Some things never change. That gentle cooling breeze at Lingmere, Jamie peggin' it wrong then drawing a flier, and Kenny Pickup winning the Christmas match.
In order to bring comfort to as many as possible, and improve the chances of everyone catching a few, the match was split over the two lakes.
Just like last year, King Kenny drew the bottom lake and came out on top thanks to an impressive total of 38lb 13oz. 13metres with maggot was the successful approach. The performance also clinched this year's "20lb challenge" series for KP. Great effort, both on the day and season-long, so congratulations.
In a reversal of the last Lingmere match result, Jamie Pickup was a gallant 2nd this time. Moving from his customary peg 20 draw all the way round to....19, Jambo proved it's not the peg, but the angler as he put 34lb 04oz on the scales for the silver medal. It also guaranteed a spot in the Garbolino Club angler as runner-up.
Top dog in the Garbo was Yozzer, so both will be representing the club in 2015.
Final podium place was filled by the other half of 'Team Kenny' as Ken Stuart managed a meritous 29lb 08oz from the bottom lake, well done.
Despite sulking for most of the match because he had to stay till the end to do weighing-in duties, (Jan wouldn't let him have scouse at 12.30) John Edwards actually had a decent day's fishing to the tune of 25lb 07oz and picked up section money. Although he made Scrooge look like the Laughing Policeman, a big pat on the back to Sumo for his angling prowess.
Another laughing boy, this time in the shape of Gary Brislen, again put in a sterling effort, and with 23lb 13oz he too won a section.
NB a 'sterling effort' doesn't mean he was diving in the lake every 5 minutes like a certain little s**t in a Liverpool shirt.
Ian Simpson was the other section winner with a decent return of 28lb 01oz. Must have learnt a lesson after drawing the bottom last time eh Simo? Nice one Mate.
Finally, the 'section winners' challenge was also decided, and The Gnome came out on top after a close battle with Dirk and Lee.
Thanks to Jan at Lingmere for some great post-match scouse and chilli.
I wish all our members and regular readers a very Merry Xmas and I hope you all draw the pegs you want during 2015...Good Luck.
Monday 22 December 2014
Monday 8 December 2014
LINGMERE, 7/12/14 ~ Pickups blow the field away... or was that the wind?
If last week was full of banter with plenty of laughs, then this one was the opposite. I'm pretty sure that there weren't many who actually fancied fishing on the day. This was Lingmere weather at its cruellest. Strong gusty winds brought regular showers of rain and hail, and it was cold too. Even when the ripple subsided it was still difficult to spot bites through watering eyes. Just what you want when winter F1 fishing. Banter was non-existant as heads were buried deep into snoods, under woolly hats, with hoods pulled up. Brollies were a no-no due to the wind.
Having said all that, Jamie Pickup adopted his usual attitude, I'm fishing 16 metres, I must be good. On this occasion he was good and proved it with a runaway 35lb 12oz for an easy victory.
Don't know where he gets it from cos Dad Kenny tried 6 metres of pole for half an hour then gave up and went on the tip. He was rewarded with some nice F1s and a total of 27lb 04oz for second spot. Come on you Pickups!
Final place in the frame went to the never-reliable Jolly Green Giant. Neil was one of the few who could fish the pole in any degree of comfort, and he put this to good use with a decent day's sport which gave him a 23lb 06oz total. Another hour an he would have won it!
Team Kenny collected more pools money as Ken Stuart won the first section with a level 10lb. They need to win some more as the conditions took their toll and Ken's pole now has 2 short no.5 sections.
Venue regular The Gnome got an envelope to take home as his 17lb 09oz was enough for the other section.
All in all we've had nicer days out, but I suppose even this was better than sittin in the house, by the fire, nice and warm.......... mmmmm ......... don't know so much .
Having said all that, Jamie Pickup adopted his usual attitude, I'm fishing 16 metres, I must be good. On this occasion he was good and proved it with a runaway 35lb 12oz for an easy victory.
Don't know where he gets it from cos Dad Kenny tried 6 metres of pole for half an hour then gave up and went on the tip. He was rewarded with some nice F1s and a total of 27lb 04oz for second spot. Come on you Pickups!
Final place in the frame went to the never-reliable Jolly Green Giant. Neil was one of the few who could fish the pole in any degree of comfort, and he put this to good use with a decent day's sport which gave him a 23lb 06oz total. Another hour an he would have won it!
Team Kenny collected more pools money as Ken Stuart won the first section with a level 10lb. They need to win some more as the conditions took their toll and Ken's pole now has 2 short no.5 sections.
Venue regular The Gnome got an envelope to take home as his 17lb 09oz was enough for the other section.
All in all we've had nicer days out, but I suppose even this was better than sittin in the house, by the fire, nice and warm.......... mmmmm ......... don't know so much .
Sunday 30 November 2014
HAMPTON, ALICE SPRINGS. 30/11/14 ~ Cake-walk for Lee
Wasn't at this one so results only. Seems like a cake-walk for Lee and the familiar walk for Sumo.
1 Lee Pickup 51lb 02oz
2 Neil Paterson 34lb 09oz
3 Steve Coleman 16lb 14oz
Sections:
Tony Byers 9lb 09oz
Kenny Stuart 3lb 10oz
Well Done everyone
1 Lee Pickup 51lb 02oz
2 Neil Paterson 34lb 09oz
3 Steve Coleman 16lb 14oz
Sections:
Tony Byers 9lb 09oz
Kenny Stuart 3lb 10oz
Well Done everyone
Monday 24 November 2014
LINGMERE, 23/11/14 ~ Practice makes perfect for The Wriggler
The Lingmere wind machine had been turned down low for this latest visit, making it a relatively pleasant experience for everyone. Well, everyone with a modicum of sense but not those who forgot to take a decent coat. With 18 in attendance, it was decided to put a section on the bottom lake to ease the pressure on the top lake and give everyone a better day's sport.
Those drawn on the bottom certainly had good sport and enjoyed plenty of bites throughout the match. A head to head developed on adjacent pegs, and provided us with the first and third overall.
Following 5 or 6 appearances in the Wednesday 'dodger' matches, Dirk Wriggler put the knowledge gained in those 'practice' sessions to good use. Unconfirmed reports suggest a method feeder with maggot was the successful tactic, and Degsy ended up with an impressive total of 55lb 02oz.
That proved much too good for the gallant effort of Ian Simpson, who also employed maggot baits, but mainly on the pole, and Simo brought 42lb to the scales for a well earned third place.
Up on the top lake, things were a whole lot tougher, with hard work required to make a few bites.
The Awesome One known as Jamie Pickup found the task easier than most, and he too caught steadily all day. Feeding an amazing 4 pints of maggots, JBay had a mixed bag but bemoaned the fact that his fish were small. They ended up totalling 50lb 06oz. Super stuff from the Match Sec.
Next best was venue regular The Gnome. Despite telling everyone that pellet had not been working, it did on the day and Yozz won his section with 34lb 08oz.
Col Cook had the help of a decent carp weighing 7 or 8lb, which enhanced a nice bag of fish and gave him a 30lb 09oz total for his section win.
Gary Brislen kept up his recent run of good form and duly won a tough section with 19lb 12oz... nobody else weighed in the section.
The last section was won easily by the male model that is Paul Robb. His open-topped balaclava ensured his hair wasn't ruffled but his ears were kept warm, and fishing comfortably, he registered a solid 28lb 02oz for section victory.
Pato had an eventful day...... before the match started, a feeder cast to get the range saw him playing a barbel that had taken a liking to his hook with pellet band. It turned out to be the only fish in his swim for the first two hours. The next one to arrive was hooked, took him into the rushes, and when he finally retrieved his hook, it was attached to a ball of 20lb line with a pole rig, and 3 assorted feeders. Later in the match, he finally started getting bites on the pole. Such was his keenness to connect with these bites he was striking with such verve that the pole tip was 15 feet in the air every time he missed a bite. As one comedian remarked, he poked the man in the moon's eye out three times! (Dennis..you funny guy). He also received some coaching from Sumo, who had gone walkabout after struggling to catch. Conversation went something like........ Neil, let me tell you all the things I've made a balls of so you don't make the same mistakes. Seems there's a full moon every week in Sumo's world.
Well done to Dirk, and Jamie for their respective performances, and well done to the section winners.
Those drawn on the bottom certainly had good sport and enjoyed plenty of bites throughout the match. A head to head developed on adjacent pegs, and provided us with the first and third overall.
Following 5 or 6 appearances in the Wednesday 'dodger' matches, Dirk Wriggler put the knowledge gained in those 'practice' sessions to good use. Unconfirmed reports suggest a method feeder with maggot was the successful tactic, and Degsy ended up with an impressive total of 55lb 02oz.
That proved much too good for the gallant effort of Ian Simpson, who also employed maggot baits, but mainly on the pole, and Simo brought 42lb to the scales for a well earned third place.
Up on the top lake, things were a whole lot tougher, with hard work required to make a few bites.
The Awesome One known as Jamie Pickup found the task easier than most, and he too caught steadily all day. Feeding an amazing 4 pints of maggots, JBay had a mixed bag but bemoaned the fact that his fish were small. They ended up totalling 50lb 06oz. Super stuff from the Match Sec.
Next best was venue regular The Gnome. Despite telling everyone that pellet had not been working, it did on the day and Yozz won his section with 34lb 08oz.
Col Cook had the help of a decent carp weighing 7 or 8lb, which enhanced a nice bag of fish and gave him a 30lb 09oz total for his section win.
Gary Brislen kept up his recent run of good form and duly won a tough section with 19lb 12oz... nobody else weighed in the section.
The last section was won easily by the male model that is Paul Robb. His open-topped balaclava ensured his hair wasn't ruffled but his ears were kept warm, and fishing comfortably, he registered a solid 28lb 02oz for section victory.
Pato had an eventful day...... before the match started, a feeder cast to get the range saw him playing a barbel that had taken a liking to his hook with pellet band. It turned out to be the only fish in his swim for the first two hours. The next one to arrive was hooked, took him into the rushes, and when he finally retrieved his hook, it was attached to a ball of 20lb line with a pole rig, and 3 assorted feeders. Later in the match, he finally started getting bites on the pole. Such was his keenness to connect with these bites he was striking with such verve that the pole tip was 15 feet in the air every time he missed a bite. As one comedian remarked, he poked the man in the moon's eye out three times! (Dennis..you funny guy). He also received some coaching from Sumo, who had gone walkabout after struggling to catch. Conversation went something like........ Neil, let me tell you all the things I've made a balls of so you don't make the same mistakes. Seems there's a full moon every week in Sumo's world.
Well done to Dirk, and Jamie for their respective performances, and well done to the section winners.
Monday 10 November 2014
LATHOMS No1, 9/11/14 ~ And a good day was had by all
Following a week containing the first frosts of the autumn, and a full moon too, it would have come as no surprise had Lathoms been a bit of a struggle. However, it fished right up to it's best as everyone managed 20lb, with 8 out of the 12 attending breaking through the 35lb barrier.
Excellent fishing for all and some classic head to heads to boot. In the 1st section, another example of the sportsmanship expected within the club.... Steve Cookie monster started well while on the next peg, Patty Paterson didn't. Knowing the fragile nature of the jolly one, Cookie had a quiet word, told him to chill and re-evaluate, and pretend it was a pleasure session. Taking the advice on board, Neil adopted tactics which had served him well during a two-week holiday, relaxed, and started to enjoy a pleasant day's sport. At the end, Cookie managed 38lb, while helping Pato to a brilliant, section winning 50lb 01oz. A big well done to both.
The other 3 section winners filled the podium places.
Yozzer kept it simple and fished maggot on the deck for an impressive 77lb 10oz.
Gary Brislen kept up good recent form, weighing 54lb 09oz, which secured victory in another hard fought head to head with Dennis Jones. Both men seemed to match each other fish for fish. One would catch a few shallow while the other one struggled, then they'd get a few deep and so the battle went on. Dennis eventually buckled and his 44lb wasn't quite enough, but a great effort by both.
In the final section, Sumo started like a house on fire, and once again another fishery record seemed to be under threat. Next door, Lee Pickup made sure John didn't get it all his own way, and they too had a ding dong shallow fishing contest. Just after the half way mark action started to slow. This coincided with Dave Lynch starting to get a few. He steadily began to claw his way back into contention, and rumours of illegal groundbaiting spread across the match length. Sumo's head went and Lee started to feel the pressure too. The truth is that Spadger decided he was going nowhere fast with the approach he had taken, so decided on a change. Loose micros were bringing fish up in the water causing too many problems .A liquid flavouring was added to the pellets, they became sticky, and small balls could be formed, which took the fish back onto the deck. Hey presto! bag-up time.
The scales revealed a surprise. Sumo, long time favourite , had 37lb 05oz, he was beaten by Lee, who weighed 46lb 12oz, but that late burst when the 'groundbait' took effect had edged Spadger into a section winning position with a superb 50lb 02oz. That man Percy Verance strikes again.
Excellent fishing for all and some classic head to heads to boot. In the 1st section, another example of the sportsmanship expected within the club.... Steve Cookie monster started well while on the next peg, Patty Paterson didn't. Knowing the fragile nature of the jolly one, Cookie had a quiet word, told him to chill and re-evaluate, and pretend it was a pleasure session. Taking the advice on board, Neil adopted tactics which had served him well during a two-week holiday, relaxed, and started to enjoy a pleasant day's sport. At the end, Cookie managed 38lb, while helping Pato to a brilliant, section winning 50lb 01oz. A big well done to both.
The other 3 section winners filled the podium places.
