It's been a pretty basic week this week.wind wind and more wind.We have had our fair share of codling in the river and good catches of whiting and in all fairness the river has been fishing better size wise and numbers, better than Clacton/Jaywick and with the prevailing winds certainly more comfortable.Other catches reported in the river this week have been Tub Gurnard ,Dabs and the occasional horse mackerel .I did venture offshore on Thursday It was mirror calm .I was not alone all the boats went.By the time we got to the spitway There was a distinct lop on the water,by the time I reached my Chosen mark There was a strong Southerly wind blowing,right on the beam ,We stuck it for an hour ,15 dog fish ,2 skate .Looking at the discomfort of my party I opted for the long haul back in where we did top up with plenty of fish.Its as frustrating for us charter skippers as it is for you because given the conditions I think there could be a better run of fish out there but we cant argue with the weather .I don't think other areas can even get out .This is with out doubt one of the worst years we have had for consistant winds but at least those who have booked and gone have all returned with a respectable amount of fish.This coming week looks rubbish ,small tides and South/south west winds,If the water goes clear there could be a chance of herring and bass but there will be a long wait between tides before the bottom fishing takes off so I'm not chasing my anglers to go this week.The best cod I have had this week in the river was 6lbs and 4lbs many around the 1.5/2lbs mark .The best I've heard of was 7lbs from a private boat. cheers dave weaving.