How I Got Banned from Fishing..

Everyone has a story of how they first got into fishing, this one's mine. It's a little bit of a rollercoaster to say the least!
Follow me on Instagram: / tomwilshawuk
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© Tom Wilshaw 2024, All Rights Reserved.

[@fishwithcarl]

You're gunna get banned from making fishing videos soon if they keep being this good... ;)

[@robhenshaw6845]

thats funny!

[@SnaggedBro]

This is true!

[@AshtonOutdoors32]

So Carl and Alex where banned when younger for catching a giant, you where banned for posting pics at a club venue @SnaggedBro what are you gunna get banned for?

[@philknott8495]

For the suspicious disappearance of the swans from the garden peg😂

[@tomwilshaw]

Catching their first real double 👀

[@The_ginger_fisherman]

I find that a lot private syndicate waters are very hypocritical about the way they're run. I can't speak about the one you talk about in the video, but almost all of the private syndicats local to me are involved in illegal fish theft and transfers, but have strict rules for members to protect their "stolen" speciemen fish. I was even told as a young angler that id be paid for any large pike i could catch from public waters. Its even common knowlage locally that all the big canal carp dissapearing was down to members of private waters taking them. Its a very toxic scene where you're expected to abide by their strict rules, but they can break every rule and law going to aquire their prize stock.

[@danharbun483]

I can't believe they would go and take carp out off a dirty canal and risk there stock by putting the carp in there. It only takes 1 with something like khv could wipe most of the stock out.

[@bernardcribbins7083]

So true. A club pond we had was full of awesome carp, up to high 20s. The syndicate members next door literally stole most of them Then an otter finished off the rest.

[@dprid]

Back in the 90s I was involved in a large fishing club, and we had one particular water that contained some decent carp. A 'name' came to fish it, a 'name' who is now extremely well known within the industry. At some point after he visited us he started to publicise catches from his own lake, and some of them looked suspiciously like the fish we'd had in our club water, fish that had never been caught again after he visited. Of course we couldn't prove anything so he got away with it. Another club nearby had a lake that contained catfish, one of the lakes that had been stocked with them back in the 20s & 30s. It was amazing how far those fish managed to 'walk'.

[@tomwilshaw]

That’s utterly shocking… The sad truth of it all being the people who do it likely thinking they’re in the right! I’m not aware of the club I refer to in this video being responsible for anything like that, but I’ve definitely been privy to conversations where people ‘joke’ about that sort of thing. Anything to benefit the few 😕

[@user-te4qy1vx6q]

Carp theft (and one particular very large pike!) from my local canal (electrofishers) has been going on for years. A local fishery owner has admitted buying the fish. I love my canal carping - but this is so demoralising

[@AnthonyHerron-pi4lz]

Hi Tom, you obviously ruffled a few feathers when you caught that great looking common! There's probably members who have been wanting to catch it for years and it's made them so jealous. I can guarantee if their lake did a UK record the publicity ban would be out of the window.. You should of stuck at it and just fished the place, no work parties or anything. Catch loads of fish to piss them off more then leave! Then publicise everything you caught... Fishing is to be enjoyed, keep at it!!

[@DunkinBiscuits]

Well said. Would never be a member of somewhere like that cos where's the fun? Bunch of stuck up selfish pricks and all not talking to him while he was there as a volunteer to help is just disgusting treatment. Getting banned was probably the best thing that could have happened to him..

[@leesagar8651]

Completely agree with you and as someone that could be classed as one of the old guys of fishing, I think what that club and it's members did is absolutely pathetic. How's the sport meant to carry on when you ostracize anyone that will carry the sport into the future. I'd have been buzzing for the lad had that been on my lake

[@Onpointcarp]

Jealousy plays a big part in club 'rules', especially when you catch a big fish. It won't be that you broke the publicity rule that they shunned you after being reinstated... it'll just be the fact they didn't like you catching one of the big prizes, and since you told them you were new to fishing, it probably didn't help your case with the others. Onwards and upwards mate. Carl will tell you the same after their big res campaign...its the same story all over.

[@AllGearNoIdea143]

It’s 100% that he broke the rule, you don’t post a fish on instagram when it says no publicity

[@Bigcarp123]

After multiple warnings for rod shots and using a bait boat if only everyone knew the full story, not the one that makes him look innocent

[@Yaboiliestinks]

Should be banned for life didn’t read the rule book

[@Bigcarp123]

Read the rule book and decided it was a grey area 🙃🙃

[@tomwilshaw]

@bigcarp123 I don’t want to fuel any drama, but there’s not an ounce of truth to your comment - I never received any warnings, and I don’t even own a bait boat :) never have. Where are you getting this info from? Also, I don’t claim innocence, I was kinda copying what I’d seen others doing in the club and genuinely thought it was okay.

