Every year, Tiger Lily makes several crossings to the Channel Islands. Sometimes we make Guernsey our home port but usually we stay on the picturesque island of Alderney. The people of Alderney always make us welcome in the many hotels pubs and eating places, which scatter the island.
The passage across the English Channel from Weymouth to Alderney is the shortest crossing possible. Alderney is only 49 nautical miles from Portland Bill.
During the trip, skipper Chris Caines visits some of the many wrecks along the way. Usual species include Conger, Ling, Pollack, Cod, Bass and Coalfish. The usual pattern we follow is to hop from wreck to wreck and the type of fishing is dictated by what the tide is doing at the time. Normally during the slack water times, we try to get the hook down for a while because most lads enjoy a tussle with a Conger or two. In what seems like no time at all, and lots of cups of coffee later, Tiger Lily slips into Braye Harbour.
Imagine a lovely village - a very special village, almost totally unaffected by the outside world. A relaxing, welcoming, friendly village where you feel you belong as soon as you arrive.
The island of Alderney is like a village, but a unique style of village. Extending to almost three and a half miles by one and a half miles Alderney, the third largest of the Channel Islands, is one of the British Isles best kept secrets - waiting to be discovered.
Alderney is the sort of place where there is always time for everything - almost as if time has slowed down. A French flavour strongly permeates the narrow, cobbled streets and restaurants with tasty seafood menus and fine wines.
Alderney is for nature lovers, for families who want to get away from it all to spend time together exploring the rock pools and sandy beaches; for outdoor types; for lovers of the clean, fresh sea air and walks which can be gentle or bracing. Even more importantly Alderney is for anglers.
The waters here are an angler's dream. Lots of races and eddies, plenty of deep-water wrecks and several large shingle banks, are all within a few miles of Braye harbour. The stretch of water between the mainland of Alderney and Burhou can be treacherous and is known locally as the Swinge. The area to the east of the island with its fast moving water is known as the race of Alderney, this is home to the famous Blanchard's Rock, where most of our bass fishing takes place.
Much of our angling takes place within sight of Alderney, even if our parties stay on Guernsey. The banks to the South and East of the island are a haven for the much sought after species of Bass, Turbot and Brill.
Here is a shot of 'The Armoury'. This is where most of my guests stay whilst on the Island.
The Armory is run by Chris and Leigh and they will look after you splendidly...I promise.
Fantastic coloured Wrasse like this one caught by Tony Attrill are commonplace around the Island.
Last Updated: Thu Aug 23 2007