Recent outings along the River Ant at Ludham Bridge and Irstead Shoals have yielded valuable lessons for avid fisherman Duncan Hale-Sutton. "Groundbait can be very useful in getting fish feeding," said Hale-Sutton, reflecting on his experiences since his last blog post back in September. He emphasized the importance of adapting his techniques in response to the unique challenges presented by the river.
Initially hesitant about using groundbait due to cost considerations, he decided to give it another shot after struggling to secure bites in other fishing spots like Womack Water. "I picked up a bag of general use groundbait for £3.50 at the Bass Online shop in Horning," Hale-Sutton noted, expressing satisfaction with the results. The efficacy of groundbait in attracting fish has indeed contributed to his recent successes.
One of the challenges faced while fishing at Ludham Bridge has been the river's tidal flow. "I had previously been put off from float fishing the Ant at Ludham Bridge because the tidal flow of the river makes it hard work with the float being on the move all the time," he admitted. However, a pivotal moment occurred when he witnessed another angler’s technique. "You can let the float go so far and then hold it back against the flow," he said, revealing an approach he had long overlooked, believing it might scare fish away.
Hale-Sutton’s newfound strategy allows him to fish within a few feet of the bank without frequent re-casting. "You need to keep the rod tip low to the water, have the float tethered at its eye end and let out sufficient line," he advised, underscoring the specifics that lead to a more productive fishing experience.
The east bank of the Ant at Ludham features a designated fishing area, part of a broader effort to enhance local angling opportunities. "It's a nice spot, free of moored boats but still with some boat traffic," Hale-Sutton described. A particular peg located where the river forms a sheltered bay has proven to be fruitful for him, with catches of roach, rudd, skimmers, and perch, albeit no significant size fish so far.
However, Hale-Sutton is eager to target larger bream. "I think the trick to catching some of the bigger bream would be to ledger off the bottom," he said, hinting at future fishing plans. The Ant at Irstead, known for its reliability, presents its own set of obstacles. "You have to fight a bit for space because boats like to moor up there," he explained, adding that this spot is reputed for night-time bream catches, especially near a creek on the opposite bank.
Engagement with fellow anglers is also a highlight of Hale-Sutton’s fishing experience. He noted the camaraderie among boaters, sharing, "During some of the poorer weather we have had recently, I have even been offered cups of tea by these kind folk. Much appreciated!" Such interactions enhance the overall enjoyment of fishing, fostering a sense of community.
Despite his challenges in landing a sizeable bream, he recounted a near-miss. "I did have one on my line the other day which was probably 2lb or more but I lost it before I could net it," he lamented. On October 11th, he managed to secure several fish, showcasing his successful outings with a 12.5-inch bream and a 10.5-inch perch, weighing approximately 1lb 8oz and 14oz, respectively.
As the fishing season continues, fervent anglers like Hale-Sutton remain optimistic about their pursuits on the River Ant. With a combination of learned techniques and community support, both beginners and seasoned fishermen can look forward to engaging experiences along this picturesque waterway. Further attempts to land those elusive larger bream may soon reward that patience and persistence.