Lee Kidd

Growing up in the Thames Valley, my angling journey began as pleasure fishing with my dad on the River Thames and local day-ticket waters. With a paper round funding my passion, I’d strap the rods to my bike and disappear off with a mate, fishing wherever we could. Those early years were spent chasing barbel and chub on the Thames, carp on club waters, and, when winter rolled in, pike and perch.

My approach has always adapted to the venue, but I’ve consistently leaned towards natural baits — maggots in particular — which remain my favourite tactic whenever they’re allowed. Simple, effective, and hugely enjoyable.

Having lived in the Thames Valley, Lea Valley and Cambridgeshire, I’ve been lucky enough to fish some outstanding waters. Over the years I’ve taken some very special carp from well-known venues such as The Woolpack, Horton Church, Kingsmead and Wraysbury, as well as quieter estate lakes and larger, lesser-known waters — picking up a few proper big’uns along the way.

As I’ve got older, angling has become more about the peace and solitude it offers. It’s my time to slow down, switch off and reflect, away from the daily grind (quite literally these days). The biggest reward now is sharing that experience with my kids, and I’ve been fortunate enough to land one of my most memorable captures — a 50-plus — with my twin girls by my side.