Barbel Days

Barbel Days is a reflective and richly detailed angling memoir from lifelong coarse fisherman Colin Woods, chronicling decades spent pursuing roach and barbel on some of southern England's most storied rivers. Living within easy reach of the Hampshire Avon, Woods has come to know its glides, runs and hidden swims with rare intimacy. His patient, observant approach has yielded numerous double-figure barbel and specimen roach, often from overlooked stretches that other anglers pass by. Drawing on a lifetime's experience, he recounts memorable captures, changing river conditions, seasonal tactics, and the friendships forged along Britain's riverbanks. More than a fishing diary, this book is a celebration of traditional UK coarse fishing - the quiet discipline, watercraft knowledge and respect for nature that define the sport. With vivid descriptions of river landscapes and candid reflections on angling life, Barbel Days will appeal to dedicated specimen hunters, river anglers, and readers who value thoughtful writing about the natural world. An authentic contribution to contemporary British angling literature.