Yozzer kept it simple and fished maggot on the deck for an impressive 77lb 10oz.
Gary Brislen kept up good recent form, weighing 54lb 09oz, which secured victory in another hard fought head to head with Dennis Jones. Both men seemed to match each other fish for fish. One would catch a few shallow while the other one struggled, then they'd get a few deep and so the battle went on. Dennis eventually buckled and his 44lb wasn't quite enough, but a great effort by both.
In the final section, Sumo started like a house on fire, and once again another fishery record seemed to be under threat. Next door, Lee Pickup made sure John didn't get it all his own way, and they too had a ding dong shallow fishing contest. Just after the half way mark action started to slow. This coincided with Dave Lynch starting to get a few. He steadily began to claw his way back into contention, and rumours of illegal groundbaiting spread across the match length. Sumo's head went and Lee started to feel the pressure too. The truth is that Spadger decided he was going nowhere fast with the approach he had taken, so decided on a change. Loose micros were bringing fish up in the water causing too many problems .A liquid flavouring was added to the pellets, they became sticky, and small balls could be formed, which took the fish back onto the deck. Hey presto! bag-up time.
The scales revealed a surprise. Sumo, long time favourite , had 37lb 05oz, he was beaten by Lee, who weighed 46lb 12oz, but that late burst when the 'groundbait' took effect had edged Spadger into a section winning position with a superb 50lb 02oz. That man Percy Verance strikes again.
Sunday 26 October 2014
26/10/14, LINGMERE ~Laughin' Boy Lords it at Lingmere
A typical day for Lingmere with a strong wind making things difficult. Those on the relatively calm pegs found that the fish weren't there in numbers, while those on fish struggled with presentation.
Gary Brislen managed to conjure up enough fish off a flat calm peg to put 32lb 08oz on the scales. F1s on pole-fished maggot giving Laughin Boy his first win of the current campaign. Well Done to Gary.
Venue experience again stood the Gnome in good stead as he weighed 30lb 06oz to take second spot. Maggot was again the successful bait, this time to tempt barbel as well as the customary F1s.
Another regular, in the shape of Piet Delmaine, completed the frame with a well earned net which went 25lb 12oz
A big pat on the back for Zimbo.
A section win went to the ever improving Paul Cargill, who tip-fished his way to 25lb 02oz. Excellent, considering the others in his section did not weigh .
Pato, with a very respectable 19lb 08oz, and the consistent Dirk Wriggler with 24lb 05oz, both won section money so well done to them too.
Gary Brislen managed to conjure up enough fish off a flat calm peg to put 32lb 08oz on the scales. F1s on pole-fished maggot giving Laughin Boy his first win of the current campaign. Well Done to Gary.
Venue experience again stood the Gnome in good stead as he weighed 30lb 06oz to take second spot. Maggot was again the successful bait, this time to tempt barbel as well as the customary F1s.
Another regular, in the shape of Piet Delmaine, completed the frame with a well earned net which went 25lb 12oz
A big pat on the back for Zimbo.
A section win went to the ever improving Paul Cargill, who tip-fished his way to 25lb 02oz. Excellent, considering the others in his section did not weigh .
Pato, with a very respectable 19lb 08oz, and the consistent Dirk Wriggler with 24lb 05oz, both won section money so well done to them too.
Thursday 23 October 2014
INTER-CLUB CHARITY CHALLENGE.
The Annual charity challenge match will again be fished at Lingmere. The date is Sunday 2nd November. As Jamie is on holiday and I soon will be, Col Cook is collecting names. Anyone interested in fishing or getting involved in sponsorship, please contact Col A.S.A.P.
Sunday 19 October 2014
LLOYDS MEADOW, Badger, 12/10/14 ~ Simo ..... only just though
Results only for Badger as I wasn't there.
1 IanSimpson 50lb 04oz
2 Gary Brislen 50lb 03oz
3 Kenny Pickup 49lb 07oz
Sections for
Dave Norman... 30lb 05oz
Lee Pickup........18lb 10oz
Dave Lynch.......17lb 12oz
Well Done to you all.
1 IanSimpson 50lb 04oz
2 Gary Brislen 50lb 03oz
3 Kenny Pickup 49lb 07oz
Sections for
Dave Norman... 30lb 05oz
Lee Pickup........18lb 10oz
Dave Lynch.......17lb 12oz
Well Done to you all.
Sunday 28 September 2014
LOWER RIDGE, 28/9/14 ~ "Don't book this dump again, I've only had 34lb....."
Regular readers will know that this blog is usually a light-hearted account of an Eggy outing. Well, today it's not.
When the winner of the match, with a decent weight of 34lb 13oz, greets you with, "Don't book this again, it's S****", it's time to take a look at why we're bothering at all. Yes, 6 of the 12 who fished today were sponsored by Drennan North West (DNW), but most just accepted it as a bad day at the office, and will move on to the next match.
We could quite easily just book Lingmere (for example) every week and members would pretty soon get bored. What we do instead is book a variety of venues which require different approaches, provide different challenges, and have different stocking levels. It's meant to make things interesting. The choice is there for everyone. If you don't fancy a venue, you just don't book on...simples.
The match diary needs organising in advance, and for the most popular venues, up to as much as 3 years hence. We can't just say 'Oh, where's fishing well? let's go there next week'.
Some members of the club put in a lot of unseen effort to make the club outings as enjoyable as possible. Some just turn up and moan. Try asking yourself, What's my contribution? If the answer is 'nothing', then start making an effort. Maybe the club will be more to your liking if you do.
Sadly it's results only this week as praise is not on the agenda.
1st Dirk Wriggler..........34lb 13oz
2nd Neil Paterson............25lb 05oz
3rd Gary Brislen.............22lb 10oz
Section Col Cook..........16lb 04oz
Section Ken Pickup.......9lb 06oz
When the winner of the match, with a decent weight of 34lb 13oz, greets you with, "Don't book this again, it's S****", it's time to take a look at why we're bothering at all. Yes, 6 of the 12 who fished today were sponsored by Drennan North West (DNW), but most just accepted it as a bad day at the office, and will move on to the next match.
We could quite easily just book Lingmere (for example) every week and members would pretty soon get bored. What we do instead is book a variety of venues which require different approaches, provide different challenges, and have different stocking levels. It's meant to make things interesting. The choice is there for everyone. If you don't fancy a venue, you just don't book on...simples.
The match diary needs organising in advance, and for the most popular venues, up to as much as 3 years hence. We can't just say 'Oh, where's fishing well? let's go there next week'.
Some members of the club put in a lot of unseen effort to make the club outings as enjoyable as possible. Some just turn up and moan. Try asking yourself, What's my contribution? If the answer is 'nothing', then start making an effort. Maybe the club will be more to your liking if you do.
Sadly it's results only this week as praise is not on the agenda.
1st Dirk Wriggler..........34lb 13oz
2nd Neil Paterson............25lb 05oz
3rd Gary Brislen.............22lb 10oz
Section Col Cook..........16lb 04oz
Section Ken Pickup.......9lb 06oz
Monday 15 September 2014
WEEKEND JOLLY TO WORCESTER, 12,13,14th September2014 ~ Expectations met.. who knows?
The club's annual 'weekend away' had a change this year as the Eggy Circus rolled into the town of Kidderminster. Venues had been booked that would allegedly make us look like angling superstars, and records would be broken left, right and centre. Taking this into consideration, there seemed to have been a whole lot of moaning going on by the time we made the homeward journey. Only the comments section will tell whether expectations had been met. Certainly the hotel appeared to have been well received, as the evening social aspect was apparently enjoyed by everyone.
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Friday 12th September 2014 ~ Club record smashed....5 times!!!!
First stop took us to Cob House on the Laurel lake. With the fishery having problems on Wyatts lake, which was our original choice, there were doubts about the level of sport. It didn't deter people from taking 3 or 4 keepnets to their peg though. Early indications were that the nets would be put to good use as everybody was into fish straight away. As rules dictated that a separate net be used for silvers, most chose to put occasional skimmers and roach back into the lake. Such was the carp fishing that unnecessary keepnets just got in the way of margin feeders.
The weigh-in was physically demanding, but 5 or 6 members got involved, so thanks to those who helped ease the burden.
John Edwards set the pace with a record breaking 143lb 10oz. This was despite going for a ten minute walkabout in midmatch. It was either that or smash a topkit over his knee as frustration reached boiling point. A few lost foul-hookers and tangled rigs causing the strife. That's the biggest problem with this type of venue, so many fish that line bites and foul-hookers are inevitable.
The Gnome coped better than most and he too smashed the club record with a net-busting 180lb 13oz (well 4 nets actually).
Paul Cargill put in a best ever performance to continue the run of big weights when he put a brilliant 152lb 08oz on the scales. A fantastic effort, well done Cargy.
The Leasowe gentry also battered the old match record. Andy Lawton with a phenomenal 132lb 08oz, and Dirk Wriggler with an awesome 126lb 04oz, both managed section wins.
Gary Brislen and Lee Pickup both broke the 'ton barrier' but ended up only with the satisfaction of a great day's sport.
The final section was won by Jamie Pickup with an ordinarily cracking weight of 84lb, but at this place it looks average! A big well done to Jambo.
Saturday 13th September 2014 ~ Back in the real world....
Solhampton Kingfisher lake was the scene for Day 2 of the Jolly Jaunt. Although it was another stunning venue, the fish were a lot more wised-up to anglers on the bank.
Even with plenty of room between pegs it proved a tough nut to crack. More frustration, and a few moans started creeping in. Again it was like fish soup. As nobody had fished it before there was nothing to base an attack on, other than natural instinct.
Yozzer maintained his form from the day before, and somehow conned the fish to the tune of 135lb 02oz. Must have been solid!
On the other side of the lake, Sumo kept mental frailties at bay and put together a fine weight of 73lb 10oz to stay on the podium with a silver medal. Another top quality display from our open angler.
Dennis Jones deservedly made it into the frame with a hard earned 67lb 14oz. Having analysed his previous performance, he learned from mistakes in feeding, put them right, and was suitably rewarded. Well done Den.
Pete Maestro Lucas started on the method, but after a few early fish, he reverted to pole tactics to put together a section winning 66lb 10oz. 'Clueless' is a kidder, this boy can fish a bit when he wants to. Nice one Luco, have you thought about buying fishomania tickets?
Following his ton-up performance at Cob, Lee Pickup put in another worthy effort and won the final section with an excellent (on the day) 52lb, so well done Lee.
Sunday 14th September 2014 ~ Yozzer, you're boring us now!
We were back at Solhampton, this time on Badger lake. This is their newest lake, having only opened early this year. Pato, Dennis and Gary had done a pleasure session on Thursday so at least we had something to go on. Tackle shop staff also advised that although there were big fish feeding in the margins, due to water clarity they were tough to catch.
How true. The most frustrating fishing I have ever encountered, along with everyone else. Whatever way it was approached, those carp wouldn't play ball. Feed, the carp would home in straight away, then for no reason, before you got a bite, they bolted out of the swim, until you fed again, and the vicious circle was repeated.
Mainly by fishing tight to his keepnets to hide the line, The Gnome somehow found enough carp, including a couple of 8lbers, to bring yet another ton to the scales and complete a weekend clean sweep with a winning 112lb 10oz.
The ever reliable Dirk lived up to his Wriggler nickname by fishing the worm to post an honourable 81lb and secure an excellent second place.
Jay Pickup completed the frame after borrowing maggots off Lee and Dirk, who were both in his section...... Now there's camaraderie. Jamie weighed 67lb 03oz, to complete a successful weekend for him, nice one son.
Pete Lucas also performed consistently and admirably throughout the 3 days, and won section money again, this time with 66lb 04oz. This should have been enhanced with £2 side-bets. Cargy paid up, Sumo was ill and in a different section, and our little ginger friend just said 'kiss it' :)
For the second time, Paul Cargill was not phased by Yozz catching off the next peg. He got his head down and fished another blinder to get in the money again with a brilliant 65lb 06oz. Overall he has to be the star of the weekend. Well Done.
A big thanks from me to Jamie for organising the event, Tony for his cash handling skills, and Spadger, who sorted out some top class accommodation. Thanks also to Pete Clueless, who spent plenty of time (and laid out his own money) to secure the chosen venues.
Thanks also to you all for a fantastic, fun time. If members don't contribute to banter and issue little challenges, then the weekend wouldn't be what it is........ Brillliant.
First stop took us to Cob House on the Laurel lake. With the fishery having problems on Wyatts lake, which was our original choice, there were doubts about the level of sport. It didn't deter people from taking 3 or 4 keepnets to their peg though. Early indications were that the nets would be put to good use as everybody was into fish straight away. As rules dictated that a separate net be used for silvers, most chose to put occasional skimmers and roach back into the lake. Such was the carp fishing that unnecessary keepnets just got in the way of margin feeders.
The weigh-in was physically demanding, but 5 or 6 members got involved, so thanks to those who helped ease the burden.
John Edwards set the pace with a record breaking 143lb 10oz. This was despite going for a ten minute walkabout in midmatch. It was either that or smash a topkit over his knee as frustration reached boiling point. A few lost foul-hookers and tangled rigs causing the strife. That's the biggest problem with this type of venue, so many fish that line bites and foul-hookers are inevitable.
The Gnome coped better than most and he too smashed the club record with a net-busting 180lb 13oz (well 4 nets actually).
Paul Cargill put in a best ever performance to continue the run of big weights when he put a brilliant 152lb 08oz on the scales. A fantastic effort, well done Cargy.
The Leasowe gentry also battered the old match record. Andy Lawton with a phenomenal 132lb 08oz, and Dirk Wriggler with an awesome 126lb 04oz, both managed section wins.
