Fly-fishing on chalkstream waters
Loyd Grossman, author and broadcaster
First, a bloodshot (a cross between a bullshot and a Bloody Mary) for a little stimulus—although not too much, as fishing requires concentration. A trip to the tackle shop is vital: I’m always looking for the perfect fly, the perfect pair of nipper clippers that will transform my knot tying. Then to a southern chalkstream, the Itchen, Dever or Anton. I like small streams, light tackle, a delicate rod. We fishermen like to blame the weather, the water temperature, anything. I’m agnostic about weather, but blazing sun means you feel like a nap, so I’d want a bit of cloud. Add some nice fish and there’s not much more one can ask for.
I’d always be with friends. The actual fishing is non-verbal, but everything else is very verbal, talking about the fish you did or didn’t catch, a rare blend of social and solitary. Ideally, I’d catch a fish before lunch, then I’d feel relaxed and cast better. Lunch is a debate: pub or picnic. Battlelines have been drawn over this. Picnics are nice in good weather, but I do like to sit down at a table. If it’s a frustrating morning, a long pub lunch...
To finish, it’s the waiting for the evening rise, expectation growing. There’s beauty, calmness and frustration—much like life!
Partridge shooting
Matthew Rice, artist and writer
I’m not
