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Introduction:
Tenkara fishing, a traditional Japanese method that dates back centuries, has gained significant popularity in recent years, captivating anglers around the globe. Originating in Japan, Tenkara has found a devoted following in countries like the USA and the UK, where its simplicity and effectiveness have resonated with both seasoned and novice fly fishermen alike.
The Roots of Tenkara
Tenkara, which means "from heaven" or "from the skies," is a style of fly fishing that can be traced back to Japan in the 19th century. Originally employed by commercial anglers in the mountainous regions, Tenkara was a practical method for catching fish in narrow, fast-flowing mountain streams. Its simplicity and minimalist approach made it an ideal technique for those who needed a lightweight and portable fishing method.
The Tenkara Setup
What sets Tenkara apart from other forms of fly fishing is its distinct tackle. In Tenkara, anglers use a long telescopic rod, typically around 10 to 15 feet in length, a simple line, and a single fly. Unlike Western fly fishing, there is no reel involved in Tenkara fishing. This minimalist setup allows for a more direct connection between the angler and the fish.
The Technique
Tenkara fishing is characterized by its precise casting technique. Anglers use a straightforward casting motion to present the fly delicately on the water's surface. The lack of a reel means that the line is hand-tied to the tip of the rod, enabling anglers to control the line length with their free hand.
Tenkara's Global Appeal
In recent years, Tenkara has transcended its cultural roots and become a global phenomenon. In the USA and the UK, anglers have embraced Tenkara for its simplicity, accessibility, and effectiveness in a variety of fishing environments. Its ease of use makes it an excellent choice for beginners, while its versatility appeals to seasoned anglers looking for a new challenge.
Popularity in the USA and the UK
The Tenkara movement has gained considerable traction in the USA and the UK, with enthusiasts forming communities, clubs, and events dedicated to this ancient fishing style. The appeal of Tenkara lies in its accessibility, making it an attractive option for those who may have found traditional fly fishing too daunting. Additionally, the lightweight and portable nature of Tenkara equipment makes it suitable for backpacking and backcountry trips.
Why Tenkara?
Several factors contribute to Tenkara's growing popularity. Its simplicity makes it easy for beginners to pick up, while its effectiveness in small to medium-sized streams offers a unique fishing experience. The lack of a reel reduces complexity, making it a cost-effective choice for those entering the world of fly fishing.
Conclusion
Tenkara fishing, born in the mountainous streams of Japan, has evolved into a global phenomenon. Its simplicity, portability, and effectiveness have attracted anglers from diverse backgrounds, leading to a surge in popularity in the USA and the UK. As anglers continue to seek a connection with nature and embrace traditional fishing techniques, Tenkara's timeless appeal is likely to endure and captivate generations to come.
Ron Wood TD
Chairman
RADAS
We are holding a Tenkara Taster Event on Saturday 11th May 2024. More information and a link to book will be released soon.
Fishing has long been perceived as a male-dominated activity, but women are increasingly breaking through gender stereotypes and proving their prowess as skilled anglers. This shift is highlighted by the rising number of female anglers worldwide, including the UK. In this article, we'll explore why women make excellent anglers, showcase some famous female fly fishers, delve into the current state of women in angling in the UK, and discuss the benefits that fishing can bring to women as a fulfilling and empowering hobby.
Why Women Make Good Anglers:
Famous Female Fly Fishers:
Several notable women have made significant contributions to the world of angling, challenging traditional norms and leaving a lasting impact on the sport. Joan Wulff, Lee Wulff, and April Vokey are just a few examples of trailblazing female fly fishers who have inspired countless others to take up the rod and reel.
Current State of Women in Angling in the UK:
While the angling community in the UK has historically been male-dominated, there has been a noticeable increase in female participation in recent years. According to recent surveys, women make up approximately 15-20% of anglers in the UK. However, there is still work to be done to bridge the gender gap and encourage more women to embrace the joys of fishing.
Barriers to Entry:
Despite the growing interest, there are still barriers that may deter women from taking up fishing. These barriers include stereotypes, lack of representation, and the perception that fishing is a predominantly male activity. Efforts to challenge these stereotypes and create inclusive spaces within the angling community are crucial to encouraging more women to engage in the sport.
