I Shoot and Fish January Free E-zine 2012 by Anthony Curran

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Rachel Allen Page 8

The Duck Fly Page 19

Fogbound Page 6

Hywell Morgan Page 14

Starting a Lurcher Pup Lamping Page 17

Curragh Springs Page 30

Stevie Munn’s South American Experience Page 19

Trout Fishing In Ireland Part 2 Page 20

Field Sports Channel Page 23

A Fly Fisherlady’s Life Page 27 Nigel Allen’s Air Gun Blog Page 28 Deer Poaching In Ireland Page 21

Air Gun. TV Page 29

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Illegal Deer Lamping Page 32

Hunters Vermin Page 42

Trained Hunters Qualification Page 45

Catch of The Week Page 39

Nature Groups In Boar War Page 46

Forget the Lough Ness Monster Page 53

Top Pike Angling Page 54

Foxing With Robert Bucknell Part 2 Page 55

Cape Fear Page 67

Pheasant Shooting In The US Page 35

I Shoot and Fish e-Zine January 2012

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I Shoot and Fish is a digital magazine from I Shoot and Fish.ie. All rights reserved. I Shoot and Fish its agents, officers and employees accept no responsibility for injuries or damages that may result from information, or interpretation of such, in articles or advertisements herein. Articles and advertisements may not specifically include all relevant and established safe practices, which always should be followed. Consult a particular gunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manual or a qualified gunsmith before shooting any gun or ammunition.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Editors Notes Happy New Year everyone! I hope that you all had full bellies over the festive season. It’s funny I started off last year looking forward to a bright year with loads of fishing and loads of shooting. Being involved with this e-zine I thought ‘well it’s my job now I have to get out and do it’’ did I? NO is the short answer. I hardly even lifted a rod last year. Sure I can make load of excuses no time to busy with work, small baby etc. etc. but truth be told I could have made the time to do it. This year I have made the same promise to myself. Will I keep it? Only time will tell, but I hope not to be sitting writing this time next and starting off the same way. As the bird season is coming to a close I had a very disappointing shooting year. Some the good ground I usually shoot has be privatised which left me starting a fresh and covering ground I didn’t know. As I mentioned above time was an issue. I usually get a lot of shooting done over the Christmas holidays- Not this year. Between travelling to see both families in Galway and the wee hills of Donegal and then sickness it was time to go back to work before I had a chance to even dust off the gun again. Still on a happier note I did discover some new ground with farmers happy to work with us and develop some good bird shooting. This year has started a lot busier than last. Next month we are at the National Angling Fair 2012 which looks like a great show see their ad on page 5. We have also agreed to attend loads more which we will go into detail about in next month’s issue. Also I will be reviewing Hunters Vermin ‘Air Rifle Hunting in Northern Ireland’ see the ad on page 43 for details of how to buy. If you would like something reviewed or indeed if you have reviewed something let us know info@ishootandfish.ie

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Fogbound by Anthony Baggott It was a chilly January evening in the early 80 s as I chugged along in the old ford fiesta to meet my shooting partners for a duck flight. I always was a big fan of flight shooting and as a young guy in my early twenties, footloose and fancy free; I went out any evening I was off duty. However my half-bred lab, Tory, was a work in progress and I preferred when JJ and Billy came along with their more reliable retrievers, Goldie and Blackie. The previous evening we had a moderately successful flight and on the way home ,lying in the back of the van ,surrounded by steaming dogs and a few stiffening mallard I suggested we give an isolated swamp known as High Clydagh a go. We agreed to meet up as usual this evening to shoot it. However as I drove the few miles to our meeting point, the square in a local village, I noticed the temperature gauge was way up. I pulled over and spent a few minutes getting water and topping up the rad. When I arrived at the meeting point some ten minutes late, and found nobody waiting I figured they had waited a while and then gone ahead without me. I threw a glance at the rising gauge again, shrugged and headed for high Clydagh at a fair lick, as a mist was falling and light was fading fast. I arrived at the bog road and was surprised not to see the van parked there. This was long before mobile phones, I stood silently for a minute, considering what I should do .What I should have done, of course was to set off home and write that evening off. However put yourself in the shoes, or rather wellingtons, of a rather brash young fellow with supreme confidence in his abilities, a distinct lack of patience, and a fanatical love of shooting. Yelping a couple of seconds I was jamming Logia Star shells into my pockets, and shouldering the Baikal over/under and setting off up the hill. The Baikal was my regular gun and having gone up a notch or two in the years since ,I have to say I never shot as well as with that rather

heavy long barrelled gun, it was pretty much an extension of me, and served me well for many seasons. High Clyde is a mile up a steep hill. It is large pond of inky black water, surrounded by chest high bulrushes and swamps, and the ground vibrated under my step---and those years at my rugby playing best I never topped 10 stone. As I set off that evening through a rapidly descending fog I wasn't thinking of the harsh terrain, only of the packs of widgeon that often came fighting this time of year. In broad daylight it is a struggle through high heather, bog drains, crossing a few low stone walls before the terrain levels of and you have to negotiate a path through briars and hazel thickets until you feel the ground shaking and the water squelching underfoot. I made it to the top of the hill and stood to take a breather, rather unrealistically hoping I would see Blackie sitting obediently as the lads crouched in cover. However this particular evening, there was simply nothing to see but a wall of grey fog, now rapidly turning black. A little shiver ran down my spine, and for a brief second I considered turning and trying, literally to retrace my steps. But as if on cue there was a waffling of wings, and a pack of widgeon dropped in, settling on the swamp a few yards from me. They might as well have been a mile away as I could hear their chattering but couldn't see them in the gloom. I stood ,and with a silent prayer ,clapped my hands and roared .There was an explosion of wings and duck began to lift .One of my traits over the years has been an ability to hit things at close range with a shotgun, and as an unlucky widgeon passed within 15 yards from me, only vaguely visible, even at that range ,my six connected and it fell poleaxe .I ran forward and picked it ,thinking ,well that's a tale to tell the boys when I get to the pub tonight .

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However it was to be a long time before I would think that thought again. Now that dark had fallen, the true state of my predicament hit me. Visibility was almost zero, and here I was, a long way from home. I took a deep breath, stuffed the duck into my anorak, and squinted into the blackness. No stars, no glow of town lights, nothing to take bearings of. But I rationalised ,the duck rose of the swamp ahead of me ,so all I have to do is turn my back and head away from it .With a shiver of fear I wasn't used to feeling ,I swung away and headed into the dark, arms outstretched and using my unloaded gun like a probe, swinging it over and back ,like a blind man. Within a minute I found myself stuck in a pile of briars I couldn't remember, and I blundered through them tearing my arms badly. I pushed onwards hoping to come across one of the stone walls and only when I felt the ominous squelching under my feet did I| slow up. Peering forwards I realised, with a shiver of real fear, that I had gone full circle and was a footstep away from the ominous inky blackness that was the big pool, with sheer sides and drop into it. I stood paralysed, and the sweat turned cold on my back and I began to shiver, as the thought came to my young mind: I could be in trouble here, bad trouble. If I went into the water this would be curtains. I took stock of the situation, wiped my brow and for the first and only time in my shooting career I threw the duck aside, and got down on all fours and began to crawl cautiously away. When satisfied that I was clear of the major hazard I stood and began to edge forward. It was survival now, and I reflected I have to keep going, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get injured or break a leg and somewhere ahead you will reach safety. But another nagging thought took hold. My working roster as a trainee psychiatric nurse sometimes meant I was called on nights suddenly and my long suffering parents were used to me not being where I should be without much notice. I had often casually used this excuse to cover a few all-night parties or other romantic excursions common to lads of that age, and I knew I probably wouldn't be missed with as much immediacy as guys with a regular pattern. So to avoid injury my progress had to be painfully slow and nearly two hours later I was beginning to lag, the energy draining from me, totally soaked now from the swirling mist and a gnawing hunger beginning to

take hold. I had sustained bruises and cuts from falls, but I had crossed a stone wall so I figured I was on the right track. I rested breathing heavily and from a few yards away came the hoarse bark of a fox, which made me jump and stagger forward. Then I heard the most welcome sound I have ever heard, the bark of a dog far a way in the distance. I hastily jammed a shell into the bottom barrel and fired it skywards .There was a long pause and he began barking again madly. I headed towards the sound, pausing again ten minutes later to fire another shot and was overjoyed to hear that he was now quite close. It was at this stage that I lost the wariness that had saved me and I blundered headfirst into a barbed wire fence, feeling the sharp stab and the warm feeling of blood as I tore my thigh badly. And that was how I found myself at a country cottage, the dog now going ballistic and a rather suspicious farmer regarding me with incredulity. He brought me into the kitchen, and as I told him my story, I saw his face soften. I don't know you I said, whereabouts am I? His answer chilled me. I was about five miles away from where my car was parked, five miles of blundering through the darkness. He dropped me at my car and no man was as happy to offer him payment for his trouble. I made it to my local just as the regulars were coming in for their nightly jar. I ordered a brandy and a pint and explained to the barman, in rather unromantic terms why I was looking rough, to put it mildly. Just then the local wag hove into view, ordered his pint and regarded me rather unsteadily." what happened to you"? He asked, taking a generous swig. I was just about to reply when the barman intervened hastily, Ah he was out duck shooting. The wag looked at me, licked his lips, and remarked" looks like the ducks won!!" Footnote: I'm sure there are a few young enthusiastic shooters and anglers reading this. You might even recognise a bit of yourself in the guy I describe. My advice is don't lose your enthusiasm for these great sports, but do think before you put yourself at any risk. I made plenty of mistakes and emerged unscathed, but that was more good luck than good management. There's no guarantee that everybody would be so lucky.

