Bank to the Bank
First fish of 2016, FINALLY!
It’s not just the catch that’s keeps me on the bank (although I get that’s the idea) I love the technical side to it all, the being outdoors and the fact that each take is the complete unknown, such a buzz!
2016 has been slow start for me, nothing but the sweet sound of liners, uncontrollably falling to sleep waiting for that take, to then wake up, check on the rods and the stows have not even moved arrrgghh it does get frustrating but that’s winter fishing, well to be fair it can happen all year round.
First weekend in February I’m back on the bank, freshly made rigs, fresh bait and a fresh approach.. I’d already had my mind set on “The Deeps” swim, luckily enough there was only one other angler on the lake, happy Toni.
There was no sighting of any fish just waves crashing from the what felt like 50mph winds… however I wanted to make sure I was as close as I could possibly be if not in the gully, (that I know is near that swim) I’m pretty sure I got one in.
Using my favourite IQ D rigs fished snowman style and attaching a small PVA bag of whole and crushed boilies from UK Bait Company pro evo range, I cast out all three rods. I used the 3oz weedy finish lead from lakebed leads any smaller I think the wind would’ve put it in the trees on the cast. With rods on the rest I put some free bait over my spots and retreated to the bivvy before I got completely drenched.
Talking away telling the fiancé how much I’d love my first 2016 carp right now and messaging John “I’m still blanking” my middle rod screamed off!!!! I can’t remember leaping out the bivvy I just remember being on my feet with rod in hand… every part of my body was stiff, playing the fish I’m taking every precaution when its fighting back.. I finally got in near the bank where it gracefully slipped into the net!! Starring into the net I let of this stupid girly squeal (I was excited) the rush of excitement and adrenaline was still screaming through me!!
Composing myself the fiancé helped me get prepared for the weigh in, breaking down the net and wetting the weigh sling the fish was ready for the unhooking mat!
All giddy and excited, this stunning mirror took to the scales coming in at 29lb 12oz.. What a way to start my 2016! It was worth the wait.. 🙂
In 2015 we started up our own fishery “Premier Fisheries” this will be the first time this beaut (now named Smudger) has seen our banks since being stocked, I’m chuffed to be that person and I’m looking forward to our other syndicate members adding this fish to their target list, and seeing how it progresses throughout the year.
Tight lines xx