Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Chart Hills Fishery, Chart
Thursday 9th July 2026

The third event of the year saw a welcome return to Chart Hills Fishery. Unlike our previous event at Cottington Lakes, where brollies were needed to keep the rain at bay, this time they were essential for providing shade as temperatures soared on what was predicted to be the hottest day of the year. Sun protection and plenty of chilled water were much appreciated throughout the day and the St John’s staff were on hand with refreshing cooling water sprays, which were gratefully received by everyone.

We were delighted to host 19 students from Five Acre Wood School, accompanied by their dedicated staff. It was also a pleasure to welcome APGM Wayne Smith who, together with our Chairman David Alexander, spent time strolling around the lake, chatting with the casters and their charges, offering encouragement and sharing in the excitement of the day.

As we have come to expect at this beautiful venue, everyone enjoyed catching some excellent carp, with most fish weighing between 3 and 5lb, along with one or two even larger specimens. We even had our own bookkeeper for the day. One young lady was catching so many fish, she resorted to keeping a tally up her arm using, I believe, her eyeliner! By the end of the session, she was wearing the most accurate, and certainly the most fashionable catch record on the lake! We applaud her ingenuity as well as her impressive performance.

When the lunchtime whistle sounded at around 12.15pm, everyone headed to the BBQ tent to enjoy eagerly awaited burgers and sausages, along with much-needed cold refreshments. After recharging in the shade, everyone was ready to return to the lakeside for the afternoon session.

Before long, the final whistle blew at around 2.15pm, signalling the end of another fantastic day’s fishing, and everyone gathered once again at the tent for the prize presentation.
Following words of thanks and congratulations, APGM Wayne Smith presented Angling Ability Certificates and medals to every student who took part. As always, each presentation was met with loud cheers and enthusiastic applause, making for a memorable finale to a wonderful day.

Finally, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to Jo and James, owners of Chart Hills Fishery, for her continued generosity and support of this wonderful charity. Her kindness and hospitality play a vital role in making these events such a success.

The next event of the East Kent Masonic Fishing Charity is at:
Longshaw Fishery, Sturry, near Canterbury on Thursday 10th September 2026

We are always looking for more Anglers, so would love you to join us. All tackle is supplied
but you can bring your own if you want. If interested, please contact: Fred Brown at – toprod1@sky.com

Report by Esox Lucius (Don’t tell him Pike)