Fishing a forgotten river into the dark

[@grahamnash9794]

Hi John. Tis non other.... That was what I would expect spending a day at a commercial, few bites and even fewer fish banked. I toyed with the idea of trying the Loddon, but didn't get round to it. Now my eyes are so far gone, I couldn't even see a bite, let alone disgorge a fish. So it's down to a few folks like you to take me virtual fishing, with the aid of a magnifying glass. I mention that because I'm not sure how long I'll be able to type into the future. So if and when you stop getting feed back from me, you know why. I still have that copy of your book right here, and have been unable to read it. But I still enjoy that atmosphere of your videos, and will for a time yet. I'd love to share an experience me and 2 of my sons had some years ago with a "disappearing" angler!!! We can only describe it as ghostly. But that would take a very long time as my typing is now a 'one finger and magnifying glass' job. See you next time. TTFN

[@themagicoffishing]

I’m really sorry to hear that, Graham 😢 There’s not a lot they can do then? I was under the impression you were going to have cataracts removed and that might have meant a big improvement. If that’s not the case then that is unimaginably tough, especially being an angler. A friend of my dad’s lost his sight over a number of years and technology - whether it’s audio books or being able to dictate a text message - can obviously help a bit these days, but that’s tough. Glad you’re just about able to watch and comment with your magnifying glass 🔍 for now. I’m always happy to take you on a virtual trip to the bank anyway.

[@themagicoffishing]

P.S. Always love an angling ghost story so you might have to get someone to type for you! A chap left a REALLY long story in the comments of my recent Trent vid (Gunthorpe Bridge) but it was completely welcome as it was a mind blowing account of how he once fished out a drowning woman using his heavy fishing gear! I’m sure your spooky story would be enjoyed by others on the channel 👻🎣

[@peterwisebooks]

Great video as ever John, and thanks so much for the review of my book. Really glad you enjoyed it!

[@themagicoffishing]

My pleasure, Peter - I enjoyed every page. Nice to hear from you on the channel, too, as we’ve only recently met online, and I hope some of TMOF community might give it a go. Perfect reading material as the nights begin to draw in… 👻🎣 📘

[@Smiffy830]

Hiya John, marvellous! That boyish enthusiasm for catching fish is contagious. You find yourself almost giggling when you've got what you've caught in your hand. Mark Erdwyn is another prime example of this, you can watch his you tube posts all day, nice that you included him . Got to say though, that bucket hat is pretty cool, you look like Renni from the Stone Roses. Love it! All the best John, Smiffy. Keep them lines tight🐟🪱🎣👍😎

[@themagicoffishing]

Smiffy, you’ve just referenced my favourite band (and drummer) of all time - made my night 😎🌹 I’ve always been a massive Roses man. Think I saw that hat in Guildford Angling Direct this spring and thought, yeah, I need that 👍😄 Also glad to hear my boyish enthusiasm is still evident after 51 years on the planet 💙

[@Smiffy830]

@themagicoffishing As a guitarist I'm in awe of John Squire. I Love the Roses. Just getting my bag together for a session on marsh farm tomorrow. Buzzing! Won't sleep tonight, boyish enthusiasm won't let me. 🙄😄

[@themagicoffishing]

Love it! Sleepless nights come with the territory for anyone who truly feels the MAGIC ✨ All this rain will have definitely perked up the local rivers, which I expect to fish well this weekend and into next week, but it’s sometimes trickier to predict the effect on stillwaters… Any significant drop in water temp can make things hard, but it’s stayed relatively warm, so that could (should!) mean the extra oxygen and fresh water sparks a bit of Marsh Farm feeding frenzy too 🤞🎣🐟 Let me know how you get on and tight lines. P.S. Squire is a living legend and I only wish him and Ian could have got on better. Last saw them play together at Finsbury Park.

