When "BB" penned his Confessions of a Carp Fisher, at the end of the 1940s, there must have been many half-forgotten ponds, each one awaiting an angler's careful tread.
Today, in the early part of the 21st century, it can all seem so different. But it is still possible to fish a pleasant pool, catch plenty of carp, perhaps, and not see a soul all day; and these are not all private waters, either. It is possible that I am fortunate, living in rural Herefordshire as I do. However, I am convinced that "Google Maps" is a marvellous tool, - leading the angler to half-forgotten ticket waters or - if he is determined and lucky - the front doors of farms where, all that is required for a passport to genuine carping heaven, is a polite and friendy approach and a bit of grovelling, if necessary!
Here are some of the pretty ponds and lakes I have fished during the past four years or so. May you find many more like them...