THE pure English carp that was caught at a weight way over the official record is no longer swimming in the southern lake where it suddenly shot to fame.

The biggest British carp ever was found dead at the venue being tipped to produce the next bona fide home-bred  record.

The Big Plated mirror was caught fairly on rod and line last November at a bloated 83 lb 4 oz at Kent’s Wingham Fisheries.

Despite being the biggest British carp, at that massive weight, it was a catch never destined to become the official No.1.

The captor and fishery both knew it couldn’t be claimed as a British record at the time as it had put on 30 lb with spawn and water to reach that 83 lb mark.

Wingham boss Steve Burke said: “It’s with great sadness that I have to report that the Big Plated has been found dead in the Carp Lake.

“This was the fish that was caught last year, almost 30 lb above her natural weight.”

Biggest British carp mecca Wingham

Steve continued: “There’s been much speculation about Wingham producing a record carp.

“It’s possible that it will do so in the future, but it’s much more likely to come from the Main Lake.

“I’m convinced that the only reason that Wingham has produced so many 50 lb-plus English carp at such a young age is the lack of fishing pressure, and in fact this has been deliberate policy since the start of the project.

“I’ve always allowed even less pressure on the Main Lake, that I fully opened to carp fishing only three years ago.

“This was to let the carp grow in peace, and they’ve done so at an even faster rate than in the Carp Lake.

“They’re several years younger, and it’s expected they’ll surpass even those in the Carp Lake before long.

“The biggest fish in the Carp Lake is Black Spot and she was caught recently at 60 lb 12 oz. The Main Lake fish have already almost caught up, and the lake record was recently raised to 57 lb 10 oz.

“We’re very excited about the future prospects, in particular for the Main Lake,” concluded Steve.

Official list’s ‘biggest British carp’ is 68 lb 1 oz

In the lists of biggest British carp, Dean Fletcher holds the official carp record with a 68 lb 1 oz giant.

That mighty mirror carp, The Parrot, lived in Berkshire’s Wasing Estate but it has sadly now passed away.

A heavier carp, called Big Rig, came from RH Fisheries in Shropshire in 2016.

This immense fish was rejected by the British Record Fish Committee as a ‘cultivated fish’ having been grown to a size near the record before being stocked. It is also now dead.

And in December 2017, another claim for the official biggest British carp was slung out, but on an unusual technicality.

The committee rejected Nigel Ludbrook’s claim for Captain Jack from Cambridgeshire’s Holme Fen at 68 lb 8 oz as official scales tests indicated they were overstating the weight by at least 8 oz.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@timeinc.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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A HIGH level 'secret conference' on the otter issue and other predators has been held - with some very interesting revelations.

The otter issue is getting more and more attention.

Over 40 delegates attended the workshop day at prolific carp bagging venue Barston Lakes in the West Midlands, and the otter issue was a key topic of discussion.

Otters receive the highest protection possible, as a European protected species under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 Act.

But the day, jointly held by the Angling Trust and the Institute of Fisheries Management, did raise the controversial idea of culling otters.

Delegates from the Environment Agency and the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs attended.

Otters continue to decimate river and lake fish, and a recent report found a reduction of 94 per cent of water voles – again linked to the rise of otters.

Cormorants also under scrutiny

Conference attendee Paul Floyd, who runs the National Predator Survey Project, told Angler’s Mail: “It was a very constructive meeting and there was agreement of the need for an increase in the number of cormorants that can be culled.

“The problem has been mainly caused by the European sub-species that come over here in droves to over-winter increasing the 9,000 pair resident population to around 40,000, and they prefer inland waters.

“One of the problems is ignorance and many people still thinking the birds are native and have come inland because of lack of fish in the sea.

“Currently only about 10 per cent of the birds on any one site can be shot so if you have 20 that means only two can legally be taken out.”

Crayfish and otter issues

“The EA more or less admitted that the signal crayfish situation is beyond effective control,” said Paul.

“As far as otters are concerned, given their protective status, all possible measures are probably in place although we would want the rehabilitation of injured otters done under licensed control.

“Unfortunately with DEFFRA pre-occupied with Brexit at the moment the chances of a lot changing soon aren’t very high.

“It is clear that there is a possible way to legally cull otters at least on stillwaters, but there are huge impediments.

“Under Article 16 of the European Habitat a mitigation licence can obtained by a landowner to cull a member of a protected species if it is seriously damaging their livestock.