[@Smiffy830]

@themagicoffishing I was working in Macclesfield in the early 90s & heard the Roses were doing a gig in Crewe, I was only vaguely aware of them at the time, but, became very aware after. Ian got too big for his boots & did himself no favours ( IMO). John turned to his other love of painting & fell off the planet for years, but great to see him back with Liam earlier this summer. Tomorrow will be what it'll be, just happy to be on the bank & hoping the fish like what I'm dishing up. Made up some banana and pineapple boilies & some pineapple syrup on Wednesday, sweet toothed crucians beware 😋. Let you know how I fair. Try & get some kip, but, seems like there's a hole in my dreams🐟🪱🎣👍

[@JamesPilgrim-ql2to]

Great to see real Angler in operation John, you took me back 40 years when I fished the Monnow in Monmouth where one could catch almost any species but a wild place to fish. Oh and I’m buying the book because I get it! We fish a very spooky lake now and it often gives us the creeps. 😜keep em coming. Regards Jim

[@themagicoffishing]

Many, thanks Jim - lovely comment and you can see the author has left a comment below this video too, so he’ll be well chuffed (as long as you’re talking about his book and not mine 😄👻). You might even enjoy both! But I’m not here to flog you anything and I’m glad I could spark a few happy memories of your own. Happy fishing 🎣👻

[@tom3127]

This looks so nice and quiet I will give this a try good video, really enjoying them.

[@themagicoffishing]

Glad to hear it, Tom! Thanks for letting me know and you’re welcome to comment anytime as you know 🙏🤗 Yep, I love fishing public places at times but, at other times, you can’t beat a bit of solitude and just knowing you’re going to have a chilled pick of swims 👌🎣🐟

[@cliveeariss880]

That tiny little pool you fished reminds me of a trip on the mole, and a simple ledger, with a chunk of meat, right next to a fallen tree, and a hard fighting, 10lb mirror carp, its a great way to fish, love this.

[@themagicoffishing]

Do you know, I’ve never fished the Mole (despite being so close for so long?!) and nor have I ever caught a river carp, so you’ve achieved a couple big things on my ever growing angling wish list! Glad I could remind you of such a special capture and thanks for taking the time to comment, as always, Clive 💙👍

[@MUCKER671]

Lovely job again bud, great info on the river, definitely my sort of fishing.. Brought up fishing the River Rother near Petworth so no how hard these spots can be. Ya did good..!👏 Not quite half way through my 2nd part of Chertsey, 35mins so far @ 140Gb's. Gotta love doing it..! 😭😆 Take care bud & speak soon..😊👍

[@themagicoffishing]

Cheers Mucker! Watch out for next week’s vid, in which you feature! I failed to find the better fish on my maiden outing to the Loddon, but it still felt like a special place and that’s at least half of fishing: Never fished the Rother (although I grew up pretty close to Rotherham 😂). Been through Petworth a few times, though, and seems like a lovely place. Take care too.

[@SteveSmith-qy8so]

Great watching your videos on my brakes with good information 👍 please keep them coming

[@themagicoffishing]

Cheers Steve, it’s comments like these that make me want to keep them coming 👍🙏😎🎣🐟

[@JimCinUK]

I can’t understand why 70% of viewers haven’t subscribed yet - excellent quality videos & I’m always looking forward to your next one. Drove back from the North today after dropping my daughter off at University & passed over the Rivers Ouse, Wharfe, Erwash & your beloved Trent.

[@themagicoffishing]

What a brilliant comment! 😊 Not only because you share my bewilderment at how tricky it can be to get people to click a button, for free and with no commitment, but coz you also recognise how much the Trent means to me! Certainly in terms of memories, even if I’m far from an expert or regular on there these days. I keep wondering if I can manage another visit before winter… 🤔🤞🎣🐟 Hope your daughter has a great term (and time!) in the north and hope to see you again soon on the channel.

[@grahammclean7842]

Another great video John, I could really feel your adrenaline building while you were fishing the tiny backstream. Not knowing whether it’s a small fish or a monster is one of the great things about fishing natural venues. It was a really special place to fish with so many different swims. One of my most favourite ways to spend a few hours, travelling light and creeping along a new river. Keep up the good work and thanks for the book recommendations too. Tight lines as always.

[@themagicoffishing]

And the same to you, mate. Another lovely comment and I’m glad I managed to convey a bit of that adrenaline I was feeling! It’s tricky to rove and film as you need some extra gear and have to keep setting up again, but I was keen to capture a bit of that type of angling. I will definitely be back on that river before too long I hope…

[@jamesrussel1133]

Yikes those invasive Himalayan Balsam plants get everywhere. That apart enjoyed your video a lot!