Gary Brislen and Lee Pickup both broke the 'ton barrier' but ended up only with the satisfaction of a great day's sport.
The final section was won by Jamie Pickup with an ordinarily cracking weight of 84lb, but at this place it looks average! A big well done to Jambo.
Saturday 13th September 2014 ~ Back in the real world....
Solhampton Kingfisher lake was the scene for Day 2 of the Jolly Jaunt. Although it was another stunning venue, the fish were a lot more wised-up to anglers on the bank.
Even with plenty of room between pegs it proved a tough nut to crack. More frustration, and a few moans started creeping in. Again it was like fish soup. As nobody had fished it before there was nothing to base an attack on, other than natural instinct.
Yozzer maintained his form from the day before, and somehow conned the fish to the tune of 135lb 02oz. Must have been solid!
On the other side of the lake, Sumo kept mental frailties at bay and put together a fine weight of 73lb 10oz to stay on the podium with a silver medal. Another top quality display from our open angler.
Dennis Jones deservedly made it into the frame with a hard earned 67lb 14oz. Having analysed his previous performance, he learned from mistakes in feeding, put them right, and was suitably rewarded. Well done Den.
Pete Maestro Lucas started on the method, but after a few early fish, he reverted to pole tactics to put together a section winning 66lb 10oz. 'Clueless' is a kidder, this boy can fish a bit when he wants to. Nice one Luco, have you thought about buying fishomania tickets?
Following his ton-up performance at Cob, Lee Pickup put in another worthy effort and won the final section with an excellent (on the day) 52lb, so well done Lee.
Sunday 14th September 2014 ~ Yozzer, you're boring us now!
We were back at Solhampton, this time on Badger lake. This is their newest lake, having only opened early this year. Pato, Dennis and Gary had done a pleasure session on Thursday so at least we had something to go on. Tackle shop staff also advised that although there were big fish feeding in the margins, due to water clarity they were tough to catch.
How true. The most frustrating fishing I have ever encountered, along with everyone else. Whatever way it was approached, those carp wouldn't play ball. Feed, the carp would home in straight away, then for no reason, before you got a bite, they bolted out of the swim, until you fed again, and the vicious circle was repeated.
Mainly by fishing tight to his keepnets to hide the line, The Gnome somehow found enough carp, including a couple of 8lbers, to bring yet another ton to the scales and complete a weekend clean sweep with a winning 112lb 10oz.
The ever reliable Dirk lived up to his Wriggler nickname by fishing the worm to post an honourable 81lb and secure an excellent second place.
Jay Pickup completed the frame after borrowing maggots off Lee and Dirk, who were both in his section...... Now there's camaraderie. Jamie weighed 67lb 03oz, to complete a successful weekend for him, nice one son.
Pete Lucas also performed consistently and admirably throughout the 3 days, and won section money again, this time with 66lb 04oz. This should have been enhanced with £2 side-bets. Cargy paid up, Sumo was ill and in a different section, and our little ginger friend just said 'kiss it' :)
For the second time, Paul Cargill was not phased by Yozz catching off the next peg. He got his head down and fished another blinder to get in the money again with a brilliant 65lb 06oz. Overall he has to be the star of the weekend. Well Done.
A big thanks from me to Jamie for organising the event, Tony for his cash handling skills, and Spadger, who sorted out some top class accommodation. Thanks also to Pete Clueless, who spent plenty of time (and laid out his own money) to secure the chosen venues.
Thanks also to you all for a fantastic, fun time. If members don't contribute to banter and issue little challenges, then the weekend wouldn't be what it is........ Brillliant.
Sunday 31 August 2014
MARTIN HALL, 31st August 2014 ~ Silver-bashing gnome triumphs again
Sadly our first visit to Martin Hall will probably be our last. On a lovely sunny day, the fish shut up shop, and although there were some cracking carp both caught and lost, the level of sport was not up to scratch.
The match still created loads of pre-match banter, with Dirk Wriggler bearing the brunt of it. The pressure was well and truly cranked up as Dirk was looking for a section win at worst in order to progress through the challenge. Sumo Edwards was in a similar predicament, but he was largely overlooked despite drawing another end peg flier.
By the end of a gruelling contest, Dirk had shrugged off the pressure, and the section opposition, to go into the next round. His 17lb total was sufficient to ensure his progress by a narrow margin.
Meanwhile, John Edwards was losing both fish and rigs at an alarming rate. He was also ruining Cargy's chances of upsetting the Wriggler by skylining the peg on his frequent visits to the far bank to retrieve snagged rigs. Despite all this, Sumo returned a decent 28lb, good enough for third place on the day. It wasn't enough to win his section though! Bye Bye John.
The venue was a typical snake lake, and most attacked it with a typical approach. Straight over to the far bank looking for carp. With the carp obviously not playing ball, most still chose to stubbornly sat it out. The Garden Gnome, however, adopted his usual tactics and went for everything that swims at short range. Nearly 20lb of assorted skimmers were supplemented by 4 carp and gave Yozzer victory with 38lb.
Despite cracking jokes all day, Gary Brislen still found time to nab 9 or 10 good carp and managed an excellent runners-up slot with a weight of 36lb. Well done to Gary.
Even after drawing in the worst section, The Jolly Green Giant indeed proved to be Jolly for a change as he won that section with a meagre return of 12lb 09oz. Smiles all round then and congrats to Neil Paterson M.B.C (member of B'head Centre), Properous Champion ,etc.
Other honourable weights for Cookie monster with 25lb 15oz, pipping Jambo, who had 25lb 14oz.
N.B. An addition to the match diary. Sunday 28th Sept, there is now a match on Lower Ridge, Saughall. It's on the new lake, not our regular one.
The match still created loads of pre-match banter, with Dirk Wriggler bearing the brunt of it. The pressure was well and truly cranked up as Dirk was looking for a section win at worst in order to progress through the challenge. Sumo Edwards was in a similar predicament, but he was largely overlooked despite drawing another end peg flier.
By the end of a gruelling contest, Dirk had shrugged off the pressure, and the section opposition, to go into the next round. His 17lb total was sufficient to ensure his progress by a narrow margin.
Meanwhile, John Edwards was losing both fish and rigs at an alarming rate. He was also ruining Cargy's chances of upsetting the Wriggler by skylining the peg on his frequent visits to the far bank to retrieve snagged rigs. Despite all this, Sumo returned a decent 28lb, good enough for third place on the day. It wasn't enough to win his section though! Bye Bye John.
The venue was a typical snake lake, and most attacked it with a typical approach. Straight over to the far bank looking for carp. With the carp obviously not playing ball, most still chose to stubbornly sat it out. The Garden Gnome, however, adopted his usual tactics and went for everything that swims at short range. Nearly 20lb of assorted skimmers were supplemented by 4 carp and gave Yozzer victory with 38lb.
Despite cracking jokes all day, Gary Brislen still found time to nab 9 or 10 good carp and managed an excellent runners-up slot with a weight of 36lb. Well done to Gary.
Even after drawing in the worst section, The Jolly Green Giant indeed proved to be Jolly for a change as he won that section with a meagre return of 12lb 09oz. Smiles all round then and congrats to Neil Paterson M.B.C (member of B'head Centre), Properous Champion ,etc.
Other honourable weights for Cookie monster with 25lb 15oz, pipping Jambo, who had 25lb 14oz.
N.B. An addition to the match diary. Sunday 28th Sept, there is now a match on Lower Ridge, Saughall. It's on the new lake, not our regular one.
Wednesday 27 August 2014
LINGMERE, Ben Pickup Memorial, 24/8/14 ~ Gnome denies fairytale ending for Lee
Once again, Yozzer's venue experience came to the fore. Despite the threat of a next peg battering by Dennis, who was coached at his peg all match, the Gnome held his nerve and put 89lb 03oz of F1s, big skimmers, barbel and carp on the scales. It proved to be more than enough to retain the trophy.
A win for Ben's dad Lee Pickup would have provided a perfect ending to the day but, alas, Lee fell short, although his 68lb 08oz was still a great effort. He also put a dent in Dirk's section winners challenge.
Dirk Wriggler again produced a polished performance at Lingmere, but agonisingly for him 64lb was not enough for qualification this time. It was however, sufficient to merit a third place finish, so well done to Lord Leasowe.
The Lord's butler, Andy Lawton gained an excellent section win with his silvers-based catch of 31lb 12oz. He too put the brakes on challenge progress. John Edwards psyche suggested another early bath, but as he was drawn at the far end of the lake, the walk of shame wasn't an option, as he would have disturbed the whole field.
The plan was to sit it out and try for (a) 20lb, and (b) a section win. Plan A worked when Sumo managed 25lb, But the pressure is well and truly on now as only a section win next week will be good enough.
The other sections were won by the ever reliable Ian Simpson, with an honourable 57lb 11oz, Cookie Monster with 39lb 12oz, and Chairman Lynch with 62lb 04oz. Well done to all these members.
Not content to chair club meetings however, Spadger decided to 'run' this match too, calling all-in, much to the amazement of Jamie, who hadn't even filled his pole pot, and then all-out when Jamie was expecting another 2 minutes! He was even cheeky enough to supplement the all-out with a cry of 'fish on' too.
Monday 18 August 2014
MARTIN HALL FISHERY.
Took a trip to Martin Hall in view of our match in the near future. It's 30 miles, going towards Lathoms, Burscough then carrying on along the A59. Postcode is PR4 4TE.
Started on 4mm XP with micros. Loads of small skimmers and roach. Will be seen as a nuisance by most. Had no 6mm but a change to meat and corn brought better fish. Skimmers from 4oz to 1.5lb, cross bred crucians to 1lb, and some nice roach. Ended with a mixed bag of these for about 15lb. Also had a 3lb tench, of which there are apparently loads. Had 14 carp for about 60lb on meat. The biggest was 12lb. Tried paste but it didn't work on the day. Only fished topkit and 6m, as I usually do. It's about 14m across, where you should get more carp. Max depth is similar to Lingy. Club Match over the weekend was won with 79lb, all carp.
That's all I know, but it's better than nowt, good luck.
Started on 4mm XP with micros. Loads of small skimmers and roach. Will be seen as a nuisance by most. Had no 6mm but a change to meat and corn brought better fish. Skimmers from 4oz to 1.5lb, cross bred crucians to 1lb, and some nice roach. Ended with a mixed bag of these for about 15lb. Also had a 3lb tench, of which there are apparently loads. Had 14 carp for about 60lb on meat. The biggest was 12lb. Tried paste but it didn't work on the day. Only fished topkit and 6m, as I usually do. It's about 14m across, where you should get more carp. Max depth is similar to Lingy. Club Match over the weekend was won with 79lb, all carp.
That's all I know, but it's better than nowt, good luck.
Monday 4 August 2014
LLOYDS, BADGER, 3/8/14 ~Yozz hits 'em for six
15 on a pleasant day at Lloyds. Plenty of pre-match banter regarding the club record weight, with everyone looking to a good day's sport. However, a lot of the preferred pegs did not produce what was anticipated.
Neil Paterson won the first section down from the car park with a mediocre 37lb. A huge improvement on recent outings for the jolly one though, and he even managed a couple of his beloved sniggs on chopped worm n caster. Pato, Pato give us a smile, well done Neil.
The usual bullshine from a few suggested it had been a bit of a struggle and yet Jamie Pickup still put a creditable 52lb 14oz in the weigh-sling, including a good number of carp. A section win was the reward, although not the honour of top Pickup. That went to dad Kenny, who caught carp from the margins straight from the off, and earned the bronze medal with an excellent 53lb 08oz. Nice one KP.
Second place went to Gary Brislen, who used his trademark paste approach to weigh 56lb 02oz. A very good performance from 'laughin boy' although his plight was helped when Paul Robb, on the neighbouring peg, packed up early having left his mirror at home.
The Garden Gnome secured his sixth match win of the current campaign, making good use of a decent peg. Meat down the middle brought some early carp and proper skimmers. Then followed an hour of ide bashing on maggot shallow, before a final flurry of margin caught carp. His total at the end went 93lb 02oz, for a comfortable victory. With your best 6 results counting towards club angler of the year qualification, Yozz would appear to be in a strong position.
Back on the scene now work will allow, The Maestro, aka Pete Clueless, showed he still has what it takes, with a section winning 44lb 02oz. Not as good as it might sound though cos Pete reckons if he'd landed everything, the club record would be 200lb. Keep feeding 5kg of groundbait, that's what I say.
The club clown award went to Steve Cookie monster. A sudden gust of wind caught his brolly, which in turn bent the brolly arm attachment. This caused a spoke to come free and pierce his 13m pole section. Playing a 6lb carp at the time, he lunged to save the brolly, etc. and the pole went straight. His topkit came off the end of the pole and went into the lake. Luckily it appeared that the carp had come off. Asking Pato to try a rescue operation, the Big Man somehow managed to get hold of the errant section. Suddenly the elastic streamed from the pole again. It seems the carp was only resting. Cookie had the cheek to rejoin the topkit to the pole and play the fish back into his own peg. Amazing!
Neil Paterson won the first section down from the car park with a mediocre 37lb. A huge improvement on recent outings for the jolly one though, and he even managed a couple of his beloved sniggs on chopped worm n caster. Pato, Pato give us a smile, well done Neil.
The usual bullshine from a few suggested it had been a bit of a struggle and yet Jamie Pickup still put a creditable 52lb 14oz in the weigh-sling, including a good number of carp. A section win was the reward, although not the honour of top Pickup. That went to dad Kenny, who caught carp from the margins straight from the off, and earned the bronze medal with an excellent 53lb 08oz. Nice one KP.
