about right. Ian.

I had the same thought. Either way, I'd like a few days on there just to see what's what. I like an adventure. Ian.

Damo, welcome amongst us. As far as I can see Charters is an old Dutch barge converted into a bar/restaurant, moored in Peterborough's city centre. Two things, some of my most prolific fishing has been in areas least likely to be fished, like city /town centres. Second thing, imagine how much food waste is going to be "dumped" into the river in the vicinity of this barge. Get yourself there and fish for whatever takes your bait. You may be surprised how few restriction for angling apply in urban areas. Ian.

A quick tip on the topic of barrows. Don't, ever, leave the handles at home in the shed. Without them the barrow is of absolutely no use. Trust me. Ian.

I have to agree with the suggestions that we leave them be for a while. We have the rest of our lives to go fishing, there's no rush. Ian.