[@adventurefishinguk]

What an unbelievably disproportionate response! Especially them not replying to your email, and making you feel unwelcome when you wanted to help out. That club is far better off in the rear view mirror for sure 👍🎣 Onwards and upwards!

[@tomwilshaw]

I think so too, cheers mate :) Would love to meet up and fish together some time, with or without a camera in hand!!

[@ullo-ragnartelliskivi4639]

@@tomwilshaw name and shame.

[@The100kSalesman]

I love the edits & your amazing story telling! Club waters are often run by people with a power trip, they are like a life guard at a quiet pool praying for something to happen so they can eventually use their "training/ authority"

[@b62boom1]

I'm on the committee of a pretty big club, and we're exactly the opposite because all of the committee have seen the power trip thing themselves at other clubs and syndicates, and we go out of our way to make sure it never happens with us. We all know that we're nothing without our members, and being on the committee is an absolute privilege. Ego and power have ruined far too many good clubs, it's poisonous for a club. It's completely unprofessional and isn't good for us all as anglers.

[@tomwilshaw]

I really value that @b62boom1, a committee should serve the member's interest at the same time as protecting the water

[@jacksmith4484]

@@b62boom1good to hear mate , it inspires me if someone else catches a target

[@MFDyea]

the hurt in your voice still plays on you, sucks when you are a genuine, nice guy.

[@tomwilshaw]

It was good to get out :)

[@pulse_yt_]

I love when Carl and Tom post on the same day it fills me with joy especially after a day of fishing

[@tomwilshaw]

Haha that’s so kind! Did you manage to catch? :)

[@pulse_yt_]

@@tomwilshaw yeah a carp of about 7 lbs and a few roach and Rudd only on a small pound so alright for my standards thanks for asking

[@rupsurfer]

fishings new to me, only a recent youtube rabbit hole. sounds fascinating, never knew there was so much to it. you seem like a really genuine person I'm glad your back fishing, hope you've managed to leave this saga behind you mentally i could tell the pain in your voice.

[@EdNewallFishing]

Mega watch mate really enjoyed it, love the way in which you can tell a story and the way in which your videos flow. Some things don't always seem right but everything happens for a reason and now your on to bigger and better things. Big ups 🔥

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Ed :) Really appreciate that, tight lines mate

[@jameshewitt7888]

I feel for you Tom. Carp fishing is much more than fishing. It’s many things, including escapism, finding peace, and occasionally catching one! I’ve learnt that there are some crazy rules on syndicates, and have experienced similar things to the no publicity ruling. Great video. Your camera and editing skills are superb. My UK pb is 42lb also 😊

[@adicutts9580]

A true heart-on-sleeve video. Huge respect and very much looking forward to seeing as you say "the best to come".

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you ❤️

[@willcottrell7137]

quality vid, keep running with this traction this video has made, looking forward to seeing what you produce in the future!

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you :)

[@nickscholz2341]

It’s amazing what you managed to do with old vertical (I presume phone) footage! Love the edits with the cute text bits appearing all over. So much personality, keep it up!

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers Nick!! A good 70% of the film needed to be that phone footage, I just tried to make it a bit more interesting, I'm glad it paid off!

[@Retirement_Life]

Great video. FroM a long-time angler, don’t let them grind you down. You go for your enjoyment and benefit, not others’. I’m glad you have found your fishing mojo again. Enjoy your fishing and keep posting these videos…you have something good to offer!

[@tomwilshaw]

Absolutely! Thank you, I'll do my best to keep them coming

[@TeamCarpFishing]

Another outstanding video Tom. Was a joy watching it, and I have no doubt you will do great on the new water. Such a stark difference in what carp fishing is in North America, and how we perhaps take for granted the great fishery we have. Thanks for everything you do, your videos are an inspiration to me and transport me into another world, and can't wait for your adventures to come.

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks man ❤️ You flatter me way too much - it's just so good being able to put these films together and people then enjoy them, or take something positive away!

[@andybrown6776]

Thanks for sharing this story Tom, I'm glad by getting the video out it's put the harsh actions and story to bed... You're a fantastic angler and all the work you do is appreciated by all your subscribers. Keep up the good work dude! 👏🏻👏🏻

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Andy ❤️ I really appreciate that mate!

[@Bigcarp123]

@@AllGearNoIdea143 it was a grey area 🙃🙃🙃🙃

[@Bigcarp123]

@@AllGearNoIdea143 it was a grey area 🙃🙃🙃🙃

[@Bigcarp123]

@@AllGearNoIdea143 it was a grey area 🙃🙃🙃🙃

[@stephhenshaw]

​@@Bigcarp123Mate put the keyboard down, you look like a 🤡

[@loginoff2007]

An amazing story mate. I learned a new thing today. I am into carp fishing, but I did not even know that a publicity ban exits. :) Thank you and all the best!

