At last, I think I've finally worked out why so few women fish...
This revelation came to me at about 3:30pm out at a local lake. We had been fishing since about 11:00am and had a break for lunch and a few much-needed cups of tea from the flask.
A few hours after lunch I started feeling like the tea had met it’s inevitable end. At this point most men would find the nearest bush and think no more of it, however, it’s not quite so straightforward for the lady angler. Women are not as well equipped as men for relieving themselves away from prying eyes. This particular lake had no areas to hide behind and no matter where you went, there seemed to be an open view! Could this be another one of the reasons why so few women fish – lack of toilet facilities?
I also started wondering as I crossed my legs and tried to concentrate on my float if this was one of the reasons why some men feel uncomfortable with the idea of a female angler?
They know if there are ladies around they may have to think twice about who might be able to see. After all - there is some tackle that should not be put on public display.
I wonder how many men were stood around the lake crossing their legs - hoping I’d give in to my bladder and go home, so they could relieve themselves?
This particular visit to the lake was the first time I had been fishing in a storm. A really exciting experience, although when you're desperate for the toilet, the last thing you need are unexpected claps of thunder!
Huddled under my fishing umbrella I stayed fairly dry and continued undaunted. The rain showers were sporadic although I did find that for some reason every time I caught anything it was during a rainy spell. I couldn’t help but think maybe this was a fish conspiracy to get me soaked.
Altogether despite the rain, the thunder and the crossed legs (I did make it home in time) it was a great days fishing. I caught a lot, although nothing big – Paul was luckier and I helped him net a 6lb carp which put up a fantastic struggle.
I did hook something big on the leftovers of my marmite sandwich but unfortunately after a brief struggle it managed to spit both the sandwich and the hook out.
Oh well – they do say with marmite you either love it or hate it.
Good fishing to you all
Charlie Watts