WITH the start of the predator fishing season, the @BewlWater inbox is bulging with a fine catch of entries for the ‘Best of Bewl’ photography competition.
The annual competition, which opened for entries last month, is aimed at everyone using Bewl Water’s 800-acre site, from woodland to water.
Until December 20, entries may be submitted via social media (@Bewlwater) where the winner will be announced at the end of the season and receive an annual parking pass worth over £300.
The competition is part of the reservoir’s commitment to inspiring more people to get out in natural surroundings and enjoy the great outdoors.
New self-guided walking trails have been introduced, along with 50% off cycle hire.
However, it seems to have been the new season of predator fishing, which started on October 30, which has really been inspiring photographers this week.
Both experienced anglers and those new to fishing have been taking advantage of the ideal autumn conditions as the weather gets cooler to capture the moment.
As the largest reservoir in the South East, the waters are home to many species including eels, pike, perch, and brown trout which attract over 3,500 fishermen each year.
There are 54 boats available to hire on the reservoir, which must be booked in advance.
This includes one accessible boat, to ensure greater participation in sport and access to nature, explained business director Andrew Daniells.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy fishing.”
Those looking to fish at the site can enjoy any method when exploring the 770 acres of water. However, from the bank anglers can only fly-fish.
And the management ask that all fish to be returned to the reservoir alive with an exception for rainbow trout, as part of Bewl Water’s commitment to conservation.
“This rule has been put in place to protect the several species that inhabit the reservoir here at Bewl Water,” said Mr Daniells.
Bewl Water has even set aside an area of the reservoir as a nature reserve, which is completely off-limits to fishermen and other water sports users.
The many quiet inlets of the irregularly-shaped nature reserve, on the southern side of the reservoir, offer space for species conservation and the peace for diverse ecosystems to develop in peace.
“Establishing these areas remains one of the most effective efforts for protecting our endangered species and their natural environment,” said Mr Daniells.