[@tomwilshaw]

It's only certain waters and clubs, but good to be aware of it! All the best to you too :)

[@dobbyrauzer]

Really loved the video! Great story line and title! Keep bringing over your passion for angling and humor in your vids!

[@cedric46]

Thank you for sharing your, beautifully told story. I am gutted for you that you were treated in such a manor and I'm aslo delighted to see you not being ashamed to say you cried, its completely understandable given the time, effort and love you put into it. Thanks again for a cracking video.

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Cedric :)

[@ShortCircuitPS2]

Great video as always Tom. Really sorry to hear that happened to you. It's absolutely ridiculous. I'm a member of two clubs in Sussex and I have to be honest, I'm always a bit nervous about some of the rules!

[@tomwilshaw]

It just shouldn’t be the case that you’ve got to be nervous, you should be able to hope that if you use common sense and do your best to follow the written you’ll be okay, but it doesn’t always feel like that does it 😅

[@olivert8058]

great watch! Feel sorry for you about the ban i was like bless him however could you do a separate video about your bait making i would be interested in that!

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Oliver :) haha, I’ll try and include it in my next carp film! But in short, I guy good quality large tiger nuts, soak them in Coca Cola for a couple of days, and then cook them in the same liquid for about half an hour to 40 minutes, to the point that they easily crunch in your mouth :) they last for ages!

[@kemalhussein6106]

I have instantly subscribed mate your story telling / editing is brilliant

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you so much!!!

[@DLIN666]

Wow. Brilliant video mate. It popped up as a random suggestion and I’m glad I watched it!

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers!!!!

[@paula.the.wannabe.hauler]

A really nice watch, what a fast paced journey you’re on! Well done 👍🎣

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Paula :)

[@Muskoka62]

Nice story Tom, cheers for sharing, a good warning to make sure we all read our club rules 👍🏻

[@tobysmith5776]

Easy come easy go,,this is what syndicates are all about I just do day tickets cause I don't want the hassle,,your doing well bro glad you've made a channel I have definitely subscribed keep up the good work ❤

[@Ainergie]

Hey man, i'm a Belgian citizen that used to fish carps in my childhood from my 14 to like 20's and then i suddently lost that passion for personnal reasons. You'r video is amazin, it made so much good memories come back for me and even made me want to go the the fishing shop and try to get back in. You are an amazing fisher and i hope you will continue fishing. My english is not so good so i didn't understand the exact reason why they blamed you, but we can feel how of a nice and passionate person you are. Thanks for this video

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you for your lovely comment! You should go back to fishing, maybe it's time!!

[@streamking8349]

What a brilliantly put together vlog. I too experienced carping after locodown. And i too had my fair share of bailiff isdues due to rooky mistakes. But now all is ok. This vlog jas seriously opened my eyes to be more weary of the clubs rules. Thank you soo much for this share. Tight lines bent rods and wet nets brother

[@tomwilshaw]

Same to you mate :)

[@Reelfishinguk]

Glad to hear your sicking at it and hopefully the club get to see this video and how they made you feel.

[@tomwilshaw]

A little bit of education at the time would have gone a long way. There's no lie in that it's my dream to tell stories about fishing here on KZbin, ultimately to try and inspire others, but I wasn't thinking about any of that at the time, I just wanted to enjoy my fishing and be a part of the club.

[@GP30277]

The production quality dude! Mega!! Top bloody notch. Love watching your videos mate. Keep them coming.

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks :)

[@elijahevans9652]

Aye keep your head up!! There’s always a beautiful body of water somewhere waiting!!! Great video!!!

[@tomwilshaw]

Absolutely, thank you Elijah!

[@robclinton5237]

just been stoped from fishing from my small van on a club lake i loved and fished for years im disabled mobility hurts me im gutted i know how u felt buddy .

[@mattiparker14]

Think most of the older carpers have forgotten these experiences throughout the decades…always been a clicky sport..it taught me an my brother to keep quiet about our captures until off the lake…bigger the carp the more arsey the club and anglers can be…on the plus side always another lake to enjoy 🎣👍

[@thepoacher_]

what a great story and amazing progress in such a small space of time with the boat fishing and fishing harder club waters , keep enjoying you're fishing and look forward to more videos 😎👌

[@HarrisonWhitehouse]

Keep up the hard work man love the videos. And hope to see u in Bodles again 👍

[@davesrealgood]

Really enjoyed that mate, green eyed monster is certainly the issue here mate. That common was beautiful too! cracking vid 👌🎣

[@tomwilshaw]

It was a gorgeous fish, that's for sure! Cheers pal :)

[@benmiles2176]

Such a shame you had such a bad experience mate. Can’t believe people manage to take the fun out such a special moment, you are definitely better off away from that kind of environment. On to bigger and better things. Tight lines 👍

[@tomwilshaw]

Definitely :) Cheers Ben, same to you!!!!!!!

