I hope that doesn’t sound flippant, these are unquestionably serious times we are living through. My thoughts go out to all those who are suffering health wise and those whose livelihoods are at risk. A massive shout out to all those people who are doing what must be a difficult job in looking after us all; carers, shop workers, delivery drivers, etc. and of course our wonderful NHS.

It brings my worries of getting out fishing into sharp context and seem somewhat misguided. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel, there always is. Whilst I can’t now one day I will be able to get into the river again where I feel at home and at peace and I’m positive many of you are feeling exactly the same. Hold onto that thought.

In the meantime I have been using my allotted exercise time to walk the footpaths along the river near my home. These walks were the playground of my youth and the places I started this long education of my fishing life. The River Camel doesn’t hold any Grayling just Trout but in its heyday it supported great numbers of Salmon and Sea Trout, oh and what Salmon they could be. They are still there just not in the numbers they used to be and maybe not in the same sizes. I have just got back from today’s walk and this time of year all that can be seen are the small Brownies whizzing about the pools, running for cover as they feel my heavy footsteps approach the bank. Large Dark Olives and Grannom are trickling off the water’s surface. It may still be chilly but the sun is out and spring is certainly making its appearance. Some small pleasures.

You all take care of yourselves and I will see you on the riverbank when we reach the end of this tunnel.

Ian Elford, Area 1 Secretary

Photos are of the upper River Camel, pretty much at the bottom of my childhood garden.