In the unlikely event anybody is wondering why the fishing diary has been silent for almost a month, it’s because we had a holiday booked, a fishing holiday none the less. I have always tried to grab a bit of fishing when on holiday but this is the first time we’ve decided to take a fishing holiday.

Docklow Pools in Herefordshire has a number of lakes, some of which are for residents only, and for Helen they boasted a 9-hole golf course. We arrived about 14.45 and after unpacking and having a bit of lunch we walked around the Mickey Mouse pool (photo). The proprietor recommended this pool as a good starter. It is a nice lake, not too large and edged with reeds, as well as having lily pads both at the margins and out in the lake. I fished it the first afternoon: see next posting.

On the downside, the golf course was not very well cared for, with long grass and decidedly iffy greens. A bit of a disappointment for Helen, and upsetting for me as I wanted her to enjoy this holiday as much as me. We shall, however, be exploring the local towns and countryside so all is not lost.

On the Sunday I walked around all the lakes, bar Major Bill, which is a specimen lake with large carp and catfish. That lake needs to be booked in advance and the tackle requirements exceed my heaviest gear. Of the other lakes Mickey Mouse did indeed look the most appealing, but all the lakes had something to offer. Considering it was Bank Holiday Sunday the three day-ticket waters were remarkable uncrowded.

Docklow also has stretches of the River Teme and River Wye, which I hope to explore during my holiday. Watch the postings.