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Celeb Chef Rachel Allenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fair Game in Facebook Hunt Pic

This photograph of celebrity chef Rachel Allen with a shotgun and a number of dead game birds on her car bonnet prompted a storm of criticism after she posted it on Facebook. AS one of Ireland's bestknown celebrity chefs, Rachel Allen's ability to muster up a feast is beyond doubt. But the best-selling author and TV personality was cooking up a different type of storm after she posted a controversial picture on her Facebook page. The image, which appeared just over a week ago, depicted a rustic-looking Ms Allen brandishing a shotgun in the countryside with a number of dead game birds on the bonnet of her car. "Enjoyed a great day's shooting in north Cork recently where I managed to get a few birds for our St Stephen's Day lunch," she wrote. She added: "I'm going to make game terrine, the recipe for which is below." She then posted a recipe for game terrine with celeriac remoulade which she said would feed six people. The picture was met with rage from some posters on her webpage. "Rachel, I am disgusted that you support the cruel act of inflicting pain and suffering on our fellow animals," Neville Sayers wrote. Another poster, Lee Van Staden, said: "Such a pity that someone like you, who had such a good reputation, would go and ruin it with something like this." While most of the comments on the picture

were indifferent, some supported the chef. "Rachel, it's good to see that you hunt for food and not just for sport," Olan Lambert said. Rory Allen from Ballymaloe House -- where the 39-year-old teaches cooking courses -told the Irish Independent it was not unusual for a chef to kill their own food and pointed out that most people eat game birds. Campaigners Ms Allen's picture was posted before a hunt at Ballymaloe in Shanagarry, Co Cork, brought the ire of anti-hunting campaigners. The Animal Rights Action Network accused Ballymaloe of breaking a commitment not to hunt with hounds at their annual New Year's Day outing. Mr Allen said that hounds were brought to the property without permission, even though an agreement had been made. "We're very embarrassed about the situation," he said. He added it was a fox hunt, who were regarded as vermin, and pointed out he had lost a large number of baby pigs and hens to foxes last year. - Luke Byrne Irish Independent http://www.independent.ie Let us know what you think anthony@ishootandfish.ie

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

The Duck fly BY Lawrence Finney Early opening of the season on the Irish Lough’s see’s the emergence of that marvellous fly the early season dark Chironomid or commonly known as the Duck Fly. This insect can be found on the majority of Loughs in Ireland, but the likes of Corrib and Sheelin are synonymous for massive hatches of this fly during the opening of the season. One pattern that I fish at the beginning of the season is a weighted duck fly to enable me to get the fly down amongst the rocks where fish at this time of the season are usually foraging and feeding on the likes of hog louse. Two years ago while tying up some woven mayfly nymphs it popped into my head" why not substitute the leaded body for a woven one?” I had been tying up some woven corixa’s a few days earlier and I thought to myself why not use the same colours of wire to produce a similar body segment effect for the duck fly. No sooner said than half a dozen various patterns were produced and I picked out a pattern that I was happy to fish knowing it would have the desired effect. Now the proof of the pudding was to try these out, it was still a good six weeks to the beginning of the season and I was eagerly waiting to wet these beauties to see how well they would perform. A week later I decided to try them out on our local fishery and was amazed how well they worked, even though it was rainbows I was delighted and was full of confidence that they would work on the Loughs. It was mid March before I managed to get out and duck fly were hatching in profusions at the mouth of Kilnahard bay, with a size 12 Connemara black on the middle dropper a fiery brown on the top dropper the woven duck fly was placed on the point. A drift across the mouth of the bay produced no takes a second drift proved fruit-

less, but as I began to set up for my third and final drift a nice fish rose within 2 feet from the rocky outcrops, the boat was positioned and another drift was started. As I passed the point where the fish was seen rising I had it in my mind to venture on to another drift another cast to about three feet from the point of the island and I got an immediate take, as I lifted the rod into the fish it went out from the shore and to the deeps, it felt like a nice fish and produced a beautiful arc in the rod. Within five minutes I had a nice 2lb fish to the side of the boat, “Yes” it had taken the woven duck fly, my spirits lifted up and the fish safely unhooked and released I decided that it was worth giving the drift another go. Over the course of three more drifts I managed to get 2 more fish to the boat, the biggest around 1 1/2lb, I was not worried about the size of fish as long as I could connect with them. The rest of the day was without success even with me trying several other drifts. The was weather front was slowly closing in and getting a bit too chilly for me I decided to call it a day. Once back home it was decided to tie up a dozen or so of the patterns to get them field tested properly by some of my good colleagues within A.P.G.A.I. (Ireland). My good friend Gerry Teggart was provided with a few of them as he would be going to Sheelin within a few days. Sure enough Gerry had a fish or two and lost one on the pattern, which was good enough for me. As I had said earlier my decision to do the pattern with a woven body was as at this time of the year the fish are mainly feeding

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deep around the rocks on hog louse and other bottom dwellers, and I like to fish deep and if nothing happening work my way up to the surface ensuring I can gauge at what depth the fish may be at that time of day, In deeper water where you may see a good hatch of duck fly I have put three woven flies on and hit the odd fish or two.

to the eye of the hook to ensure you have a good amount of wire on the hook to ensure it sinks quickly, the thorax only needs to be a small pinch of the dubbing as you do not want the pattern to be too bulky, the wing is one slip of the inner white feather on a mallard wing cut and folded in half, the hackle is usually 2 turns tied in by the tip so you have a nice swept back hackle.

A variant of this pattern can be used when a good hatch of buzzers are on by substituting the wires for olive and gold, and the hackle for a medium olive. So why not give it a go at tying some of these to have in your armoury it is fun to tie them up and you can also use them on the rivers as I found out on the Lagan in April where I had four fish in succession, below is the tying for this pattern and also included is a tuition video to help you with the weave. When weaving the body start just past the bend of the hook and bring the weave close

Once finished I like to apply three coats of no1 clear varnish to the head of the fly HOOK Kamasan B100 size 12 THREAD black 8/0 BODY black and silver wire woven style WING white duck inner wing or similar THORAX this can be red or orange with a small amount of glister to represent the gases of when the wings emerge FRONT HACKLE black hen hackle preferable a good webby hackle

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A tutorial video for the woven Duck Fly.

http://youtu.be/ bmCz7Haf0Mg

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HYWEL MORGAN FLY TYING PEACOCK SPIDER! In response to a question posted on the comments Hywel shows us how to tie a Peacock spider as tells us all about his latest up and coming DVD called Hywel Morgans Fly Tying - Stillwater Patterns.

http://youtu.be/ lSV7E95gurs

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Ballyhass Lakes is located near Mallow, County Cork. It is Ireland's best known still spring water trout fishery, with 11 four star holiday homes and an activity centre for groups, schools and corporate team building. Fish: The fishery has two separate lakes. The main lake is 12 acres of spring water some 35 feet deep and is reserved for fly fishing only. It can be fished by boat or from prepared fishing stands on the bank. On lower lake, worm spinning and bubble and fly methods are permitted and extensive safe fishing stands surround the lake. In general we strongly support a catch and release policy. On a Day ticket an angler can keep two fish up to 3lbs weight. All adult fish and all brown Trout are on a catch and release basis only. Once the bag limit has been taken the angler can continue to fish on a catch and release basis for the remainder of the period. The fishing lodge has an extensive tackle shop for fly and bait, and rod hire. The fishery is open 09.00 to dusk 364 day per year. Tuition on fly fishing is available. Salmon Beats: The Cork Blackwater runs just four miles from Ballyhass Lakes. We have available beats on a private stretch of double and single bank in the upper reaches of the river. Many of the beats are set well back from any roads and give a variety of good fly and spinning waters. State Licence can be purchased at the Pavilion. We stock a supply for Salmon flies and baits. A ghillie can be provided with prior notice. Rest: There are 11 Holiday homes on the 36 acres site at Ballyhass. The houses have either 3 or four bedrooms and are exceptionally well appointed with wooden floors throughout and natural fireplaces and natural wood furniture. All houses have a decking area leading on to landscaped lawns. They are available for rent for periods of 2 days or more. Play: The activity centre at Ballyhass makes full use of the natural environs with kayaking, raft building and trout fishing on the spring clean water, rock climbing and abseiling on the limestone rock faces, and specially constructed low ropes courses, archery and team building games on the lawns. Our resident instructors plan the activities to suit each group be they family outings, school groups, or corporate team building.

Cecilstown, Mallow, Co. Cork, Ireland Tel:+353 (0)22 27773 Email: info@ballyhasslakes.ie

Starting a Lurcher Pup Lamping Having read many articles in the Countryman's over the last few years regarding the subject of starting young lurchers lamping, I decided to throw in my two penneth, much advice has been given in the past but no detailed methods of preparing young dogs for lamping has been explained and because non of the writers touched on the methods used by my friends and I, I thought I would give the readers an insight into our way of doing things with which we have had considerable success. All the following training tips are carried out whilst our pup is having basic training waiting to start work, all the usual, heel, sit, stay, down type of stuff learned it is time to move onto retrieving, which the pup will have been doing in some form since it was about 8 weeks old, only you will know when the time is right but the next stage shouldn’t be started until your pup has mastered the daytime retrieve from all types of cover from reed beds, rock and river, thick heavy fields to lush grassland this will vary from dog to dog, some will be ready at 6 months , some may take longer.

