Angling Notes/Derek Evans:Giant hogweed ( Heracleum mantegazzianum) is invading riverbanks on the lower River Usk and causing problems for anglers, walkers and landowners, according to Environment Agency Wales (EAW).
The alien plant can be found between Crickhowell and the tidal limit downstream at Newbridge-on-Usk, and in smaller numbers close to the mouth of the river in Newport.
The weed has a damaging effect on the native habitat, suppressing the growth of plants and leaving riverbanks bare of vegetation. It reduces the recreational value of land and can hinder anglers from accessing some areas. The sap from the plant can cause severe blisters, which are sensitive to sunlight, prompting public health concerns.
Working in partnership with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Countryside Council for Wales, Keep Wales Tidy, Monmouthshire County Council, National Trust and Newport City Council, EAW established the first phase of a project to tackle the problem.
Control work started last spring with efforts centred on the Crickhowell and Abergavenny areas. The objective was to stop seed production at the upper extent of the infestation and prevent the seeds entering the river. This was the start of a long-term eradication programme that may take five to 10 years to complete.
A giant hogweed forum, with guest speakers and an open discussion on the project, will take place on Tuesday, February 13th at Coleg Gwent, Usk Campus, commencing at 7pm.
• You saw the world casting championships last September in Ireland, now watch the official DVD of the first ever Emerald World Masters (EWM) with special guest golf superstar Mark O'Meara and world record holders Steve Rajeff and Scott McKenzie launching this milestone event. The entire spectacle at Carton House in Co Kildare was captured on a must-own DVD covering all casting events, including spey, 100g surf casting, salmon distance, trout accuracy, and ICSF fly and plug accuracy and distance tournaments.
Watch in slow motion the casting magic from 20 nations that make the best casters and anglers in the world. It's easily the most educational casting video ever made, according to Brendan Begley.
To purchase a copy at the knockdown price of €22.50 plus €4.95 P&P, e-mail: emeraldworldmasters@eircom.net or send a postal order payable to Emerald World Masters Ltd., c/o Brendan Begley, Main Street, Clonbur, Co Galway. EWM spey, trout and salmon fly lines are also available.
• The Varzuga River on the Kola Peninsula in Russia offers the best Atlantic salmon fishing in the world, according to Seán O'Donoghue. Last year saw catches of 7,144 to 160 anglers with an average of 44 salmon per rod per week. The fish average 3-4kg, with many much bigger, and a programme of catch and release is operated.
Salmon thrive in the Varzuga river system with pristine water and perfect redds from source almost to mouth. "You can hardly fail to catch salmon here and there can scarcely be a finer place to introduce a newcomer to the sport," said O'Donoghue.
The middle camp is on an island in the river about 40km above the estuary and offers the most prolific early season fishing. Classic fly water surrounds the island and 5km of various pools, glides, riffles and rapids. Accommodation is in newly constructed traditional log cabins. There are three spaces remaining with an Irish group in May. For further information, contact Seán at 087-2630047 or 01-6612463.
• This year's Allianz Boat Show will be the largest showcase for the marine industry ever mounted in Ireland, according to Brian O'Sullivan, chairman of the Irish Marine Federation. Close to 200 exhibitors and an expected interest from 25,000 visitors will fill the RDS Simmonscourt arena from February 14th to 18th, he said. The show will appeal to all forms of leisure activity, with dinghies, ribs, angling boats, sailing and power cruisers, diving equipment, water-skiing, clothing and chandlery on display.
Key features include "Holidays Afloat" and "Waterways of Ireland" sections offering holiday opportunities on Ireland's vast network of inland waterways.
For further information visit www.dublinboatshow.com.