The content discusses the author’s love for the history and beauty of the Norfolk estate lakes. The lakes were built on wealth generated by sheep and agricultural advancements and exhibit various cultural expressions. The author first discovered Letheringsett Lake at the age of seven and was entranced by its parklands and lakes. This was where the author was able to catch their beloved roach with relative ease, and where the stirrings of mindfulness were first developed, overshadowed by the excitement of their first pike run. Bayfield Lake was the author’s second favorite due to its surreal beauty and where they first saw a tench, an unattainable catch at the time.
Holkham Lake is the author’s third favorite, as it is where they caught their first adored tench, and later hooked wild carp. The author’s favorite lakes numbers four and five are also inhabited by tench, a species they see as an emblem of Norfolk. Wolterton Lake is particularly special to the author, not only for its abundant tench but also for the personal experience of Lord Walpole saving their life by giving them lemonade. Felbrigg Lake, with its spectacular rudd, enters the author’s life in the 70s and is described as a crown jewel in Norfolk.
In the 80s, Blickling Lake becomes the author’s number one tench venue due to its calm evenings and stately surroundings. Gunton Hall Lake holds sentimental value as the place where the author caught their first bronze bream, while Barningham Lake is treasured for the perch it held 30 years ago. The author expresses concern for the current state of the lakes, with some suffering from pollution, predation, or neglect. They also acknowledge the troubling history of how the lakes were created, acknowledging the ill-treated farm workers and poorly-paid laborers who were involved in the process. The author fears they may be the last person to catch amazing fish from these places, leaving behind a sad legacy.
The content provides a personal reflection on the author’s favorite Norfolk estate lakes, capturing the memories of catching prized fish and the beauty of these natural habitats. It highlights the author’s concern for the current state of the lakes and acknowledges the troubling history of their creation. The content gives a glimpse into the author’s deep connection to these lakes and their appreciation for the unique and diverse species of fish that inhabit them.