I am talking about lamp retrieving training, the methods we use teaches young lurchers several essential arts of lamping that they will need to master when they are ready for the real thing, including working off the slip lead, running the beam, spotting their quarry, picking up sitters and of course retrieving and finally returning when the lamp is knocked off. All these skills will be learnt over many nights over the coming weeks, one stage at a time. To start with you need to take your favourite dummy preferably with a rabbit skin attached and stick a good sized piece of reflective material to it, the type found on hi -

visibility jackets used for cycling or the type road workers wear, this will enable the pup to spot the dummy when the lamp shines on it, have plenty because you will need to use 2-3 dummies in the final stages of training. You will find it best to start on ground that the pup is familiar with, with nice short grass, if you have a decent sized garden this will do, I am fortunate I have a park opposite my house that the council keep in good nick, this is where I do my training when it is quiet. The first lesson for our pup is to be accustomed to walking off the slip at heel in the dark, whilst doing this use the lamp and flash it on and off all around at regular intervals, talk to the pup, if the pup strays or is inquisitive use your command for heel, don’t be afraid to talk, silence is not needed during training lessons, your pup should be used to the dark at this age but if it shows signs of being nervous, comfort and encourage it. After a couple of nights of this the pup should be confident to move onto the next stage, sitting and staying, this will learn the pup that there is nothing to fear from being alone in the dark and that you will return, just as you have done in daylight, start off in contact then lengthen the distance, use your commands and the lamp to let the pup see you. Once you are happy and your pup is happy, we are now ready to try a simple retrieve, have your pup at heel, show and let it smell the dummy, then as with all retrieve training start off throwing it about 10 – 12 feet away but make sure you have the lamp on so the pup sees everything happen, it will have seen the dummy land and the reflective strip should help catch it’s eye, then send the pup to fetch the dummy.

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If the pup has been paying attention it should bound away to pick the dummy up and return to you just as you have taught it in daytime, if all goes to plan once more then lengthen your next throw, not too far about 20- 25 feet and repeat the exercise, if all is ok extend the distance but call it a night after half a dozen or so retrieves, always heap loads of praise on your youngster, as I said at this stage noise is not a problem. Any problems, start at the beginning, plenty of lamp light and short retrieves until the pup is confidently retrieving, don’t overdo it and don’t show any frustrations, if not going to plan, pack in on a good note, try again the next night, you know your pup best, some click on quicker than others. Having spent a couple of nights doing the retrieves and the distance increased, now is the time to leave the lamp off when you throw the dummy, once again start with a short distance and increase, keeping the pup at your side turn the lamp on the dummy, it should be able to see it, watch the pups head it should be focused on where the dummy is, give your signal for the pup to go, I generally use a hissing sound to put my lurcher onto something. Away it should go picking up and returning the dummy, if your pup hasn’t spotted the dummy, turn the lamp on and off a couple of times, it should spot it with the assistance of the reflective strip, then when sure send the pup on. Repeat this exercise over the next few nights and pretty soon the penny will have dropped, your pup should be spotting and retrieving the dummy from a good distance, this has taught your pup to run down the beam because it expects the dummy to be at the end of the beam and it will do this as routine.

At this stage I should mention that at any point in the training exercises where your pup runs out and does not pick up the dummy, or wanders about, turn the lamp onto your feet and shout the pup back to you. You can also do this exercise by sending the pup out when no dummy has been thrown, call it in immediately it realises it can’t see anything and put the lamp on your feet so it can see you, this is where plenty of praise is given, and always finish off by letting it run out and find a dummy. This learns the pup to return to you as soon as you put the lamp on your feet, with experience of this it will return as soon as the lamp is knocked off. By now your pup should be really confident on the lamp, time to place 2-3 dummy’s around the place prior to taking the pup out, then select one at a time and send the pup out as soon as it has retrieved each dummy, until all have been recovered, do this two or three times over the next couple of nights, another valuable lesson learnt, consecutive retrieves. If not going to plan start again with single retrieves and build up, when your pup is ready try again. After a couple of weeks of practising all the exercises you both should be ready to move onto more difficult terrain, thicker grass and broken cover, start again short distance and make sure the reflective strip can be spotted on the lamp, all the earlier training will now come into play, with the pup running down the beam and spotting the dummy in cover. Practice this again over a couple of weeks, if the pup struggles, make it easy or shorter until it grasps the idea, which it should with its earlier experiences.

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Another exercise to practice is jumping on the lamp, pick a small fence, one that the pup is familiar with, use the lamp and send the pup over on command, when you think your pup is confident, vary the use of the lamp from full on to faint light, all the time they should be jumping with ease. My friends and I have been using this method over the past few years with good results, when our young dogs have been taken out for the first time on the lamp the only thing they have had to get used to is handling live rabbits, which it may have experienced already, all the rest they have been practising for months.

Some lurcher owners believe that a lamping lurcher either takes sitters or they don’t, using this method has ensured that to date I have never had a lurcher that didn’t take sitters, or that didn’t turn out to be a reasonable well trained lamper and I guarantee you have given your pup the best start to it’s lamping career. http://www.thehuntinglife.com

Stevie Munn’s South American Experience Hardy & Greys Pro Flyfisher Stevie Munn returns from THE FLY FISHING MEETING OF THE RIO GRANDE-Tierra Del Fuego. Where he was a special guest of the Association Riograndense fly fishing, hosted by Goma Carrillo. Stevie was among only two Europeans asked to give a fly casting clinic at this high profile event and was to be interviewed by Argentine T.V and sample the fishing on the World famous Rio Grande River. The other was top caster Danish caster Henrik Mortensen. The show was a great success with Stevie showing fly casting with Hardy rods which the local guides and anglers also tried and enjoyed. The second part of his trip Stevie stayed at The Estancia Despedida lodge, hosted by Danny Lajous and Ozzie , This is where Stevie landed his biggest ever Sea Run Brown Trout which tipped the scales just over 24lb, taken on a fly given to him by his show interpreter and now friend Tato the deadly pattern was a Black & Red Articulated dressing. Stevie tells us the Despedida lodge is lavishness and relaxing set in a beautiful wilderness with not only fishing on the Rio Grande but

also the beautiful rivers Rio Menendez and Rio Mc Lennan. Danny and Ozzie are the ultimate lodge hosts. Their kind nature coupled by a rich fishing knowledge made me feel right at home. As the only owner-operated lodge on the Rio Grande, Despedida has the comforting feel of staying with your fishing family. Danny’s son Tommy and his friend Jorge are fantastic guides with an uncanny ability to find big fish that will take. Ozzie’s entertaining conversation at the dinner table ranged from Argentine history to rock, Jazz and blues music to world affairs. Chef Oscar served excellent four course meals with elements of Argentine and European cuisine that were well-matched with best Argentine wines. Stevie definitely will be back hopefully as a guest again to the show and also Despedida lodge now want him to promote and host trips to this wonderful destination to U.K and Irish anglers, so anyone interested in sampling this magnificent part of the world and its great fishing contact Stevie Munn by email anlingclassics@aol.com

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TROUT FISHING IN IRELAND PART 2 WITH CARL AND ALEX

IN PART TWO OF OUR HOLIDAY IN IRELAND, WE DO SOME MORE FLY FISHING, CATCHING LOADS OF BROWN TROUT IN ABSOLUTELY STUNNING SURROUNDINGS. WE ALSO DO A BIT OF COARSE FISHING AND CATCH SOME DECENT DACE! VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRIP. HTTP://CARLANDALEXFISHING.CO.UK

http://youtu.be/ diWHtan9cFw

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Deer Poaching in Ireland By Norman Mulvany

Over the last few years this country has seen a massive increase in deer poaching the length and breadth of it. Its now reached epidemic levels and it seems like no one in authority gives a damn. I know the rangers can’t be everywhere patrolling due to lack of numbers in their employment but something needs to be done quickly otherwise we’re going to eventually only see deer in photos. A few people that I’ve spoken to who hunt deer are seriously considering hanging up their seeland pants and selling their guns. Some of the reasons I’m hearing are “shaur what’s the point of wasting my time walking all morning and seeing nothing”; “there’s no point in going in the morning for a shot lad when the bas***ds have been out all night hammering our spots”. Hearing these kind of remarks are disconcerting to say the least but its how things have gone here. I cant tell of the number of mornings in the current season that I’ve been out stalking for a deer and have seen nothing only the fresh stomach contents of poached deer on our leases from Coillte, private leases and other grounds where our syndicate stalk. One wood on which I stalk as a nominated stalker in Wicklow has been literally destroyed by poachers and quad bikes. We found some of the routes they’re using to gain access and had these blocked but they’re still finding new ways in. One lad who we knew was entering the wood was approached and admitted his involvement but defended his actions by saying that he was out of work and needs the money and with the prices being so high at the moment from the game dealers that he was making more than he did when he worked on the