[@themagicoffishing]

Yep, they are everywhere along most rivers in the south east 😬 A noticeable increase since I first moved down. And don’t mention the floating pennywort on the Wey in particular… 😑 Many thanks for the comment 🙏☺️

[@karlpearson8032]

Well done John, no big fish caught, though that’s the wonder of fishing a new venue, a new approach and how could we fishermen not be impressed with the water in front of us beautiful, serene and mostly not fished, always a pleasure to watch your videos, a man who enjoys fishing and his surroundings in nature 👍😀

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks Karl, I couldn’t agree more - it’s not always about the number or size of fish caught and the day that’s all that matters to me is the day I eat my hat 😄 Glad you enjoyed it and please keep the lovely comments coming 👍🙏

[@bertbrogden9662]

once again , wonderful . thank you

[@themagicoffishing]

Thank YOU, Bert! Much appreciated 💙🙏🎣🤞

[@Martyn-NFFC]

Such an enjoyable watch, love how you appreciate your catch whatever the size, and the respect for your environment. Had some scary nights myself, the sound of a crying woman right in front of me, despite there being no one there. Tried to convince myself later that it was a muntjack/badger/fox/stoat/wilderbeast...

[@themagicoffishing]

Ahhhhh, Martyn, that comment sparked a whole array of emotions! Firstly, thanks for the kind words about the video - I wasn’t sure if it would go down well or not, because there are no ‘proper’ fish but, as you say, I get (almost!) as much of a kick out of small fish as the big’uns. And there are enough brilliant big fish anglers on KZbin as it is 🤣 Then I was freaked out by your brief but entirely compelling ghost story 😧🎣👻😱 And then I was nearly wetting myself about stoats and wilderbeast 👏

[@johnwilson7174]

Yet another enjoyable video. Relaxing and good to watch.

[@themagicoffishing]

Yet another enjoyable comment 🙏🤗 I really appreciate your ongoing support, John, and I hope I can keep providing relaxing viewing. Cheers for now 👍🎣

[@PinreelPaul]

Another great video and some excellent snaggy swims to delve into.. Good to see the river still producing littles ones which will grow into bigger ones for sure.. Looking forward to the next adventure :) Cheers Paul.

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks as always, Paul - I really appreciate you taking the time to comment every time and, along with others, keep this community buzzing. I know a fair few viewers enjoy the comments almost as much as the vids 😄 Yeah, it was so shaggy despite all the recent bank work and I’ve no doubt there are plenty of biggies in, esp with the evidence on YT. But it’s been a pretty dry second half to the summer down here and I’m excited that we’re finally getting some rain now - as long as it clears up a bit by the time I next get to hit the bank 😄🤞🌥️

[@eynonr1]

I have only recently discovered your channel and applaud you for the content. Interestingly I was also looking to explore that stretch soon as haven't fished it before and increasingly enjoy getting away from the crowds; so may well bump into you on the bank sometime. I will be easy to spot, all the gear and no idea! On a separate note, we have just bought a holiday home in Mudeford so greatly enjoyed your video on the Bridge Pool and will be having a go there myself next year. Keep up the good work and best of luck.

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks so much for a lovely comment - these are the reasons I enjoy making the vids, even when time’s tight! 💙 Lucky you, having a place from which to visit the Bridge Pool - really recommend it if you can stomach the cost and I’m still enjoying the memories several months on from my maiden visit!

[@peterlocke5204]

Hi John, reminds me of happy days creeping about on a small Warwickshire river and catching Chub out of weedy swims. If the dark doesn't make you feel scared, the owls screeching always made me think it was time to go home!!ha ha. Great fun, cheers Peter.

[@themagicoffishing]

Glad you enjoyed it, Peter, and many thanks for taking the time to comment as always 🙏💙 There have been a few ‘originals’ (reliable and welcome comment makers) who I’ve not see for a while, and it’s always good to see ya.

[@davidleigh2573]

What a beautiful video The magic of moving water and new and unknown swims just energises real anglers. Now apart from the usual Christmas present from my wife, we also give a small but personal table present with our seasonal meal. I already know what mine is as my wife has just purchased your book for that very purpose. Can't wait to read it. Stay safe and thanks

[@themagicoffishing]

Oh wow, thanks David (and THANKS to your wife, too). It still blows my mind that people are buying, gifting and hopefully enjoying the read. And if you don’t like it then you can always try Disturbing the Water instead 😄 I totally agree about the magic of moving water and unknown swims - don’t need to land specimen fish to enjoy that like a little kid on Christmas Eve…

[@stephenfield4588]

Hi John, lovely video yet again bringing back some great memories. I use to fish parts of the Loddon that belonged to the Reading and District AA many years ago and one match in particular the top three weights were all over twenty pounds and made up solely of quality roach, but it was famous and popular for its big barbel and chub those were the days 👍you definitely are a man after my own heart when it comes to river fishing. Keep the great videos coming and look forward to the next one 👍

