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.