[@andycgsi]

Great vid mate 👍🏻 it's hard not to take it to heart, glad you kept it going though 👏👏

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Andy :)

[@stepheng7586]

Great video Tom. Although im not a freshwater angler anymore im glad you still go fishing.

[@collinwhittaker9666]

Hi mate just come across this video really enjoyed it. Nightmare on getting band glad you’re keeping the fishing up tho

[@danielthompson3677]

All I'm going to say is, I'm glad you are still fishing lad as it's one of my 2 getaway from life hacks, carp fishing can be very clicky just keep your head up and catch more carp ❤🎏

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers Daniel :)

[@danielthompson3677]

​@@tomwilshawanytime lad was pleasure to watch

[@danielthompson3677]

@@tomwilshaw if your ever in Norfolk give me a shout as I don't need an excuse to fish 🐟

[@noahcampbell9060]

Man being able to have footage of ur first catches is such a phenomenal experience. You should truly consider relocating countries if fishing is such a passion for you. I know that seems extreme but here in Canada the idea of a club taking ownership of public waters is absurd. I’d love to have a fisherman as passionate as you living around me and fishing my waters with me! There are also a few European countries that are better for fisherman like Iceland. Not mention ur passion for carp will soon grow into a passion for every species out there and other countries have lots more opportunities for fisherman that way. Amazing video man you earned yourself a subscriber!

[@squirrel9760]

Canada sucks 💀

[@tomwilshaw]

Canada is somewhere I'd honestly LOVE to live one day... Even just to visit, hopefully I'll make it happen at some point! Cheers for your comment Noah, all the best mate :)

[@John-ji5bo]

I was a member of my local syndicate lake for a couple of years and it was made very clear that there was a no publicity rule and any transgression meant instant ejection. To be honest, I like that rule. I go fishing to escape the world, clear my head and find solitude for a few precious hours. Each to their own though. I enjoyed your video 👍

[@lloydbyrne3440]

What is a no publicity rule and whats the point of it, there must be publicity to get new angler's is there not?

[@John-ji5bo]

@@lloydbyrne3440 on certain waters you are forbidden from posting on social media or giving information to any publications regarding what you caught or where you caught it. Usually syndicate waters or some of the more exclusive fisheries. I had to go through quite a thorough vetting process to get accepted on my local syndicate water. They don't need or want the publicity.

[@jasonvarley4483]

Great story m8, and you're video touch me, I'm also a very keen fisherman😊. Keep wetting a line. Everytime you go out its a new adventure👍

[@DDGXMUSIC]

Another mega video Tom. Production value is immense but on top of that the story is heart breaking and I felt right there with you. God it's one of the few things I really detest about fishing that is the clique-ness at some places. I really wish people would leave their egos at home. Having read through some of the other comments it's quite shocking apparently just how much illegal fish moving is still going on these days too 😞

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers mate :) Yes, that's surprised me too!! That's awful for so many reasons, let alone the welfare of the fish!!!!!

[@LimestoneCityAngler]

First off some amazing catches... I love the afford you put in to learn on yr own and boy did pay off. As a Canadian who only has wild Carp here. its so odd watching about these pay lakes. You should come to Canada mate and fishing our wild Carp. I would be happy to take you to some hot spots, some of the best Carpin in Canada is right here where I live in Ontario. Keep up the content coming, I'll be watching.

[@daveewens6578]

Impressive video and I felt your pain. Glad it came good in the end :)

[@tomwilshaw]

It really has :) new campaign on a new lake, super hyped!

[@DunkinBiscuits]

This was an incredibly well told story with heart put into. Thanks for sharing with us and man what a beaut of a common

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers Dunkin :) Yeah, I'll remember that one forever! Strangely, since putting this video out there, it's made the memory of the fish a lot more prominent to me than what happened afterwards.

[@DunkinBiscuits]

@@tomwilshaw I understand completely. My pb is from a lake that is no longer allowed to fish. Spent years on that lake and when we lost it was absolutely devastated. But the fish remains my biggest and best looking capture so I am thankful we had the lake while we did.

[@EMMF1978]

So sorry to hear that mate for someone who not fished before and was just excited about it a little chat saying not allowed to post was enough but basically they all seen it and no doubt moaned how they haven’t caught in years a fish like that and got jealous a lad catching a big fish would make them look small in there eyes especially as you not fished. A lot before. I felt your story mate and look forward to future videos mate where you can post your catches tight lines buddy 🎣🎣

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks for the kind words :) really appreciated.

