A piker in our midst

[John Milford]

Not just a piker, by any means, but certainly my preoccupation in the winter months!

I have been a 'lurker' on the forum for a while and really thought it was time I joined in!

My arsenal of cane rods is somewhat meagre - a rather nice MkIV which gets an airing on very special occasions, plus a Chapman 500 and a 550 (both currently under very slow and inexpert restoration).

I'm more often found using my glass fibre Hardy FJT Trotter, RW MkIV Avon or Bruce & Walker MkIV G in the milder months and my Pegley Davies 'Tag Barnes Super Pike' rods when I'm lucky enough to get afloat in winter.

I have a particular interest in very old fishing lures, especially those of the Victorian and Edwardian eras, plus older pike tackle of all kinds. Not so much for use (due to the impractcalites and value of such items these days!) but for thier fascinating legacy.

This, of course, stems from my great enthusiasm for pike and lure fishing, now spanning fifty years. This is perhaps 'something different' that I can bring to the forum?

I am a former Chairman of the Pike Anglers' Club of Great Britain and was particularly honoured to be recruited to that role by the late Prof. Barrie Rickards. I'm also a past Chairman of the Lure Anglers Society. Don't let that make you think I am an expert in either fields. I am simply a very great enthusiast.

Last Sunday saw me at the Yorkshire Vintage Tackle Fair, where I had a table and met some splendid people - I'm quite sure a few of whom are forum members.

Hopefully joining this forum will result in forming new, like-minded friendships.

[Dave Burr]

Welcome aboard John, I look forward to your contributions.

[AllRounder]

Welcome to the forum John. There’s more than a few pikers on here for you to swap stories with.

[Crucian]

Welcome John

[EricW]

Hello John and welcome from a former LAS mag editor.

[Harry H]

to the forum enjoy

[Wanderer]

Hello and welcome to the forum John.
I think we had a chat at the Yorkshire vintage tackle fair.

All the best.

[AntiqueAngler]

Welcome John,I too have an interest in victorian baits and tackle,many which have passed through my hands over the years.only have about 3 presently including a very nice Lightening spinner with unusual blue woolen fascinator.
cheers,
Steve

[Paul F]

Welcome John

[Mark]

Welcome to the forum John.