building sites. I can see his argument from another family mans point of view but it still doesn’t excuse what they’re doing is wrong. Another group of stalkers I know of through a contact in the midlands only “stalk” their lease when it gets dark because its there only way of getting a deer. They walk the wood with scope mounted lamps and shoot whatever they see. Their reasoning being that they pay big money for the lease and why should they let the poachers get the deer. Wild deer Ireland, a brilliant organisation, are trying to highlight this problem by interacting with the Gardai and NPWS but their pleas seem to be falling on deaf ears. Suggested methods of preventing poaching have been mentioned to authorities like involving the revenue and tagging systems but why hasn’t it happened? I think if every stalker was issued with 10 deer tags for the season it would seriously limit the sale of deer and overall stop commercial poaching and shooting. If a genuine hunter uses up the tags between shooting stags and hinds then there would be an option of buying more for a sensible price. Not only would it limit the amount of deer being shot but would also be an added income to our economy. This tagging season works great in America where a hunter is only issued 2 tags, male and female, and can purchase more doe tags if needed. A lot of people reading this might think I’m over reacting but when my ten year old son can recognise a decline in deer numbers and makes a comment like, “what am I going to do when I can get a deer gun and there’s no deer to shoot”, one must seriously wonder if anyone in authority really gives a damn.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Hind culling Christmas is past now along with the males of the deer season so now we’re concentrating on the hinds/does until the end of February. A lot of stalkers aren’t too concerned with shooting hinds as they don’t like the double killing of a deer and a calf. My brother happens to be one of these and considers it cruel. I on the other hand have no problems shooting hinds that are in calf because it’s regulating a healthy population of the herd in certain areas that have not yet been touched by the poacher’s lamps. A certain ratio of hinds need to be culled every season otherwise the herd will overpopulate and without sufficient food to satisfy every deer, starvation will soon fallow along with unhealthy and diseased deer. To achieve a proper cull you should first establish how many deer are on the ground where you stalk and this can be done by regular visits in the closed season as well as using trail cameras. Try to take out the older of the hinds which are recognisable by slightly longer faces and sunken chests, hinds with no calves at foot which could indicate a barren deer unable to breed anymore. Of course sick looking and injured deer should always be shot on sight for obvious reasons. With stags I’ve been advised to shoot the mature 8 ptrs that have left their genes along the way, leave the 6 ptrs alone and personally I’d prefer to leave the majority of prickets alone too. Remember these are next year’s young stags and could be fine stags in 2-3 years. Most of the prickets that I shot this season head deformed antlers of lameness. One was shot for neither reason other than being in prime eating condition of which not a chunk of meat was wasted.

others feeding alone. Grey in the face and bony looking, this was a choice candidate for culling so I took the shot prone and struck the heart/lung area from 168 yards. She stumbled and ran into thick cover. After waiting the necessary 15 mins for her to expire, I approached the spot where she had been standing but couldn’t see much sign of a hit. I searched for over an hour through heavy briars and furze’s but to joy. I returned home and decided to bring my 2 eldest boys back with battery packs to help in the search. I also, on a whim, brought along my Springer spaniel who has a great nose on lost birds. Now she’s never tracked a deer before but I took her to where the deer had been struck and she went nose down and into the briars. After maybe ten minutes she was back out in the field but her mouth was spotted in blood so I sent her back in and I followed. Amazingly she had tracked the hind and was sitting patiently beside the carcass waiting for me to see her success. I was delighted with her find and I now hope to train her fully in tracking wounded and lost deer in the future. Happy new year to all readers!

Before I sign off I’d like to tell a very short story which only occurred at the weekend gone out. I walked in on a group of hinds feeding and prepared to pick out a suitable one. There was 7 in total and one was away from the

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

It's an x-ray of a fox, as we find out just what different kinds of bullets do, so you can choose the right one. That's not all. Top French gunmaker Chapuis is supplying Roy Lupton with a new double rifle, and he tours the factory to see how his gun is made. And we are on the much-loved Valley Shoot in Kent, where one of the guns has worked out a new relaxation technique to get him in the swing for pheasants and partridges.

FIELDSPORTS BRITAIN, EPISODE 106, 7TH DECEMBER 2011

http://youtu.be/ jNMJMqfe1ig

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

We've got deer, duck and how to shoot straighter on this week's show. Paul Hill of Corinium Rifle Range in Gloucestershire tests Swarovski optics and shows you how to use the turret on your scope to get incredible results. Meanwhile, Countryside Alliance shooting director David Taylor is out with the Walney Island Wildfowlers in Cumbria. Need to shoot straighter at that allimportant Boxing Day pheasant shoot? CPSA coach and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Abbey Burton offers her top tips. And Oliver Power of the English Safari Company continues his tests of Norma ammunition on muntjac and roe with a Steyr Mannlicher in .243.

FIELDSPORTS BRITAIN, EPISODE 107, 14TH DECEMBER 2011

http://youtu.be/ NYfEViF2TrM

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

It's a bad day to be a Christmas bauble. We're shooting a load of guns and calibres from .223 to .470 at them, then we are fellhunting with the fabulous Blencathra Foxhounds and we are pheasant-shooting in Dorset on the beautiful Crichel Shoot. Every day is like Christmas for Sporting Rifle tester Tim Pilbeam as boxes of great guns and ammo arrive from all the top manufacturers. Meanwhile, hunting (within the law) is still going strong as Master Michael Thompson and huntsman Barry Todhunter of the Blencathra make clear. And if you want a bit of old English magic, where better to go for a pheasant and partridge shoot than Crichel? All in all you could not have a better mix of festive fun.

FIELDSPORTS BRITAIN, EPISODE 108, 21ST DECEMBER 2011

http://youtu.be/ NDfOVdkVA68

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Give children guns and look what they do: a brilliant day out and lots of pheasants for them to remember forever. It's the final day of the series of events that make up the Schools Challenge 2011 - the game day for 30 children held at Kirtlington Park in Oxfordshire. And to start the programme off, there's our review of all the best bits from Fieldsports Britain in the last year: foxes, pheasants, deer, eagles, doves, antis, horses, lions and everything that makes fieldsports so exciting and extraordinary.

FIELDSPORTS BRITAIN, EPISODE 109, 28TH DECEMBER 2011

http://youtu.be/ GkEkuYiLpPE

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

A FLYFISHERLADY'S LIFE One girl, one rod, a couple of trout perhaps? Fisher folk must know a thing or two. We spend all day near or on the water not doing much which gives us time to think, possibly too much time. This should explain why there are so many experts in fishing, so many people offering advice and the benefits of their wisdom. The cosy inertia of the river bank affording the space needed to provide reasons, or excuses for one's success or failure. The long, cold winter giving the time to write it all up as blogs or articles in Trout and Salmon. I hope that sometimes all that thinking time can spawn something useful.

It manages to be realistic without being kitsch and I can almost cast to those rises. It was painted by Norman Wilkinson who, as it happens, was an early camoufleur; a gorgeous word for a practioner of camouflage. Already recognised as a pretty decent artist, during WWI he was in the Navy. During that time, he persuaded the Admiralty to adorn their battleships with his "Dazzle" patterns with the aim of making the outline more difficult to trace and hopefully confusing German U-boats.

Dazzled Ships at Night, (1918) Norman Wilkinson Image copyright of the Imperial War Museum

After the Wars, he turned his attention to providing awesomely groovy images for government posters. I hate fly fishing art on the whole, it's impossibly naff at times but most commendably, often worthy of a place in the Daily Mail's "Not the Turner Prize". There is possibly no genre more worrying than hyper realism. All that copying is just a little unhealthy. Fishing art is more often than not just naff and twee. Today I came across this cracking painting which has changed my mind about fishing art.

I like to imagine that he came up with the idea of dazzle during an evening with trout bursting to the surface as the sunlight casts strong shapes over a river's ripples. The overall effect causing him blinking confusion as to where to place his fly; or at least that was his excusing for missing the rise. http://flyfisherlady.blogspot.com

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

I'm currently testing the brand new HW101 sidelever-operated PCP from German gunmaking maestros, Weihrauch. UK importers, Hull Cartridge Co., have sent me the first unit to arrive in the UK - and though I've got plenty more testing to do before I feel qualified enough to print a thorough report in Airgun Shooter magazine, my early impressions are most favourable.

The HW101 is the production version of the HW100X 'prototype' which I was first shown at this year's British Shooting Show; it was intended as a single-shot derivative of the 14 -shot-magazine'd HW100. Thankfully, Weihrauch took on board my (and others') suggestion that 101 would be a more appropriate name - because although it's clearly a stablemate of the HW100, the HW101 is different enough to warrant a standalone moniker.

It's coming into the UK in only the one guise 'KT' format, meaning Karbine (short barrel) and a thumbhole stock... which, in the case of the HW101, is in beech. I guess Weihrauch are trying to keep the pricepoint down, given the current flat-state of the more expensive precharged pneumatic market.

The HW101 is very compact rifle, with a barrel just 310mm long! It'll rival the BSA Ultra and I've already been in conversation with BSA's new MD, Martin Lowe, to set up a head-to-head in early 2012. It should be a good battle, because I already know the Ultra's no mean performer - and, as I alluded to earlier, the HW101 has got all the hallmarks

that made the HW100 (Weihrauch's inaugural PCP model) such a success in the UK.

I suppose you have to ask the question 'why?' - because multi-shots are much more fun, right? Well, there's actually quite a following for single-shot pneumatics. Competition shooters prefer them, and many hunters prefer to 'feel in' each shot. I do, only running the magazines on my Daystate Air Wolf and Theoben Elan if I'm out lamping (where it does away with fumbling for pellets in the dark), or ratting (where a quick second shot is often needed).

And I've got to say that single-shot versions of PCPs designed as multi-shot guns are often just that little more accurate, by virtue of the fact that the pellet doesn't have to 'jump' between the magazine and the breech proper.

In the HW101's case, my groups at 40 yards certainly appear to be holding tighter than those I shot with the HW100 FSB test model just over a year ago. This may just be because the barrel likes the ammo I'm using Daystate RangeMaster Li - but, whatever, it's certainly confidence-inspiring. For such a little gun, it's capable of a really big performance. Ahead of the comprehensive report I'll be filing in an imminent issue of Airgun Shooter magazine, here's a brief snap shot of Weihrauch's new sidelever from AirgunTV, with the emphasis on that all-new breech set-up:

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Ahead of his comprehensive test of this new model, Nigel Allen brings you his snap shot preview, concentrating on that all-important breech area of Weihrauch's latest sidelever.

http://youtu.be/ Ds9mcKspn6Q

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Neither storms, nor snow, nor ice spoil the fishing at Curragh Springs Despite the various and sometimes extreme weather conditions with storms, rain, snow and even 75% of the lake surface frozen on Saturday morning, fishing continues to be excellent at Curragh Springs.

