What will 2023 bring?
WHAT WILL 2023 BRING? Hopefully more exploring, which has increasingly becoming a big part of my angling. I was listening to a recent podcast with Martin bowler who put it perfectly … ‘I don’t wanna keep unwrapping the same Christmas present’! 😂😂👌
There’s too much to experience to be fishing for the same fish in the same spots year after year. New landscapes to explore, new people to meet and more fish to catch!
Travelling to new destinations is not without its challenges though. Of course, you’re not familiar with the venues which initially effects your results. You feel like a little lost boy for a period of time! 😂 Petrol prices (and lack of petrol!) really affected my travel for a period of time in 2022 and now the cost of living is becoming a challenge in 2023, so mixing local fishing might be unavoidable.
But there’s definitely a desire to explore even more in 2023. I want to enjoy the journey and embrace the process – rather than be too focused on the results.
Whatever 2023 brings I wish you all the very best of luck and hope you enjoy your fishing!
Related reading: Beyond Carp: Exploring Other Exciting Coarse Fish Species, Reflecting on summer 2018 – fishing in Hertfordshire and Essex, The mighty Grafham Water
Tips for Exploring New Fishing Venues
If you are also planning to explore more this year, a little preparation makes those first visits to an unfamiliar venue far more rewarding. Here are a few things that help me when I am fishing somewhere new and feeling like that lost little boy again.
Research before you go. Check the local club or fishery website, read recent catch reports and look at maps to spot likely features such as bends, weirs, bridges and deeper pools.
Travel light. Carrying a small bag with a couple of rods and a selection of lures lets you move easily and try more spots in a session.
Talk to people. Local anglers and tackle shop staff are often happy to share what has been working, and you may make a few new friends along the way.
Check the rules and permits. Make sure you have the right rod licence and permission for the water, and follow any local restrictions.
Keep notes. A few lines about the weather, water conditions and what caught fish will build a useful picture over time.
Exploring is not only about the fish. It is about enjoying the journey, seeing new landscapes and learning something each time you go. Wherever your fishing takes you in 2023, I hope you have a great year on the bank.