TV presenter Jeremy Wade casts literary net in Fleet

TV presenter, author and biologist Jeremy Wade was at Tackle Up in Fleet yesterday (Saturday November 19th) signing copies of his latest book River Monsters.

Although part of a national book-signing tour, he says he's been using the Fleet Road store for years which supplies him with items for his filming adventures.

"Things like heavy duty swivels and stuff like that," he said.

"I call them, and they send it to me. I'm a loyal customer so am very pleased to be here."

Although Jeremy is a biologist, extreme angler and writer specialising in travel and natural history, he's best known for his TV series River Monsters.

He holds a special interest in freshwater and travels the globe fishing for giant freshwater fish.

"I haven't had the chance to fish locally in Fleet, but I would like to," he said.

"But my TV series and book aren't just about fishing. It's also about bringing into the light freshwater animals people don't usually see because the water is too murky."

Tackle Up owner Simon Clarke says Jeremy's visit is just one of many ideas to promote the store, and follows a visit by British angler John Wilson earlier this year.

The shop also holds regular information and open days.

"My biggest challenge is communicating what we have here to local people," said Simon.

"One chap came in said he's been living in Fleet for years but had never come in, even though we've been here more than two decades.

"Ironically business this year is up 25 per cent and we're not even selling on the web – although that's next."

The shop also specialises in equipment and clothing for shooting, rambling and general outdoor pursuits.