[@themagicoffishing]

Many thanks, that’s an equally lovely comment 💙 Top three weights of 20lb+ of roach… 🤯😎 That’s a river in its prime (sadly in the past but still a wonderful memory) and all quality roach - one of my favourite fish. I wouldn’t have minded taking part in a few of those 🎣🐟 🐟🐟

[@patcullen9304]

Another great video thank you John, you saying about the ghost fishing stories, I had a funny moment, while I was fishing with friends on the river mole at Hersham in the late 70s, I hadn't seen this tree stump all day, then the sun went down, I was looking for one of my friends and all of a sudden there was this big grey shape in front of me and I just started calling my friends name, I've never been that scared, LOL 😂😂😂

[@themagicoffishing]

Love it, Pat! 👻🎣 Maybe you will start a trend and we will see an influx of spooky stories from other TMOF viewers - which would be great and fascinating. There is definitely something spine tingling about being completely alone in the dark, in the countryside, but as your tale and one of the chapters in my book go to prove, you needn’t even be alone to get freaked out on the bank. Cheers for now.

[@markward8216]

Loved this video my kind of fishing

[@themagicoffishing]

Glad to hear and and thanks for taking the time to let me know - much appreciated 🙏👍💙

[@michaelduggan5148]

Great video John Trevor told me you did it im heàd bailiff down there it's so under fished I myself have had 2 barbel recently one going 14lb 7oz and the other going 12lb 4oz I find the river fishes better just before day break I've fished I've fished it a lot the key is bait up lol😊 thanks again for your video Mick Duggan

[@themagicoffishing]

Hiya Mick! Really appreciate the message - great to hear from you and I probably should have thought to say hello before I made my maiden trip 😄 Can’t beat local, expert knowledge 🎣👍 Those sound like cracking barbel from a small river and they would both have become my new PB! I’ve only done a bit of barbel fishing over the last 4-5 years, since I started on the Wey. More of a matchman / all rounder, but they are addictive fish! Baiting up also sounds like a good idea for nomadic biggies. I’m hoping to get back there this weekend and try normal ‘match’ style tactics - float and maybe feeder with hemp and caster kind of thing - in one of the wider pegs past the metal bridge. A ‘see what’s in there’ type of approach rather than fishing for biggies… Hopefully see you down there sometime and cheers for now 🎣🐟👍

[@borderlands6606]

Small river angling is my favourite sort. Rivers definitely have moods, bright and welcoming, dark and brooding. One stretch I fish has a couple of large pike that feed on chub and barbel. It sounds like a piano falling in the water when they take one off the surface. On a still evening I've almost jumped out of your skin more than once!

[@themagicoffishing]

That is actually another great example of how fishing can get creepy or freak you out! Unexplained or unexpected activity from a real biggie! It sounds like you had worked out what was going on but I’m not surprised you jumped out of your skin a few times. And I love all tales from the riverbank like that 👍🙏 As you say, so many moods and so many different seasons to be experienced on small rivers. Thanks for taking the time to connect and tight lines as you say 🎣💙🐟

[@clivegretton4535]

First time I have watched your films. Really enjoyed this & it was the Loddon that drew me in as I have wanted to fish it for years. I fish in exactly the same way on the sussex ouse as part of my club and have had the creeps on more than one occasion so know how you were feeling. Well done, I'll be having a look at your channel now, just subscribed.

[@themagicoffishing]

Fantastic to hear that, Clive - thanks for the sub, welcome to the club, and I hope you enjoy some of the other videos on here! Thanks also for taking the time to comment and you’re welcome to do that going forward or indeed on any of the older vids you like 👍🙏🎣🐟 I’ve been going less than two years but we’re growing a nice community of like minded and (mostly!) happy anglers.

[@clivegretton4535]

Cheers. I fish a lot with my wife and we have ordered your book as well. Looking forward to reading it. All the best. C.