“Fisheries are no different in this regard so a stillwater fishery could apply for a licence to shoot an otter, and these could be obtained from Natural England.

“But understandably fisheries are very reluctant to be seen as shooting a popular furry animal and there is a high standard of proof that there is no alternative like fencing, and substantial damage before a licence is issued.

“Talking to the Otter Trust I believe that only three applications have ever been made, and all were turned down.

“A report just published by Natural England and the Mammal Trust says there are now an estimated 11,000 otters distributed widely around the country and there status is now regarded as favourable,” added Paul.

Group action on otter and cormorant matters

Meanwhile, the Predator Action Group are urging anglers to lobby their MP’s with the threat anglers are facing from otters and cormorants.

They want anglers to forward on their new new fact sheet plus a DVD entitled ‘Predation: an Ecological Disaster’ which they are selling for £6.50 via their website.

Tim Paisley, chairman of the PAG said: “The intention of producing this is to make the body of research and evidence detailing the impact of predation more accessible.

“If they find their way into the hands of your MP, so much the better. We will include a suggested letter to go with submissions to MPs with the Fact Sheets and films purchased.

“The Fact Sheet is a prelude to the publication of ‘Big Picture Two: Some Unwelcome Truths About Predation’, which will deliver further details of the growing body of evidence of the extent of the problem,” he added.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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Cormorants ARE biggest threat to angling

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HUSBAND and wife team Dave and Arezue Wright turned their attention to tench after their local carp were spawning... with great success.

The ace Manchester-based carp fishing duo both got in on the big tinca action.

Dave tempted the biggest two fish at 9 lb 12 oz and then 10 lb 8 oz oz while ‘Carping Pink girl’ Arezue tempted a 9 lb specimen (pictured above).

Arezue explained: “Always having a passion to catch a large summer tench, I asked Dave if he knew of any waters that inhabited such monsters?

“Sure enough he knew; a secluded sand quarry in deepest darkest Cheshire.

“A number of our preferred swims were already occupied and we had a hot blank day and then with light fading we learned that one of the favoured swims had become free and moved.

“As darkness fell my left-hand alarm fished tight to a marginal shelf and overhanging tree burst into life and after a short tussle I was soon nursing my first tench. It was a stunning and well proportioned tinca at a little over 6 lb.

“Rods back out, and it wasn’t long before I was again connected to an angry red-eye… only this time it felt much bigger and it equalled my PB of 8 lb.

“Bites continued but Dave only managed to have a single modest tench.

“Into the second day and the daytime temperatures soared once more but this did not deter the tench from feeding.

“A regular introduction of hemp and corn kept them coming bringing my tally to eight.

“At 1.30am Dave’s left-hand rod gave a screaming take and a better fish took flight, only it turned out to be a low double catfish.

“Just after first light we were both rudely awakened by a screaming alarm as Dave had a new PB of 9 lb 12 oz.”

Carp fishing ace Dave Wright had a brace of double-figure tench.

Pink-clad carp fishing addict Arezue continued: “As we sat discussing the capture over breakfast, Dave was in again.

“This time it was a truly enormous fish, another PB at 10 lb 8 oz – making a brace of giants so many of us will only ever dream of!

“I was hoping for one last fish as we were packing up and my margin rod screamed off and after a hard battle I had a new PB of 9 lb.

“Wow, I was simply blown away,” she concluded.

The duo both used block-end feeders fished helicopter style with a size 6 hook with hair-rigged worm in five sections and then tipped with a piece of buoyant corn. This was cast over heavily baited areas of hemp and corn in the margin and at 40 yards.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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SPESSY ace Jason Craven hit the news after the best three months of his fishing career with four personal best in some astonishing catches.

Specimen fish have included this 10 lb 4 oz bream (above), a 3 lb 10 oz perch, 2 lb 12 oz roach and 32 lb 14 oz carp.

They have all fallen during a run of success for the 50-year-old dry lining supervisor from Tonbridge, Kent.

Jason explained: “I had the perch 3 lb 10 oz PB in April from Weirwood Reservoir vertical jigging on my own boat.

“ I followed that with a 55 lb perch catch from a commercial pond on float fished prawn. The catch included fish of 3 lb 7 oz and 3 lb 1 oz plus a bonus 20 lb 8 oz carp on a size 8 hook to a 1.7 lb bottom.