Freddie Miller from Dublin with a fine fully finned Rainbow

17 year old Carl Owens from Dublin with one of two fine Curragh Springs Rainbow caught on buzzers. Those who braved the weather were well rewarded with several big fish, landed and then carefully released again to fight another day. Fish are being caught at various depths and taking a variety of lures, nymphs and especially buzzers.

HALF

Not to be left out Paul Owens, Carl's father with a nice fish

ALL

FISH

CAUGHT IN THE NORTH SEA ARE THROWN BACKOVERBOARD DEAD http://www.fishfight.net

http://fishinginireland.info

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

The January 2012 issue is on sale now. For a subscription, click www.airgun.tv â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or to buy an e-zine version (single issue), click http://www.pocketmags.com/viewmagazine.aspx? titleid=24&title=Airgun+Shooter I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Illegal Deer Lamping a Dangerous Practice The National Parks and Wildlife Service has issued a warning to landowners following reports of illegal deer lamping across an area spanning from Broadford to South Galway. A public meeting was held recently in East Clare to raise awareness of deer lamping where district conservation officer with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Seamus Hassett outlined the dangers associated with this illegal activity. Lamping involves the shooting of deer and other animals such as foxes at night and is done by shining spotlights to stop the animal before killing it. In the case of foxes and other vermin, farmers can get a licence to lamp these animals and with the appropriate licence is legal, however, lamping for deer at any time of year is illegal. The activity involves the use of battery pack spotlights, which stun the animals causing them to stop in their tracks and stare at it. This gives an opportunity to shoot the animal without having to give chase. David Lyons of Clare’s National Parks and Wildlife Service said they have received reports of people hearing shots at night and added that lamping is an ongoing issue for the service in Clare as well as for the gardaí. “They are shooting at night on lands that they have no permission to shoot on. This type of activity is prevalent in Clare particularly in East Clare and in the Sliabh Aughties,” he said. However, he explained that more resources are needed to catch these poachers and they have appealed for the assistance of landowners. The service asks that people report any unusual vehicles at night on their lands to the gardaí immediately and where

possible to take a note of the registrations of the vehicles. “It is extremely dangerous because you’re shooting at night. Lamping basically causes the deer to stop and stare at the lamp, there is no stalking involved and they are able to fire at the deer from the car. It takes the effort out of hunting and makes it easy for them to get at the meat, which is what they want. In a case last year we had a horse that was shot at night. Someone had shot at the animal not knowing it was a horse. It was an accident but it shows that this is very serious,” he explained. It is open season now to hunt male and female deer as and from November 1 and landowners with legally held firearms who have issues with deer can contact the National Parks and Wildlife service to apply for a license to cull these animals. “Some farmers welcome deer lamping, even though it is illegal, but the majority are scared of it, and are scared to confront the individuals carrying it out,” Mr Lyons concluded. Gardaí in East Clare have said deer lamping is an ongoing issue in the area, particularly at this time of year. A spokesperson for the gardaí in East Clare said that those who observe people firing from a public road should contact the gardaí. “Deer are being shot illegally and there is evidence of this activity, with strange vehicles being seen on lands at night from Broadford to South Galway. We held a public meeting recently to create awareness of gun security and to inform license firearm holders of the dangers associated with lamping,” the garda said.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Adrian King of the Irish Farmers Association, who represents the organisation nationally on a firearms consultative panel, explained that not only is the lamping of deer illegal but it “is highly unsafe”. “Firing at night time is just unsafe and is illegal and should not be tolerated,” he said. He said there is a distinction between the lamping of foxes, which is legal with the correct licence to lamping of deer, which is illegal. “The lamping of foxes by sheep farmers for instance would not be an illegal activity once an individual has a legally held firearm and has permission from the landowner you can shoot and dispatch of foxes humanely. Also a lot of it is done with a shotgun, which is over a low distance where you’re talking about 80 to 100 yards. As a shotgun wouldn’t be appropriate for deer, you need a heavy calibre weapon but a heavy calibre deer rifle has three miles of a trajectory so if you fire a bullet across countryside you have three miles of potential damage to animal or human so it is just not safe,” Mr King said. He added that the IFA are aware of people that enter land without any type of permission and shoot deer, known commonly as hedgehoppers. “This is what is probably more prevalent in the last few years particularly now that people have more time to do this, so there could be an issue with people shooting deer for sale or for use. Where you have out of area

hit and run hedgehoppers driving around and shooting where they want without local knowledge it is extremely dangerous. This activity is not being done with legally held firearms it is being done with illegally held firearms and that is the concern the gardaí would have,” Mr King said. He added that while most farmers allow reasonable access to people to their lands they should only allow people that have a reasonable code of practice on their land. “If they are caught in an illegal act they are not insurable. If there is an issue there with deer, farmers can get permission from the Parks and Wildlife Service if it’s on public land and if it’s on their own land they can deal with the deer menace correctly and humanely that’s our advice,” he explained. “From an IFA point of view it is extremely dangerous to engage in deer lamping. Whatever about a legitimate local shooter who knows the lie of the land, if you have people shooting from vehicles or shooting from the road at night they pose extreme danger to livestock and to individuals, not knowing where houses are across a valley. And firing with high powered rifles is extremely dangerous. Our advice to farmers is to be very careful in allowing this activity on their land,” he concluded. Carol Byrne http://www.clarechampion.ie/

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

About Mike and POSITIVE SHOOTING Hi and welcome to www.POSITIVESHOOTING.com. I'm Mike Yardley and I've been shooting and studying it for over 40 years - ouch! I love the sport be it with shotguns, rifles, pistols, or airguns. I'm delighted you've found this website and I really hope you find it useful. The goal is to get as many people into the sport as possible and to get them shooting as well as possible - maximising all their potential. Thank you for your support. Safe shooting. Michael Yardley was born in Denmark and educated in England, Switzerland and the US. He has a psychology degree from London University, conducted post-graduate research into direct action and terrorism at the LSE, and is also a graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Mike Yardley Michael is well known as a sporting journalist, shooting instructor, and hunter and has written and broadcast extensively on all aspects of guns and their use. His articles (2000+) have appeared in many journals as well as in the national press. He has appeared as an expert witness in cases which relate to firearms and firearms safety. He is a founding fellow of the Association of Professional Shooting Instructors, and has formal instructing qualifications from a variety of other bodies including the British CPSA, BFSS, NRA and NSRA. Michael began competitive shooting with 11th County of London HG Btn. Rifle Club. He won ‘Colours’ for shooting as a member of the shotgun and pistol teams of the Royal Military Academy Sandhust (being a member of the winning GB IMAGE match team in 1980). He has been a special advisor to the Police Federation, and others, civil and military. He has shot for sport for more than 40 years and hunted birds and larger game on four continents (making more than twenty safaris to Africa hunting both dangerous and plains game). He is a multiple county clay pigeon shooting champion, British Side by Side Champion 2004, and, has won hundreds of ‘High Guns’ in open competition with his faithful Beretta 303 semi-automatic and Lyalvale (Express) cartridges. He is listed one of The Field’s ‘Top Shots.’ He retired from the press competition at the CLA Game Fair after winning it three times. As well as his shooting activities he has written books on other subjects including an account of the independent Polish trade union Solidarity, a biography of T.E.Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), and a history of the Royal Military Academy Sanhurst itself. He is a contributing author and ‘Special Researcher’ to the Oxford History of the British Army (in which he wrote the concluding chapter and essays on the army in Northern Ireland and the SAS). He is also a frequent broadcaster and has made and presented documentaries for the BBC on ‘The Media and the Monarchy,’ ‘Kill one: frighten Ten Thousand (a History of Terrorism),’ and philosophical doubt. He has also been involved as a specialist ballistic consultant, and presenter, in many productions for various TV companies including the Discovery and History Channels. He has re-enacted on location worldwide the death of the Red Baron, the Trojan Horse incident from ancient history, and some of the most infamous assassinations, including those of JFK, RFK and Abe Lincoln. Michael has worked a photojournalist and war reporter in Syria, Lebanon, Albania/Kosovo, Africa, and Afghanistan. He was seized off the street in Beirut in 1982 (before Terry Waite and John McCarthy) but released shortly afterwards having befriended one of his captors. In 1986 he made 3 clandestine crossings into Afghanistan with the Mujahedin putting his cameras aside and working as a medic on one mission with a group called NIIFA. In the late 1990s, he ran aid convoys to Kosovan Refugees in Albania and on the Albanian/Kosovo border. The charity he co-founded, ‘Just Help,’ was honoured for this work which took 300 tons of relief to desperately needy people. I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Pheasant Shooting in the US by Mike Yardley When we (in Europe) shoot pheasant we tend to do it by driving birds from cover over a line of guns – something popularized in these isles by Victoria’s consort Albert and his son Albert Edward (later Edward VII). Americans pheasant ‘hunters’, some two million of them, still shoot pheasants the ‘old fashioned’ way – some might say the proper way – over pointing and flushing dogs. They do this, in the main, on state owned ground by means of a licensing system which is tightly regulated (with significant state to state variation) but which offers cheap sport to millions. There are several types of pheasant hunting in the US: 1) ‘Preserve’ shooting over some kind of dog (pointing or flushing) 2) Driven - but not as in the UK, the birds are not raised and released in the summer later to be driven in the autumn, but rather the birds are ‘flighted’ on the day and at the time of the shoot; 3) Hunting wild birds with dogs – either flushing or pointing – usually involving a

couple of hunters and one or more dogs ranging fairly wide (an activity which may happen in fairly remote area, or, just off the roadside! 4) Organized, massive drives, involving large numbers of shooters who drive typically with dogs and some hunters in posted positions.