[@themagicoffishing]

Much appreciated, Clive! Hope you enjoy it and let me know when you’ve had chance to finish it. Funnily enough, there are one or two other fisherman who follow the channel and say they watch it with their wives. I’m always jealous of couples who both enjoy their fishing, although my wife, Rachel, has at least developed a helpful level of tolerance to my watery obsession 😄 Again; really hope you enjoy some of the other videos too - a couple about the Trent and one about the Bridge Pool on the Hampshire Avon at Christchurch have proved really popular this year but there’s plenty of variety and some other local river films like this one - kzbin.info/www/bejne/kICpeXx_hrhpY8Usi=WvuaNQDZZdqmU2wx

[@baggers-]

This used to be my back yard every weekend back from 1965 to 1977 this used to be a great fishery back when the river banks were managed and the river looked after. I have had barbel up to 10lb brown trout in the pool you fished up to 4lb down stream from you nearer the George pike of 21lb chubb were always a decent stamp as were the gudgeon roach bleak. Some spots were also good for swimming also. It's just a shame when the club took over the water they haven't managed to look after the river loddon

[@themagicoffishing]

Hiya Baggers. That’s great to hear a bit of history about the place, especially from someone who fished it all the time back then! Thanks for taking the time to comment. A sea trout from that pool must have been a really special fish. That was obviously my first time there but what I can say is the club is definitely managing the banks now, even if you’ve experienced times when it was a jungle. The fisheries manager has been right down the stretch and there’s a great path (strimmed down to short grass) all the way along and all the swims are accessible. The fish stocks I’m less sure of but the head bailiff for the river recently left a comment below this video and he has had two big, double figure barbel out already this season. I’m hoping to get back there soon and fish one swim with maggots, caster and hemp, just to get a feel for what species might be at home these days. Cheers

[@baggers-]

@@themagicoffishing in my days there there was no over the river vegetation trees were well managed and kept in check I didn't see any sea trout back then but in the back water and the pool there were a good and healthy population on brown trout and native not stocked

[@pauledwards6470]

Nice clean looking fish John,pity you didn't catch a barbel this time but there's always next time eh mate,some lovely spots to fish.like the look of that pool,I think we can all recolate a spooky time when we're younger out with your mates and you can start mind wandering ,funny now where all older you can sit there and something triggers the mind to adventures years ago eh mate.

[@themagicoffishing]

Very much so, mate! I think you’ve got a better imagination as a young’un, although the right place at the right time can still send a few shivers down my spine now 😄👻

[@NorthWalesPiscator]

Hi John thank you for another belting video. What a atmospheric piece of water, definitely in need of further investigation perhaps when there’s a foot or two more water on it. Keep up the great work and tight lines 🎣🎣🎣

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks 🤗🙏👍 Totally agree - another foot or two of water and that place could fish its socks off. I’m torn this weekend, as we’ve just had the first two days of rain for ages… Heading back there would be one option but I think the chance that big Thames barbel and chub might switch on may just trump it. But either way, if I get fishing, I’ll be happy 😊😎🎣🐟

[@NorthWalesPiscator]

@@themagicoffishing if I were in your boots the temptation of big Thames Barbel and Chub would be too much. Cannot wait to see how you get on 😁🎣🎣🎣

[@peterdobrijevic3107]

Really enjoyed the video John. Looks a lovely river. Please fish it again and let us know how you got on.

[@themagicoffishing]

I definitely hope to, Peter! 🤞🎣🐟 Either try and find some better chub or perch over the autumn and winter, once it’s had a bit more water in, or go back and try float fishing one of the wider pegs to see what other species of smaller fish might be around… Cheers for now and thanks as always for taking the time to comment 🙏💙

[@chrisprobert6]

Nice video man . B4 the millennium, we poached swums towards farley farms. All fish returned unharmed. Have an ea print when they electrofished it. Might b available still, but quite a while ago. Biomass was thousands , i remember. 💪👍

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks Chris 👍🙏 I will have to look pot for an EA 🍺! And I’m sure you’ve hung up your poaching boots now. Thanks for commenting

[@BlackBottomFloats]

Another great film! Not many fish caught but that didn't matter, it had me enthralled and willing that tip to pull round. 😁 Such diversity in your films and fishing style is a real winning combination John. Keep up the good work! 🎣❤️🎣

[@themagicoffishing]

Many thanks, Andy 💙🙏 I always say variety is the spice of fishing and for me and that can mean different places, different fish, different tactics and baits, or different seasons. So many ways to enjoy angling and I’m glad that little exploration of the Loddon had you entertained 😀🎣🐟

[@BlackBottomFloats]

@themagicoffishing I've also read @peterwisebooks A great read! ❤️📚❤️

[@eastsussexbeesandwildlife5801]

Really enjoyed that, thank you. 😮

[@themagicoffishing]

My pleasure as always and thanks for taking the time to comment again - it really is appreciated 💙

[@Linnosent]

Hi mate I live in Winnersh and having fished this last year for the first time. I’d love to explore more. Took my kids downs to a swim the other side of the Mill and caught their first Chubb. I’d love to fish it more as I’m sure there’ll be some nice fish in it!

