Hi Folks,

just got back from the above and it was quite good.

managed to buy a Large Arbor big game reel for 1/2 price (probably old stock making way for the hydros i guess). couldn't find many rods on a deal for my fishing but there were some specific spey rods half price, so i'm sure someone got a bargain.

lots of people were taking the opportunity to try some free casting lessons from qualified instructors which made for some good viewing from the bridge.

also some very helpful casting demos, notably a really good demonstration on techniques to learn double hauling from Jim Williams, thanks Jim you made it easier to understand the mechanics when you slowed it down and use the side on (on grass) method to get an idea of the hand movements.

Have to agree, mate,...As a newbie to the sport,...4 weeks,..(cough), I was really pleased with the amount of time spent with me, I must have had 3 hours of tuition, all buckshee,..and now understand much more about the cast than I believed possible before the event.
I even successfully,(..for me any way) cast into the stiffish breeze with a 9' 5wt
Jim Williams was awesome, demonstrating the ease of technique I can only dream of.
Nothing was too much trouble for anyone at Orvis, and I even negotiated a nice deal on a brand-new Rod/reel/line combo.
A thoroughly enjoyable day.

I also went to this.

Managed to pick up a bargain on their ultimate travel jacket, which was unexpected. The girlfriend had some casting tuition, which was the real value in the day.

Was slightly disappointed at the lack of exhibitors/tackle available, and the sound problems with the wireless microphones was a real pity for the demos.

That said, the entry price was a bargain as it gave good access to blenheim anyway which I always love going around.

Congratulations on getting the jacket, mate,...I got the other one,...Bargain, great jacket!!!

You got the ultimate jacket too? It was just perfect for fishing/me.

Yes mate,...Wanted one for ages,....paid full price at a shop 2 weeks ago and thought it was the dog's,....told the girl I wasn't too happy, and she said, "Buy this one and take the other one back!",....So I did,...and I bought the XL and it was a bit big, so I got the Large at Blenheim,..."Appy Days,....perfect!!!

Also went on Sunday.
Really good event and an opportunity to cast a few new rods. Actually 'caught' a perch that took the wool tag on a rod I was trying out.
I hope that Blenheim grows as a trout fishery, the amount of work that 'Bailiff' is putting in deserves to pay off and there are some seriously good fish in there.

Andy

__________________
GAIC Single Handed Casting Instructor

http://www.andygreyfishing.com/

A stunning venue, first time I'd been to Blenheim, there's a campsite right there so I'll definitely book a coupla days there.
Gonna do the CLA Game Fair weekend.