[@EMMF1978]

@@tomwilshaw your so welcome Tom been watching all your vids really enjoyable mate keep them coming 🎣

[@Pete_Gribs]

You hadn't caught on to the paranoia that carp anglers have yet. That was the problem, bro. Lovely video, and that common from the club lake was awesome. I've subscribed. Good for you, Tom. Kudos. Pete 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@tomwilshaw]

Big time… oh I learned quick though!! Cheers Pete, all the best mate :)

[@denisfitzgerald3474]

Really feel for you. I can sympathise, I’ve experienced the same clicky, secretive and un-helpful attitude in carp fishing. I became fed up with the bull**** and packed fishing in for 5 years until a mate convinced me to join a coarse fishing club locally. I can honestly say I have never met a nicer more helpful bunch of lads. Love my fishing now and look forward to every weekend.

[@tomwilshaw]

Unhelpful is exactly the word! I'm glad you found somewhere you can fish enjoyably, that makes all the difference. All the best mate!

[@denisfitzgerald3474]

@@tomwilshaw cheers Tom, keep up the great work👍😊

[@xZander94x]

The carp fishing scene has transformed into cultist-esque levels here in Germany too. No publicity rules, secrecy and a long wait for memberships in order to fish at lakes are part of the scene. I imagine it's even worse in England, basically the birthplace of modern carp fishing. Grab some gear, get yourself the French Carte de Peche or the Dutch Vispas and go there, have fun and share your experiences 🔥

[@airriflemaniac]

No publicity is a very small portion of syndicates, should be respected because the owners don't want the current circus to show up. Hence how a fella whose been fishing for 5 years managed to get banned, probably had an opportunity to fish a water many would of bit his hand off for, but he's too green to the sport to follow the etiquette and realise the opportunity at hand.

[@JustJohn0121]

​@@airriflemaniacmate its bloody fishing, its just gate-keeping at its finest absolutely ridiculous

[@tomwilshaw]

I fully respect and understand the need for rules, it’s important, but I think sometimes people get so obsessed by them they forget the need for community as well, they should go hand in hand :)

[@JustJohn0121]

@@tomwilshaw i agree rules are always needed as people will find a way to take the beep,i personally dont think "hiding fish" is the way to go wouldn't you want to showcase your stock,then again half these syndicated waters have 100 members paying £500 each so you won't win any arguments 🤣😂✌️

[@ryanwinfield3896]

extremely well-made video bro, well done on a superb capture! what a story

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you Ryan :)

[@reefnreefer]

Fantastic video buddy. Thanks 👍🏻

[@shoddyangler1454]

An excellent all round honest production - well done. I know & have fished with Hugh - top, kind man with a big heart. Been banned myself in my early years for merely visiting a water in the closed season of 1990 - similar to yourself I immersed myself, started catching & the next season was going to be a blinder. The olde style committee black balled me without much sympathy for a simple young anglers keenness mistake. Totally over the top but they would not be budged. There was a bit of green eye envy of what a fresh approach could & did do. Thing is & has reaffirmed numerous times these usually work out for the better. The following year I found a stretch on the River Nene that no one fished - had the place to myself & the results far exceeded anything gone before & as far as a uk river, probably wont happen for me again. Later on I managed a lake in France, fishing spectacular waters that far, far eclipse those days. I will have fond memories of that lake as that's where I learned to fish & catch for myself by myself - so always look back fondly with a mixture of emotions. But it was a stepping stone to something greater... So yes it's a set back, certainly raw for a good time after. You've spreading your wings & from my perspective you've got huge potential; from a 50+ year old, I envy the stage in life your at, especially your obvious talents being part of a great family too. I will watch out for your future ventures with keen interest. The take away is to follow rules to the letter or choose your stealthier moments wisely... 🎉😊🎉

[@tomwilshaw]

Hugh's the best! And absolutely, these moments come occasionally and pull the rug from under your feet, but they do usually lead to bigger and better things, you're completely right. The trick is remaining hopeful, regardless of what life throws at you, it sounds like you know that well! Thanks for the lovely comment, and all the best!

[@Stauernfischer]

Feeling with you! Had a similar story when I was way younger ... as so many comments already said: Jealousy is a big thing among anglers :(

[@jobloggs8021]

If I were to hazard a guess, I would say your experience had more to do with jealousy than anyone being upset with any rule breaking. You were young, relatively new to the lake and even new to fishing and you went and snared one of the lakes best prizes. I bet that got a few backs up. That jealousy manifested itself as a ban. Take it all as a compliment. Don't lose heart. Fishing is a wonderful hobby.... even if some fishermen aren't so wonderful.

