I've just had a well deserved ticking off from the Chairman.
On Monday (opemning day) I caught and kept a lovely 9 lb fish.
Having drafted the rules a few years ago, I thought I had to go home (happy), but could come back later in the week and fish catch and release. I was wrong! The rules have been clarified and changed, and it is not permitted to fish any time in the week after killing your limit. I came back on Saturday, and lost 2 fish - one an absolute thumper, as I told anyone and everyone who would listen.
My own fault entirely. I've been told that a disciplinary hearing may not be necessary, but if it is, I'm happy to resign. I always tried to do my best for the Association as an office bearer, and it's demoralising to find myself on the wrong side of the law. My immediate reaction is to feel that I don't want to be involved any more.
So, my apologies to all. It was a genuine misunderstanding, and the only thing I wish is that the people who complained to the authorities had had a quiet word with me first, rather than assume the worst.
Alistair
Alistair, speaking personally and not as the Secretary I am very sorry that it has come to this. I have no doubt at all that your fishing on the Saturday was an oversight. The years of loyal service that you have given to this club bear testamont to the high regard you hold it in. The catch limit is in place in attempt by the club to maintain future stock levels, and were instituted mainly by yourself. I fully understand your actions in this, however I do regret them.
John
John -
Thanks for that. As you can imagine, I'm extremely embarassed by the whole episode. I thought that I understood the rule, having written the original version myself. It sent you home for the day after keeping a fish, but allowed you to return later in the week to fish catch and release. Of course I should have been aware of the amendment, which forbids fishing for the rest of the week. It really didn't cross my mind, because it's a long time since I've had a fish in June. Once again my apologies for what was a genuine oversight.
It's a good job I lost those two fish on Saturday!