The Journal

Buyers' guides, honest reviews and stories from the bank — written by the team in the shop.

Latest Gear guide

Understanding Rod Test Curves

Demystify rod test curves and find the perfect angling setup. Learn how test curves work, how to choose the right rating, and boost your casting performance on UK waters.

Jamie Douglas · · 6 min read

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Pike & Predator

Choosing a Predator Rod

Discover how to select the ideal predator rod for pike, perch, and zander. Learn key features, actions, and casting weights to upgrade your fishing strategy today.

Jamie Douglas · · 6 min read

Carp

Best Rod Length for Carp Fishing

Discover the best rod length for carp fishing. From 9ft stalking rods to 13ft distance launchers, learn how to choose the right carp rod for your UK angling success.

Jamie Douglas · · 6 min read

Fly & Game

Choosing the Right Fly Rod Weight

Unsure which fly rod to buy? Discover our comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect fly rod weight for UK waters. Learn expert tips, avoid common beginner mistakes, and confidently land more fish on your next fly-fishing adventure.

Jamie Douglas · · 11 min read

Gear guide

Choosing the Best Fishing Reel

Learn how to choose the best fishing reel for your angling adventures. Explore essential types, sizing tips, and features to boost your catch rate.

Jamie Douglas · · 4 min read

Gear guide

How to Choose the Right Fishing Rod

Learn how to choose the right fishing rod for your target species and venues. Master rod action, test curves, materials, and lengths to make the perfect selection.

Jamie Douglas · · 5 min read

Carp

Stillwater Fishing Explained

Unlock the secrets of stillwater fishing across UK lakes and ponds. Learn essential tactics, float and feeder rigs, and key watercraft tips to land more fish on your next trip.

Jamie Douglas · · 6 min read

Carp

River Fishing for Beginners

There is an undeniable magic to fishing on a flowing British river. Watching a river bend around a lush green meadow, listening to the gentle gurgle of water over gravel shoals, and anticipating a sudden strike from a powerful fish makes river angling one of the most rewarding pastimes in the UK. Unlike stillwater lakes or small ponds where the water remains stationary, running water creates a dynamic, constantly changing environment. Rivers present an exciting challenge because fish are continually reacting to water flow, depth variations, oxygen levels, and drifting natural food items. From hard-fighting chub and powerful barbel to sleek dace, bream, and perch, UK rivers support a fantastic diversity of species.

Jamie Douglas · · 9 min read

Pike & Predator

Canal Fishing for Beginners

With over 2,000 miles of historic waterways meandering through bustling cities, sleepy villages, and picturesque countryside, Britain’s canal network offers some of the most accessible angling in the country. Constructed during the Industrial Revolution, these shallow, slow-moving cuts are now teeming with a rich variety of coarse fish species. Canal fishing represents urban and rural angling at its very best. Whether you are targeting delicate roach, silver bream, hungry perch, or hard-fighting carp and pike, canals offer a relaxed environment ideal for honing your watercraft. Unlike massive reservoirs or wide rivers with heavy currents, canals are bite-sized, predictable, and manageable for anglers of all skill levels.

Jamie Douglas · · 8 min read

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