[@themagicoffishing]

Another cracking video. Fishing’s a life of adventures 🎣

[@tomwilshaw]

It sure is :) Thank you!

[@meanmr.mustard]

When I started carp angling, 35 years ago, there was still a lot of stuff to find out and gear to make or improve yourself. These days you can find every technique on youtube, buy everything ready made to go and catch huge fish. Some people - not even an anglers at the time - start with 40+lb fish... It's just stupid. But none the less a nicely shot and passion filled video 👍.

[@tomwilshaw]

I think the influx in information (KZbin, etc) has made angling more accessible, which I see as a good thing, however I’m not sure it’s made it any easier! Hard earned experience will always outweigh theory :)

[@RiceEater-xt9uy]

You are heading to 1 mil subs if you keep producing such beautifully made videos. 👍👍

[@tomwilshaw]

That's a dream :) Maybe one day haha

[@rippinglipsadventures]

In America, I have not heard of such clubs with impossible standards for what we consider trash fish. I have found that local anglers believe KZbin fishing in a lake that is 6 miles wide and 100 miles long is potentially harmful to their “honey holes.” Those local fishermen don’t appreciate good fishing films and wouldn’t like any revealing footage of locations or people who enjoy sharing their experience. Even with that mentality, they are perfectly happy with having a $150k prize and 300 boat walleye tournaments and kill tournaments taking two tons of fish out of the lake in two days for the sake of local revenue every year. If you ever feel like you want to fish some of the best lakes without club rules in America, you are more than welcome here. I love your style and my fishing guide best friend is gluten free, too! ;)

[@tomwilshaw]

There's certainly a lot of hypocrisy in fishing, but I suppose that happens wherever there are passionate people! Haha, I'd love to do that one day :) and yeaaaaah, rock on the gluten free! Haha

[@rippinglipsadventures]

@@tomwilshaw Oh, I forgot to tell you, we have buffalo carp (I've only caught one but it was 20 pounds) and common carp is all over the place with the biggest I've caught at about 8 pounds for those. We don't fish them often because we have walleye, pike, smallmouth bass, white bass, and perch that are all pretty decent target species here. The carp are everywhere, though, and put up one of the best fights I've ever had on the lake. I have a few videos with them, but never featuring carp. Have a great week, Tom! Tight lines! Hope to see you over here at some point in the future!

[@rippinglipsadventures]

@@tomwilshaw My personal best and only buffalo carp fishing here in North Dakota, USA. Enjoy! kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnLReIKcqJeMgJo

[@designersaur]

Great video, great angler… you are better off out of any toxic syndicate scenario. Keep doing these videos and being brave in showing your passion and emotion. 👍

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you :)

[@andymcroxford]

Sounds like a lucky escape! Similar thing happened to me when I was about 15 and had to go and face a load of stuffy men at a kangaroo court. That was the time syndicates started to take hold and everything became completely controlled. My fishing has changed and is centred around my family and it’s never been so good 👍👍

[@tomwilshaw]

Family > Everything, I completely agree! So many more precious memories fishing ‘worse’ waters with the right people :)

[@Carping4fun]

Great video , something similar happened to me ( not ban ) but the negativity because I was catching was unreal absolutely loved the lake , but constantly being stopped and checked , watched , folk nice to your face then back stabbing eventually damaged the engery I had for the place left me not fishing for 8 months even thow there was still a few fish I really wanted in my album , now moved on to a new syndicate that starts next month so fresh start you have to let go and move on , well done with the video it will definitely correspond with a lot of anglers.

[@tomwilshaw]

It's strange how it happens.. It can really turn off you fishing, you did the right thing leaving the lake, no point staying where you're not welcome. Good luck on the new syndicate!!!

[@Carping4fun]

@@tomwilshaw thanks buddy

[@mikewaller4141]

Sour grapes my friend its ripe in carp fishing unfortunately, but sounds like you have got on a good place now. I am lucky to be on an incredibly friendly syndicate. Great story and keep going!

[@tomwilshaw]

Thanks Mike :) definitely hyped to properly start my new water!

[@northernlad508]

Keep your head held high mate things happen for a reason… one of the best videos I’ve watched for a while

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers pal ☺️

[@IceRickle]

good video bro, glad you have a new lake gl

[@mattedmonds5854]

I really like this video! Truly honest and you can see the emotions 👌💪🙌

[@toxicplay2680]

Head high bro keep fishing 🤍💪🏾

[@sirnorbertsmith9435]

I've been carp fishing for nearly 40 years and to hear of any angling club treating a new person to the sport is quite frankly unacceptable! I do know your pain as the same has happened to me on more than 1 occasion, and the reason fella is that some noddys get green-eyed indeed about you catching the specimens fish... apart from that Welcome to the world of carp fishing and long may you and your family continue to explore and enjoy this wonderful pastime...