Benefits of Fishing for Women:
Conclusion:
Women make excellent anglers, and the increasing number of female participants in the UK highlights the positive shift towards a more inclusive angling community. By breaking down stereotypes, celebrating female role models, and emphasizing the benefits of fishing, we can encourage even more women to embrace this fulfilling and empowering outdoor hobby.
Ron Wood TD
Chairman
RADAS
Increasing the number of female members in a male-dominated angling club can lead to a more dynamic, inclusive, and thriving community. By embracing diversity, RADAS stands to benefit from a wide range of perspectives, skills, and contributions, ultimately enriching the overall experience for all members.
Rivers, with their flowing currents and diverse ecosystems, are profoundly influenced by the presence of trees along their banks. Trees play a multifaceted role in shaping the ecology of rivers, providing a host of benefits to both the environment and the myriad creatures that call these waterways home.
1. Shade, Nesting Sites, and Refuge:Trees along riverbanks create vital shaded areas that regulate water temperature, crucial for the health of aquatic life. These shaded spaces offer refuge for various organisms, including fish, insects, and amphibians, protecting them from the harsh effects of direct sunlight. The branches and foliage also serve as nesting sites for birds, contributing to the rich biodiversity of river ecosystems.
2. Habitat for Birds, Invertebrates, and Small Mammals:The intricate structure of trees provides an ideal habitat for birds, invertebrates, and small mammals. Birds find shelter in the branches, while insects and small mammals use the nooks and crannies of tree bark for nesting and refuge. The interconnected web of life created by trees contributes to the overall balance of the river ecosystem.
3. Oxygen Production:Trees play a crucial role in producing oxygen through photosynthesis. The presence of trees along riverbanks contributes to oxygenation of the water, benefiting fish and other aquatic organisms. A well-oxygenated environment is essential for the survival and health of various species.
4. Root Systems and Bank Stabilization:The extensive root systems of trees help stabilize riverbanks, preventing erosion and soil degradation. This not only maintains the integrity of the riverbanks but also reduces sedimentation in the water, contributing to water clarity and quality.
5. Carbon Emission Reduction:Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. Planting trees along rivers helps mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing carbon emissions, fostering a healthier environment for all living organisms.
6. Soil Structure and Water Infiltration:The root systems of trees break up compacted soil, allowing water to infiltrate more effectively. This helps prevent surface runoff, enhances groundwater recharge, and reduces the risk of flooding by promoting natural water absorption.
7. Flood Mitigation:Trees play a vital role in flood prevention and mitigation. Their roots stabilize riverbanks, reducing erosion, and the canopy acts as a buffer, slowing down rainwater runoff. This natural flood control contributes to the resilience of river ecosystems and surrounding communities.
8. Biodiversity and Conservation:The presence of trees enhances biodiversity along riverbanks, fostering a rich tapestry of plant and animal life. Protecting and planting trees in these areas contribute to conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of numerous species dependent on healthy river ecosystems.
Best Trees for River Banks in the UK:Native tree species are best suited for riverbank planting in the UK. Willows, alders, oaks, and poplars are excellent choices. Willows and alders, with their fibrous root systems, offer effective bank stabilization, while oaks and poplars contribute to biodiversity and provide habitat for various species.
In conclusion, trees are indispensable to the health and vitality of river ecosystems. The benefits they provide, from shade and nesting sites to flood mitigation and carbon sequestration, underscore the importance of planting and preserving trees along riverbanks. As stewards of the environment, it is our responsibility to recognize the significance of trees in sustaining the delicate balance of life along our rivers and take proactive steps to ensure their continued presence and growth.
Ron Wood TD
Chairman
RADAS
As anglers we understand the importance of trees and the vital role they play in maintaining a healthy river. RADAS have worked with local farmers and landowners to plant hundreds of trees along the banks of the River Swale.
Saturday 2ndDecember 2023
Times: 1000-1130hrs
Venue: The Farmers Arms, Scorton Richmond
The meeting was opened by the chair of Richmond and District Angling Society Ron Wood, and the following people were in attendance.
Ron Wood – RW
Jamie Shewan- JS
Allan Harder - AH
Steve Plumb - SP
Pete Fietsch - PF
Kev Woodcock – KW
Pat Bush – PB
Steve McCormack – SMc
Cress Tomlinson – CT
Jonathan Tomlinson – JT
Will Smith – WS
Ian Bosher – IB
Mark Greenwood – MG
Jason Sartin - JSa
Oscar Sartin - OS
William Moody - WM
Apologies
Tim Bush
Joe Josephs
Ronnie Kane Jnr.
Ronnie Kane Snr.
Gordon Alexander
Mark Gamble
Robin Dundas
Minutes of the last AGM 6th December 2022
The minutes of the 2022 Annual General Meeting were circulated to those present and it was identified three people at this year’s AGM had been present. RW proposed these were an accurate reflection of the meeting, which was seconded by PF and WS, then accepted.
Matters Arising.
At the last Annual General Meeting, the details in respect of Underbanks Farm and a dispute with the new owners regarding fishing rights had been raised.
Those present were updated that the matter has now concluded, however the result of which means the Society no longer has access to the waters.
The second matter arising is related to the Yorkshire Dales River Trust’s report in respect of Skeeby beck. The report included a recommendation for the removal of the ford which has now been accepted and is now subject to the necessary funding being raised.
Chairman's Remarks.
The chair Ron Wood presented the following report.
“Thank you all for coming. I am especially pleased to see some of our new members here and I am delighted that Oscar Sartin one of our junior members has come along. For those who have not met Oscar he is a very enthusiastic young angler who did a fantastic job helping at our Get Fishing event in July and subsequently took another junior member under his wing to pass on his experience and knowledge. What a great example to set to other juniors and to us adults too. Can I ask you all to join me in giving Oscar a round of applause.
The last twelve months have seen highs and lows. Let’s start with the lows. First of all the fishing has been poor once again due to very low water conditions in the first half of the year and then what seemed like a continuous deluge in the second.
As already mentioned, we had to give up a valuable stretch of water at Underbanks and in April we had a Category 1 pollution incident on Skeeby Beck which resulted in total fish kill and the closure of the beat for the foreseeable future.
On the plus side some really good habitat improvement work was carried out under the leadership of Pete Fietsch. This included planting of trees, creating fish refuges by tree hinging, opening up existing swims and creating new ones as well as repairing, fencing, stiles, erecting signs and more. This is very important work so thank you Pete and all of the members who turned out to help.
We joined the Angling Trust Water Quality Monitoring Network. Every month we sample and test the quality of the water. Pete Fietsch tests on the Swale at the Easby Sewage Outfall and Will Smith tests on Gilling Beck just above our water on Skeeby Beck. Thank you, Pete, and Will.
In July we purchased riverfly sampling equipment and some of our members trained and qualified as riverfly monitors. Every month they go out to check on the invertebrate life in the Skeeby / Gilling beck to sample and record the quantity and type of invertebrates present. This enables us to monitor the recovery of the watercourse. The data collected is collated and sent to the Environment Agency. Again, this is important work. Allan Harder, Steve McCormack, Joe Josephs and Ronnie Kane, we thank you for your great work.
Earlier this year we launched our Facebook Page and members only Facebook group. Plus our various WhatsApp groups. This has lead to positive interactions with our members and greater visibility to the general public.
In July we held our first ever Get Fishing event. This was a great success. More people attended than anticipated and we learned useful lessons which will be helpful to our future endeavours. I would like to thank those who helped set up and run the event. Kev Woodcock, Pete Fietsch, Mark Gambles, Tim and Pat Bush, Ronnie Kane, Jason Sartin and Junior members Oscar Sartin and Holly Kane (Holly is our youngest member). Thank you all.
At the end of September six committee members resigned. I would like to acknowledge the following people for their service to the society. Richard Almond, Phil Brown, Mick Rookes,
Adrian Lee, Paul Landrey and Ashley Mason.
In recognition for his long service and especially for the work he did over many years organising fishing matches and social events the committee have awarded Adrian Lee honorary life membership.
After the resignations the remaining four members quickly formed a new committee. We now have ten excellent people who are all working together to modernise and improve the society for the benefit of the members. It is a great team and a lot has been achieved in a short space of time.
Dan Walters is in charge of the website and already a lot of improvements have been made and it will soon be even better still.
Pete Fietsch is organising restocking the river and has plans in place for more habitat improvement work and other projects starting after Xmas.
Steve Plumb is planning Get Fishing events, ladies fishing evenings, litter picking events, lectures, and workshops. He has designed a Catch Return form and is also working on setting up an online shop selling branded clothing.
Kev Woodcock is the new membership secretary. He is forming a junior section and has lots of great ideas to involve our under 18’s and to increase our junior membership. Kev is also head coach and wants to get more members trained up to form a coaching team.
Allan Harder, Pete Fietsch, Steve McCormack and Steve Plumb are collaborating in various ways with the Wild Trout Trust, The Angling Trust, The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, The Dales Rivers Trust, The Holmedale Nature Project and the Save Our Swale Campaign.
Steve McCormack has been instrumental in writing our health and safety, disciplinary and grievance procedures as well as our emergency response plan and other important policies. Steve has also taken the lead to tackle the JKW infestation at Great Langton. This is a very popular fishing location and our most expensive lease. The JKW is massive problem which has to be addressed. Steve is on the case.
Cressida Tomlinson is looking into ways to make our membership more inclusive and more diverse.
Pat Bush is about to become our welfare officer (I hope). Pat will also be working closely with Cress on inclusivity and diversity as well as helping Steve Plumb and Kev on their various undertakings.
Jamie Shewan has taken up the role of Treasurer and is doing an excellent job.
Allan Harder is already proving himself to be a very competent secretary.
The committee have collaborated to produce a new constitution to protect the interests of the society and the members.
The committee have also revised the angling rules in order to protect fish stocks, remove some unnecessary restrictions and encourage our members to help us manage our waters by completing catch returns and reporting illegal fishing or environmental concerns.
Finally, I am very excited that we have joined Clubmate which we will be launching soon. This will be a great management tool and includes a fantastic app that members can download onto their phones. More on that from Allan.
It has been a year of highs and lows, but I am confident that by building on the foundations that we have laid in the last two months and by greater communication and engagement with our membership the society will go from strength to strength.”
Secretary's Annual Report
Allan Harder delivered his report.
“As the newly appointed Secretary of Richmond and District Angling Society, I would like to thank the committee for appointing me to this role and their support in the last few months.
This is our 112thAnnual General Meeting which is remarkable. The continuation of any Society for such a period of time is a reflection of its strong membership and the work of the committee, who I would thank for their previous work.
The committee members are working on several initiatives, some of which I would like to highlight.
Clubmate:
The introduction of “Clubmate” in the coming weeks will see the simplification of the membership process, annual renewals, the reduction of admin demands and costs, a method of communication with members and real-time actionable insights into how the society is performing. This information will then support the bank development work which continues to be delivered by the Operational Group. When Clubmate is ready further information will be shared with members.
Skeeby Beck:
On 13thApril, liquid digestate entered the beck near Ravensworth and the pollution flowed through the course of Skeeby beck and into the River Swale. The result of this being a total fish kill from the pollution source to the point at which the beck enters the River Swale.
The matter was reported to the Environment Agency who are now investigating to establish the cause and identifying those responsible. We do not know if this will result in a prosecution, but members will be kept informed of any future developments.
As the impact on the fish life in Skeeby beck has been so significant, it has been decided that fishing will cease on this stretch of club waters until this recover.
This is a loss to the Society and so we have engaged Fish Legal who are now representing our interests.
The society’s Vice President Robin Dundas has been given a comprehensive update of the situation and very kindly offered to waive the rent, which is greatly appreciated.
Underbanks Farm:
At the last Annual General Meeting, the previous secretary provided members details in respect of Underbanks Farm and a dispute with the new owners in respect of fishing rights.
This matter has now concluded, however the result of which means the Society no longer have access to the waters at Underbanks Farm.
