Message for Mr Collett

[Paul Carter]

Maybe some of the anti Stillwater barbel anglers should read the last couple of paragraphs of Steve collett feature in anglers mail , and just maybe that might open there eyes. I admitt I'm a barbel fanatic and only fish rivers for them ,but if I was in that poor gentlemens situation I wouldn't think twice about going and catching one from a Stillwater .

 

[Jeff Collins]

Very well put Paul.

 

[Howard Cooke]

I still can't believe that a guy who was taking out a friend who is very ill has been slated for the stillwater barbel capture. I think people should have read the full article before jumping on the moral bandwagon and lighting the torches and grabbing the pitchforks.
Very draconian attitude really

43 days and counting.

Jeff, I think there have been enough posts on this thread to the effect that no one should be questioning or challenging a persons decision to fish for barbel in a still water. It's a non point. I would also stick my neck out and say that you will find full and wholehearted appreciation for any person that did what Steve did in relation to his friend.

But it is nevertheless raising an important question about the stocking of barbel into still waters in terms of their ability to adapt and flourish. I think most barbel anglers, actually most anglers and whatever species these choose to focus on, do not just regard fish as well, fish. To a greater or lesser extent it goes deeper than that which is why you see passionate and emotive responses. And long may that continue. I just wish we could debate things more on the basis of the available facts.