Edmund Hillary climbs Mount Butterley and meets Paul Hardcastle

He lost his way early on despite the huge summit of Butterley looming before him. But a quick chat with a Ripley local (out and about at 8am?)and he was on his way with directions and having evaded being mugged. He may have been lost but he would soon find his way at the waterside. Reports from Hillary sparked Tenzing into action. A tried and tested formula of curry, beers and a late night with Chief and Wylie had done the usual damage. Up at crack of sparrows and off to Mount Butterley kitted out with mountaineering and survival kit Tenzing was ready. But only ready after applying factor 15.

Having tested out a few base camps Hillary headed toward the summit, Tenzing waving and senting off with a meeting party.

Having climbed the initial peak they set about their task.



Hillary throws out a line.




Well Tenzing had the early run of it and then Hillary set the pace. Fish after fish followed. All to pellet with cage feeder at 30 yards. Every half hour until the sun shone. Simple mature and calculated. Step by step, feeder by feeder he progressed up Mount Butterley.



As the pictures show it became a master class of skill. Accurate, consistent and sticking at it as the fish flowed. Carp PB, bream PB and roach PB in a session. Tenzing battled on but Hillary had raced off. Like a carp lost by Tenzing hours before.



A long session, a trek from Mount Butterley to Nam as PC achieved 19 fish, to Tenzing 11. Its a venue for personal bests. Hillarys biggest bag, bream, carp and roach. As well as my Tenzings. There are red letter days ahead and can you believe it - Tenzing is a local!




Overall the highlights of a PB session 19 fish average 4-5lb 80lb at least approaching the ton. There are better days to be had as it warms and we understand it. Local knowledge is key! Go sherpa!