In this engaging conversation, Keith and Bogdan Pascaru, also known as Bogy, delve into the world of fishing, exploring Bogdan's journey from Romania to the UK, his passion for angling, and the initiatives he has been involved in to bridge cultural gaps in the fishing community. They discuss the evolution of lure fishing, the rise of kayak fishing, and the importance of respecting waterways and fishing rights. The conversation highlights the significance of community, education, and the mental health benefits of fishing. In this conversation, Bogdan Pascaru and Keith discuss various aspects of fishing, focusing on kayak fishing, angler etiquette, the evolution of lure fishing, the impact of technology, and the regulations surrounding zander fishing in the UK. They also highlight the role of volunteer bailiffs in maintaining fishing regulations and the growing popularity of kayak fishing as a sport. 00:00 The Roots of a Fishing Passion 06:14 Building Bridges in Angling 10:02 The Evolution of Lure Fishing 20:07 Kayak Fishing: A New Frontier 30:44 Respecting Waterways and Anglers 31:28 Angler Etiquette and Responsibility 32:26 Kayak Fishing Adventures in the Florida Keys 37:35 The Evolution of Lure Fishing 40:24 The Impact of Technology on Fishing 44:21 Zander: Invasive Species or Valuable Predator? 50:01 Regulations and the Future of Zander Fishing 56:24 The Role of Volunteer Bailiffs in Angling 01:03:20 The Growth of Kayak Fishing in the UK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Keith Arthur in this episode of The Strange Boat Podcast as he chats with accomplished angler Sam Sim. The conversation spans from Sam's early days catching Keith's attention on Fish-o-Mania, through her journey to becoming a World Champion. They delve into the trials and triumphs of competitive match fishing, the challenges of balancing family life with angling commitments, and the rigorous path to international success. This in-depth discussion also covers memorable fishing experiences, the importance of practice and preparation, and Sam's personal and team achievements on the global stage. Whether you're an angling enthusiast or curious about the sport, Sam's story offers a fascinating insight into the world of match fishing. 00:00 Welcome to The Strange Boat Podcast 00:30 Fond Memories of Fish-o-Mania 01:25 Challenges of Match Fishing 03:02 Local Fishing Venues and Community 05:55 Fishing Family Legacy 08:13 Early Match Fishing Experiences 13:15 Balancing Family and Fishing 19:38 Fishing Competitions and Team Dynamics 29:57 First World Championship Experience 36:19 Fishing Strategies and Competition 36:57 Memorable Moments and Competitors 37:58 The Equality in Match Fishing 39:51 Achievements and Medals 40:49 Team Dynamics and Championships 49:58 Upcoming Competitions and Venues 51:24 Challenges and Techniques 01:04:20 Sponsorship and Funding 01:06:02 Future Prospects and Closing Remarks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Strange Boat Podcast, host Keith Arthur welcomes his special guest, Steve Coppolo, to reminisce about their shared fishing experiences over the past 25 years. They dive deep into their memories of bass fishing, from making films for 'Tight Lines' to their evolving techniques and notable catches. They discuss the impact of environmental changes on fish populations, the rise of new fishing techniques like lure fishing for perch, and the surprising return of species like smooth hounds and congers to the Essex coast. Steve shares insights from his new book, 'Don't Kick the Bait In,' a heartfelt recount of his lifelong passion for fishing, packed with humorous anecdotes and valuable lessons. Join them for a nostalgic and insightful journey into the world of fishing, both past and present. 00:00 Welcome to The Strange Boat Podcast 00:36 Reminiscing About Past Fishing Adventures 02:32 Changes in Bass Fishing Over the Years 05:27 Exploring Essex and Its Fishing Spots 09:39 The Evolution of Fishing Techniques and Equipment 12:11 Publishing a Fishing Book 17:50 Memories of Early Fishing Experiences 23:22 Modern Fishing Challenges and Techniques 32:15 The Benefits of Braided Line 32:48 Fishing Techniques and Species in Different Regions 34:05 Impact of Climate Change on Fish Populations 36:52 Changes in Fishing Practices Over the Years 42:05 Memorable Fishing Experiences in Florida 47:56 Writing and Publishing a Fishing Book 55:22 Reflections on a Lifetime of Fishing 01:03:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Exploring the River Wye: Angling, Conservation, and Controversies with Dave Roberts Join Keith Arthur in this episode of the Strange Boat Podcast as he chats with versatile angling star Dave Roberts. They delve into Dave's journey from his early fishing experiences influenced by his father to becoming a renowned figure in match fishing. The discussion covers a variety of topics including the evolution of fishing on the River Wye, the challenges posed by changing environmental conditions, and the controversies surrounding river conservation efforts. Dave shares insights into his love for salmon fishing, the emotional connection it brings, and how rivers have adapted over time. Reflecting on both personal experiences and broader environmental issues, this episode offers a deep look at the intersection of angling, nature, and advocacy. 