Since taking the role of Secretary, I have conducted a review of all the society’s fishing rights, the terms of the lease agreements and the deeds where the society owns such rights. Action is now being taken to meet the riparian owners to confirm these and register our own riparian rights with the Land Registry with the purpose of avoiding this situation again.
Purchase of Fishing Right:
The society is still working with D’Arcy Hildyard Angling Society for the purchase of their fishing rights and members will be updated as to the progress and when this is completed.
Competitions:
There have been no reported competitions being held on society waters in the last year, and it would be hoped that these could take place in the year ahead.
Throughout the year several committee members and members have tirelessly worked to maintain the riverbanks; conduct habitat improvement; organised litter picking and Get fishing events; conduct River fly monitoring, and work with partner agencies towards the management of invasive species.
I would like to express my personal thanks to all who have completed this work and given their own time for the benefits of the wider society.”
Treasurer's Annual Report
Jamie Shewan presented his annual report and started by saying thank you to the outgoing treasurer Mick for all his hard work and for making the handover of the club’s finances as smooth as possible.
The financial year has seen the club sell 214 annual permits and 167-day permits which accounts for most of the income, along with a grant from the Angling Trust’s Get fishing fund.
Once all expenditures had been paid which includes rents the club’s profit for the year was £239.03 which is drop from previous years, mainly to do with the rise in costs and the purchase of bank clearing tools and river monitoring equipment.
Rent:
Due to pollution Zetland estates have waivered the rent for last year and the year ahead on the waters that are on their land, this will be reviewed as soon as fish numbers increase. All other rents will be paid as usual.
Fish Stocking:
For the new financial year 2023-2024 the society will make a capital investment to purchase fish to stock the river and this will be beneficial to members.
Permit pricing:
For the remainder of the 2023-2024 season, we propose to introduce a winter from 1st January to 31st March at £20.
For the 2024-2025 season we propose the following.
A Freeze to the price for all adult, OAP, Junior, and student permit holders.
Introduce one type of day permit priced at £10.
Tickets will be purchased only via the club’s website or by contacting the club officials directly.
The DAC and Bedale outlets will be closed due to drop in sales.”
At the conclusion of the three reports, it was proposed by KW these should be accepted and the motion was seconded by PF and SMc.
A question was asked in respect of Clubmate and the associated costs for this to be used. It was explained there is a commission cost, but these are cheaper than the service costs of PayPal which will save the society money, likewise there will be significant saving from not printing membership forms and the posting.
Another question was asked in respect of the monies from Get Fishing and how these were obtained. In reply it was explained this initiative was delivered by the Angling Trust and was subject to an application. The applications are assessed and where granted there are terms and condition for the use which is why Get Fishing events have been held.
At the conclusion of the question WS gave his view of the three reports stating these were positive and warming to the membership, and that these will take the club forward.
Motions
No motions had been raised by members for discussion at the Annual General Meeting and therefor only two raised by the committee were presented.
Introduction of a society Constitution to replace Articles of Association:
Ron Wood circulated to the members the draft Constitution which would replace the Articles of Association. It was explained this would be published and circulated so that members were aware of its content unlike the Articles of Association which very few members were aware of.
Additionally, the constitution defines our objects and would make the society more inclusive.
Those present were given time to read the circulated document at which Jonathon Tomlinson raised the fact these are reflective of the 21stcentury and are a fit for purpose document in accordance with proper clubs.
The committee were asked to vote if the circulated Constitution should be adopted and replace the articles of association.
Voting:
For
Against
Committee
8
0
Members
4
0
In accordance with the rules, only members who resided in Richmondshire were eligible to vote.
Chair did not vote.
Motion carried – constitution accepted.
Club rules and amendments:
The draft amendments to the club rules, as developed by the committee were circulated and the key changes identified for those present. Everyone was given time to read these.
There was one proposal for the rules, which was that rule 3 should also include the production to riparian owners, which everyone supported.
Voting:
For
Against
Committee
8
0
Members
7
0
In accordance with the adopted constitution all members are eligible to vote.
Chair did not vote.
Motion carried – rule changes accepted.
Election of Committee and Officers
Since the circulation of the Annual General Meeting there had been no representations for people seeking election to the committee.
The question was asked at the meeting if any members were seeking election and nobody raised their interest.
The election of officers was then completed:
Role
Nominee
Proposer
Seconder
Outcome
Chair:
Ron Wood
Cress Tomlinson
Pete Fietsch
Carried
Secretary:
Allan Harder
Pete Fietsch
Kev Woodcock
Carried
Treasurer:
Jamie Shewan
Steve Plumb
Steve McCormack
Carried
Vice. Chair
Pete Fietsch
Kev Woodcock
Will Smith
Carried
All committee members were willing to remain and support the work of the club.
Discussion in respect of further committee member and these would be welcome to specific and identified roles.
Member Jonathon Tomlinson offered to provide legal support to the committee – proposer to join the committee MG which was seconded by PB
Ian Bosher had indicated his interest to join the committee and the work for both river testing and fly monitoring. His adoption to the committee was proposed by RW an seconded by PF. Ian was then elected to the Citizen Science Coordinator.
Next AGM
The date for the next AGM has not been set but it will be December 2024 and the details circulated to members once confirmed.
Please read the new constitution which explains the aims of the society and how the club is organized and managed. You can find it by clicking the More tab and scrolling down.
Please also read the revised angling rules as there have been some significant changes.
Please note that all fish are to be returned unharmed and catch returns will be required.
DEALING WITH LITTER
We have all seen footage of our polluted oceans: marine life trapped in discarded fishing nets and aquatic animals wedged inside plastic containers. It would be easy to assume that this waste comes from shipping, coastal communities and the commercial fishing industry, but it is estimated that approximately 80% of marine litter actually originates from land-based sources, including rivers. The Canal and River Trust estimates that some 14 million pieces of plastic litter end up in our rivers and canals each year, of which 500,000 are carried into the ocean.
Plastic bottles and food packaging are among the most common items found in rivers. In fact, a study found that 6.9% of all used plastic bottles are littered in rivers, making it the largest source of plastic pollution (source: www.wastemanaged.co.uk).
The impact of this pollution cannot be overstated. It can lead to injury to wildlife, damage to, or destruction of habitat, detrimental impact on water quality, and when broken down into microplastics can end up in the food chain.
We as anglers can and should play our part in keeping our waterways as clear of litter as possible. RADAS plans to organise two litter picks each year, which the Angling Trust has supported by giving the club litter picking equipment. However, two days each year will only have a very limited impact. The Angling Trust is also running an initiative called “Just Take 5”, where anglers pledge to either collect five pieces of litter, or to spend five minutes picking litter, at the end of each fishing session. A spare carrier bag adds no weight to a fishing bag, and there is no better way of recycling a plastic bag than to fill it with plastic which can be recycled! Also, if anglers share their litter picking exploits on social media, an exclusive Shimano baseball cap can be won. Details are on the Angling Trust website.
There is an elephant in the room for us anglers. In all disciplines of fishing, UK anglers alone are estimated to use 1.25 million kilometers of line per year, the vast majority of which ends up littered or in landfill. The Anglers National Line Recycling Scheme has been set up to address this. The scheme will accept line and empty plastic spools, which will be recycled into new plastic products. Recycling bins can be found in many local tackle shops, or waste can be sent to the scheme directly by post. Details are available at www.anglers-nlrs.co.uk.
Steve Plumb, Development Officer
“No person ever steps into the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and they’re not the same person.”
With apologies to Heraclitus
My very first fishing trip was a dream, one September I had the chance to spend two days fishing Salmon on the Dalmarnock Beat on the Tay. Fishing was never something I had considered before, and I jumped at the chance. I had no idea about what fishing entailed and honestly there are some days when I’m still pretty clueless. That first experience is one I’ll never forget, I didn’t catch, it didn’t matter, even though there were friends close by, there was a sense of calm as I stood in deep water watching salmon leap around me, one so close I could have almost snatched it into my hand. As the saying goes, I was caught hook line, and you know the rest.
A good friend gave me advice, showed me some rock-solid basics, lessons on casting, tips on reading the water and how to take care in it. If I was going to do it at least I was going to be prepared. Then everything fell apart, the Pandemic took hold and in March 2021 I was diagnosed with cancer. Of course, I read all the information about what would happen and what to expect, or rather I flicked through it then threw it all in a drawer, because of course none of that would apply to me, I was going to sail through it. I was wrong; nothing prepared me for how much I would struggle. Particularly as in the first year of recovery I contracted Covid.
Wellness, well-being and self-care are words we hear regularly these days in relation to physical and mental health. The BMA talks of a rise of 22% in referred mental health cases between 2019 and 2022, over the same period NHS has logged significant rises amongst children and young people particularly amongst those aged between 17 and 19 where they have calculated that 1 in 4 now suffer from some kind of disorder.
There are so many factors and pressures which can affect a person's mental health; financial worries, social media pressure, school or work worries and illness. I can of course, only write about my own experience and I hope it will help others see the benefits that fishing has to offer.
It took almost 18 months before I was back at the river. I felt as if I had completely lost control of my life and I had to come to terms with the fact that I wasn’t the same person either physically or mentally. I don’t do “ill”, but my body had other ideas, even now medication affects my concentration, my thought processes and my balance, not great when I was already more Mortimer than Whitehouse in the water.
But gradually with the help of Tim and my trusty wading stick, I’m regaining that confidence and relishing the achievement. Because of a creaky shoulder my cast is still dodgy, so it’s always a plus not to snag a tree, the bank-side grass or a rock and to offset that I’m learning to cast with my other hand. Catching a fish is a bonus; but for me it’s the “lift” of being outside, the satisfaction of having made the effort to get myself out there. I go the the river, to enjoy the fresh air, the peace, the scenery as it changes, to watch the wildlife, to just think about fishing. I wonder how many people have seen an erythristic badger come down to the water's edge or have seen swallows flying low to drink on the wing. Egrets and Herons standing statue still and giving me the stink eye, Kingfishers so fast you only see that flash of metallic blue. There are times when before I even get my rod out of the case, I’ll sit on the bank with a flask of coffee, watching the water, the wildlife and the hatch.
For me fishing is much more than just casting a line tipped with metal and feathers into water, it’s my rescue remedy, my go to for the rotten days and definitely for the good days because it only makes them better.
For anyone thinking of taking up fishing for whatever reason, my advice is do it. Life is made better by injecting a little calm, and we all need to step away from everyday pressures. Whatever angling discipline you chose, if you need advice, please ask the members of RADAS, they have a wealth of experience and there’s always someone to help you. Do it, because I doubt, you’ll regret that you took the chance.
“Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it.”
Norman Maclean
NORTH YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
15 NOVEMBER 2023
Motion regarding water quality for improvements in, health, wildlife, biodiversity and economy – amended motion as recommended by the Transport, Economy, Environment and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Agenda item 19).
This Council resolves to:
1. Recognise it has a role and agrees to define its role to protect the rivers, watercourse and seas in North Yorkshire and precious habitats these support as far as possible from the cumulative impacts of pollution, including in line with its local planning policy and the National Planning Policy Framework.
2. Be aware that there is evidence of deterioration of water quality due to the cumulative impact of nitrates phosphates, micro-plastics, pharmaceuticals, historical metal mining, waste and minerals activities, rural diffuse pollution and multiple sewage discharge events from diffuse and point source pollution including private and statutory waste treatment systems to monitor, measure and seek to better understand the impact on our local rivers, wildlife and the health of our residents.
3.Draw on relevant evidence that assesses the cumulative impact of pollution so that this is appropriately factored into the emerging North Yorkshire plan, including the site specific level of future development.
4.Ask the Transport, Economy, Environment and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee to invite senior representatives from Yorkshire Water, the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Dales River Trust, Nidd Action Group, Natural England, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, the National Farmers’ Union and other interested groups to attend a meeting to allow for a better understanding of the current levels of pollution and remedial action being taken in this regard.
5.Ask all relevant water companies, from this date onwards, in its planning consultation responses for major developments, to clarify which treatment works will be managing the sewage; confirm that these treatment works have the additional capacity to take waste from agreed developments and whether it has the information available to assess the impact on the number or duration of sewage discharges into local rivers or seas, and if it does have this information to share it (noting that this can only be requested not required).