Second place went to Gary Brislen, who used his trademark paste approach to weigh 56lb 02oz. A very good performance from 'laughin boy' although his plight was helped when Paul Robb, on the neighbouring peg, packed up early having left his mirror at home.
The Garden Gnome secured his sixth match win of the current campaign, making good use of a decent peg. Meat down the middle brought some early carp and proper skimmers. Then followed an hour of ide bashing on maggot shallow, before a final flurry of margin caught carp. His total at the end went 93lb 02oz, for a comfortable victory. With your best 6 results counting towards club angler of the year qualification, Yozz would appear to be in a strong position.
Back on the scene now work will allow, The Maestro, aka Pete Clueless, showed he still has what it takes, with a section winning 44lb 02oz. Not as good as it might sound though cos Pete reckons if he'd landed everything, the club record would be 200lb. Keep feeding 5kg of groundbait, that's what I say.
The club clown award went to Steve Cookie monster. A sudden gust of wind caught his brolly, which in turn bent the brolly arm attachment. This caused a spoke to come free and pierce his 13m pole section. Playing a 6lb carp at the time, he lunged to save the brolly, etc. and the pole went straight. His topkit came off the end of the pole and went into the lake. Luckily it appeared that the carp had come off. Asking Pato to try a rescue operation, the Big Man somehow managed to get hold of the errant section. Suddenly the elastic streamed from the pole again. It seems the carp was only resting. Cookie had the cheek to rejoin the topkit to the pole and play the fish back into his own peg. Amazing!
Monday 28 July 2014
HAMPTON, ROCK, 27/7/14 ~ Gnome pays the rent with Rock success.
Sweltering temperatures for the week leading up to the match coupled with a turnout of 18 meant that Rock pool was under pressure to produce a decent level of sport. It didn't do too badly as half the membership managed in excess of 30lb.
I'm not saying that the Gnome lives on Hampton, but he does have a rent book. His venue knowledge came to the fore as a string of decent carp came to the net in the second half of the match. Corn in the margins proving fruitful. The usual good net of mixed small fish had not materialised, so the lumps were needed. A final tally of 69lb 12oz was enough for a comfortable victory.
Whenever John Edwards fishes for the full 5 hours he proves to be a quality club angler. This was in evidence in today's match as a mixed bag caught mainly on the tip gave a return of 46lb 08oz. Well done to Sumo for his performance and for staying the distance.
When Dirk Wriggler drew a corner peg with no tip chuck it didn't look good, but as usual he worked his magic to make the frame once again, this time with 42lb 04oz. So consistent, Dirk should be venturing onto the open match circuit by now.
Lee Pickup is another who is always thereabouts and his 37lb 08oz was good enough for the customary section win.
Dad Kenny just pipped Lee in the weight stakes and he too took a well earned section win with his excellent 38lb 07oz.
Final section went to Pretty boy Robb with 19lb 12oz.
Moving into August there are still 13 anglers left in the 20lb Challenge which means we have been to some cracking fisheries or the membership is full of talent.... you decide. There are however, only 4 left in the Section winners Challenge. Things are hotting up for that one.
I'm not saying that the Gnome lives on Hampton, but he does have a rent book. His venue knowledge came to the fore as a string of decent carp came to the net in the second half of the match. Corn in the margins proving fruitful. The usual good net of mixed small fish had not materialised, so the lumps were needed. A final tally of 69lb 12oz was enough for a comfortable victory.
Whenever John Edwards fishes for the full 5 hours he proves to be a quality club angler. This was in evidence in today's match as a mixed bag caught mainly on the tip gave a return of 46lb 08oz. Well done to Sumo for his performance and for staying the distance.
When Dirk Wriggler drew a corner peg with no tip chuck it didn't look good, but as usual he worked his magic to make the frame once again, this time with 42lb 04oz. So consistent, Dirk should be venturing onto the open match circuit by now.
Lee Pickup is another who is always thereabouts and his 37lb 08oz was good enough for the customary section win.
Dad Kenny just pipped Lee in the weight stakes and he too took a well earned section win with his excellent 38lb 07oz.
Final section went to Pretty boy Robb with 19lb 12oz.
Moving into August there are still 13 anglers left in the 20lb Challenge which means we have been to some cracking fisheries or the membership is full of talent.... you decide. There are however, only 4 left in the Section winners Challenge. Things are hotting up for that one.
Monday 14 July 2014
LINGMERE, 13/7/14 ~ Cream finally reaches the top with success for Dirk
Surprise, Surprise, that unpleasant Lingmere breeze reared it's ugly head on Sunday. However, those that sat in it were generally rewarded with better sport than those who had it comfortable.
After an amazingly consistent season, with podium finishes and section wins seemingly every week, it came as a bit of a shock to find that this was Dirk Wriggler's 1st win of the current campaign. The cream finally came to the top courtesy of a mixed bag on dead maggot which totalled 74lb 04oz. Another fine display so well done Degsy.
Some people's efforts to kid everyone are just plain ridiculous, and Jamie Pickup announcing that he had 25lb was one of them. Incredibly his fish ended up more numerous than his moans. "This wind is spoilin it.... if only this...if only that, I coulda done a ton." If only my auntie had balls....... Anyway, 25lb became 68lb 04oz and gave Jay an excellent silver medal. Awesome, and a lovely bloke too!
Lingmere regular Gary Fairhead completed the frame with an ide based weight of 55lb 15oz. Another good effort but can he produce the goods on other venues? Time will tell.
Despite his late arrival due to field testing the latest hair products, Paul Robb won a section with 46lb 08oz. Maggot on the 'mong' was the successful approach. It meant that Paul could keep looking in the mirror instead of watching a float. It worked, so well done Robbo.
Laughin boy Brislen also won a section with an excellent 47lb 10oz, while massive praise must go to Paul Cargill. Apart from the odd alcoholic mishap, Cargy turns up week in, week out, and supports the club at meetings too. He finally got his reward with a first ever section win after weighing 43lb 08oz of feeder caught carp. Such was his domination that he forced Sumo to retire to the Caernarvon midway through the match. Mind you, that's happened loads of times, but that section win....Brilliant.
After an amazingly consistent season, with podium finishes and section wins seemingly every week, it came as a bit of a shock to find that this was Dirk Wriggler's 1st win of the current campaign. The cream finally came to the top courtesy of a mixed bag on dead maggot which totalled 74lb 04oz. Another fine display so well done Degsy.
Some people's efforts to kid everyone are just plain ridiculous, and Jamie Pickup announcing that he had 25lb was one of them. Incredibly his fish ended up more numerous than his moans. "This wind is spoilin it.... if only this...if only that, I coulda done a ton." If only my auntie had balls....... Anyway, 25lb became 68lb 04oz and gave Jay an excellent silver medal. Awesome, and a lovely bloke too!
Lingmere regular Gary Fairhead completed the frame with an ide based weight of 55lb 15oz. Another good effort but can he produce the goods on other venues? Time will tell.
Despite his late arrival due to field testing the latest hair products, Paul Robb won a section with 46lb 08oz. Maggot on the 'mong' was the successful approach. It meant that Paul could keep looking in the mirror instead of watching a float. It worked, so well done Robbo.
Laughin boy Brislen also won a section with an excellent 47lb 10oz, while massive praise must go to Paul Cargill. Apart from the odd alcoholic mishap, Cargy turns up week in, week out, and supports the club at meetings too. He finally got his reward with a first ever section win after weighing 43lb 08oz of feeder caught carp. Such was his domination that he forced Sumo to retire to the Caernarvon midway through the match. Mind you, that's happened loads of times, but that section win....Brilliant.
Wednesday 9 July 2014
*******SPECIAL REPORT******** Garbolino Club Angler FINAL, Cob House Worcester, 9/7/14
Having got through the qualifier at Tunnel Barn Farm in May, the Final was to be held at Cob House Fishery in Worcester. If you visit once or twice a year, it is the place that fishy dreams are made of, but you wouldn't want to go every week.
My decision to have a couple of practice sessions was mainly an excuse to fish the venue and have a few days away, rather than the fact that I might learn something. The first trip was with Nick Harrop, a friend who fishes the dodger matches at Lingmere. Thursday overnight and Friday were planned.
Cob House have 4 match pools and several small pleasure lakes. The match pools are Laugherne Island and Wyatts, which were hosting the final, and Laurel and Oak. Arriving on Thursday morning, we were shocked to find a completely full car park! After purchasing a day ticket and breakfast deal for a tenner, we sat and enjoyed a full English. We then found out that all the match pools had been booked for club matches. Rowlocks.... we just enjoyed a fun day out on one of the pleasure lakes. A quick check revealed that practising on Friday would be a non-starter too as matches would take Laugherne and Wyatts out of the equation.
Hey! who cares? we were there to fish so we went on Laurel which is very similar fishing to Wyatts, i.e. stupid :) Carp from 2 to 5lb with an occasional lump fed freely and we both had 100 fish before calling it a day. Silly fishing but still something to learn. At times, mainly due to feeding it wrong, there would be 15 or so carp in the peg and it was impossible to put a rig into the water. It certainly opens your eyes and makes you think. We had a thoroughly great time, although not quite what was planned.
The second trip was with the Jolly Green Giant aka Pato. Again things didn't look good when we arrived on Monday, with matches booked for Laugherne, and 2 small ones on Wyatts. FFS this was getting silly, it was a Monday !!!! Enquiries brought the news that there were a few pegs left on Wyatts for pleasure anglers, so we hastily put some gear down and went for the fry-up.
Wyatts is similarly stocked to Laurel, and talking to a few people, recent matches had been won on the scoop (pellet feeder to you), both on the rod and on the pole. I was gutted to say the least, but a further conversation restored my faith. Apparently another match had produced big weights on short pole with paste. The tone of the day seemed to be 7 or 8 fish on one line or method and then change. I caught on several short lines, mainly with corn, and ended with another 100 fish. Pato caught shallow at 7 metres, close on the deck, and even on the pellet feeder. However, this was attached to 4 feet of line on the end of a topkit and lowered into the margin. Simply sit 30 seconds until the elastic pours from the pole. As Pato said, no missed bites and no overfeeding.. SIMPLES. Admittedly it is devastatingly effective but despite Neil's urgings I was not remotely interested in borrowing his rig for the big match, having slated him all day for using the newly christened 'gobshite method'. By the way, he ended on 90 fish.
Tuesday saw only one match on the complex, amazing. We wanted a session on Laugherne Island. The fish in this lake are decidedly bigger, but take a bit more catching. Pato started on a 'conventional' pellet feeder, attached to rod and line, and chucked to a gap between two islands. He caught very well for about 3 hours, landing 20 carp, mostly 5lb+. A change to the margins saw a run of bigger carp up to maybe 14lb, and he ended on 44 fish.
I chose several pole lines and managed a few carp. Slower than Neil, but steady, I managed 12 of the 5lb fish. A switch to the margins about 2pm brought me some of those better fish too, and by the end I had 37 carp. We both had well over 200lb but I still came away wondering about tactics for the match. As you will all know, despite Pato's success and persistent badgering, I had no intention of fishing the tip.
Match day arrived and following breakfast I was ready for the draw. 20 pegs on Wyatts (30 peg lake), which was a firm favourite to produce the winner, and 25 on Laugherne (39 pegs). Oh no! a last minute change. As Wyatts was such a favourite, there were to be only 15 pegs on Laugherne to give everyone even more room. The 18 peg OAK lake would be used, with 10 pegs in the draw bag. The whole café was full of open mouthed anglers going, "OAK? What's in Oak? How do you fish Oak? W.T.F.? and other assorted comments.
Hands went into the bag and mine came out attached to peg 11 on Oak. Oh well, it'll be a days fishing. Could be worse, I could be at work (titter, titter.... Snigger, Snigger).
Well, Oak seemed a fairly new 'mudhole' in the ground, but appeared to have more than a few fish in it. At the all-in I went in on short pole with corn, intending to fish as I had fished the other pools. 30 second later I was into my first fish, which turned out to be 5lb. Back in, 2 minute wait and another 5lber made it's way into my keepnet. Wow, what a start. When I next looked at my watch we were close to the 2 hour mark. Despite trying several different things, and watching others catch the occasional fish, I was still on 10lb!!! Where's that number for the Samaritans?
Even without feeding, the margins were coloured up and the odd swirl and tail could be seen. It really was too early to be fishing down the edge but I had nowhere else to go. I fed a tosspot of bait and went in. Despite having 8 to 10 carp mouching on the loosefeed, my float wouldn't go under. The next hour produced another 3 carp. Things then started to happen as I had hoped for. I was getting proper bites on a regular basis and catching a few fish.
At the scales I weighed 106lb, which put me.... errrrm.... nowhere. The lake, and my section, had been won on the other side with 184lb.
The overall winner came off Laugherne with 257lb, and next best was 228 off Wyatts.
To sum up, I felt my match was a bit of a struggle, but realistically that's ridiculous. I had 106lb for god sake. A fantastic day's fishing by anyone's standards, and a brilliant experience from start to finish. Thanks to the club for giving me the opportunity, and I hope the next Eggy representative has as much fun as I have. If they don't, maybe look for some golf clubs or something?
My decision to have a couple of practice sessions was mainly an excuse to fish the venue and have a few days away, rather than the fact that I might learn something. The first trip was with Nick Harrop, a friend who fishes the dodger matches at Lingmere. Thursday overnight and Friday were planned.