00:00 Introduction to the Strange Boat Podcast 00:09 Meet David Roberts: The Versatile Angler 00:35 Clearing Up Misconceptions: David's Welsh Identity 02:30 Early Fishing Memories: David's Childhood 05:15 The Journey into Match Fishing 17:42 Transition to Commercial Fisheries 24:33 Balancing Family and Fishing 31:37 The Emotional Connection to Salmon Fishing 34:12 The Emotional Connection to Salmon Fishing 35:49 Challenges and Realities of Salmon Fishing 38:33 Reflections on Match Fishing 42:00 Changes in River Ecosystems 49:48 The Impact of Climate and Human Activity 53:41 Controversies and Misconceptions about River Pollution 01:09:05 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Angling Adventures with Steve Collett: International Success and the Future of Lure Fishing | In this episode of the Strange Boat Podcast, host Keith Arthur invites angler Steve Collett to discuss his journey over the past three and a half years. Steve shares his experiences in the world of international lure fishing, detailing the challenges and successes he's encountered. They delve into the passion and commitment required in the sport, the differences in angling cultures worldwide, and the rise of lure fishing in the UK. The pair also discuss the importance of adapting to new techniques, the state of tackle shops, and Steve's innovative ideas for promoting angling. Join them for an engaging conversation that highlights the evolving landscape of competitive fishing. 00:00 Welcome to the Strange Boat Podcast 00:27 Steve Collett's Journey in Lure Fishing 01:01 Challenges and Passion in International Fishing 01:36 The Role of Media and Public Perception 02:13 The Importance of Teamwork and Commitment 07:12 The Evolution of Match Fishing 12:26 The Rise of Lure Fishing Competitions 17:00 Challenges in Boat Fishing 31:30 Street Fishing and Urban Angling 39:51 A Great Way of Fishing 39:56 Fishing Stories and Big Catches 41:10 Economic Value and Stewardship 41:30 The Elite League and Lure Fishing 42:32 Challenges and Passion in Fishing 48:09 Women in Angling 50:17 Lure Fishing Techniques and Tips 01:03:07 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans 01:03:45 Social Media and Fishing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a little break Keith has pushed out the Strange Boat once more to welcome angling legend Bob Roberts on board. The guys cover a whole ranging of fishing topics, old and new. You very rarely get this much angling experience and expertise in one place so listen in. Keith has a new book out called The Mighty Trent - from Little Egret Press. Read all about it and Bob right here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Doyen of the West Midlands, Jim Burton talks match fishing, reels. rods, big barble and importantly, prostate cancer too. Back to the start, at a very early age Jim found that he was quite often "ill" on a Monday and couldn't go to school. So what else could he do, he went off to join his dad at the Birmingham Smithfield Market Fishing Club! Jim is prolific on Facebook check him out, there's always interesting stuff on there. He's an Aston Villa fan but we won't hold that against him! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Barrow-in-Furness, Joe Jagger met Keith after he phoned in to the Tight Lines tv show some years ago. He’s widely recognised as both a top carp and match angler, a former Young Angler of the Year, he’s fished for England too. During his chat confesses to having beaten Bruno. Not sure we'd boast about that one! Joe's fished in lots of big competitions on the domestic scene, having qualified for the Feedermasters final and won the two day JCB Classic. Now he's excited to be competing abroad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Keith Arthur introduces us to the remarkable May Potter. May, from West Yorkshire started her fishing career at the age of 4, yes four! Some years later she has achieved so much, even after having a break from the sport, in 2023 she was selected for England Ladies for the World Championships. In this Strange Boat episode, May reveals some of her tricks and tactics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a first for Strange Boat - the fishing podcast, #KeithArthur is joined by someone who is actually fishing as he chats to Keith. Andy Ford presenter of TNT Sports' "On The Bank" show actually catches some barbel as he talks through his fishing life, including his time representing England. Andy was a journalist working at SKY Sports, liked Keith's "Tight Lines" show and got involved. When the series came to an end, Andy moved to BT Sport - now TNT Sports and "On The Bank" emerged. Both Keith and Andy lament some of the biggest ones that got away along with their finest catches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shaun Harrison: All of my life I have had a fascination of water and the world that lives within. A world many never get to see or to be part of and this I find strange as I have always seen it as a totally fascinating place. For as long as I can remember I kept fish, I had tanks everywhere, anything that would hold water would have a stickleback or two in it. Even my paddling pool was stocked with fish at one stage! Now this fascination of our watery