“Then in May I had a roach 2 lb 12 oz PB (pictured above) from New Lagoon near Tonbridge on float fished bread flake. It came in a 120 lb bag that included 44 tench to 3 lb 8 oz and ten bream to 4 lb 14 oz.

“The bream 10 lb 4 oz PB came from Barden Lake on a Venom Baits Maple Nut pop-up boilie.

“Finally the 32 lb 14 oz mirror (pictured below) came from Weirwood Reservoir on a Cherry Baits Pokernut snowman fished at 90 yards.

“All in all, a fantastic season so far,” concluded Jason.

CAUGHT A SPECIMEN FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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IRATE anglers have been up in arms about the damage being done to our fishing by mass predation, and have called for urgent action before its too late.

Author and river fishery owner John Bailey gave a powerful speech about predator issue to the Barbel Society annual show.

The Norfolk-based all-round specialist angler’s words received widespread support from those at the event, and since via social media.

John, a columnist in Angler’s Mail print magazine, explained: “Fish are facing a triple whammy from signal crayfish as eggs, from cormorants as developing fish and from otters when they mature, and our stocks are being decimated.

“I can only talk from personal experience of the River Wensum where whole year groups are being wiped out.

“Two seasons ago I spotted half a dozen shoals totalling at least 500 small barbel in the 4 to 14 oz class, but this year they have totally disappeared and I know the black menace is to blame.

“Last winter on one of my stretches there were well in excess of 100 cormorants roosting every single night.

“Fishery scientists try to tell me the habitat isn’t conducive to renewing fish stocks but the fish are clearly breeding well and the fry are surviving only to then be obliterated. Any that do survive will fall foul of the otters.

“People say there is no silver bullet but there is one which should go right between the eyes of this alien species which now comes over in huge numbers from Europe.

“Action is urgently needed before they return in the autumn and the time for talking is over.

“It is about time that protection of this bird is lifted, or group shooting licences made more easily obtainable and with no limit on the numbers that can be shot.

“Frankly it’s a war which we must win or fishing as we know it will be lost for future generations,” he concluded.

Barbel leader says angling needs to ‘be brave’ for fish

Steve Pope, chairman of the Barbel Society, said, “I’m pleased John Bailey and others have come out so strongly on this issue and we would support everything he said.

“Our recent parliamentary petition about the damage caused by otters was a clear statement of support for the need for action on the furry critters and re-affirmation of our view that they are a serious problem.

“The whole angling industry needs to be brave and face down the anti-angling lobby and animal rights brigade and fight for the Government to take effective action on all predators,” he added.

Carp ace says over-predation is the most damaging factor

Nash Baits guru Gary Bayes, who runs Bayeswater Fishery said: “I totally agree with John that over-predation is far more damaging than any other factor today and needs putting right.

“Some waterways do have other problems but just like John I believe that over-predation is by far the biggest danger to our unfenced, wild waters and its is not going to get sorted unless everyone gets on the same page.

“Re-stocking isn’t an option when there is so much predation,” he concluded.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

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THERE are events nationwide over the weeks ahead, giving everyone the chance to give angling a go under the guidance of specially-trained experts.

National Fishing Month 2018  begins on Saturday, July 27 and runs right through until September 2.

The annual jamboree is now in its 26th year, and it has helped to introduce hundreds of thousands of people to a lifelong sport and the huge happiness it brings.

This year there are more than 250 National Fishing Month events nationwide, listed online.

The website to visit is www.nationalfishingmonth.com – and there’ll be a participating venue close to everyone.

The website can be searched by entering your postcode. The nearest events and their details will then be shown and you will be able to book a coaching time to suit you.

Taking part in National Fishing Month

Taking part is simplicity itself – you just need to register online and then turn up.

Everything will be provided without charge, and most people will experience the ultimate thrill of catching their first fish under the watchful guidance of their coach.

Everyone who takes part will go home with presents… a National Fishing Month goody bag containing the ‘Get Into Fishing’ booklet.

It’s full of information on how to get started and advice on different types of fishing.

There’s also a log book to make a note of  first catches and a special certificate as a memento of the day’s free fishing.

National Fishing Month is back!

National Fishing Month organisers & supporters

Naidre Werner, chairman of the Angling Trades Association, which
organises National Fishing Month , said: “July and August really will be focused on angling.

“There are hundreds of events going on nationwide, beginning
with a launch event at The Game Fair at Ragley Hall, near Evesham,
Worcestershire (on 27th, 28th and 29th July). National Fishing Month
will have its own fly and coarse teaching areas.”

