Overview

Barbel Days is a reflective and richly detailed angling memoir from lifelong coarse fisherman Colin Woods, chronicling decades spent pursuing roach and barbel on some of southern England's most storied rivers. Living within easy reach of the Hampshire Avon, Woods has come to know its glides, runs and hidden swims with rare intimacy. His patient, observant approach has yielded numerous double-figure barbel and specimen roach, often from overlooked stretches that other anglers pass by. Drawing on a lifetime's experience, he recounts memorable captures, changing river conditions, seasonal tactics, and the friendships forged along Britain's riverbanks. More than a fishing diary, this book is a celebration of traditional UK coarse fishing - the quiet discipline, watercraft knowledge and respect for nature that define the sport. With vivid descriptions of river landscapes and candid reflections on angling life, Barbel Days will appeal to dedicated specimen hunters, river anglers, and readers who value thoughtful writing about the natural world. An authentic contribution to contemporary British angling literature.

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9781919380797

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Colin Woods grew up in the county of Middlesex. A short walk from home a quiet canal provided good float fishing for roach and gudgeon for Colin as a five-year-old. By the time he was ten, cycle trips had widened his horizon to include local ponds, including the Royal Parks, and the rivers Thames and Colne were within range. In his teenage years he was able to fish more distant waters, travelling by coach with a local club or on outings with friends and family.Like many anglers of the time, Colin was inspired by the writings of Bernard Venables and by his mid-teens, barbel became his main interest; his first was caught at the age of sixteen. Barbel have continued to be his favourite species, and the passion remains. Other fish are of interest, especially roach.After over twenty years working in local government, he accepted redundancy and moved to a new home within walking distance of the Hampshire Avon. Ever since, he has had little desire to fish other rivers.Colin has now spent half his lifetime living in Christchurch. More recently he moved within the town and now resides a walk away from the sea. Looking for a quieter property with a larger garden he found just the right garden, and fortunately it came with a house. Beyond the nearest neighbour is a small lake with fish and its resident ducks and geese are often welcome guests in the garden.

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