[@themagicoffishing]

Many thanks for the FB message, too, mate - glad you’ve found the channel and have enjoyed one of the vids already. Welcome to the community 🤗🎣🐟 I’ve lived in the area 25 years and am only just discovering how much great fishing there is to be enjoyed, now the kids are getting older! Brilliant yours are doing a bit of fishing 👍 Cheers for now.

[@cliveeariss880]

Hello John, great video mate, hmm must get back on the mole soon, but with this rain this week, may have to have a rethink, but as always great job, I got next week off, some work to sort out at home, but we will get some fishinging in, all the best mate.

[@themagicoffishing]

Clive, work as hard as you can in the morning and then do as much 🎣🎣🎣🎣 as you can. Different rivers respond to rain in different ways, but I hope the likes of the Thames and Wey will be fishing much better with the influx of fresh water 🤞🤞🤞 Tight lines 🎣🐟

[@andrewwing5086]

John, great video. You really captured the atmosphere of the place. I spent considerable time doing late night sessions upstream from where you were at Carters Mill in 2018/19 for big Chub but found it hard going for just one chub 5lb 9oz which looked thin, I'd imagine in the past it would have been over 6lb?. What I did notice in the dark were a lot of mink, l don't think they were otters but I did think the river then fish wise was in decline. I do hope one day its fortunes are on the up. So few of us now are interested in small river fishing, where few barbel exist certainly doesn't help so clubs turn their priorities to carp and still waters. What is exciting is the chance of a large chub or perch that's thrived on neglect and someone prepared to put the time in.

[@themagicoffishing]

Great to hear from someone who has fished the river, Andrew, thanks! I didn’t see any mink but have heard of them in that area and they are are another threat to fish stocks. Still, some of my fellow KZbinrs seem to bag plenty of biggies from the Loddon and I admire your perseverance - and indeed success. That’s a good chub if it was on the skinny size! I think fish can absolutely thrive on neglect and I like that mysterious element to a day on the bank as you saw, although a bit more regular feed going in can also encourage daylight feeding and a bit of weight gain. I will definitely have to give it another few goes…

[@kellyketllescentrepins]

brings back memories,fished there a lot years back,had some nice barbel on the backwater & got smashed up a few times on the main river with 15lb maxima,suspecting big big carp or barbel which it was renowned for

[@themagicoffishing]

Oh my god! Smashed up on 15lb Maxima 🤯😮🫢 That tells me they must have been ANIMALS! It’s very snaggy but I love my Maxima, too, in certain situations, and that would take some breaking. Big carp or biiiig barbel as you say - they always know where safe havens are. Great to hear you had some good fish from the backwater too. As one other viewer has commented, there may be one or two mink about, in which case it could make location trickier and the biggies are likely to be holed up in the various jungles during daylight hours. If you don’t mind commenting again, how and when did you fish the backstream for the barbel? Heavy gear for the snags? Nights or days? I’d love to give it another go. Might be trying to get back on the Thames this weekend, however, as we’ve finally had some rain. No doubt it will have perked up the Loddon too. I find it fascinating that such a small river used to throw up such massive (18lb+?!) barbel and maybe one day such fish might be caught again… Fish stocks can be pretty cyclical over the decades in my experience, even if they were exceptional specimens 🤞 Thanks for commenting 🙏

[@greendudeg8213]

Just found your Channel. Some great content mate, definitely subscribing.

[@themagicoffishing]

Brilliant, welcome on board and thanks for taking the time to comment - welcome anytime 👍😎🎣

[@nigelstannard7443]

Great video 😊....years ago I fished a river into the dark ....was in a peg beside a wood.....there was a footpath and a style......I wasn't having to much luck.....I couldn't see but the guy in the wood wad catching....could hear his reel and rod swishing as he cast and fish splashing.....this was going on for around a hour.......then a couple and their dog came walking from woods.....they asked me if I had a good evening.......I replied no......but the guy in Woods must have 😊......they replied there was no one in there 😮...... I then packed up very quickly and hurried bk to my car 😬..... I've heard of this place being haunted....but never believe it until that night......the place is Hoxne..river waveney....Suffolk...I think its call the match stretch?...near weir 👻👍

