Two of the originals have now passed on John Shepherd and Dougie Weston who were special people and great anglers in their own right, they have been replaced by Pete Jenkinson and Dougie’s son Dean Weston.

In the early years twelve hours fishing and two hours drinking was the norm but this seems to have reversed as years catch up with the boys, any excuse to get to the pub is accepted
2005 was no exception as our base this year was a Self Catering bungalow on the shores of Loch Ree north of Athione costly but luxurious perfect for relaxation.

Our fishing this year was based on the Royal Military Canal at Mullingar where big Tench catches had been reported and we were not disappointed as on the days we fished the area 301b to 401b of “lincas” to 3lbs was the norm.

Eels also filled the nets stretch of the River Shannon at Lanesborough for a couple of days. The days of huge nets of fish may be in the past but fishing in Ireland is still a superb weeks holiday ask the six lads that have booked for their seventeenth year, where to in 2006 the River Shannon at Portumna

John Deas.