Small, low stock rivers and big barbel

[Christian Tyroll]

I fished a beautiful old estate lake near Dunmow. Passing just one angler who said he had been there for 4 days without a bite. When the bailiff came to take the money, I recounted this and he repleid." Oh thats nothing, some people fish her 25 times before they get a bite let alone a fish"
No, I have not been back.. Very beautiful place though!

I did about 3 weeks on the lea valley pits one spring for no tench, one eel just under 4lbs and that was my only bite. I was definately out of my depth but beautiful places to be. I’d back myself to do a bit better if I went back.

I’ve also done 15 nights on an estate lake for no carp, although did have some 6lb tench.

Then about 30 Thames sessions for nothing except bream.

Best not question it all too much or I’d go mad, again

 

[Connor Smith]

Have to say I would also echo this. Best barbel book I've ever read. Tony used John Baker's Supermilk with Ala Salar and also caught some huge bonus chub. I would start to trickle the bait in as soon as you can. A few boilies in each likely looking spot and then cut it back to one or two spots as the start of the season approaches. Moderation is the key!
He fished a very simple rig. A lead on a clip to a 8 inch length of Drennan Dacron to a size 6 Drennan Continental Boilie tied on with a knotless knot.

Also my favourite/best barbel book I've read. Definitely recommend it if anyone hasn't read it.