Dear members,

In recent years, our club's management team has consistently aimed to be open and transparent about the day-to-day issues we face in running our organisation. 

In keeping with this approach, we need to inform you that following the latest netting and stock review at the bottom pond in Nyewood, the expected numbers of the new carp stock introduced last winter have not materialised. This prompted an investigation, and we believe we may have identified part of the problem.

After discovering tracks in the mud flats and on the banks when the pond was lowered, the club installed remote surveillance cameras. Unfortunately, these revealed that an Otter might have been visiting the pond.  

Experts have now confirmed this. The club and its officers are collaborating with the relevant departments, the Environment Agency, Angling Trust, and the landowner to create a plan to protect the fishery for the future. This process will take time, but we will keep you fully updated as it progresses.   

We have been informed by the relevant agencies that no Otters have been legally stocked in this area, and it is possible that this Otter migrated from the Meon Valley, as they are known to travel over 70 km.

It is still uncertain whether the Otter is merely passing through or has settled in the area after moving through the river system.

This news has been devastating for the committee, as we have worked hard to begin improvements at Nyewood following the loss of some older carp over the past few seasons. The initial stocking last year was intended to be the start of a long-term strategy to rejuvenate the two waters. 

We had already arranged for more stock from two fish farms this year to enhance the fishing. Unfortunately, we have had to cancel one of these, and the other farm will now supply larger Carp stock to replenish Coombe. This was part of our future plan but has now been expedited. 

We ask all members to bear with us as we face yet another challenge and to keep checking our website and Facebook page for updates as we release them. 

We can confirm that none of the larger stock have been targeted so far.

The bottom pond is now open to members, while the top pond is still under maintenance and is expected to reopen in 10-14 days. This timeline depends on members assisting the small group of regular volunteers dedicated to completing the work. A huge thanks to those that had attended work party sessions during the festive period, it was good to see a couple of new faces, the more support these regular volunteers receive, the sooner the ponds will reopen. Please assist them whenever possible.

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Other News:

On a brighter note, now that Bo Peep has reopened, it has been fishing well, with members enjoying good mixed catches of silvers and carp. Try using Corn or Worm for the carp. Reminding members to be mindful that the Carp Park can become muddy and slippery this time of the year.

Until the freeze, Coombe had also been fishing well, with carp still being caught by those brave enough to try. If you have catch reports, please send them in.

Members, please remember that the club AGM will be on Tuesday, February 17th, at Petersfield Community Centre at 7:00 pm.

We hope to see you there. Don't forget, there will be jams and other items for sale to raise funds for the club, a free membership draw, and a prize raffle. A £5 discount will be on offer to those that wish to renew their memberships in person during the break. We are also still looking for members interested in joining the committee to help shape its future. 

Members are reminded that proposals, accompanied by a seconder, must be submitted in writing to the Secretary by Tuesday, 27th January.

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Tight Lines for now 

Steve Chapman PDAC Chairman