Cob House have 4 match pools and several small pleasure lakes. The match pools are Laugherne Island and Wyatts, which were hosting the final, and Laurel and Oak. Arriving on Thursday morning, we were shocked to find a completely full car park! After purchasing a day ticket and breakfast deal for a tenner, we sat and enjoyed a full English. We then found out that all the match pools had been booked for club matches. Rowlocks.... we just enjoyed a fun day out on one of the pleasure lakes. A quick check revealed that practising on Friday would be a non-starter too as matches would take Laugherne and Wyatts out of the equation.
Hey! who cares? we were there to fish so we went on Laurel which is very similar fishing to Wyatts, i.e. stupid :) Carp from 2 to 5lb with an occasional lump fed freely and we both had 100 fish before calling it a day. Silly fishing but still something to learn. At times, mainly due to feeding it wrong, there would be 15 or so carp in the peg and it was impossible to put a rig into the water. It certainly opens your eyes and makes you think. We had a thoroughly great time, although not quite what was planned.
The second trip was with the Jolly Green Giant aka Pato. Again things didn't look good when we arrived on Monday, with matches booked for Laugherne, and 2 small ones on Wyatts. FFS this was getting silly, it was a Monday !!!! Enquiries brought the news that there were a few pegs left on Wyatts for pleasure anglers, so we hastily put some gear down and went for the fry-up.
Wyatts is similarly stocked to Laurel, and talking to a few people, recent matches had been won on the scoop (pellet feeder to you), both on the rod and on the pole. I was gutted to say the least, but a further conversation restored my faith. Apparently another match had produced big weights on short pole with paste. The tone of the day seemed to be 7 or 8 fish on one line or method and then change. I caught on several short lines, mainly with corn, and ended with another 100 fish. Pato caught shallow at 7 metres, close on the deck, and even on the pellet feeder. However, this was attached to 4 feet of line on the end of a topkit and lowered into the margin. Simply sit 30 seconds until the elastic pours from the pole. As Pato said, no missed bites and no overfeeding.. SIMPLES. Admittedly it is devastatingly effective but despite Neil's urgings I was not remotely interested in borrowing his rig for the big match, having slated him all day for using the newly christened 'gobshite method'. By the way, he ended on 90 fish.
Tuesday saw only one match on the complex, amazing. We wanted a session on Laugherne Island. The fish in this lake are decidedly bigger, but take a bit more catching. Pato started on a 'conventional' pellet feeder, attached to rod and line, and chucked to a gap between two islands. He caught very well for about 3 hours, landing 20 carp, mostly 5lb+. A change to the margins saw a run of bigger carp up to maybe 14lb, and he ended on 44 fish.
I chose several pole lines and managed a few carp. Slower than Neil, but steady, I managed 12 of the 5lb fish. A switch to the margins about 2pm brought me some of those better fish too, and by the end I had 37 carp. We both had well over 200lb but I still came away wondering about tactics for the match. As you will all know, despite Pato's success and persistent badgering, I had no intention of fishing the tip.
Match day arrived and following breakfast I was ready for the draw. 20 pegs on Wyatts (30 peg lake), which was a firm favourite to produce the winner, and 25 on Laugherne (39 pegs). Oh no! a last minute change. As Wyatts was such a favourite, there were to be only 15 pegs on Laugherne to give everyone even more room. The 18 peg OAK lake would be used, with 10 pegs in the draw bag. The whole café was full of open mouthed anglers going, "OAK? What's in Oak? How do you fish Oak? W.T.F.? and other assorted comments.
Hands went into the bag and mine came out attached to peg 11 on Oak. Oh well, it'll be a days fishing. Could be worse, I could be at work (titter, titter.... Snigger, Snigger).
Well, Oak seemed a fairly new 'mudhole' in the ground, but appeared to have more than a few fish in it. At the all-in I went in on short pole with corn, intending to fish as I had fished the other pools. 30 second later I was into my first fish, which turned out to be 5lb. Back in, 2 minute wait and another 5lber made it's way into my keepnet. Wow, what a start. When I next looked at my watch we were close to the 2 hour mark. Despite trying several different things, and watching others catch the occasional fish, I was still on 10lb!!! Where's that number for the Samaritans?
Even without feeding, the margins were coloured up and the odd swirl and tail could be seen. It really was too early to be fishing down the edge but I had nowhere else to go. I fed a tosspot of bait and went in. Despite having 8 to 10 carp mouching on the loosefeed, my float wouldn't go under. The next hour produced another 3 carp. Things then started to happen as I had hoped for. I was getting proper bites on a regular basis and catching a few fish.
At the scales I weighed 106lb, which put me.... errrrm.... nowhere. The lake, and my section, had been won on the other side with 184lb.
The overall winner came off Laugherne with 257lb, and next best was 228 off Wyatts.
To sum up, I felt my match was a bit of a struggle, but realistically that's ridiculous. I had 106lb for god sake. A fantastic day's fishing by anyone's standards, and a brilliant experience from start to finish. Thanks to the club for giving me the opportunity, and I hope the next Eggy representative has as much fun as I have. If they don't, maybe look for some golf clubs or something?
Monday 30 June 2014
LATHOMS No1, 29/6/14 ~ The Gnome makes short work of end peg flier
After the last visit, the lake was pegged to give everybody a bit more room. It made no difference whatsoever.
The excellent level of sport remained the same. Like last time though, an end peg was favourable.
Yozzer drew the one at the windward end of the lake and used it to great benefit. Able to catch on his usual short pole approach, the Gnome fished maggot shallow, alternating with a corn line down the edge. The result was an F1 dominated bag, going 77lb 08oz at the weigh-in.
Kenny 'master-catcher' Stuart drew the other end. Pellet in the margins saw Ken find some proper carp and put a decent 55lb 14oz on the scales.
It turned out to be only good enough for a bronze medal, as a brilliant performance by Dave Lynch off the next peg resulted in a mixed bag of ide, chub and F1s falling to Spadger's maggot (and later pellet) shallow attack. A total 59lb 10oz put Spadge into 2nd spot, relegating Kenny to third. A really good effort by both members.
A section went to the ever consistent Dirk Wriggler with a level 51lb, while the other one was won by Sumo Edwards, fresh from his victory in the Cornwall Classic, with 52lb 08oz. Dirk caught mainly shallow, as did Sumo on his new-found gimmick, the Jigger rig. A big well done to both lads.
Spare a thought for Lord Leasowe's butler. Struggling to line the fish up, Andy kept bringing his keepnet in to check that the few fish he had caught hadn't escaped. It had nothing to do with hooking the end of the net. After doing this 3 times it became contagious as the Crafty Cockney, Cookie Monster and finally Yozzer all reached for the keepnet disgorger. Congratulations to them all for maintaining the levels of incompetency we have come to love within the club.
The excellent level of sport remained the same. Like last time though, an end peg was favourable.
Yozzer drew the one at the windward end of the lake and used it to great benefit. Able to catch on his usual short pole approach, the Gnome fished maggot shallow, alternating with a corn line down the edge. The result was an F1 dominated bag, going 77lb 08oz at the weigh-in.
Kenny 'master-catcher' Stuart drew the other end. Pellet in the margins saw Ken find some proper carp and put a decent 55lb 14oz on the scales.
It turned out to be only good enough for a bronze medal, as a brilliant performance by Dave Lynch off the next peg resulted in a mixed bag of ide, chub and F1s falling to Spadger's maggot (and later pellet) shallow attack. A total 59lb 10oz put Spadge into 2nd spot, relegating Kenny to third. A really good effort by both members.
A section went to the ever consistent Dirk Wriggler with a level 51lb, while the other one was won by Sumo Edwards, fresh from his victory in the Cornwall Classic, with 52lb 08oz. Dirk caught mainly shallow, as did Sumo on his new-found gimmick, the Jigger rig. A big well done to both lads.
Spare a thought for Lord Leasowe's butler. Struggling to line the fish up, Andy kept bringing his keepnet in to check that the few fish he had caught hadn't escaped. It had nothing to do with hooking the end of the net. After doing this 3 times it became contagious as the Crafty Cockney, Cookie Monster and finally Yozzer all reached for the keepnet disgorger. Congratulations to them all for maintaining the levels of incompetency we have come to love within the club.
Sunday 22 June 2014
LATEST RESULTS
I have been on holiday, so just the latest match results but no report.
Hampton Springs, Willow, 8th June 2014:
1 Lee Pickup 76lb 12oz
2 Dirk Wriggler 42lb 04oz
3 Jamie Pickup 34lb 00oz
Lingmere, 15th June 2014:
1 Gary Fairhead 99lb 08oz
2 Lee Pickup 90lb10oz
3 Jamie Pickup 77lb 00oz
Section Paul Robb 53lb 14oz
Section Dirk Wriggler 62lb 02oz
A big well done to all.
Hampton Springs, Willow, 8th June 2014:
1 Lee Pickup 76lb 12oz
2 Dirk Wriggler 42lb 04oz
3 Jamie Pickup 34lb 00oz
Lingmere, 15th June 2014:
1 Gary Fairhead 99lb 08oz
2 Lee Pickup 90lb10oz
3 Jamie Pickup 77lb 00oz
Section Paul Robb 53lb 14oz
Section Dirk Wriggler 62lb 02oz
A big well done to all.
Tuesday 27 May 2014
MEMBERS NOTICE
Dave Cargill memorial match is Sunday 20th July 2014 at Moreton Brickworks. Please inform Jamie asap if you are going.
Monday 26 May 2014
LLOYDS BADGER, 25/5/14 ~ KP is the nuts on Lloyds
Lloyds Meadow's Badger pool provided the setting for the latest club outing. Flat calm conditions meant everyone could comfortably fish long if they so wished, so no excuses. Intermittent rain showers threatened to spoil things, and to some extent they did. The carp population didn't feed in earnest, and when they did it was only against the far bank.
Kenny Pickup was one who found carp, including fish to about 8lb. Pellet to the far side was the successful method, although he did lose a few carp, along with some hooks, floats, and even a set of elastic. Supplemented by a few crucians and skimmers at 6m, Kenny totalled a creditable 49lb to secure a narrow victory.
Such was Ken's dominance that a well known member threw the towel in at one o'clock, and ended up talking to the Samaritans from the comfort of the Caernarvon Arms. Who's the Daddy?
Close behind was Our Lee (Pickup). He too fished mainly long to the island, this time with meat and caster, for another carp dominated catch weighing 47lb 06oz. A good effort once again, well done Lee.
A change to the new Garbolino baseball cap certainly revived The Wriggler's fortunes. Following a couple of quieter matches, Dirk was back on song, bringing 43lb 10oz to the scales. Like a lot of other members, he targeted the lake's silvers with worm and caster and a procession of decent ide, skimmers, roach and rudd gave the excellent return, and a bronze medal.
The final section was a close affair, with Spadger looking the likely winner. However, Steve the Cookie Monster had other ideas, and with 5 decent carp from the margins in the last hour, he inched ahead to total 33lb 10oz, and take the envelope. Nice one.
The 'challenges' now move on to round 3 at Hampton, with 17 still going for the 20lb, and 8 looking for another section win....interesting.
Kenny Pickup was one who found carp, including fish to about 8lb. Pellet to the far side was the successful method, although he did lose a few carp, along with some hooks, floats, and even a set of elastic. Supplemented by a few crucians and skimmers at 6m, Kenny totalled a creditable 49lb to secure a narrow victory.
Close behind was Our Lee (Pickup). He too fished mainly long to the island, this time with meat and caster, for another carp dominated catch weighing 47lb 06oz. A good effort once again, well done Lee.
A change to the new Garbolino baseball cap certainly revived The Wriggler's fortunes. Following a couple of quieter matches, Dirk was back on song, bringing 43lb 10oz to the scales. Like a lot of other members, he targeted the lake's silvers with worm and caster and a procession of decent ide, skimmers, roach and rudd gave the excellent return, and a bronze medal.
The final section was a close affair, with Spadger looking the likely winner. However, Steve the Cookie Monster had other ideas, and with 5 decent carp from the margins in the last hour, he inched ahead to total 33lb 10oz, and take the envelope. Nice one.
The 'challenges' now move on to round 3 at Hampton, with 17 still going for the 20lb, and 8 looking for another section win....interesting.
Wednesday 14 May 2014
******SPECIAL REPORT********* Garbolino Club Angler, Tunnel Barn, 14/5/14
When the entry form appeared this year in Match Angling magazine, there was a surprise. Two anglers from each club would be allowed to enter. From results throughout the year it was decided that me (Yozzer) and Dirk Wriggler would represent Eggy Ferry. We chose to follow Pato's lead from last year, and enter the Tunnel Barn qualifier. Pete Lucas had qualified through a Warrington club so a Premier Inn was booked for 3.
Arriving at 9.15, we made enquiries in the tackle shop. I have fished most of the pools on the complex, along with Luco, with the exception of New pool. This is where I fancied having a practise. Staff told us to fish pegs 3,4 and 5, so off we went.
With Dirk on his first TBF visit we decided to just get a feel of things till noon, before starting a 6 hour knock-up. Good job we did this because it was a shock to find the lake had been stocked over the winter with hoardes of 3oz F1s. I had opted to fish pellet to start with but it was apparent very quickly that this would be a waste of time. A change to meat was in order. Having found some 'beef and chicken' luncheon meat in the 99p shop, and cut up four tins, I thought I'd go with it. Oh dear! no wonder it was cheap, every last piece floated, much to the joy of the lake's duck population and their young. Plan C, and onto my trusty TBF favourite of corn n hemp.
Pete and Derek both chose to do caster shallow and they were both into fish from the off. Unfortunately it was 6oz ide and other assorted silvers, and not the expected F1s.
