4 off the top please Carol

I watched Carol Vorderman on Countdown once and got excited - seven letters, never done that before or since for that matter.

Beautiful morning, water mirror calm reflecting the boats in the harbour in perfect symmetry. Arrived about 30 minutes too early, so sat back and watched the harbour wake up until the water was fishable. From my vantage point I was able to watch small shoals of bass move in with the tide, although small they were fascinating to watch as they appeared to be playing in the shallow warming water.

At last the water had approached casting distance, and out went a white bamboo stick disturbing the peace. This was my second trip in the last few days and I've been experimenting by using it walking the dog style, the action is amazing, and when you let it rest it looks really inviting. However, I could only manage two aborted swirls, and one flushed large bass which got me all excited again - sorry Carol.

Next trip, and a similar story with two aborted efforts for two hours fishing, but I remained as hopeful as the conditions were amazing. I tried various lures until I settled upon the Dolive in sparkly green (not sure of the name) and then everything clicked. Three bass in as many casts with a fourth joining the tally later. None above 2lb but great fun in the shallow water.