Across the country, leading tackle company supporters such as Daiwa,
Dinsmores, Fladen, Middy, Leeda, Pure Fishing and Angling Direct are involved.

They have all donated products and time in support of National Fishing Month so that kit can be used on the bank for coaching and as prizes at events.

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SPESSY ace Duane McClymont made the long trek down to Nottinghamshire pay off when he landed three hefty barbel.

Duane McClymont travelled down to the River Trent and the effort paid off with this 15 lb 5 oz barbel plus another two doubles.

The bricklayer from Scarborough, North Yorkshire, said: “I made the long drive down to the tidal River Trent on Friday morning in anticipation for the new season.

“Arriving at my venue at 9.30 am I hatched my plan to trickle bait in throughout the day ready for midnight.

“I had one fish the opening night at 11 lb 2 oz. At day break I brought my rods in to rest the swim and trickle more bait in, a move that paid off.

“On Saturday night I had just returned an 11 lb fish when I noticed a single nod of the tip on my second rod.

“Hovering ready to strike it slightly twitched once more and I struck. At first I was simply leading it straight in as if it was a bream but once in the margins it woke up going on several long runs.

“Once in the net I knew it was something a bit special. It is the perfect start and something to get me motivated for the season ahead,” concluded Duane.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

SUBSCRIBE TO ANGLER’S MAIL PRINT MAG AT A LOW PRICE!

The best weekly print magazine, Angler’s Mail, will be delivered to you.

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You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

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RIVERS are currently lower than for many years... but scores of anglers are in deep water with prosecution for river offences back in the Close Season.

Environment Agency enforcement officers and Angling Trust voluntary bailiffs caught 87 anglers red handed on rivers during the Close Season, between March 15 to June 15.

And they also clocked up 115 other fishing offences including fishing without a licence on flowing waters as part of their sixth annual Operation CLAMPDOWN campaign.

Kevin Austin, EA deputy director of fisheries said: “I’d like to thank the Angling Trust volunteers for the significant role they play in stopping illegal fishing through their work on Operation CLAMPDOWN.

“The vast majority of anglers fish legally but sadly there are a small number of anglers who cheat others by fishing during the Close Season.

“It is still possible for anglers to fish during this time on many stillwaters and canals, which are open all year round.

“We respond to the intelligence we receive about illegal fishing by ensuring our patrols are targeted at the right places – and the right people.”

In total, officers undertook 729 targeted patrols and as well as the rod and licence offences, found several illegally set traps.

Dilip Sarkar MBE, Angling Trust national enforcement Manager, said: “These figures show that volunteer bailiffs throughout England are demonstrating their massive commitment to protecting fish and fisheries and cracking down on illegal fishing.

“All anglers can help this process, in fact – at any time of year – by reporting information and offences in progress to the EA on 0800 80 70 60, or the police on 101/999.”

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

SUBSCRIBE TO ANGLER’S MAIL PRINT MAG AT A LOW PRICE!

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Just subscribe to one of the top Sale deals online at our official website for magazine subs: magazinesdirect.com.

You’ll then get Angler’s Mail print magazine delivered to your door, anywhere in the world, at discounted rates from just 96p per week!

You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

Close Season river cheats not being challenged

AN Angler’s Mail reader believes the River Thames has all but been abandoned by the Environment Agency to Close Season…

Close Season review explained by Environment Agency

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A DEADLY cocktail of drugs have been found in two English rivers.

Samples taken from 11 sites on the Rivers Foss and Ouse in the York area of North Yorkshire revealed 29 types, including antidepressants, antibiotics and epilepsy medicines.

Some of the drugs can’t even be prescribed in the UK and are thought to come from American and Chinese tourists.

This comes hard on the heels of research showing World record levels of micro plastics in Lancashire rivers.

The University of York team behind the research said that drugs excreted in urine and faeces could pass through waste water treatment plants without being removed and then pumped into rivers.

Seasonal spikes were recorded in the 12-month study with higher levels of antihistamines in summer and higher levels of drugs associated with flu in the winter.

Professor Alistair Boxall said: “It is important to realise these drugs are being emitted continuously into the environment and that we will be exposed to them across our lifetime.”

Paul Floyd, a committee member of the River Anglers Conservation Group blasted: “This news, coming on top of the other issues raised in recent times with plastics and hormones found in our rivers, is worrying to say the least.

“We don’t know fully what the impact there will be on our fish and wildlife and there is also the overall public health concern about these substances getting into our water supply.