world soon moved on from me trying to catch creatures from the local river with my bamboo cane and net to the discovery of my Fathers old fishing tackle buried deep at the back of shed. I opened the old wooden seat box and the gems I found inside sparked a fire that was soon to turn into an inferno that has burned so strongly since that day. Little did I realise at the time but the opening of that box was to totally shape the rest of my life. No-one in my family was interested in angling, I was self taught with the aid of library books and a simple sheer determination to succeed. My angling life moved on at a rapid rate from simply trying to get a bite from anything to realising that larger fish were no harder to catch than smaller fish so I started to use baits that the smaller fish didn’t attack all of the time. I have always had a rebellious streak in me and back in the 70’s the ‘specimen hunters’ as we were known were very few and far between compared to the general coarse and match anglers of the day and this very much suited my stubborn nature. Here I am many sunrises and sunsets later since I started my ‘targeting big fish’ career back in 1977 and so many incredible memories, many dreams become reality and hopefully many more still to come from both my home waters and those I have to cross the water to visit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ian Russell started his angling obsession more than fifty years ago in the lakes and rivers around his home in the Colne Valley where he still enjoys most of his fishing. He's an expert on modern carp baits and founded Heathrow Bait Services before becoming a consultant for Dynamite Baits, for whom he is currently developing a brand new range of boilies, pellets and hookbaits that will include one of his old favourite flavours, Super Stench. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Roberts is a fine match angler in his own right, winning some big events on a wide variety of methods and venues, from his local River Nene in Northants, through canals and big rivers. He now devotes much of his time to helping younger anglers via the Tackle Guru Angling Trust Talent Pathway and managing the England junior squads in World Championships. Having helped Dick Clegg OBE with the initial ‘Masters’ World Champs, Joe qualified the following year for the Veterans team and brought back an individual and team gold medal. Several more have followed in a glittering career and, to be honest, it couldn’t happen to a nicer bloke. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ian Russell started his angling obsession more than fifty years ago in the lakes and rivers around his home in the Colne Valley where he still enjoys most of his fishing. He's an expert on modern carp baits and founded Heathrow Bait Services before becoming a consultant for Dynamite Baits, for whom he is currently developing a brand new range of boilies, pellets and hookbaits that will include one of his old favourite flavours, Super Stench. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Keith welcomes Tom Scholey aboard the Strange Boat to talk about his personal fishing ambitions, his writing and his foray into filming. Plus of course, Keith tells tales of his extraordinary fishing career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Keith welcomes Steve Collett aboard for a second trip on the Strange Boat. This time Keith gets in deep about lure fishing with the British Champion and England manager. Steve owns retailers specialising in fishing tackle equipment in the UK and Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark Cunnington is the author of The Syndicate series of angling yarns. Now into the second series of books, as Keith Arthur says, "if you've got a twisted sense of humour like Mark or me, you'll really enjoy reading them". There are 7 books in the first series and The Italian's Job is the second book in volume 2. Click here to find out more about The Syndicate series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Growing up near the banks of the Thames in Oxford, James Robbins started fishing at the age of 6 when his grandmother bought him a rod. Although James is best known as a prolific match angler, he is still passionate about fly fishing. He set up Cadence, a high end tackle company and more recently has added Edgetackle.co.uk with Richard Norris, selling fishing accessories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma is the daughter of legend Tommy Pickering and has obviously been deeply involved in angling from an early age. She's an ambassador for the Angling Trust and as you'll certainly hear in the podcast, a champion angler at numerous levels. Both her mum and her aunt fished for England as well, so the Pickering family medal haul is enormous. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Formally Marketing Director for the largest online recreational fishing site for salmon and wild brown trout in the UK, Fishpal the vivacious Anne Woodcock has recently taken up the role of Operations Manager with responsibility for Communication and Fundraising for the Tweed Foundation and Commission. She's a salmon fishing expert and the UK's major advocate for LadiesFishing. Welcome aboard Anne. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices