Spencer, the manager of the Ramsgate shop, recently enjoyed 3 days pike fishing with the company of Mick Brown. Here is his story...

It was time for my annual trip to the Pike & Predator weekend at the Carp Society’s Horseshoe Lake in Lechlade, Gloucester to commence.  Expectations were high following last year’s successful event.

That was until just past Oxford, where I was greeted with scenes reminiscent of Lapland in a snow storm.  Upon arrival at the lake I had to be directed to an area where allegedly, below the blanket of white, lay a car park.  I then made a hasty retreat to the newly opened fishing lodge for a much needed coffee.  There I was welcomed by David Mannell (Carp Society Director and Commercial Manager), Alex Bones (Dynamite Baits), Mike “Hoss” Neate (Pike Fly Fishing Expert) and of course Mick “The Duke” Brown. 

Day 1

Following the long journey I decided to have a wander around the lake with my lure rod, Summer Bay was completely frozen, so I headed over to winter point where I knew a number of fish had been caught the previous year.  This proved to be the right decision as within 10 minutes I had banked an 8lb 4oz croc. My next cast lead to my best catch of the weekend, landing myself a 14lb 12oz pike. This was topped of by being witnessed by Mick Brown and I could not resist having my picture taken with him, and of the course the pike!

As the day drew to a close, we were heartily fed on venison stew and free flowing lager and wine, whilst listening to Mick share his knowledge and experiences.

Day 2

Following breakfast in the lodge I headed onto the lake where the weather had improved and the snow was beginning to melt under foot. Mick and Mike both set up their specialist displays and invited all anglers to get involved trying out different techniques and methods.

I continued to fish into the afternoon and I was rewarded with an 8lb 12oz pike caught on dead bait from a small ice free swim on Summer Bay.

Invaluable guidance and tuition was given all afternoon by the experts and the advice was still being discussed over dinner that evening, a delightful Beef Wellington and again plenty of alcohol!!

Day 3

Our last breakfast was followed by a days fishing of mixed disciplines, and resulted in my last catch of the weekend a 10lb 4oz pike, falling to a popped up smelt. Despite the snow, everyone agreed it had been a worthwhile weekend, in total over 20 pike had been caught!

Let’s hope next year is as much fun – I am looking forward to it! (As long as my very understanding boss allows me the time off!!)