“The hormones found in water might be a factor in the recent decline in male sperm counts, and research by Professor Susan Jobling of Brunel University has shown significant levels of feminisation in roach.

“Autopsies on deceased large barbel have also shown worrying evidence of both male and female reproductive organs and this might be accounting for problems in fish successfully breeding in some areas.

“One lesson is to ensure people don’t flush their unused drugs down the toilet and return them to the pharmacy for proper disposal,” he added.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

SUBSCRIBE TO ANGLER’S MAIL PRINT MAG AT A LOW PRICE!

The best weekly print magazine, Angler’s Mail, will be delivered to you.

Just subscribe to one of the top Sale deals online at our official website for magazine subs: magazinesdirect.com.

You’ll then get Angler’s Mail print magazine delivered to your door, anywhere in the world, at discounted rates from just 96p per week!

You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

Chronic chemical dangers to fishing rivers

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BOFFINS from an English University hope they have taken the first step to saving the famous hump-backed mahseer from extinction... after fighting to give it a scientific Latin name.

A team from Bournemouth University have been working with colleagues in India to save hump-backed mahseer  – the iconic river species found in the Cauvery River.

Some 145 years after being written in HS Thomas’s classic A Rod In India in 1873, it has been allocated a scientific name – Tor remadevii – as a key step to save this highly threatened species from extinction.

Professor Adrian Pinder explained: “Lacking a formal scientific name has precluded the iconic hump-backed mahseer from being afforded formal recognition on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list of threatened species.

“It left the few remaining fish unprotected against factors such as dynamite fishing and river engineering projects.

“It was just unbelievable that such an enormous animal, recognised by anglers around the world, could be about to go extinct in advance of being afforded a scientific name.

“We knew something needed to be done to support the survival of this species. The alarming and rapid loss of this iconic species from the majority of the Cauvery system has deeper conservation implications.”

Mahseer in real peril

Adrian added: “When we think of endangered species, we often think of ‘flagship’ species such as the giant panda and Bengal tiger, which are currently and respectively assessed on the IUCN Red List.

“But with the hump-backed mahseer we are talking about a creature which is actually more in peril than these better known icons,” concluded Adrian.

Former matchman and angling journalist Steve Lockett, a Mahseer Trust education officer said: “Once abundant in the River Cauvery, this endemic and iconic fish now stands on the brink of extinction.

“Let’s hope this is the start of a truly amazing conservation story. We need to do more work on the habitat and life history of the hump-backed mahseer.”

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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130 lb World record mahseer shock

THE big fish world has been buzzing with the incredible news that the mahseer record has been smashed with a…

World record mahseer to British angler

The record mahseer came when Benson, Oxfordshire-based company director tackled the Mahakali River in northern India. He was accompanied by…

5 top tips to find the best fishing holidays

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THE prolonged heatwave could bring swarms of rare freshwater jellyfish, plus a host of other effects, an expert has warned.

Rivers have dried up – including the upper River Teme where Environment Agency staff had to rescue fish (pictured above). And they’ve been busy at other rivers and lakes across the country too.

Top fishery scientist and ecologist Ian Wellby has revealed the higher water temperatures can produce unusual natural occurrences as well as help  survival of tiny young fish.

Ian, of independent consultancy BlueRoof Ltd, explained: “Thanks to the wet spring, water levels in most stillwaters are reasonable but the temperatures will be higher and this can produce unusual occurrences.

“One could well be the freshwater jellyfish, of which I have only heard two reports in 30 years and seen one blurred photo. But I wouldn’t be surprised if they show up somewhere this year.”

A freshwater jellyfish – they could crop up now in the UK.

The freshwater jellyfish – Latin name Craspedacusta sowerbii – originates in the Yangtze basin of China but has now spread worldwide.

The jellyfish can pop up almost anywhere but normally survive just a few days, often in big swarms.

They are thought to arrive on the feet of migrating water fowl, and survive for a while where water temperatures are high enough.

The small species, which grow to about an inch in diameter, do have stinging tentacles that can kill small fish and can cause irritations on human skin. They mostly eat small invertebrates like daphnia.

Boom in fish fry during heatwave

Ian Wellby explained some of the other more likely consequences of the hot and largely dry weather.

“It isn’t that unusual for fish to spawn twice in a year but the high temperature means this will be more likely everywhere – and some fish might even spawn three times,” said Ian.