[@themagicoffishing]

The Waveney! Now that’s a legendary angling river (in my mind at least). Never been anywhere near it and after that story I’m not sure I want to! But wasn’t it a big roach hotspot at one time or another? The sort of place John Wilson fished? Or maybe I’m making that up! Either way, that’s a brilliant story. You might enjoy that book I recommend, unless you’re still too freaked out! Thanks for taking the time to leave such a great comment - a little story really - and cheers for now 🎣👻

[@ceironphilpott8084]

That’s one way too keep people off your spots 😅

[@1mkscort]

Fish up there all the time lovley streatch and it is quite that's what makes it so special.....hard work and fishes poorly these days for resonable size fish...good for some small stuff as you found out...can get a bit sole destroying walking up there most evenings for a chubblet or two but a beautiful place to be and good for the mind after a long day ....hopefully it stays nice a quite be a shame for it to turn out like the rest of the clubs waters

[@themagicoffishing]

Great to hear from a regular and I can quite understand why you keep retuning despite the patchy or tricky returns. I hope to get back again before too long as well and I suppose the presence of small fish must give us some hope for the future 🤞 I fancy trying it again in autumn and winter, and also giving it a go from one of the wider pegs with match style tactics and bait - maybe a stick or waggler and see how many and what kind of the smaller fish there might be. Thanks for a great comment 👍🙏

[@1mkscort]

@@themagicoffishing yes it is very hopeful...... the Loddon has suffered alot over the years and still is unfortunately but she's still trying to bounce back.maybe we will cross paths at some point. good luck

[@kennetking1]

It’s overlooked for a reason, ie, it’s a shadow of its former self. Clearly that doesn’t detract from the enjoyment of fishing it for the first time 👍🎣

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks KennetKing! Yep; I’ve had a few comments along those lines, which is a real shame, but I guess it might just come back into some better form at some point and can hopefully thrive on neglect (versus all the challenges thrown at it)… I’ll definitely give it another go at some point 👍 P.S. I’ve never fished the legendary Kennet. One day…

[@kennetking1]

@@themagicoffishing apologies mate. Just realised my first comment was quite negative…Haven’t fished the Kennet for years. My time now and indeed for the last 25yrs is on the Thames. I note you fished the old Civil Service bit at Datchet a few weeks ago. Tight lines chap 👍🎣

[@markerd5378]

Whilst it's not the same as it once was (what river is these days? ) there are still fish to be caught and good fish for those willing to be dedicated. Thanks also for the shout out John. Regards Mark Erdwin

[@themagicoffishing]

@@markerd5378My absolute pleasure, Mark - seeing as you’ve given me years of pleasure (and blown my socks off with your consistency and big fish record). True inspiration 🎣😎✊🤩🎣

[@themagicoffishing]

@@kennetking1Yep, I’m only just discovering the Thames?! The kids are getting a bit older and I now have time to try new places and make the odd YT vids at weekends. Happy dayz 😊

[@hermanuslambo7252]

Hello Jonh, i hope you are doing alright? I have a problem with the videos, they are to short :-) :-). Lovev every minute. Thanks agian. Greetz Herman

[@themagicoffishing]

Greetz! Haha, so nice of you to say - and that was a 40-minute special too 😄 I always want to make decent length vids when I can and I hope catching a few more fish this autumn might help 🤞🐟 The rivers really need some rain and we’re finally getting some here in the south east 🌧️

[@hermanuslambo7252]

@@themagicoffishing We never had so much rain over here this summer, but fishing was great.

[@themagicoffishing]

Good to hear

[@kennyscouse3388]

As always John, fantastic video of your first experience of the Loddon. As I watched I was compiling my comment and was going to mention the very same people that you did - Mark Erdwin & Chasing Shadows. I really enjoy (not as much as yours) watching those two channels & the big fish they both catch. However, it’s not all about the big fish, it’s the excitement of what ‘could’ rattle that rod tip next. The screeching of that owl near the end certainly gave me the ghostly atmosphere which I’m sure you experienced packing up & walking back to the car! I hope you return soon to video another adventure on the Loddon & hopefully have a ‘chunk’ or two. Thank You once again for your much appreciated efforts of filming whilst enjoying your leisure time on the bank. 👍🏻👍🏻🎣

[@themagicoffishing]

