Richard Farrow
Senior Member
I fish a gravel pit which I know holds 40-60 (possibly more) large Bream all double figure mark probably upto 13-14lbs. A few have come out at that size but never more than 1 or 2 at a time. I know thw fish are there as I first saw them spawning 11 years ago this May and as a regular visitor to the pits, I spent as much time bank walking and chatting to other anglers, I know of know of no fish losses in that period. The pit is rectangular in shape about 120yds x150yds. The depth is fairly regular and between 18/20ft deep and silt covered very little weed. I have found some gravel bars /areas with the marker float not more than 3/4 table top sizes in area where the water shallows to 14/15 feet.You come off gravel at approx 16ft onto silt and then depths of 18/20feet. There is a shallow spawning area behind some islannds in a bay but this area is not really fishable. On the other 3 banks it shelves off very very quickly to about 15ft 11/2 to 2 rod lengths out with a silty bottom.The fish vary rarely show themselves and as such it is not easy to define any patrol routes, I've spent many hours with binoculars watching the water but have only seen bream topping once in any number about 8 years ago. I am now determined to have a few out and would really appreciate any help or ideas, rigs, baits and baiting up, best areas to attack. Can any one help?