By the time 12 o'clock came, we had each sorted things out to a degree. I was catching the odd decent F1 and the others were catching on the caster.
By mid afternoon I had progressed to catching slowly in the margins, as had Pete, who found that micros were working better than hemp for him and his meat also sank.
Dirk meanwhile, was battering F1s by fishing hard up against the far bank reeds and tapping 'mong' style. Banded red pellet was doing the damage.
At the weigh-in Luco's digital scales had flat batteries, DOH! so we admired each others catches, estimating that we'd all probably managed a ton, and tipped back.
We had a pleasant meal at a Beefeater pub, a few drinks, and a chat about the forthcoming match. By 10.30 we were all more than ready to sleep.
Now if the match had been a snoring competition, Dirk would have walked it, and been an England International. Jeez, me and Pete struggled to doze off and to add insult to injury, The Wriggler awoke in the morning and tried to tell us he'd not slept very well!
Big match excitement meant we were at the Barn by 7.30 having breakfast and talking to some people we knew, and some we didn't.
It was choc-a-bloc, and then they announced that there were 224 entries, and 21 qualifying places up for grabs. Spreads over 9 lakes on the complex, it was going to equate to roughly the top 2 anglers on each lake progressing to the final. Financially, there would be 5-peg sections paying £50 to the winner. Personally, it was a case of 'get a bite', get a fish and then if things go well, worry about the section. Mind you, it was good money for such a small section.
Draw time, and Dirk was keen to be at the front of the queue, worried that 2 hours wouldn't be enough time to tackle up. Lucas was chilled, and I would have been just as happy at the back of the queue.
Into the bag, and Degsy pulled out New 4, Pete's peg from yesterday. Gotta be happy with that, at least it was familiar territory. Luco drew Canal 14, which I didn't really fancy, but he seemed OK with. I ended up with House 18. Only fished the pool once previously, but was happy to give it a go.
After dropping Dirk off, I arrived at the lake and went searching for my peg. I liked what I saw, and really fancied a good day's fishing from it. Nothing special, but it felt right and I had a bit of room, a rarity with so many anglers fishing.
Starting on my top kit out in front, I went with 6mm pellet, Hampton-style. 30 seconds in and my first bite was converted into a 1lb F1. I'm happy. 3 more decent F1s came quickly, before a few silly missed bites had me thinking. Sure enough, it was those 3oz F1s again. Changing swiftly onto corn n hemp soon solved that. For 2 hours I caught steadily, getting 6/7 fish before moving a yard sideways to keep in touch with the fish, which would back off. It worked a treat, even if I did have to add a short 4 on occasions. I drip fed the margins on both sides from the off, and at midmatch, with action slowing, it was time for a look. Again, 4 or 5 fish from one side, then switch to the other, and then back again.
At the whistle I had 95 proper F1s. My initial thoughts were, I wonder how the others got on, Wow what a nice day's fishing, I might have won my section.
Phoned Dirk, 12 F1s, not good, 40lb has won his section. Rang Lucas, 26lb, his section won with 32lb, not good. Both lakes had not fished as hoped.
Seems that House pool would be last to get weighed, so I politely asked Pete if he had time to come down and lift my nets out for me. With Lucas getting more excited than me, I admit that I have a ton. An angler at the other end of my lake weighed in 111lb, and is currently in the lead. Second best is 100lb. I allowed myself to think I might qualify for the final, and possibly win my section. 3 weighs later and I totalled 134lb, which, unbelievably was going to be enough for me to win the whole qualifier.
After a photo session with Garbo superstars for the magazine, I made my way to the presentation. Again I was shocked when they announced that first prize was £400. Fantastic, but I would have been just as happy with no cash, as long as I can keep the buzz of winning.
Next time you win an Eggy section and pick up a 'measly' £21, think more about your Garbo Club Angler points. As the TV advert says, some things are priceless. This experience is one of them.
Arriving at 9.15, we made enquiries in the tackle shop. I have fished most of the pools on the complex, along with Luco, with the exception of New pool. This is where I fancied having a practise. Staff told us to fish pegs 3,4 and 5, so off we went.
With Dirk on his first TBF visit we decided to just get a feel of things till noon, before starting a 6 hour knock-up. Good job we did this because it was a shock to find the lake had been stocked over the winter with hoardes of 3oz F1s. I had opted to fish pellet to start with but it was apparent very quickly that this would be a waste of time. A change to meat was in order. Having found some 'beef and chicken' luncheon meat in the 99p shop, and cut up four tins, I thought I'd go with it. Oh dear! no wonder it was cheap, every last piece floated, much to the joy of the lake's duck population and their young. Plan C, and onto my trusty TBF favourite of corn n hemp.
Pete and Derek both chose to do caster shallow and they were both into fish from the off. Unfortunately it was 6oz ide and other assorted silvers, and not the expected F1s.
By the time 12 o'clock came, we had each sorted things out to a degree. I was catching the odd decent F1 and the others were catching on the caster.
By mid afternoon I had progressed to catching slowly in the margins, as had Pete, who found that micros were working better than hemp for him and his meat also sank.
Dirk meanwhile, was battering F1s by fishing hard up against the far bank reeds and tapping 'mong' style. Banded red pellet was doing the damage.
At the weigh-in Luco's digital scales had flat batteries, DOH! so we admired each others catches, estimating that we'd all probably managed a ton, and tipped back.
We had a pleasant meal at a Beefeater pub, a few drinks, and a chat about the forthcoming match. By 10.30 we were all more than ready to sleep.
Now if the match had been a snoring competition, Dirk would have walked it, and been an England International. Jeez, me and Pete struggled to doze off and to add insult to injury, The Wriggler awoke in the morning and tried to tell us he'd not slept very well!
Big match excitement meant we were at the Barn by 7.30 having breakfast and talking to some people we knew, and some we didn't.
It was choc-a-bloc, and then they announced that there were 224 entries, and 21 qualifying places up for grabs. Spreads over 9 lakes on the complex, it was going to equate to roughly the top 2 anglers on each lake progressing to the final. Financially, there would be 5-peg sections paying £50 to the winner. Personally, it was a case of 'get a bite', get a fish and then if things go well, worry about the section. Mind you, it was good money for such a small section.
Draw time, and Dirk was keen to be at the front of the queue, worried that 2 hours wouldn't be enough time to tackle up. Lucas was chilled, and I would have been just as happy at the back of the queue.
Into the bag, and Degsy pulled out New 4, Pete's peg from yesterday. Gotta be happy with that, at least it was familiar territory. Luco drew Canal 14, which I didn't really fancy, but he seemed OK with. I ended up with House 18. Only fished the pool once previously, but was happy to give it a go.
After dropping Dirk off, I arrived at the lake and went searching for my peg. I liked what I saw, and really fancied a good day's fishing from it. Nothing special, but it felt right and I had a bit of room, a rarity with so many anglers fishing.
Starting on my top kit out in front, I went with 6mm pellet, Hampton-style. 30 seconds in and my first bite was converted into a 1lb F1. I'm happy. 3 more decent F1s came quickly, before a few silly missed bites had me thinking. Sure enough, it was those 3oz F1s again. Changing swiftly onto corn n hemp soon solved that. For 2 hours I caught steadily, getting 6/7 fish before moving a yard sideways to keep in touch with the fish, which would back off. It worked a treat, even if I did have to add a short 4 on occasions. I drip fed the margins on both sides from the off, and at midmatch, with action slowing, it was time for a look. Again, 4 or 5 fish from one side, then switch to the other, and then back again.
At the whistle I had 95 proper F1s. My initial thoughts were, I wonder how the others got on, Wow what a nice day's fishing, I might have won my section.
Phoned Dirk, 12 F1s, not good, 40lb has won his section. Rang Lucas, 26lb, his section won with 32lb, not good. Both lakes had not fished as hoped.
Seems that House pool would be last to get weighed, so I politely asked Pete if he had time to come down and lift my nets out for me. With Lucas getting more excited than me, I admit that I have a ton. An angler at the other end of my lake weighed in 111lb, and is currently in the lead. Second best is 100lb. I allowed myself to think I might qualify for the final, and possibly win my section. 3 weighs later and I totalled 134lb, which, unbelievably was going to be enough for me to win the whole qualifier.
After a photo session with Garbo superstars for the magazine, I made my way to the presentation. Again I was shocked when they announced that first prize was £400. Fantastic, but I would have been just as happy with no cash, as long as I can keep the buzz of winning.
Next time you win an Eggy section and pick up a 'measly' £21, think more about your Garbo Club Angler points. As the TV advert says, some things are priceless. This experience is one of them.
Monday 12 May 2014
LINGMERE, 11/5/14 ~ Yozz uses venue knowledge to good effect
Pretty standard conditions for Lingmere, with a stiff breeze blowing down the lake and occasional showers. The Cockney geezer bowed out without wetting a line, and Lee Pickup did 'the walk' after a couple of hours. Everyone else sat it out, albeit frustrated at how difficult it was to get decent presentation. Despite the weather, it fished very well, with some excellent weights being recorded.
Using his knowledge gained from fishing the 'dodgers matches' on a Wednesday, The Garden Gnome put together 65lb 08oz, half of which were quality skimmers, on caster and pellet. Yozzer scraped home by the skin of his teeth.....okay, he's got no teeth but you know what I mean, with the rest of the field close behind.
A rare club outing for Col Cook brought him a decent return of 63lb 12oz, again consisting of quality silvers to enhance the F1s. Well Done Col.
With none of the pre-match info working for him, John Edwards decided to chuck it and chance it. His method tactics proved fruitful to the tune of a level 62lb and a well earned 2nd loser spot for the in-form Fishomaniac, Awesome Sumo!
Pete Lucas also made his first appearance in ages, following his departure from managerial duties. Showing he'd not lost the old magic, The Maestro did brilliantly to put 35lb on the scales with his first net. Declaring that he had the same in the other net, it seemed like game over, but alas for Luco, it only went 25lb and a total of 60lb 08oz. Good enough for a mere section win, and on the pole too. Maybe he's learnt a new trick or two in his absence.
Spadger bore the brunt of the wind and fished short pole for an excellent 54lb 14oz and a section win, while Dennis Jones again showed his scratching skills in the worst section, which he won with 31lb 12oz. Congrats to both.
A testimony to the quality of sport on offer was the fact that everyone who weighed in progressed to the next round of the 20lb challenge.
Using his knowledge gained from fishing the 'dodgers matches' on a Wednesday, The Garden Gnome put together 65lb 08oz, half of which were quality skimmers, on caster and pellet. Yozzer scraped home by the skin of his teeth.....okay, he's got no teeth but you know what I mean, with the rest of the field close behind.
A rare club outing for Col Cook brought him a decent return of 63lb 12oz, again consisting of quality silvers to enhance the F1s. Well Done Col.
With none of the pre-match info working for him, John Edwards decided to chuck it and chance it. His method tactics proved fruitful to the tune of a level 62lb and a well earned 2nd loser spot for the in-form Fishomaniac, Awesome Sumo!
Pete Lucas also made his first appearance in ages, following his departure from managerial duties. Showing he'd not lost the old magic, The Maestro did brilliantly to put 35lb on the scales with his first net. Declaring that he had the same in the other net, it seemed like game over, but alas for Luco, it only went 25lb and a total of 60lb 08oz. Good enough for a mere section win, and on the pole too. Maybe he's learnt a new trick or two in his absence.
Spadger bore the brunt of the wind and fished short pole for an excellent 54lb 14oz and a section win, while Dennis Jones again showed his scratching skills in the worst section, which he won with 31lb 12oz. Congrats to both.
A testimony to the quality of sport on offer was the fact that everyone who weighed in progressed to the next round of the 20lb challenge.
Tuesday 6 May 2014
*****MEMBERS NOTICE******
It was decided at the latest meeting to amend rule 4. Members must fish 6 matches. Only 3 visits to Lingmere will count, and 3 OTHER matches.
Monday 5 May 2014
BLUNDELLS, WEST LODGE, 4/5/14 ~ The Gnome ensures Sumo double chances go west
In contrast to our last Blundells visit, this time a flat calm canal greeted us, so everyone had the option to fish long if necessary. After last week's success, and subsequent abuse on this blog, John Edwards was keen to show he could win more than once. Drawing an end peg saw Sumo oozing confidence, and at the scales he set the benchmark at 47lb 08oz, with a mix of carp and F1s, caught on meat and pellet. A very good effort on the day.
Alas for John, The Garden Gnome, wielding 14metres of his not so sparkly new Tricast pole, foiled the double attempt. Pellet to the far bank, an alien approach for Yozzer, produced plenty of proper carp and a few quality F1s which totalled 64lb 08oz, to earn a comfortable gold medal.
Despite losing several rigs in far bank foliage, Lee Pickup managed to ship enough back with fish attached to register a decent return of 39lb 04oz, claim third spot, and maintain his recent run of form. Well done Lee.
One section wasn't as prolific as the others, and members struggled by comparison, with The Cookie Monster, Steve, again astounding everyone with his angling prowess. He brought 17lb 12oz to the scales and took a brown envelope away. Nice one Cookie.
With the next round of the challenges underway, Pato with 25lb, Jamie with 35lb. and Dirk with 25lb, all progressed with the framers.
Although the massive head of silvers failed to show on the day, enough quality F1s and carp were caught to suggest that this venue is booked again.
See you at the meeting on Tuesday.
Alas for John, The Garden Gnome, wielding 14metres of his not so sparkly new Tricast pole, foiled the double attempt. Pellet to the far bank, an alien approach for Yozzer, produced plenty of proper carp and a few quality F1s which totalled 64lb 08oz, to earn a comfortable gold medal.
