When fishing for the shy-biting crucian (see Fish we Like) one issue facing the angler is finding a float sensitive enough to register the tiniest of plucks. With the spread of the buzzard across the country (see Things we Like part 1 (above)), a walk in the woods can throw up the perfect quill. A buzzard’s primary feathers can measure over a foot long, meaning they are easily spotted having been dropped in moult.
Once stripped, treated, dressed and varnished, the quill remains lightweight and its slim shaft dips with little resistance. It is the perfect quill for crucians, particularly when targeting the margins where they are so often found.
Never attempt to grab one that is still attached though – the buzzard really doesn’t like it..