[@blackline66]

You are not alone. Joined a club here in Switzerland, fishing the AARE… which joins the Rhein. I was standing 2 meters in the wrong place, and forgot to crush the Barb on a lure. Had the exact same response. I was brand new to this Club and everything is in German. I apologised …. But …. It will go to the Police, and then a Judge. With a huge fine. I know how you felt. Make be hearing this lightens those thoughts you may sometimes get. Now I can’t stand if people approach me whilst fishing. I search out spots away from walkers and cyclists. Love the videos. 😊 Thanks 🙏

[@dreamexxx]

That is an overreaction from the law...

[@tomwilshaw]

That reaction feels completely disproportionate to what you 'did'! It's a horrible feeling, thinking you have to look over your shoulder all the time, I hope you find some waters that you can enjoy without that!

[@neilbrimicombe781]

What a great video , chin up mate a lot of carp waters have publicity bans , trouble is people want to keep there lakes a secret because in the last 10 years carp fishing has just gone through the roof ,just put it behind you ,good luck with your chanel and all the best 👍

[@tomwilshaw]

I understand why the ban's exist, it's down to how the club want to operate at the end of the day, but personally I'm not sure how publicity affects who they let into their club, they can still manage that. Fish safety and poaching however, I get that... I suppose there's only so many times you can have bailiffs patrolling.

[@neilbrimicombe781]

Totally agree , 👍

[@thesweetcornkid266]

Superb, subbed. Very impressive all round!!

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you! :)

[@karpfen_kaiser]

Life goes on.. I've been fishing on a lake for over 15 years and unfortunately I lost the desire to fish there at some point. I caught every big carp there and at some point the motivation was gone. I loved all the people there, they were always very nice, but at some point I have to move on. As sad as it may be.

[@tomwilshaw]

Change is important :) it's tough, but it's also what makes life worth living!

[@karpfen_kaiser]

@@tomwilshaw 100% Mate!

[@GeoffColvin-zh3qq]

Great video Tom ,some clubs are just clicky and like someone else said jealous people .Keep them rods out and tightines for the future 👍🎣

[@turtlejones9279]

Great video, loads to learn from this, especially when one reads the comments, subscribed :)

[@MUCKER671]

Wow, can't believe they'd do that to you, being shunned like that is just plain nasty. Know names but I've experienced similar things at what was my favourite Club (until that day) involving a young family, no grace given at all. Very well put together video my friend and let the love affair continue for years to come..😊👍 It's the River Thames for me, can't get it out of my head..😊🎣🎣 Bring on the 16th 🤜💥🤛

[@tomwilshaw]

Grace is exactly what I would have hoped for at the time, that's a perfect word to use. Regardless, onto other things, and YES bring on the 16th!!!!!

[@pauldarby7322]

pure jelousy of the good angling, you put the effort in and brought out the haters!! sod em keep on doing what you do and enjoy it!!

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers Paul :)

[@RichardLongfellow-ie3ww]

This is why I love America. We aren't told where and when we can fish. Most of our waters are open to the public, you can fish anywhere you want any time you want.

[@Baron-Ortega]

Your country must be a 1000 times the size of ours. You have enough space for everyone. We don't. Hence the rules

[@jimmunro4649]

Just Got arm Rangers come up to you while FISHING WTF so much better US =Not

[@handyharrison9478]

I know u said u dont blame the club but i do thats absolutely ridiculous im new to fishing myself and have been doing most of my fishing in the canal or a farmers lake near me if that happened to me id be furious 1 of the best parts about fishing is sharing pictures with friends surely they should be encouraging new angler's not ruining there fishing experience i think this really does show off the toxic side of fishing and definitely discorges me to try and club lakes near me but i do really appreciate u making this video as i wasnt aware how bad it could be

[@user-ye4jl1ze8x]

Jealousy is a so prevalent in carp fishing really feel for you. That Fishery doesn’t deserve you. Come across this many time in my 60 + years fishing

[@SomersetscuriousCarper-iy6mt]

This is really sad to hear man , some times the bigger ones are just better to just keep quiet and know and just plan forth from there I’ve done it with a few and just showed family and friends 🙏

[@tomwilshaw]

I definitely regret sharing it at all, but that in itself seems sad, why would you want to keep it to yourself? I fully get what you mean though :)

[@SomersetscuriousCarper-iy6mt]

It is sad bro it’s a shame that such little things could cause such big problems it shouldn’t be that way at all but someone’s always out to go against someone else and hate on them , catching some monsters tho bro must have been worth it a little bit 😅🤙

[@user-pq6vr8hy3c]

Great to see an honest you tube fishing person m8 keep your chin up bro it's there loss buddy 👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you :)

[@colinmatthews3613]

Glad your sorted now Tom .... Carp Fishing secret society mate,,they were outraged that you had some of the lakes biggest residents,,I know the feeling Tom, been there and also got the tea shirt,and the sweatshirt as well,, tight lines to you mate ,and plenty of big carp still to come mate,,,,just enjoy all your trips,weather you blank as we all do sometimes or have a red letter day good luck Tom

[@liamd3345]

To quality video Tom, good luck to you 👌🏼

[@tomwilshaw]

Thank you Liam!

