Griff Rhys Jones is a prat, if he thinks talking the way he does about anglers, riparian owners etc. is the right thing to do. Anglers have to gain permission to access the vast majority of beats on our waterways, and that costs money. In all honesty, the rivers are everybody's heritage, but throwing them open to all and sundry would not work. The angler contributes to the upkeep of waterways by purchasing a licence. Some of us do more than that by working voluntarily to help improve the river habitats for the various watery denizens. I have no recollection of having worked alongside a canoeist on the Eden system, and have not heard of any paying for the privilege of disturbing anglers.
As Buzz suggests, some behave reasonably, not all!! The last time I asked one if he would please not make too much disturbance as he came past rising trout with an angler in the offing, he said, 'What, like this?' and slapped his paddle on the water half a dozen times. At the time, I was in my 60s and had mellowed somewhat. I'll say no more.
I wonder if canoeists would pay £20 or £30 a day for disturbing those who pay that much to fish, and would they be prepared to pay for a licence? If they went on the water, with permission, while it was high, then they would be far more acceptable by anglers. To deny them that privilege would seem to be a bit mean. TC
PS G R-J should practise what he preaches. Stirring people up is one thing if you are in there with them; doing it and watching from behind the scenes is another. I have no time for time for attention-seeking dung manipulators.
Last edited by guest3; 23-07-2009 at 06:42 PM.
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