In this first episode of CREEL podcast Joff Elphick heads down to Essex where lifelong angler Steve Chambers has taken it upon himself to start a collection. Not just any collection,  but one that takes centre stage in the development and history  of UK carp fishing. Steve’s collection is one built on pure passion and a love of angling during the period from the late 1940’s and into the 50’s. His aim is to bring together tackle, writing, rods, reels, and other memorabilia  from the single species study group The Carp Catchers Club. Other iconic itms join the show. For a collection that was started just a few years ago Steve has already made impressive inroads in putting together what will in future be a very important collection. 

We talk about Dick Walker, Gerry Berth-Jones, May Berth-Jones, Bernard Venables, Maurice Ingham, Chris Yates, and lots more. 

Joff gets his filthy mitts on some historic cap rods. He has a waggle with Bernard Venables' landing net - the very net that graces the cover of Mr Crabtree Goes Fishing. He has a pick through Bernard's tackle box, as well as donning the very hat that Chris Yates wore when he caught the record 'Bishop' from Redmire Pool. Some of the earliest electronic bite alams are also discussed. Too many exciting and interesting things to mention. Sit down in front of the fire, make a cup of tea, and and enjoy an hour of angling history. 

Go to the EFGEECO website for more interesting articles about traditional angling.