Despite losing several rigs in far bank foliage, Lee Pickup managed to ship enough back with fish attached to register a decent return of 39lb 04oz, claim third spot, and maintain his recent run of form. Well done Lee.
One section wasn't as prolific as the others, and members struggled by comparison, with The Cookie Monster, Steve, again astounding everyone with his angling prowess. He brought 17lb 12oz to the scales and took a brown envelope away. Nice one Cookie.
With the next round of the challenges underway, Pato with 25lb, Jamie with 35lb. and Dirk with 25lb, all progressed with the framers.
Although the massive head of silvers failed to show on the day, enough quality F1s and carp were caught to suggest that this venue is booked again.
See you at the meeting on Tuesday.
Monday 28 April 2014
HAMPTON, LONG ISLAND, 27/4/14 ~ Sumo hits form in time for fisho
An average attendance at Hampton meant that everyone had a bit of room for once. However, Sod's Law kicked in and the venue proved difficult to crack, with even the new stockies not playing ball.
This time of year sees the qualifiers for Fishomania and MaverMatchThis starting in earnest, so with several members holding numerous tickets and hotel reservations, how significant could it prove to be that John Edwards appears to have hit top form?
Sumo match wins are like birthdays, he normally has one a year, so Many Happy Returns to John on an impressive display. Three or four decent carp on the tip were supplemented with a nice mix of crucians, skimmers and small stockies which together went 35lb 08oz, securing victory and putting Sumo in confident mood for those bigger forthcoming matches. Good Luck to him and other club members in those events.
Venue regular Yozzer was pegged in a Pickup sandwich, with Jamie on one side and Kenny on the other. Despite Jamie's insistence that 'me dad' had easily won the section, and possibly the match, The Gnome did his usual scratch for anything, and ended up second with a 28lb 06oz total, made up of pellet caught crucians, tench, skimmers and small carp. (Kenny had 25lb)
After struggling for most of the match, Lee Pickup found a few decent carp on the tip in the last hour, and weighed 27lb 08oz for third place. Well done Lee.
Andy Lawton added to his bits n pieces with 2 margin lumps late on and secured another section win with his 21lb 09oz total. Nice one Andy.
Congratulations to all who qualified in the 'challenges'. Round 2 starts next week and includes Blundells, Lingmere and Lloyds Badger.
This time of year sees the qualifiers for Fishomania and MaverMatchThis starting in earnest, so with several members holding numerous tickets and hotel reservations, how significant could it prove to be that John Edwards appears to have hit top form?
Sumo match wins are like birthdays, he normally has one a year, so Many Happy Returns to John on an impressive display. Three or four decent carp on the tip were supplemented with a nice mix of crucians, skimmers and small stockies which together went 35lb 08oz, securing victory and putting Sumo in confident mood for those bigger forthcoming matches. Good Luck to him and other club members in those events.
Venue regular Yozzer was pegged in a Pickup sandwich, with Jamie on one side and Kenny on the other. Despite Jamie's insistence that 'me dad' had easily won the section, and possibly the match, The Gnome did his usual scratch for anything, and ended up second with a 28lb 06oz total, made up of pellet caught crucians, tench, skimmers and small carp. (Kenny had 25lb)
After struggling for most of the match, Lee Pickup found a few decent carp on the tip in the last hour, and weighed 27lb 08oz for third place. Well done Lee.
Andy Lawton added to his bits n pieces with 2 margin lumps late on and secured another section win with his 21lb 09oz total. Nice one Andy.
Congratulations to all who qualified in the 'challenges'. Round 2 starts next week and includes Blundells, Lingmere and Lloyds Badger.
Monday 14 April 2014
LATHOMS No1, 13/4/14 ~ Angler - Jamie = awesome.... Venue - Lathoms = awesome....Together = UNBELIEVABLE!
Another first for the club as this time we visited Lathoms No1 at Burscough. A long trek of 20 miles, and tunnel money to boot, but opinion suggests it was worth the journey.
Pegging couldn't get any tighter unless we put two anglers on the same peg. Permanent pegs were about 5 metres apart, which pointed to a tough day with the fish backing right off, and sport being unrecognisable from previous pleasure sessions. How wrong the venue proved us.
Jamie Pickup did fish relatively long, at 12metres, shallow with maggot. A fish every go in was the result, with F1s, proper carp to 5lb, tench, ide and chub filling his keepnets. The final outcome showed an incredible return of 98lb to give Jambo an impressive victory. Well done J.
In sharp contrast, Gary Brislen admitted to fishing Gnome-like with a top kit and no.4 section with maggot, both on the deck and shallow, and with a similar mix to the winner, he put a wonderful return of 74lb 12oz on the tripod to claim a meritous second place, and maintain his good run.
Also keeping up excellent recent form was Dirk Wriggler, who employed slap n tap tactics with caster and pellet at 13metres. Carp and F1s dominated a net which went 74lb 02oz at the scales and gave Derek another well earned podium finish.
Tony Byers finally cracked the 20lb challenge, and had his first decent outing for a while. 46lb 08oz was his total, mainly on maggot at 6metres, and was enough to win him a section. Great stuff for The Cockney, with a confidence boost too.
Yozzer won the other section. After scratching around for a few fish here and there, he found a run of proper carp on top kit in the margins. Remarkable considering the pegging, but they boosted his weight to an honourable 64lb 08oz.
Other memorable performances, but without financial reward, were given by Sumo Edwards with 61lb 08oz (he even estimated them at 60lb, and put them in the weigh sling without mishap), Lee Pickup who had 60lb, and not a pellet waggler in sight, and Paul Cargill, who's joy at Liverpool's victory over City was enhanced by an enjoyable 53lb of decent carp taken on 8mm pellet fished shallow.
All in all it was a superb day for most and I think it's fair to say that we will be going back asap.
Pegging couldn't get any tighter unless we put two anglers on the same peg. Permanent pegs were about 5 metres apart, which pointed to a tough day with the fish backing right off, and sport being unrecognisable from previous pleasure sessions. How wrong the venue proved us.
Jamie Pickup did fish relatively long, at 12metres, shallow with maggot. A fish every go in was the result, with F1s, proper carp to 5lb, tench, ide and chub filling his keepnets. The final outcome showed an incredible return of 98lb to give Jambo an impressive victory. Well done J.
In sharp contrast, Gary Brislen admitted to fishing Gnome-like with a top kit and no.4 section with maggot, both on the deck and shallow, and with a similar mix to the winner, he put a wonderful return of 74lb 12oz on the tripod to claim a meritous second place, and maintain his good run.
Also keeping up excellent recent form was Dirk Wriggler, who employed slap n tap tactics with caster and pellet at 13metres. Carp and F1s dominated a net which went 74lb 02oz at the scales and gave Derek another well earned podium finish.
Tony Byers finally cracked the 20lb challenge, and had his first decent outing for a while. 46lb 08oz was his total, mainly on maggot at 6metres, and was enough to win him a section. Great stuff for The Cockney, with a confidence boost too.
Yozzer won the other section. After scratching around for a few fish here and there, he found a run of proper carp on top kit in the margins. Remarkable considering the pegging, but they boosted his weight to an honourable 64lb 08oz.
Other memorable performances, but without financial reward, were given by Sumo Edwards with 61lb 08oz (he even estimated them at 60lb, and put them in the weigh sling without mishap), Lee Pickup who had 60lb, and not a pellet waggler in sight, and Paul Cargill, who's joy at Liverpool's victory over City was enhanced by an enjoyable 53lb of decent carp taken on 8mm pellet fished shallow.
All in all it was a superb day for most and I think it's fair to say that we will be going back asap.
Monday 7 April 2014
JACOBS, 6/4/14 ~Pole position for The Gnome, but Sumo makes a race of it
Our 2nd visit to the F1 mecca that is Jacobs lake, and this time the venue showed its worth. With the lake situated off Long Lane, The Goodison crowd could be heard as Everton took on Arsenal, and with The Blues winning 3-0, even the sour-faced reds were happy.
Funny really, but the pre-match banter didn't mention peg 31 as a potential flier, yet at the end it had become the biggest certainty since Red Rum won the National. The beneficiary at the draw was golden arm Yozzer.
Starting with meat at 8metres, 25 F1s went into the net for an early lead. A lengthy pit-stop enabled John Edwards to close the gap and race into a comfortable lead, but The Gnome started catching again, this time on pellet fished short, and at the whistle had 60 F1s and a lone barbel to total 79lb 15oz, and get the first chequered flag.
Sumo had suffered a slow puncture in the last hour and agonisingly weighed 76lb 12oz, consisting of F1s, with a couple of bream and chub mixed in, all on caster, for a comfortable first losers medal. Unlucky!
Gary 'laughin boy' Brislen kept up his recent run of good form to complete the podium with a respectable 52lb 12oz. Well Done to Gary.
Pato was in buoyant mood as he started with a fish a bung, slowed in the middle, then finished well and managed 43lb 08oz on shallow caster. However, the joy vanished as Steve 'the monster' Cooke pipped him for the section by 4oz. Half a dozen decent bream and a 4lb carp, along with the F1s doing the damage. A pat on the back to both though, as they secured a place in the next round of the 20lb challenge.
Dirk Wriggler continued his quest for fame with yet another section win, this time with a decent 40lb 08oz return. So consistent, well done. Travelling partner, Andy Lawton was the other section winner with 26lb 08oz. An excellent result, and through in the 'challenges' too.
Kenny Stuart with 37lb 08oz, and Harry Simpson with 22lb, also made it into the next round. Nice one gentlemen.
Funny really, but the pre-match banter didn't mention peg 31 as a potential flier, yet at the end it had become the biggest certainty since Red Rum won the National. The beneficiary at the draw was golden arm Yozzer.
Starting with meat at 8metres, 25 F1s went into the net for an early lead. A lengthy pit-stop enabled John Edwards to close the gap and race into a comfortable lead, but The Gnome started catching again, this time on pellet fished short, and at the whistle had 60 F1s and a lone barbel to total 79lb 15oz, and get the first chequered flag.
Sumo had suffered a slow puncture in the last hour and agonisingly weighed 76lb 12oz, consisting of F1s, with a couple of bream and chub mixed in, all on caster, for a comfortable first losers medal. Unlucky!
Gary 'laughin boy' Brislen kept up his recent run of good form to complete the podium with a respectable 52lb 12oz. Well Done to Gary.
Pato was in buoyant mood as he started with a fish a bung, slowed in the middle, then finished well and managed 43lb 08oz on shallow caster. However, the joy vanished as Steve 'the monster' Cooke pipped him for the section by 4oz. Half a dozen decent bream and a 4lb carp, along with the F1s doing the damage. A pat on the back to both though, as they secured a place in the next round of the 20lb challenge.
Dirk Wriggler continued his quest for fame with yet another section win, this time with a decent 40lb 08oz return. So consistent, well done. Travelling partner, Andy Lawton was the other section winner with 26lb 08oz. An excellent result, and through in the 'challenges' too.
Kenny Stuart with 37lb 08oz, and Harry Simpson with 22lb, also made it into the next round. Nice one gentlemen.
Monday 24 March 2014
BLUNDELLS, East Lodge, 23/3/14 ~ Lee dishes out a double dose.
The club's first visit to Blundells will probably get mixed reviews. What looks like a fairly even venue was marred on the day by early morning hail and snow flurries, and then by strong winds during the match. Half the field felt comfortable fishing at 14metres and beyond, while the other half found it impossible to venture beyond 8 metres.
What would be the odds that Lee Pickup didn't mention 'cesspit' for 2 consecutive weeks ? Well, he didn't, and made full use of a draw that enabled him to fish long pole. An impressive net of quality F1s ensured a comfortable victory with 28lb. Winning two matches back to back is a great achievement, so well done to Lee...what do you mean roll on Jacobs?
Long odds would also be available that Dirk Wriggler didn't mention Jamie Hughes. Well you wouldn't believe it, he was only mentioned about 73 times on Sunday, till Jbay told him to shut up!
Dirk continued his amazing run of form. Fishing the tip on the only flat peg on the lake seems a waste, but it brought a couple of proper carp. A late run of margin caught F1s gave a final tally of 21lb 02oz . Enough for another well deserved silver medal.
Entertainments Manager Gary Brislen completed the podium. A lovely net of silvers, including some big ide and skimmers, tipped the scales at 19lb 08oz. A good effort from Gary.
Another to defy the odds was the Jolly Green Giant. Amazingly, Neil moaned about his peg even before getting his tackle out of the car!!! I couldn't believe it, not like Pato at all. He sat with a face like a slapped aris for an hour before he started catching. Like his travelling companion, a cracking net of silvers totalling 10lb 10oz came to the scales. Enough to qualify for the next round of the section winners challenge. Super stuff from Neil, he could try giving pegs a chance in future instead of bleating like a baby all the time!
Steve Coleman's mojo is still working very well. Another section win, this time with 14lb 12oz seem to indicate that he's turned the corner now, so keep up the new outlook Steve, it's great to see.
Final section winner was Dennis the Menace Jones. With the worst of conditions limiting him to about 6metres, Den plodded through, putting the occasional fish in the net, including one of several good bream caught on the day, and ended with a very creditable 16lb. A typical 'winter league' effort. Spot on Dennis, well done.
What would be the odds that Lee Pickup didn't mention 'cesspit' for 2 consecutive weeks ? Well, he didn't, and made full use of a draw that enabled him to fish long pole. An impressive net of quality F1s ensured a comfortable victory with 28lb. Winning two matches back to back is a great achievement, so well done to Lee...what do you mean roll on Jacobs?
