Doesn’t time fly – it’s been a year since I took on the role of Information Officer and I can honestly say that I’ve enjoyed every minute.

For my own fishing results it’s been my worst ever year, but becoming an H&DAA officer has more than made up for my own shortcomings as an angler.

I was perhaps a little naive when I took on the Information Officer’s role, but over the last 12 months I have learnt a lot. One thing you learn quickly is that once you take on a position of responsibility you leave yourself open to criticism, but you must have the courage of your convictions and do what you believe is right.

I have received so much positive feedback on the improvements that have been made to venues like Blue Lagoon and Burshill B, and the Association’s long term stocking policy we’ve established.

I firmly believe that we are moving in the right direction with a bright future to look forward to in the years to come.

Two events stand out for me this year. The first one was organising our first dedicated carp match back in May – the venue being Osprey Lake.

Some 23 anglers took part; conditions were poor with cold northerly winds

but, despite being apprehensive as to how the lake would react to the

pressure, it fished well with a number of carp landed including two 20s. Rob

Holmes ran out the eventual winner with a total weight of 60lb.

The winners of the Carp Match held at Brough’s Osprey Lake

The other memorable event in 2011 for me was Colin Ramshaw’s catch of specimen rudd from Brandesburton 3&4 Pond. Colin managed to tempt 11 over the magical 2lb mark in one short session – the largest weighing an impressive 2lb 2oz.

The catch won a monthly Drennan Cup prize in Angling Times for which Colin received a cheque for £80. Excellent publicity for the angler concerned and proving the high quality of fishing the Association offers.

Colin Ramshaw with a brace of fine rudd from Brandesburton Ponds

If you catch something special from one of our venues and would like to publicise it then give me a ring or send me an e-mail.

All the best to you for 2011; if you need any information on our venues or anything connected to H&DAA then do not hesitate to contact me on my mobile telephone number 07938 561245 or by

email: amberd@amberd.karoo.co.uk

Jason Dickinson