[@judderzm2252]

Brother amazing film really enjoyed it great the way you got into fishing you learnt in a perfect way.lots of lakes have publicly bans sure you understand why but they could of used a bit of discretion not fair at all.

[@MrJoshthenosh]

Hi Tom, Just found your videos and i like them, These private clubs have always been like this and imo your well out of them, I carped fished for a long time, and these lakes sitting there day after day never seeing a fish is insane to me just in the hope you will catch a big one. I fish completely differently, i move around using surface Zigs and even pole fishing with surface pop ups, you wouldn't believe the amount of carp ive caught when the rest of the lake hasn't had a nibble, in this day n age tehre are day ticket waters with carp over 50 pound all around essex and kent , good luck and Zigs are the most devastating tactic ever with carp

[@tomwilshaw]

I definitely need to invest time into learning zigs… especially this time of year!

[@jakovradecic1313]

Its a shame situations like these and people involved from your club can ruin your place of happiness, im amazed of how you still talk nicely about them, i for sure wouldnt, great video, hope you make some good memories on the new lake

[@tomwilshaw]

Bitterness isn't a good thing to keep hold of, does more damage to you than it does to them, but I won't deny it was a hard thing to let go of! Making this video definitely helped.

[@AnEm_Fishing]

yeah ... the best is yet to come mate. cheers and don't let some guys making you feel bad ...

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers mate :) You know it!

[@StusFishing]

Awesome Video mate 🎣🐟

[@DarrenAndOzzy]

I'm so glad I live where I live, lockdown was amazing on the south coast, lockdown didn't really exist for me, I even went fishing on chesil beach and had all 19 miles to myself.. Good thing about rural living is very few people around so breaking lockdown came risk free

[@boerkuhjah]

Very good video, nice build up. But so sad at the end, really feel bad for you. Hope you can get your motivation back and starts fishing in a other lake.

[@tomwilshaw]

Already onto better things :) I'm fishing a new lake this week, super excited!

[@acpguitar1516]

Been fishing 40+ years, I've found syndicates are really toxic, a lot of the members are very clicky, a lot of them are gear snobs regardless of still level... Like the fish knows your alarm cost over £100! I understand the need to respect the fish and the club rules for preservation, safety all that, but fishing can be very toxic in general. I fish for the relaxation, to sit and unwind, and it's expensive time consuming and can be full of disappointment when you blank time after time when you don't have much time to live on the bank. Some of the comments have mentioned fish theft, yes it is a thing and when I was a member of a British steel syndicate back in the late 80's their private fishery was poached quite often, not to mention gear being stolen from the bank regularly!

[@alexbrown6624]

These types of clubs are the reason l got the hump with carp fishing but don’t despair you just did your fish back to front so you’ve got a big back catalogue to get through and believe me you’ll be back catching beautiful carp again but just fly under the radar 😉 it’s so much easier? 🎣👏👍

[@tomwilshaw]

So true! In recent years I've been LOVING float and feeder fishing, the variety really keeps it all fresh!

[@stealthandysteath1069]

Hi mate, I sea fish an not all the people you meet are great, but they is some great people as well. Never give up.. 👍💪🔥🇬🇧

[@mojomojo9829]

The experience you had there perfectly sums up the whole carp fishing scene. Its become toxic. Am 42, fished my whole life , all over the country, different countries and ive watched it change into the example you described there. Not everywhere ill admit.....but mire and more the majority. Sad . Often makes me not interested in going.

[@tomwilshaw]

Yeah I really get that… thankfully there’s still some gems out there but few and far between!

[@jamesspencer3165]

Just having a binge of watching your videos also ive just subscribed as well mate 🎣🎣🎣

[@tomwilshaw]

Cheers James! Really appreciate that :)

[@Andy7055]

Heart breaking. All your hard work and perseverance finally paid off! It's such a shame that you were made to feel like that. Awful! Just remember there plenty more fish out there!!

[@tomwilshaw]

I will, thank you Andy

[@baloghbotond4250]

PS: There are absolute tons of other laces you can fish. Ocean fishing is one of the best and free things you could do.

[@tomwilshaw]

For sure! Would love to do more sea fishing in the future