Long odds would also be available that Dirk Wriggler didn't mention Jamie Hughes. Well you wouldn't believe it, he was only mentioned about 73 times on Sunday, till Jbay told him to shut up!
Dirk continued his amazing run of form. Fishing the tip on the only flat peg on the lake seems a waste, but it brought a couple of proper carp. A late run of margin caught F1s gave a final tally of 21lb 02oz . Enough for another well deserved silver medal.
Entertainments Manager Gary Brislen completed the podium. A lovely net of silvers, including some big ide and skimmers, tipped the scales at 19lb 08oz. A good effort from Gary.
Another to defy the odds was the Jolly Green Giant. Amazingly, Neil moaned about his peg even before getting his tackle out of the car!!! I couldn't believe it, not like Pato at all. He sat with a face like a slapped aris for an hour before he started catching. Like his travelling companion, a cracking net of silvers totalling 10lb 10oz came to the scales. Enough to qualify for the next round of the section winners challenge. Super stuff from Neil, he could try giving pegs a chance in future instead of bleating like a baby all the time!
Steve Coleman's mojo is still working very well. Another section win, this time with 14lb 12oz seem to indicate that he's turned the corner now, so keep up the new outlook Steve, it's great to see.
Final section winner was Dennis the Menace Jones. With the worst of conditions limiting him to about 6metres, Den plodded through, putting the occasional fish in the net, including one of several good bream caught on the day, and ended with a very creditable 16lb. A typical 'winter league' effort. Spot on Dennis, well done.
Monday 10 March 2014
LINGMERE, 9/3/14 ~ At last, no cesspit for Lee
Couldn't attend this one so results only.
Same section produced the first three:
Lee Pickup 33lb 04oz, Paul Cargill 31lb 10oz, Dirk Wriggler 28lb 08oz. Section wins for Dennis Jones 25lb 12oz, Steve Coleman 18lb 06oz, Gary Brislen 26lb 12oz, and Jamie Pickup 24lb 08oz.
Well done to all concerned.
Same section produced the first three:
Lee Pickup 33lb 04oz, Paul Cargill 31lb 10oz, Dirk Wriggler 28lb 08oz. Section wins for Dennis Jones 25lb 12oz, Steve Coleman 18lb 06oz, Gary Brislen 26lb 12oz, and Jamie Pickup 24lb 08oz.
Well done to all concerned.
Sunday 2 March 2014
HAMPTON SPRINGS, ROCK, 2/3/14 ~ Steve finds mojo...and a few lumps
This was slightly different to the usual Hampton fishing. Following extensive work over the winter, and an addition to the fish stocks, a variation to the normal approach was needed.
Steve Coleman has been struggling of late, even contemplating giving fishing a wide berth for a while, but a couple of positive pleasure sessions on Rock meant he was actually looking forward to this match.
What a difference a bit of confidence can make. Fishing pellet at 10metres, Steve caught steadily from the off, mainly 4oz mirrors and 6oz F1s, and in the latter stages, managed to find a few better lumps to about 8lb. His final tally was an impressive 44lb, resulting in a comfortable win.
A fantastic outcome for one of the good guys, well done Steve, now keep your head up. I think we've all been there, totally disillusioned, and it's not nice. This proves you can get through it.
A rare showing by Norman Smith, but another excellent effort on the day. Norm caught only the newly stocked pasties, probably about 100 of them, for a level 27lb and the silver medal. Never happy, he moaned that he couldn't fish beyond 6metres in the wind. Funny that, (1) normally he can't fish, period..and (2) why would you want to if you're getting one a bung?
Last spot in the frame went to Yozzer. No real tactic changes here, just the usual tiddler-bashing. The new stockies were supplemented by loads of razorblade skimmers and 2 decent ones for a total of 20lb 04oz.
Dirk Wriggler was struggling until Pato, on the adjacent peg, told him where to fish. Taking the advice on board, he went on to land 4 or 5 decent carp and ended with 18lb 02oz for a section win, much to the disgust of Sumo, who had been in line for the section prior to this. I think Neil should be congratulated. Part of the constitution is to 'foster good relations' between members.
The final section prize went to Col Cook with another small fish net of 16lb 12oz. Well done Col.
With only a few better fish being caught, I think the new stock helped to give most a reasonable day's sport, otherwise it might have been a real grueller.
Steve Coleman has been struggling of late, even contemplating giving fishing a wide berth for a while, but a couple of positive pleasure sessions on Rock meant he was actually looking forward to this match.
What a difference a bit of confidence can make. Fishing pellet at 10metres, Steve caught steadily from the off, mainly 4oz mirrors and 6oz F1s, and in the latter stages, managed to find a few better lumps to about 8lb. His final tally was an impressive 44lb, resulting in a comfortable win.
A fantastic outcome for one of the good guys, well done Steve, now keep your head up. I think we've all been there, totally disillusioned, and it's not nice. This proves you can get through it.
A rare showing by Norman Smith, but another excellent effort on the day. Norm caught only the newly stocked pasties, probably about 100 of them, for a level 27lb and the silver medal. Never happy, he moaned that he couldn't fish beyond 6metres in the wind. Funny that, (1) normally he can't fish, period..and (2) why would you want to if you're getting one a bung?
Last spot in the frame went to Yozzer. No real tactic changes here, just the usual tiddler-bashing. The new stockies were supplemented by loads of razorblade skimmers and 2 decent ones for a total of 20lb 04oz.
Dirk Wriggler was struggling until Pato, on the adjacent peg, told him where to fish. Taking the advice on board, he went on to land 4 or 5 decent carp and ended with 18lb 02oz for a section win, much to the disgust of Sumo, who had been in line for the section prior to this. I think Neil should be congratulated. Part of the constitution is to 'foster good relations' between members.
The final section prize went to Col Cook with another small fish net of 16lb 12oz. Well done Col.
With only a few better fish being caught, I think the new stock helped to give most a reasonable day's sport, otherwise it might have been a real grueller.
Sunday 16 February 2014
LINGMERE, 16/2/14 ~ Easy day for Simmo as storms relent
I wasn't at this one so results only.
Apparently it was flat calm and sunny, enabling Ian Simpson to easily wield 19metres, where he dobbed bread, and recorded a comfortable victory with 53lb 08oz.
Derek Warren gave his usual rock solid performance to secure second with 35lb 06oz, while Jamie Pickup somehow fiddled another flier for 29lb 08oz.
Dave Lynch won a section on the top lake with 16lb 12oz, while on the bottom, Col Cook had 24lb 10oz.
Zimbo and Kenny P both cracked the 20lb barrier.
As usual then, top lake poor, bottom lake..a day's fishing. Well done to everyone who caught, commiserations to those that didn't.
Apparently it was flat calm and sunny, enabling Ian Simpson to easily wield 19metres, where he dobbed bread, and recorded a comfortable victory with 53lb 08oz.
Derek Warren gave his usual rock solid performance to secure second with 35lb 06oz, while Jamie Pickup somehow fiddled another flier for 29lb 08oz.
Dave Lynch won a section on the top lake with 16lb 12oz, while on the bottom, Col Cook had 24lb 10oz.
Zimbo and Kenny P both cracked the 20lb barrier.
As usual then, top lake poor, bottom lake..a day's fishing. Well done to everyone who caught, commiserations to those that didn't.
Thursday 30 January 2014
CONWY, 26/1/14 ~ Whupass strikes again, this time on Bondi beach
Wow! This week's match was fished in atrocious conditions. The bank at the far end of Conwy was flat calm, while the rest of it was battered with 25mph winds, and gusts twice as strong. Everything had to be nailed down and brollies were a no-no, despite the persistent rain showers. Maggots crawled everywhere, pellets turned to mush, and groundbait quickly turned to slop.
Unlike the majority, Jamie Pickup drew the far end and could have sat in a T shirt and shorts, sipping pina colada, while watching a dotted down float.
However, he chose to chuck the tip out in the main, and was rewarded with a steady stream of carp. In between, he poled it at 12metres and topped his catch up with some quality roach. The final tally went 45lb 07oz and resulted in an easy victory. Blind squirrel strikes twice.... well done Jambo.
In sharp contrast, at the other end of the lake, John Edwards had waterproofs, hat and scarf on, and sat on the tip, confirming he was alive about every half hour as he reeled in another big F1. They eventually totalled 32lb 14oz to give Sumo an excellent silver medal. A combination of the heavy rain and some 15 year old wet gear left John with soggy balls and squidgy boxers, so the pools money will go on some new Drennan clothing.
The strong winds made it impossible for The Gnome to fish beyond 5 metres, but he struggled on short pole-fished maggot to register 28lb 02oz of roach, and filled the final podium placing.
Dirk Warren kept up his scintillating form, and won a section with 27lb of carp and goldfish, all caught on the tip. Nice one Degs. This was despite using the latest Rive Lazeeboy Recliner, which malfunctioned and led to him falling off the box, onto his landing net handle. It was either the wind or the sherry in his flask to blame, nobody really knows.
Pete Lucas, with 25lb of mainly roach, and Dennis Jones on the worst peg with regards to the weather, with an honourable 22lb, both booked a place in the next round of the challenge.
Unlike the majority, Jamie Pickup drew the far end and could have sat in a T shirt and shorts, sipping pina colada, while watching a dotted down float.
However, he chose to chuck the tip out in the main, and was rewarded with a steady stream of carp. In between, he poled it at 12metres and topped his catch up with some quality roach. The final tally went 45lb 07oz and resulted in an easy victory. Blind squirrel strikes twice.... well done Jambo.
In sharp contrast, at the other end of the lake, John Edwards had waterproofs, hat and scarf on, and sat on the tip, confirming he was alive about every half hour as he reeled in another big F1. They eventually totalled 32lb 14oz to give Sumo an excellent silver medal. A combination of the heavy rain and some 15 year old wet gear left John with soggy balls and squidgy boxers, so the pools money will go on some new Drennan clothing.
The strong winds made it impossible for The Gnome to fish beyond 5 metres, but he struggled on short pole-fished maggot to register 28lb 02oz of roach, and filled the final podium placing.
Dirk Warren kept up his scintillating form, and won a section with 27lb of carp and goldfish, all caught on the tip. Nice one Degs. This was despite using the latest Rive Lazeeboy Recliner, which malfunctioned and led to him falling off the box, onto his landing net handle. It was either the wind or the sherry in his flask to blame, nobody really knows.
Pete Lucas, with 25lb of mainly roach, and Dennis Jones on the worst peg with regards to the weather, with an honourable 22lb, both booked a place in the next round of the challenge.
Monday 20 January 2014
LINGMERE, 19/1/14 ~ Real can o' whupass does the trick for Jamie
After months and months of 'whupass' threats, which were all hot air, how ironic that a real can actually produced the goods for Jamie Pickup. Prior to this match, in the Lingmere cafe, Col Cook had arranged a presentation of a genuine can of the stuff to Jamie, and he finally managed a shock win.
Split over the two lakes, the bottom was favourite to produce, and so it proved. On the day the first three sat in a row on the bottom lake, with Jamie coming out on top in a well contested affair.
JBay fished maggot shallow from the off and steadily caught a mix of silvers and F1s to amass 44lb 10oz for a fantastic and long overdue victory.
Also fishing a great match was Dave Lynch, who sprinkled micros and fished a 4mm pellet over, for a similar net which went 41lb 01oz at the scales. Well done Spadger.
Fast becoming a Lingy legend is Dirk Warren, who again featured in the frame. Degs fished caster on the waggler, and netted some decent carp as well as the customary F1s, and weighed 37lb 02oz. Nice one Dirk.
Another noteable weight of 33lb 08oz from the ever reliable Dave Norman brought a section win, while the other section was won by The Monster, Steve Cooke. A pat on the back to them.
The top lake proved to be as stubborn as usual. Yozzer had 29lb 04oz, Tony the Crafty Cockney fished a great match and had 17lb 10oz, and Sumo lost more foul-hookers than he landed, but still managed a level 15lb. The toughest section was won by the consistent Dennis Jones with a meagre 8lb 10oz. A big well done to those fellas.
A few early qualifiers for the 'challenges', details on the relevant pages. If you didn't manage it there's plenty of time yet.
Split over the two lakes, the bottom was favourite to produce, and so it proved. On the day the first three sat in a row on the bottom lake, with Jamie coming out on top in a well contested affair.
JBay fished maggot shallow from the off and steadily caught a mix of silvers and F1s to amass 44lb 10oz for a fantastic and long overdue victory.
Also fishing a great match was Dave Lynch, who sprinkled micros and fished a 4mm pellet over, for a similar net which went 41lb 01oz at the scales. Well done Spadger.
Fast becoming a Lingy legend is Dirk Warren, who again featured in the frame. Degs fished caster on the waggler, and netted some decent carp as well as the customary F1s, and weighed 37lb 02oz. Nice one Dirk.
Another noteable weight of 33lb 08oz from the ever reliable Dave Norman brought a section win, while the other section was won by The Monster, Steve Cooke. A pat on the back to them.
The top lake proved to be as stubborn as usual. Yozzer had 29lb 04oz, Tony the Crafty Cockney fished a great match and had 17lb 10oz, and Sumo lost more foul-hookers than he landed, but still managed a level 15lb. The toughest section was won by the consistent Dennis Jones with a meagre 8lb 10oz. A big well done to those fellas.
A few early qualifiers for the 'challenges', details on the relevant pages. If you didn't manage it there's plenty of time yet.
Wednesday 15 January 2014
NEW MAP 901 POLE
Follow the link Hitler wants the new MAP 901. Remind you of anyone?? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAj7Zf2rVXY
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