Graham, who runs the on-site tackle shop (tel: 01926 842188) along with match ace Pete Rice, has all the info we need going into 2005 and they will take your open match bookings. The Bottom Pool (29 pegs) is very well protected from the elements and holds some massive lumps going up to 25lb … carp that is if your mind was wandering there! Fish the pole (if you dare?) at 10 to 12 metres over to the island, and while worm, caster, maggot and pinkie need to be on your bait waiter, I’d make sure a loaf of bread is never far away. Roach, perch and bream complement the carp population in this popular pool, so my banker bet at this time of the year would be worms, with bread making up ‘my sandwich’. Top Pool (33) also has sheltered pegs in ‘The Bowl’ area (pegs 1 to 6 & 29 to 33), although anglers will catch on all pegs, but I know where my ‘bowling shoes’ are going to be put on! Fish are holed-up in ‘The Bowl’ with carp, Mirrors and Commons, in the 10lb to 14lb size, so tackle up accordingly. Corn and bread are the baits on warmer days, but when the big freeze takes over, set your sights on roach, perch and skimmers using maggots or the ‘little red men’. Try a lobworm as ‘sergeant stripey’ has grown to 3lb with quite a few youngsters around the 2lb mark. Day tickets are £6 with concessions at £4 during the week and breakfast is served at weekends, although if you ring up in advance, a breakie will be waiting for you on arrival, and a hot cuppa is on the go at all times. Don’t forget to have your card stamped as after every five trips to Trabucco Tunnel Barn Farm the next visit is free of charge! 
Midland Angler