May 2025

​

Chairman's chat.

I want to begin by highlighting the success of the first GET FISHING event held on Saturday, 26th April at Nyewood Ponds. Over 60 participants attended to experience our wonderful sport, guided by our dedicated volunteers and coaches. The weather was favourable, and the silvers kept participants engaged for most of the day, with a few carp appearing towards the end. I extend my gratitude to everyone who attended and the volunteers who assisted on the day.

I also want to thank all attendees who took the time to email us their feedback and appreciation.

The next event in the calendar is the first in a series of JCC/Leviton sponsored junior matches, scheduled for 31st May at Nyewood Ponds. We invite juniors aged 16 and under to express their interest by emailing the PDAC development program at thepdac@gmail.com. For more information, visit the PDAC website at www.thepdac.co.uk/jcclightingjuniorleague. I strongly encourage juniors to participate, as the event is designed for all ages and skill levels to enhance their abilities in a competitive setting, with JCC’s sponsorship ensuring fantastic prizes and awards.

 

Additionally, on Saturday, 31st May, we will host the first PDAC Development Programme’s Teach-in Sessions. These sessions offer free advice and tips to enhance your angling skills, covering a wide range of topics such as methods, watercraft, and fish welfare. Whether you are new to angling or seeking additional knowledge on approaching our waters, these sessions are perfect for you. Each session will last two hours at Nyewood Ponds and is limited to six members per session. Contact us for further details or book directly from the website www.thepdac.co.uk/pdac-events.

 

Rother Partnership Trust

Andy Reed and I attended the second Summit meeting of the trust in Midhurst. The trust collaborates closely with partners in our catchment area, focusing on joint efforts to enhance river health, support thriving wildlife, and preserve these vital habitats for future generations. The Western Rivers Trust has initiated a voluntary program called “RIVER GUARDIANS.” Volunteers are responsible for taking water readings from different sections of the Rother once or twice a month, or more frequently, to understand the river's condition and the impact of farming, road runoff, and leaking septic tanks. I am reaching out to see if any members are interested in representing the PDAC to monitor our sections at Chithurst and Iping. Please contact the club for more details or visit their website. https://wsrt.org.uk/get-involved/water-monitoring.

 

Committee Positions

We are still seeking individuals to fill several committee positions, including a treasurer. If you believe you can contribute, please reach out to us.

 

Catch Reports 

As you may have noticed on our website and Facebook pages, several members have been sharing their catches, including weights and photos. This is an excellent way for us to monitor our waters and assess fish stocks throughout the year, as it provides insight into the health of the fish and the fisheries themselves.

I strongly encourage all members to share their catches and locations with us. It not only helps us but also inspires other anglers to explore new waters.

​

Spawning

Reminding members that waters will shut at a moments notice due to any spawning activity. Please check the website and Facebook page for regular updates.

 

Work Parties

We will soon be organizing more work parties, and I encourage all members to join, regardless of skill level, as many hands make light work. It's also a great opportunity to chat and get to know each other better while we carry out essential tasks.

​

Harting Festivities

The PDAC Outreach team will be attending the Harting Festivities on Monday 26th May in South Harting. The events starts at 11:00am, come by and meet the team and enjoy the festivities.

 

In closing, I hope you enjoy your fishing and look forward to seeing you by the bank soon.

 

Steve Chapman

PDAC Chairman

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Monthly Membership Round-Up

Hello members,

We've noticed a delay in applicants receiving their permits. We are processing and sending them within 3 days of receiving your application. It seems the postal service is experiencing delays. If you haven't received your permit within 5 working days of applying, please reach out to me for assistance.

Email me directly: mebsec.pdac@gmail.com 

Regards

Sean Crowley

Membership Secretary.