It is a very different culture to ours, not least perhaps because US Game wardens are often armed and have similar powers to the police (indeed, they are in effect a form of police service). State game departments will have a significant staff of scientists too and other professionals working for the general benefit of the habitat and the hunting community. They are funded by license subscriptions in the main. When you hunt (as both bird and deer shooting are usually termed), you must display your license on your person and you will have to wear a prescribed number of square inches of orange clothing (varying from state to state) to make sure you are not accidentally shot by other hunters. This may sound OTT, but when you are in the woods on opening day with what may be a lot of inexperienced or occasional guns it makes a lot of sense.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Serious US hunters tend to be extremely expert with regard to working their dogs (and their pointing dogs in particular). I would say that to most of the pheasant shooters I know in the States the dogwork – both the art and science – is more important than the actual shooting (which is not quite the art there that it is with us). Americans are, however, proud of their heritage of accessible sport. It was quite an important part of the ‘American Way’ in the early history of the country. Legislators were very well aware that shooting was not always something ordinary people could do easily and there was a deliberate policy of making it as open as possible. Shooting also provided an important part of the diet for early settlers.

The thing that turns on most modern US pheasant hunters is ‘rooster’ shooting – the shooting of what we would call cock birds. You may hunt these on private ‘put-andtake’ preserves, as well as wild birds on state game lands as discussed. The preserve shooting – increasingly popular because it is accessible and easy – is usually controlled by a ‘guide’ who handles the dog work. The wild bird shooting is another matter and, typically, quite a logistical challenge. I have driven hundreds, indeed, thousands of miles across the US with friends just to bag a few birds. The US shooters are much less concerned by numbers than we are. They

can be quite shocked by our numbers game. Bags are strictly limited in most states and may be no more than a few birds per gun. This does not seem to affect anyone’s fun much, though – so much effort goes into each bird they seem to be more appreciated. There is a lot of work done on the conservation front by organizations like Pheasants Forever (with a membership of 125,000 including 20,000 youth members) and its 750 ‘Chapters’ as well as by State Game Departments as discussed. This is what Pheasants Forever (PF) say about themselves: “Pheasant hunting is a time-honored outdoor tradition…It's a family activity. It helps form new friendships and strengthen existing ones. Bird dogs become more than just a pet; they become part of the family. Pheasant hunting requires knowledge, skill and as the season wears on, a battle against the elements. At times, you will succeed and feel the thrill of sliding that hard-earned bird into your game vest, and at times you will understand why they call the ring-necked pheasant the King of the Game birds. And finally, those skillful or lucky enough to harvest a rooster pheasant find they make excellent table fare.” Many US shooters will take a ‘Hunter’s Education Course” (which may be a requirement in some states). Young shooters are particularly encouraged. The Pheasants Forever The Ringnecks Program is “dedicated to introducing youth to hunting, shooting sports and outdoor conservation through youth events, education, community service and cooperation with both governmental and non-governmental partnerships. Through a variety of programs, youth will gain knowledge, learn skills and develop a land ethic necessary to be responsible hunters and conservationists. As they grow up, they can in turn pass on the outdoor traditions of their youth to future generations.”

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Pheasants Forever notes the following advice with regard to gear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it gives you an idea of just how different things are in the States compared to here:

Marketplace for unbeatable deals on all of the gear you'll need to have a great day in the field! [being the US there is always someone trying to sell you something]

1) Know your state laws in regards to wearing blaze orange. You should always wear at least a blaze orange cap and hunting vest so your party members can clearly see you at all times. And on the subject of where to hunt: 2) Invest in a good pair of boots. While hunting pheasants you will traverse a wide range of terrain that will put wear-and-tear on your feet if you're not properly prepared. Nothing will end a hunt more prematurely than blistered and sore feet. 3) Know the weather conditions in which you will be hunting and dress in layers that can be added or removed accordingly. Stay away from cotton products that will retain moisture. Instead, wear polypropylene and fleece clothing that will wick sweat and rain away while retaining heat. 4) Wear brush pants or field chaps. These durable leggings will keep you dry and free from stickers and thorns while traveling through thick cover. 5) Use a shotgun you are comfortable with. Anything from a .410 to a 12 gauge can be effective in bagging a rooster. 6) Be aware of where you'll be hunting in regards to the use of lead or steel shot. Some areas require that only steel shot be used. 7) Be sure to check out Pheasants Forever

Pay attention to your state's roadside counts to know where the highest concentrations of birds are located.

2) Understand the different habitat needs of a pheasant and how seasonal changes can influence where the birds are located. 3) Get off the beaten path of interstate highways. 4) Join a Pheasants Forever chapter and make friends. More than likely, you'll get invited to hunt together come autumn. 5) Recognizing overlooked spots - Ask permission of private landowners adjacent to public lands Birds and bores The Chinese ringneck is by far the most common bird in the states, as far as guns are concerned, most use 12 bore repeaters with heavy loads (both available from stores like Wallmart at modest cost), though purists may use 20 bore over and unders and even the occasional side by side.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

A few ersatz driven shoots have been created, but the core of American pheasant shooting is the walk-up as was popular here 150 years ago (as will be evident if you ever look at old shooting prints). The first category is found in many states, the second is for the US carriage Trade and organised by private clubs. The third is pursued in those states such as Dakota and Nebraska that have a significant wild pheasant population â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big, open country. www.positiveshooting.com Michael Yardly

MIKE YARDLEY SHOOTS THE NEW BROWNING 725 CITORI

http://youtu.be/MK1DjPAy-78

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Catch of the week 08/12/11 NICE DOUBLE FIGURE PIKE FOR GLENN BRENNAN ON LOUGH GOWNA.

My name is Glenn Brennan from Dublin and I was fishing Lough Gowna on Tuesday the 5th December and caught this nice double figure pike with a drifting float baited with a sardine. It was hooked a bit tricky so I wasted no time in weighing it just a quick photo and it was returned to fight another day. In total we had 3 pike with another pike of 4 lb to a full mackerel and a 6 lb fish which fell to a copper spoon and all fish were returned to the water safely. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a great fan of your website as it provides accurate and current information on how the fishing is on a daily basis. I would also like to say its great to see the fishery board out on the water as I was on Lacken lake in Ballyjamesduff last week and was approached by two inspectors out on the lake, they were two nice guys who I had also met last year on Lough Ramor so keep up the good work.

Glen brennan with a nice double figure pike from Lough Gowna.

http://www.fishinginireland.info

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Catch of the week 20/12/11 20LB PIKE ON FLY FROM RAMOR A very cold and frosty morning on Lough Ramor with temperatures only reaching 2C by 10.30am. I did however venture out on the lake, “well togged out with plenty of winter layers” and fly fished away for Ramor’s illusive ”Winter Pike”. The 20lb 14oz predator pictured was caught on a Stuart Wylie hot orange pike barbless fly. I also had some missed opportunities and a several follows from some larger fish . This fine Ramor pike was returned safely to fight another day, just before the wind and rain came which hampered an excellent days fly fishing. This fish wins the Catch of the Week for this the third week in December. A well-deserved warm cup of tea was enjoyed before returning home at 2pm. Kind regards, Damien Willis. Info@loughfishingbuddies.com

http://www.fishinginireland.info

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Catch of the week 29/12/11

12 YEAR OLD AARON LANDS 21LB PIKE AT LOUGH GARA COMPETITION

Daire Coyle, Treasurer of the Lough Gara & District Angling Club sent in this report and photo:

Aaron Murray with his 21lb 6oz pike and club chairman David Shannon

We had our second leg of our winter league which took place on Lough Gara on Tuesday the 27th of December. Aaron Murray 12 years old, one of our junior members, caught his biggest pike to date. It weighed in at 21lb 6oz. The fish was caught on a ledgered dead bait. Daire Coyle Lough Gara & District Angling Club http://www.fishinginireland.info

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

This is a video on how to make a simple game carrier that you can carry with you in your pocket when you go hunting instead of carrying a game bag or rucksack.

http://youtu.be/OHh7YZhWeZc

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Get your copy of Hunters Vermin ‘Air Rifle Control in Northern Ireland’ today. A perfect Christmas gift for any air rifle shooter. Call Blaze Publishing on 0044 (0) 1926339808 Cost £14.99.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

www.burrenretreats.com Corofin, County Clare Enjoy a personalised mini-break in exceptional accommodation, overlooking The Burren National Park & the picturesque fishing village of Corofin with access to Lough Inchiquin, Ballycullinan Lake & Atedaun Lake

