Its been a hectic week with only 4 days to go to the Season Ticket holders preview day this Friday, followed by general opening of the trout fishing at Siblyback on Saturday 1st Feb.
Saturday saw a fantastic turn-out for the bank clearance, with 20 members present. Luckily the weather was kind to us and we saw some sunshine for a change. Under the guidance of John the Siblyback warden we managed to clear all the small sapplings around Stocky bay. All mature trees were left, but over recent years these saplings have been self seeding and filling many of the areas around the lake. We also did some bank clearance on the West Bank and between Two Meadows and the bird hide. This is something we would like to repeat each year as these will grow back as the majority are rooted in the stone walling and gabions protecting the banks from erosion. There is further work to be done at the end of the season when levels are down and we can reach some of the saplings which have established themselves out into the lake. Further work is now prohibited with the nesting season coming up.
After lunch we held our Annual General Meeting with 26 members present, over half the membership which is an amazing turn-out. The committee updated the membership with planned events for the year, including the monthly fly-tying evenings, monthly competitions, 4 casting days with free instruction for members from Dave Matthews (AAPGAI), BBQ which was a huge success last year. All members were in agreement that annual membership fees remain the same at £15. We were updated on some new member Benefits which adds up to fantastic value for the £15. Members with up to date subscriptions will be informed of how to obtain the club 10% discount on day tickets for the year. The meeting ended with a book sale and sale of fly tying materials.
The following day the club was present at the Roadford Fly Fair, both in the main hall and the fly tying room. Club members Ron, John and Rodney Wevill were demonstrating and instructing newcomers. A very enjoyable day despite the weather, where new members signed up, old aquaintances were renewed and new links were forged for the club.
The lake has already been stocked ready for the opening with 700 good sized Rainbows. Hot off the press is the news that a further stocking will be made before the Wes Ower Memorial Competition being held at Siblyback on 9th March. Even more prizes are coming in so there will be more prize categories to add. When these are confirmed, they will be publicised. Indications are that this will be a very popular event so please come along and support this event with all entry proceeds going to the Cornwall Air Ambulance.
