The roles are reversed as top river angler Dave Owen takes over the camera work and teaches features editor Tony Grigorjevs the finer details of catching this iconic winter species
I ALWAYS like to form a plan before heading out to meet an angler for an IYCF feature.
Considering the tactical angles that I want to cover and the style of photographs that will suit the pages both come into the equation to make sure that I can deliver the best possible content for our readers.
Of course, there have been times when I’ve been forced to deviate from the script, with unexpected weather conditions or a surprise capture being just a couple of the things that could make me change course.
But on a recent trip to hook up a brilliant specimen angler for a spot of winter chub fishing, I performed the biggest U-turn yet. The star took control of the camera, handed me his rod, and the roles were well and truly reversed in a most unexpected twist!
I’ve known river fishing expert Dave Owen for several years and in that time he’s delivered several master-classes on chub fishing, with trotting and link legering just a couple of the tactics that have been covered.
But, upon meeting him for our latest adventure, he quickly turned the tables. Fully aware I had a ‘bang average’ personal best for the species, he set me a challenge for the day.
“We’re on a stretch where you could easily catch your first 4lb chub, so I’m having the camera, you’re having the rod – let’s see what you’ve learned over the years!” said Dave.
And with that, we headed down the bank in search of the target I’d been challenged with catching. I’ve picked up plenty of tips from top anglers over the years, but being told something and then putting it down on paper doesn’t mean you can instantly execute the approach. The ability to make snap decisions based on what you see is every bit as important as the rigs and bait that you choose and, over the next few hours, I was about to realise that I was somewhat rusty!
Thankfully, Dave was always there to share his expertise, and I have to say that during the session I absorbed enough information to completely transform the way I will go about legering for chub in the depths of winter.
Swim selection
As we crept down the banks of the Midlands waterway, numerous swims took my fancy. You know the sort – overhanging trees, submerged branches – th