Thank YOU for your much appreciated comments - they may the effort all worthwhile 😊 Glad you enjoyed that experimental visit and I definitely hope to try again. I’ll never have the experience or big fish CV of someone like Mark but as you say, the magic of fishing can be experienced in many different ways and it’s nice to mix it up. In fact I’m trying another river for a biggie as I type (sat under an umbrella as it’s tipping down!). Thanks again and please keep the comments coming 💙

[@johncollyer4117]

Hi John a lovely video as normal . I fish the loddon at least twice a week for the past few years , I am afraid it is dying , each year slightly worse than the last , yes there are still some good fish to be had but the amount of time spent trying to catch one would probably be better spent elsewhere , Thames , kennet etc . I love the loddon and will continue to fish it especially in the winter but as for the barbel expect to blank a lot more than you catch . Sorry to be negative but despite what you see and hear I am afraid it’s a false picture of a moment in time after many many blanks , regards 👍

[@themagicoffishing]

Many thanks, John. Fantastic to hear from someone else who really knows the river and has deep experience in recent years. Would you believe me if I told you I’m replying to you from the banks of the river??! Well, I am! And it’s growing dark so I’m packing up. Decided to fish one swim with match style tactics (float and feeder) and you’ll have to watch out for a future video to see how I got on 😄🎣🐟 But I can say I’ve had plenty of bites, that’s for sure 👍 Cheers for now.

[@johncollyer4117]

@@themagicoffishing fantastic , I hope you have had a great day , strangely the river has plenty of roach , perch and chublets but the bigger fish seem to of got very scarce . I have had 6 barbel this year but this involved dozens of blanks . There are some big chub having had a few just short of the magic 7lb mark but I live in hope … I genuinely hope you can prove me wrong and have caught a monster 👍

[@Leeroynorthlondon1]

The south east either motor ways or aeroplanes ✈️ lol 😂

[@themagicoffishing]

Totally! I’m near Windsor today (on the Thames) and it’s almost constant! ✈️

[@Leeroynorthlondon1]

@@themagicoffishing yes and they fly low over Windsor you can really see the planes.

[@RossiDeakin0406]

Great video thanks, I think the rise of all the commercial fisheries has seen these lovely natural places fall out of favour, we have a very similar looking river near to me in north Warwickshire which had a regular match scene that's sadly gone these days. Keep up the great content 👏 👌 👍

[@themagicoffishing]

Thanks Ross 😊 Comments like these keep me keen and I agree the commercial scene has changed angling in this country in so many ways. Lots of them brilliant ways of course, but it does mean some of us get a bit stuck in our ways or addicted to the convenience and instant action offered by many day ticket waters. I like to fish both types of fishery and I’m glad my first trip to the Loddon reminded you of a local venue too 👍🎣🙏 Cheers for now.

[@davidswiatek6532]

Loddon been badly polluted thus lack of fishing

[@themagicoffishing]

Was it?? I’d not heard that ☹️ I mean, virtually all of our rivers are sadly polluted to some degree these days, but I assume you mean there was more acute incident than had serious consequences. In that case, I’m even more pleased I was able to catch a few smaller fish - the future stocks if they can survive. And I know some fellow KZbinrs have some cracking big fish out of there, so I hope it’s making a recovery, despite ongoing challenges. Cheers

[@alanfrost4661]

Now you have found this forgotten river the water companys can fill it full of s**t

[@themagicoffishing]

Let’s hope not.

[@fatbobfatbob]

Yawn so dull

[@themagicoffishing]

LOL, thanks fatbobfatbob, I hope you got some sleep in the end. I’m sure your innate positivity will fill the world with light today and tight lines if you have a fish yourself this weekend! 😄

[@fatbobfatbob]

@@themagicoffishing boring and not very good at being patronising lol, I watch quite a lot of fishing videos and programs, 'A passion for angling' one of my most favourite. Sadly you are just painfully boring

[@fatbobfatbob]

@@themagicoffishing you need to be a little more clever if you want to patronise me lol. I love fishing, you know the best fishing TV thats been was 'A passion for angling' two guys best of friends, very different approaches to their ways etc, you just drone on and on, very little camera time on the fish, scenery, the audio well that was dull as that was you droning on and on, flat joyless mono tone, just boring. your information content umm erm well fair I guess but try harder, don't be dull and boring

[@paulus0109]

Every time i start your video i don't no what it is, but i need to pi🚰 Still i like the video's😉

[@themagicoffishing]

LOL! 😂 I never knew I could have that effect on people 😆 It must be all the running water…