Explore the Burren with on one of our guided walking tours, then soak in our outdoor hot-tub & Spa with views of the magnificent Mullagh Mor. Prices start from â&#x201A;Ź35 pp Bed & Breakfast

www.burrenretreats.com Call Burren Retreats today +353 (65) 6827749 I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Trained Hunter Qualification Course Launched by the NARGC On Thursday, December 15th, the National Association of Regional Game Councils (NARGC) launched a new Trained Hunter course under EU food safety legislation, Regulation (EC) 853/2004. The launch, which took place in the Ashling Hotel in Dublin, was performed by Minister of State with responsibility for food safety at the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine, Shane McEntee TD. There were many in attendance from the hunting, conservation, food processing and regulatory sectors for the launch. Under the EU Regulation, member states of the EU are obliged, as part of the traceability framework for food production, to put in place a Trained Hunter qualification for hunters who harvest game meat which enters the food chain. Hunters in Ireland who now place game meat into the food chain are required to be certified for that purpose and only those who are certified may do so without the necessity of providing the head and certain organs to the approved game meat establishment. Other hunters may, if they wish, take the course to simply improve their knowledge of game handling. The NARGC course, which is accredited by City & Guilds, will meet the standards required to certify the quality of game carcases presented to Approved Game Handling Establishments as laid down in the Regulation. The syllabus covers the anatomy of game animals and birds; field handling and hygienic transport; large and small carcase handling and inspection, including abnormalities of organs and diseases; actions to be taken on disease detection; carcase inspection demonstration;

legal requirements; record keeping; veterinary supervision and involvement; factors affecting quality of game meat; larder design, equipment and hygiene. The qualification assessment will be carried out independently by City & Guilds to their standards and those who successfully complete the course and exam will be awarded a City & Guilds certificate certifying the qualification. Only those hunters who have qualified may sign the statutory declaration which is required for wild game meat destined for human consumption. Speaking at the launch, NARGC Director, Des Crofton said â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been working closely with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and City & Guilds for approximately one and a half years developing a course which would meet the very high standards which should rightly apply to food safety. We were particularly pleased to work with the statutory authorities and today is the result of that successful collaboration. City & Guilds accreditation carries with it a world renowned standard which is not open to compromise and it is an indication of the high standards which this course and qualification meets. Better handling and processing protocols for wild game meat at the harvesting stages can help minimise the risk of food-borne illness and exposure to animal health issues. This qualification does not replace any of the current high standard food safety protocols but is an additional protocol for game meat at the earliest stage in the production process.â&#x20AC;? Details of the course are available on the NARGC website (www.nargc.ie)

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

NATURE GROUPS IN 'BOAR WAR' OVER WILD PIGS ROAMING OUR COUNTRYSIDE A 'BOAR War' has erupted over whether the wild hairy pig is an Irish native or foreign invader. The Irish Wildlife Trust (IWT) strenuously objected yesterday to the wild boar being officially classified by a government body as an "invasive species".

"We feel that this move confuses members of the public about what an invasive species actually is, making it more difficult to raise awareness about the threats from actual invasives, such as grey squirrel, rhododendron and zebra mussel."

The move comes after state wildlife chiefs declared war on the boar following a number of sightings in wooded areas.

The charitable wildlife organisation also said it objected to the illegal release of wild boar, as this led to a risk of diseases that could threaten agriculture.

Invasive Species Ireland, a project backed by the State's National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS ), lists wild boar as one of its "most unwanted" invasive species because they "damage crops, gardens, amenity areas as well as potentially spreading disease". Wild boars are known to carry TB, foot and mouth, swine flu and the blue tongue virus. But the animal is not completely alien to Ireland -they lived here until prehistoric times but were driven to extinction as humans hunted them or cut down their forest habitats. And they are now making something of a comeback. with 12 boars spotted in woodlands recently. Last month, a wild boar was reported to have been trapped and killed in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. The boars were believed to have been illegally released into the wild by shooters. But the Wildlife Trust said boars were not invasive, and were "a keystone species in forest ecosystems". It added: "Their rooting activity creates a disturbance regime that increases plant diversity and aids tree regeneration. For these reasons, the Irish Wildlife Trust objects to the current classification of wild boar as an invasive species by Invasive Species Ireland.

"These irresponsible introductions could be prevented without having to define wild boar in Ireland as invasive." It is illegal to release wild boars.and the trust said that if a reintroduction should take place, then it should be only be sanctioned by the wildlife service in accordance with international guidelines. Dr Ferdia Marnell, head of animal ecology at the NPWS, warned yesterday of the serious risks to animal health and ecology if the wild boar becomes established in woodlands. There has been deliberate releasing of wild boars by some hunters unaware of the consequences. "Wild boar can carry a lot of nasty diseases such as TB and swine flu," Dr Marnell told the Irish Independent. Boars are large mammals with powerful bodies and coarse hairy coats. With no natural predators, wild boars could cause significant disruption to agriculture as they damage crops and uproot large areas of land and eliminate native vegetation, which has happened in Britain. - Treacy Hogan Environment Correspondent Irish Independent http://www.independent.ie

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Cape Fear Disclaimer: the views expressed by our Master Fly Tyer Contributor Ben Spinks, are solely Ben's views and not necessarily shared by anyone else here at Sexyloops, nor indeed anyone else on the planet. In fact it is questionable whether in fact Ben himself has these views and he wrote it. It is true, however, that some selfish people do use condoms in flytying but this is not, I repeat NOT, to stop the fish from getting pregnant.

Cape fear So, we have established feathers to be both useful and fairly uncomplicated, or have we? Up until now we have dealt with nice cheap friendly birds whose main aim in life is to make us happy. Many animal rights activists don't actually know this but contrary to popular belief most birds actually enjoy being plucked and fully understand the artistic reasons behind their sacrifice. However, some birds are not so obliging. When we as flytyers grow tired of the norm and start wanting after something new and exciting we must look to the dark side. The cock and hen tirelessly oppose the giving of feathers to our worthy cause and therefore require skilful persuasion. This is not easy, birds that don't commit and fail to acquire a dry fly donor card are sent to China whereupon they take part in the world cock fighting championships. Fortunately we don't see this side of the business very often but now you know the truth. We envisage coming face to face with the golden fleece of fly tying, the beautiful, shiny, full, crazy, sexy, cool item known as a dry fly cape. A man significantly madder than I (not possible - Paul) once wrote of fly tying orgasms upon coming face to feather with one. I see his point although premature excitement of this manner usually

fades upon eye contact with the price sticker. Posh hackles? The capes and saddles of hens and cocks are the number one hackle providers. Imagine a chicken; the cape is the collection of feathers around the front of the neck. It is cut off whole and sold in its natural form (feather on skin). The saddle on the other hand is taken from the back of the bird. Whenever I think of this I start imagining little leather saddles strapped to chickens for some reason, go figure. Saddle, neck, hen and cock have different uses and come in different grades (as if it wasn't difficult enough). Cock and Bull, Neck and Cape - Cock feathers are used primarily for dry fly hackle. They are characterized by stiff barbs positioned very close together and when wound form a rather stiff collar suited to standing proud of the water's surface. There are generally three kinds of cock cape/saddle available. Indian, Chinese and Posh. The latter will have (in the case of the neck) masses of long, narrow feathers for tying small flies. The saddle will be a larger item providing much longer and wider

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

feathers. Due to the length of saddle hackles it's possible to tie several flies with only one feather. Companies such as Whiting farm, Metz and Spencer provide posh capes and saddles. Their prices range from about ÂŁ15 to ÂŁ80. Yes, it is a wide price range; this is due to the grading system. All posh hackles come in grades ranging from 1 to 3 or gold to silver etc, the higher the grade the higher the price. As you go up the grades the feathers become narrower, the barbs become denser, shinier and stiffer and the colours become more vivid. Top grade hackles are usually used for very small flies (18 and up), middle grade for medium flies (12 - 16) and low for large (below 12). To make it a little clearer, when wound the tips of the hackle should not protrude any further than one and a half times the width of the gape. I would advise that when buying a cape of this sort to find somewhere you can actually see the item for yourself before buying to check its suitability for your purposes. This is the general consensus but as with everything else it varies. You will get larger feathers under the small ones on all capes and saddles so most have more than one use and despite being fairly expensive, you do get what you pay for. Stiff barbs create high floating, durable, nicely coloured and very cool dry flies. I like my dries to be perfect so I invest, you don't have to buy a whole cape, halves are available and whilst

still costing up to ÂŁ30 will last for hundreds of flies. Hackle selections can also be bought in packs for a reasonable price although in most cases you can't pick and choose which size feather you receive and therefore run the risk of acquiring something completely useless. That's just me though, I know of anglers who buy one cape in a low grade, light colour and after completing their flies trim the hackle and colours with a waterproof marker pen. They look like crap but they catch fish. There are other alternatives by the way. Indian and Chinese capes are very different; they're not posh or cool but are very cheap. Both examples are much smaller than the Posh capes with the Chinese being the bigger of the two. Feathers of China capes are fairly large (wide) and soft making them unsuitable for most dry flies but good for wets and salmon patterns. The Indian cape will have sharper narrower feathers more suited to dry flies. Unfortunately Indian and Chinese capes come ungraded, which results in a sort of hit and miss buying experience. Quality is dependant on two things, supplier and breeding. Perfect feathers such as those found upon high-grade Whiting capes do not get that way through sheer luck. They are genetic capes, specially tended for flytyers. Birds such as these have access to sun beds, saunas, cocktail bars and are fed lobster and caviar whilst being attended by Swedish blondes. Birds not cared for in this manner will be cheap flea bitten things that when stripped are sent away to be coated in a blend of secret herbs and spices. Genetic feathers are better but that's not saying everything else is crap.

