Tiny strip of water where people try to catch the elusive fish ‘as big as a seven-year-old’
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Nestled just south of a city centre and wedged between flats, a county hall and a steelworks is a thin stretch of water. You wouldn't normally give it a second glance. But this bit of water is home to a fish that weighs the same as a small child — and people come from all over the UK to try and catch it. But few succeed.
The Bute East Dock in Cardiff is fondly referred to by locals as the Wharf. Described as an "urban Mecca" for fishing enthusiasts, the narrow half-mile stretch of water attracts anglers from near and far, with its 300-odd carp proving a tempting challenge. However, it's not open to all; only syndicate members are permitted to cast their lines here.
"The lakes back home are green all round. Here's different. It's very urban but it's cool," shared Brad Taylor, who travelled from Swindon to fish at the Wharf. Brad was prepping his gear amidst the dying winds of Storm Darragh; the high winds playfully stealing seabird calls from the air, while the lake danced against its barriers in a steady beat.
"Come here on a 30-degree day and all you'll see is fish but in the winter the carp tend to stick to the bottom and middle layers," said the 24-year-old angler. Stunning UK city that 'looks like a fairytale' with cathedral and cosy pubs. ‘Traditional’ and ‘overlooked’ part of UK named one of world’s best destinations.
The Wharf's underwater landscape resembles an egg carton, with carp congregating in the warmth of the 15ft-deep indentations during the cold months, reports Wales Online. Successful fishing here may involve laps around the Wharf to suss out the carp's chosen nooks.
