Wild Weather and Whispers of What Could Have Been at Mythe Pool

Today's fishing adventure at Mythe Pool was certainly one to remember, though perhaps not for the reasons we'd hoped! Undeterred by a forecast that hinted at blustery conditions, we arrived armed with a trio of tactics, eager to tempt the silver fish, elusive tench, and perhaps even a predatory pike that call these waters home.

Our plan of attack was three-pronged: I would be casting lures, hoping to entice a pike or a decent perch. Meanwhile, the delicate art of float fishing with a pole would be deployed in search of those shy silver fish and maybe even a tench venturing closer to the margins. Finally, a trusty maggot feeder setup was cast out, patiently waiting to deliver a tempting meal to any passing bream, roach, or tench.

However, Mother Nature had other plans. The "breezy" forecast proved to be a significant understatement. An almost relentless wind whipped across the pool, making presentation challenging for all three methods. Our delicate pole rigs danced precariously, casts with the feeder felt like launching into a gale, and working a lure with any finesse became a battle against the elements.

Despite the challenging conditions, we persevered, our determination fueled by the anticipation of a potential bite. We cast and recast, adjusted our rigs, and sought out any slightly sheltered spots the wind momentarily allowed. Hours ticked by, marked only by the relentless gusts and the rhythmic splash of whitecaps. Sadly, the fish remained elusive, seemingly hunkered down and unimpressed by our offerings.

Then, the air crackled with a sudden jolt of excitement! Our Junior Angler, Jacob, who had been diligently casting a lure, suddenly struck into something significant! His rod bucked violently, the reel screamed momentarily, and the unmistakable powerful lunges of a PIKE ripped through the water! For a heart-stopping few seconds, the majestic predator was connected, a flash of green and silver visible beneath the turbulent surface. Our hopes soared! Could we possibly land this unexpected prize amidst the chaos?

Alas, it was not to be. Just as quickly as it began, the thrilling battle ended. The line went slack, and a collective groan of disappointment escaped our lips. The pike, a phantom of the wind and waves, had thrown the hook, leaving Jacob with an unforgettable tale of "the one that got away." The drama of that brief encounter, however, certainly injected a shot of adrenaline into our otherwise fishless session.

Unfortunately, the worsening weather eventually forced our hand. After a few hours of battling the wind and the lack of bites, we made the sensible decision to pack up. The conditions were simply too uncomfortable and unproductive to continue.

Our day wasn't entirely over, though. As a bailiff with the Birmingham Anglers Association, the journey home presented an opportunity to carry out some membership checks on other anglers fishing local waters. It's all part of ensuring our fisheries are managed responsibly and that everyone is enjoying the sport within the rules.
So, while today's fishing adventure at Mythe Pool didn't result in any fish on the bank, it certainly wasn't without its moments. The dramatic encounter with the pike, even though fleeting, will be etched in Jacob's memory. And sometimes, even a blank session in challenging conditions serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of angling and the importance of being prepared for anything Mother Nature throws our way. We'll be back, Mythe Pool, hopefully on a calmer day!