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

A multitude of uses can be found for practically anything from wets and salmon flies to tails and wings. In fact when it comes to Chinese capes I don't really care. For dry flies however a genetic Indian is the way to go, they're cheap, decent and average about ÂŁ5 in price. But take note, whilst being of good quality they'll not be suited to very small flies (16 up). I see capes like this as good practice items, when you've got confidence with the actual tying procedure and know you won't be wasting feathers then move up to something a little better like a Metz cape. Finally, when you want to go one step further, move on to a Whiting. And no, genetic Indians do not live in tepees. Up until now we have dealt with cocks alone (if you'll pardon the expression), fortunately most of the previous discussion is applicable to hens too; so I won't have to bore you any further. The main differences are that the cape/saddle of a hen typically contain rather shorter, wider, softer, webbed feathers that are more suited to flies of the sinking kind. They appear similar to certain cock hackles (Chinese) but are quite a bit webbier. The tips of good quality hen hackles are often used as wings on flies such as the Adams. Well I don't know about you but I think that's enough about feathers. Kinky? Fly tying materials don't even have to come off animals! Yes it's true, practically everything apart from feathers can be synthetic, even vegans can tie flies. There are huge ranges of dubbing made for every purpose, flosses of many kinds (even Lycra ones!), tinsels, yarns, sparkly braided things, foam slices and what seems like an ever expanding range of rubbery type products such as flexibody, shrimp foil and nymph skin etc. This is getting a little silly, the general public already thinks we're weird, are waders not kinky enough? Condoms, I'm not jok-

ing, people actually use them to tie flies. Now I'm sorry but NO, even if you have no use for them don't, it's the principle, are we not men?! God damn it! Ribbed No not condoms again, nothing as exciting as that. A rib is more a fly component than a material. Anything that can be wound around a completed body can be a rib; metal wires, tinsels, mono, tying thread, hair, feather quills and herl. The rib has two main functions. One, to give the fly a segmented appearance representational of the natural insect, and two, for increased durability. By their very nature feathers are not that tough and if caught will break, unwind and repel fish (or was that my casting). The same could be said for many other materials. Adding a rib solves this problem by keeping everything in its place and therefore acting as a tractor beam on trout. Beam me up Scotty. Pumping Iron In certain situations only flies with muscles prove attractive to fish, a little lemon juice, a nice chilled sauvignon and a bit of Van playing softly in the background should do the trick. Alternatively, rather than tempting them closer you could pay them a visit yourself; this is where weighting comes in (seamless, I know). At times to reach feeding fish it's essential that your fly

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be matched accordingly to the depth and/or current speed (depending on where you're fishing); adding weight in varying amounts makes this possible. A good example as to why can be found under upstream nymphing in either the glossary J or flow L. Weight can be applied directly to the fly in three ways: one, as an underbody, two, as a rib or body and three, in the form of a bead. Yes ok 4 if you want to nit pick. Underbody materials range from copper wire to lead foil. Copper wire has its pros and cons; in its thicker sizes its stiff and awkward whilst in its finer guise you'll probably be winding it on for about two days before you get anywhere. I use copper underbodies more for their visual advantages rather than their weight; I use them under pale sparse body materials to garner the same translucent effects gained by using different thread underbodies. Why not scrap the body material completely? Leave it copper and use the lovely shiny segmented result to your advantage. I know I would. If you just want weight however then go for lead. I use sticky back lead foil ninety percent of the time; it's great for really sexy smooth underbodies when you want a lot of weight yet still need a slim profile. On other occasions slimness may be the least of your worries, I use square lead wire at these times. You get gaps when you wind something of a round profile around something else so it makes sense that by filling these gaps the fly will be heavier. Square lead is great for really heavy chunky monster bugs and unlike foil has the advantage of

no sticky backing to take up room. Couple this with either a lead, brass or tungsten bead threaded on before tying and you'll have something really serious that'll bring new meaning to the words 'chuck and duck'. To finish we must look towards the upper layers, the bright side of the road where flies drift merrily along just under the surface and all is cool and groovy. Just a little teensy weensy (yes I did say teensy weensy) bit of weight is needed to help your fly under, a fine copper rib, perfect! Job done. And now for something completely different. But you'll have to wait for that. And no I haven't forgotten. Ben Ben Spinks studies fishery science, "I have to complete 3 environmental survey reports, 2 netting operations, 4 exams and a seminar on lake restoration. This is insane, I only went to uni for sex, drugs, rock and roll and sex" and is our flytying moderator on the bulletin board. He also ties a mean fly... so what are you waiting for, ladies?

http://www.sexyloops.com

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Brian Mc Mahon Dog Boxes & Transporters Tel: 087 2604060 Dog transporters made to measure. 2 to 4 dog units available. Simply lift on and off to provide secure, smooth transport for your dogs. No more wet dogs in the car or trying to reverse trailers on narrow lanes. Made from durable, maintenance free aluminium sheeting. Included in price is mounting plate for hitch (Flange type hitches recommended for this product). For full details contact Brian on 087 2604060

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Carlow coarse anglers help out at Southern Counties

The weekend saw an absolute first for the Carlow Coarse Angling Club as they were asked to judge a competition and present prizes at two competitions being ran in the Southern Counties Fishing Resort in Garryhill, Co. Carlow. Ms Martina Foley contacted the Carlow cac chairman Mr Gerry mistral regarding the competition and after a committee meeting it

were in the 4 to 5Lb bracket.

After two hours on both Saturday and Sunday the anglers broke for a well deserved cup of tea. The Foley family provided a very well received bowl of homemade soup, sandwiches, rolls and cakes for all competitors in the purpose built clubhouse at the lakes. Angling resumed at Gerry Mcstraw Carlow cac Chairman presenting Ozzy 2pm on both Conway with his winners Trophy days with all anglers eager was proposed that two individual competi- to get at the very hard fighting fish and fill up their cards for the day. The first competions would be better in the current ecotition was eventually won by popular Leinnomic climate as some people wouldn't be able to attend a two day event due to work ster angler Mr Robbie Phelan with eight fish averaging around 50cm each, the bigrelated issues. gest fish of the weekend also went to Mr. Phelan at 63cm. Young 12 year old Ozzie With the back drop of the beautiful Conway from Sallins Co. Kildare won the mount Leinster as a canvas the competiSunday event with five fish averaging 40cm tions kicked off on Saturday morning with each. Pics taken during the event can be competitors well wrapped up for the day viewed on the popular blog ran by the Carahead. Several competitors in the fly fishing only competition netted Rainbow Trout loc cac chairman that were over two foot long thus keeping http:// judges Gerry Mcstraw and Leon Deere carlowcoarseanglingguides.blogspot.com/ from Graiguecullen busy for the day measuring and documenting each anglers catch. If you require any information regarding Anglers turned up from Shileliagh and as the fishery or indeed the Carlow Coarse far afield as Sallins and Dublin for the com- Angling Club please do not hesitate to conpetitions and were not disappointed at the tact Gerry on 085 2844566. stamp of fish being caught, most of which

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Forget the Lough Ness Monster - The Barrow has its own Carlow Coarse Angling Club Junior member Lewis Parr from Graiguecullen managed to net himself a huge surprise whilst fishing for a Pike locally to Carlow town. Lewis a regular on the river Barrow decided to go Pike fishing with his friend Robbie Lacey after finishing school early one day last week. The lads had purchased some Roach to use as bait in search of one of resident Pike in an area known locally as Mikey Websters. After around twenty minutes the rod signalled a bite which could only be a big fish and Lewis immediately let the tension loose on the reel to allow the fish a fighting chance. Imagine the surprise on the lads faces when a huge brown Trout rose to the surface jumping and kicking in what can only be described as like a scene from Flipper. Lewis eventually managed to net the fish and after a few pics released the fish safe and well back into the river Barrow. If you have any queries as regards the Carlow cac or their activities please do not hesitate to contact Gerry Mcstraw Carlow cac Chairman on 085 2844566 or visit the very popular Facebook page Carlow cac which is updated daily with information useful to anglers. Or visit www.carlowcoarseanglingguides.com who run a blog for the club and its events.

Lewis Parr and his Barrow Trout I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

TOP PIKE FISHING FOR TOPTACKLE DUO ON ROSCOMMON LAKES

It was quite frustrating as fishing can be at the best of times as it seemed it was just one of those days and we were just about to refer to the big book of fishing excuses when I suddenly I felt a powerful tug on my line. I was so excited as I felt some more thumps so I let Noel I was on and I started reeling in. The line felt quite heavy and I caught a glimpse of the fish but not enough to judge the size of it, it was not putting up that much of a fight so I assumed it was a jack with a bit of weed caught on it. I reeled it in close to the boat and was shocked to see the size of it as was Noel, it was a monster and then the pike woke up and the battle was on. She leapt up and tried to tail walk away but the Poseidon treble was well hooked in and she was going nowhere, she did some amazing powerful runs and two more incredible jumps, I had never seen such a big pike jump this high from the water, it was truly spectacular sport. Noel got the net and slipped it under and we boated the beautiful pike which turned out to be 110cm in and around the 20lb mark. The

Niallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day out and his first pike We have recently been out testing out some of our lures from Top Tackle throughout November and early December and have had some success. On one of these trips we were joined by our good pal Niall Kenny. Niall has always been a fan of our fishing tales and wished to join us for one and see the fish in the flesh and we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to disappoint.

Niall and Anthony with Niall's15lb Pike It was a great day and we even managed to land Niall a lovely 15lb Pike, he had his worries about holding it when he saw the monster so I took on the responsibility for photo purposes. We have had some really cracking doubles on some of our swimbait lures which can be found in our online store http://toptackle.ie/ also on the site you can read all about our tales on our days out.

camera came out and there were plenty of pictures taken and then we sent her home and she slowly swam back to the deep.

http://fishinginireland.info

Anthony Greene Top Tackle www.toptackle.ie Tel: +353 (0)85 7412767

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

FOXING WITH ROBERT BUCKNELL 2: THE RIFLE

Robert Bucknell, author of Foxing With Lamp And Rifle, and Sporting Shooter fox shooting expert, describes his custom foxshooting rifle and some of the shooting techniques he uses. by James Marchington

http://youtu.be/zB6E5 -Nl9AQ

I Shoot and Fish E-Zine January 2012

Want to see your story and pictures in our e-zine email to info@ishootandfish.ie or call Anthony on 087-6690796

15 Thousand acres of shooting. COMING SOON: New private members club

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Rainbow trout fishing open all year round.

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I Shoot and Fish E-Zine July 2011