Copston Magna


Eider Mallard

 
We started the day at Copston Magna where there are two waters, Eider and Mallard.  Most members started on Eider but one or two ventured onto Mallard to try their luck there. 

There was quite a strong wind blowing the length of both waters so I opted for the far bank on Eider (opposite) so that the wind was from my left (much safer given my casting ability).

I started with a single Damsel nymph on an intermediate line but met with no success. 

I decided to try a floating line with a combination of nymphs and buzzers, but found that the wind was moving the flies relatively fast so returned to the Damsel on an intermediate line. 

I moved along the bank a little at regular intervals trying to locate the fish – but at the same time carefully avoided the nesting swans!!

My persistence finally paid off with the capture of a nice little fish of just over a pound, safely returned after a very quick picture. 
However, it was not only the fishermen who were struggling on Eider ...

Close towhere I was fishing, a pair of Coot were busily reinforcing their nest, which had been built on a raft some distance from the bank.  However as the day progressed the wind speed had increased.  This eventually resulted in the raft breaking away and was blown downwind ending up stranded near the bank at the top end of the water.  Unfortunately the female had already laid a clutch of eggs which I fear may now be abandoned. 
Not many fish were caught on Eider but most members managed to catch one or two fish on Mallard.  As we were all fishing 'Catch & Release' on all waters today all fish were safely returned.

However, time was marching on and it was agreed that it was time to move on to our next venue. 

A short drive along pleasant country lanes (I'm glad I wasn't navigating) soon brought us to our next venue, Wolvey.
 

 
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