IMHO, there are three learning points from this exercise;
1. Has already been discussed.....lower light near the end of the day can cause problems when spotting power cables in the event of a power failure or an approach to an airfeild with them on final approach or in the overshoot.
2. "
It wasnt as bad as it sounds in my original post, I had at least 300ft to go before being level "
We will all assume that having spotted the cables, your subsequent climb ensured that you cleared them by a minimum of 500ft.
When making a practice forced landing, we must remain within the requirements of the low flying rules. The most likely way to get caught out here is a late or non-sighting of pedestrians walking behind the hedge in your chosen field. If flying with a flying instructor, they will carry out a careful check and constantly be scanning for such problems. However, when on your own, you have other things to do so vigilence is essential.
3. Most important learning point...........ask yourself......if that had been a real engine failure what would your actions have been? and how successful would the outcome have been?
Regards,
DFC