6. Ask the Leader and appropriate Executive Members to collaborate with other Local Authorities facing similar water quality problems in order to best understand how we can use our influence to reduce and mitigate the damage done to our watercourses.
7.This Council plays its part in supporting communities who wish to attain bathing water status
8.Planning policy should give specific weight and consideration to the potential impacts on watercourses and river waterbodies both in terms of contamination and health.
9. To ask the Leader of Council, if the motion is carried, to write to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to request that the policy issues raised in the Notice of Motion be included as part of the National Planning Policy Framework.
This motion has been endorsed by the: Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust; River Ure Conservation Trust and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.
Catch returns help to build up a picture of fish stocks in the river. The data collected allows us to monitor the health of the fish population and plan restocking. Nil returns are important because they give an indication on how the river is fishing. Although end of season catch returns are good, end of session returns are even better. Catch returns should indicate how many and what species of fish have been caught and from which locations.
When I first joined RADAS I was amazed that the society did not use catch returns. When I enquired about this I was told that historically information came in from the fishing matches which the society regularly organised. These competitions were very popular, often with large numbers of anglers taking part. The match results provided an insight into fish numbers and distribution. I have not seen any information from fishing matches held years ago and I don’t know how the results were recorded. If records exist they are probably in a document somewhere in the archives. I have never heard them referred to at committee meetings.
I am told that the fish stocks in the Swale have declined greatly from what they once were and yet we have no evidence to support this. All we have is here say from veteran anglers. I don’t dispute these accounts but we can’t have a discussion with the Environment Agency based on word of mouth. In order to properly manage the river and have meaningful conversations with the Environment Agency, The Rivers Trusts and others, we need data.
I have seen photos on Facebook of barbel and chub that have been caught in our waters. I have also seen photos of some very large trout. However I have no idea how many have been caught in total or indeed which other species are being caught. We need to know.
Before the internet catch returns would have to be submitted on paper. Anglers would return the forms by post and then a committee member would have to collate the information which is rather time consuming and laborious. Many clubs still follow this procedure. However an online form makes the process much easier. Software is available that can add the data to a spreadsheet instantly. Furthermore suitable user friendly software is available free of charge. A catch return form can easily be added to a website for members to use. We could set this up now.
Catch returns are important and it is in the interests of every angler to submit them. I hope that the RADAS committee will address this important matter and that catch returns will soon be introduced as part of our river management strategy.
Ron Wood TD
Chairman
This article appeared in local and national newspapers
Download PDFGordon Alexander, a long-standing R&DAS member and trustee and a former committee member, compiled a history of R&DAS in 2004. Gordon has kindly agreed that it can be shared with our members.
The file has been compressed as it is very large (40MB) as the pages have been scanned. The file has been compressed to reduce size (to 24 MB).
Please click below to read the media release about barbel stocking...
In October 2020, Trout and Salmon ran an article featuring Stuart Wardle (England International and Durham Fly fishing Company owner) and Don Stazicker fishing Richmond & District Angling Society waters on the River Swale. This has been reproduced with the kind permission of Trout & Salmon, Bauer Media UK.
In September 2019, Trout Fisherman ran an article featuring Fred Bainbridge fishing Richmond & District Angling Society waters on the River Swale. This has been reproduced with the kind permission of Trout Fisherman, Bauer Media UK.
The three anglers referred to in this article had a great back end to their 2014 season. On a recent visit to Great Langton Bill and David caught 44 fish between them, all but two being grayling and all on dry fly. Reflecting on the day, Bill commented, “We have a wonderful river and better than all of the others I have fished, including ‘named’ rivers in Scotland”. The red letter day was followed by several other visits in which all three achieved double figures, including grayling up to 15 inches and a 2 ½ lb brown trout, again all on dry.
Paul Proctor from Trout and Salmon magazine shows us how it is done!
This is a Barbel Society article based on our waters at Easby Abbey. Although written a few years ago, the routes, swims and river are largely unchanged and gives a real feeling for the special atmosphere of an early morning start on the upper river Swale.
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