“The heat also encourages more small insect life which fish fry feed on and this helps the survival of greater numbers.

“Of course there is the downside of the threat of deoxygenated water and river water levels are bound to get low.

“The usual suspects like the Teme and small rivers in the Peak District are already drying up, but hopefully some rain will come to replenish others before a serious situation is reached.

“Anglers need to be extra careful when handling sensitive fish like pike and barbel, minimise their time out of the water and give them time for full recovery before release.

“Also anglers need the commonsense to avoid doing things like unhooking a fish on a mat that has been in the sun all day,” he concluded.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

SUBSCRIBE TO ANGLER’S MAIL PRINT MAG AT A LOW PRICE!

The best weekly print magazine, Angler’s Mail, will be delivered to you.

Just subscribe to one of the top Sale deals online at our official website for magazine subs: magazinesdirect.com.

You’ll then get Angler’s Mail print magazine delivered to your door, anywhere in the world, at discounted rates from just 96p per week!

You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

Summer fishing tips and insight sure to boost your catches

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THE world of fishing has paid tributes to one of the true legends of the sport - Rod Hutchinson - who sadly died recently.

Carp legend Rod Hutchinson with a big catch from Redmire Pool way back in 1973. Pic thanks to Chris Ball.

Rod Hutchinson was best known as an author, and a pioneer of the hair rig and particle fishing. He died of a heart attack at the age of 74.

Rod is someone who achieved carp fishing’s equivalent of rock-star status. He lived the dream and turned a love of carp fishing into fame and fortune, and for that he will always receive, and deserve, widespread admiration.

Divorced Rod had been married to Sue and had two daughters, and leaves new partner Coral.

Anglers across the UK, and beyond, have been remembering the great man with special fondness, and shared their tributes with Angler’s Mail. Some knew Rod really well, learning first-hand from his incredible angling mind… others were inspired from afar.

A Lincolnshire lad, Rod Hutchinson produced a classic work with ‘The Carp Strikes Back’ . It is considered by many to be the finest book on carp fishing ever written.

Jovial Rod, who loved a ‘guesting’ session or two, really was a pioneer in the 1970s and 80s experimenting with unusual baits and mysterious ingredients as well as tackle innovations.

While not inventing the true hair rig, Rod was one of the first to develop it at Savay Lake and had tied hemp onto light hair rig lines at Redmire Pool.

Rod helped bring carp fishing out of the bread paste and par-boiled potatoe era to HNV baits his flavours like Scopex and Monster Crab will go down in folklore.

He set up Catchum Products, in his home town of Louth, in 1979. He  helped bring in thousands of carp anglers in the next two decades with his tackle and bait. And he also inspired anglers with articles and books that also included ‘Carp Along the Way’ and ‘Carp: Now and Then.’

Rod Hutchinson made huge impact

Surrey specialist  Dave Ball was a close friend of Rod Hutchinson.

Dave told Angler’s Mail: “No one in history has had a greater impact on carp fishing than Rod.

“He was a totally natural angler who always seemed to know what to do next, but although dedicated, he was nicely irreverent.

“You wouldn’t want to lend him tackle as he was very physically clumsy but he was very bright, astute and highly talented.

“I have known him since 1970 and my fondest memories are of family holidays together in France where he was in his element.

“He got on so well with everyone there and one night I particularly remember is when the locals had given him five litres of armagnac (brandy) which we nearly got through,” he added.

Rod was a ‘total one-off’

Carp historian Chris Ball has a better knowledge than almost anyone when it comes to carp fishing, its development, catches and characters. he was a big fan of Rod Hutchinson.

Chris told Angler’s Mail: “Rod was a total one-off and he left an indelible mark on carp fishing, being at the forefront of many developments and innovations.

“When I first met him back in the early 80s I had gone to visit Savay Lake during my lunch break dressed in a pin striped suit and waders.

“His swim was in total disarray which was typical. He had a bite while I was there and only landed the fish as I could wade in.

“Back in the days before mobile phones there was a public phone box near the lake and Rod was always in there phoning the weather centre for the forecast and they go to know him well.

“If they predicted a change in wind direction he would change swims so he was already tackled up ready for the fish to move in.

“Although he was a dedicated angler he enjoyed a social life around it, and was happy to adjourn to the pub for long breaks.

“When he fished Redmire with Chris Yates the older regulars there didn’t quite know what to make of these two 20-something youngsters who were always climbing trees fish spotting, but they were both hugely successful there,”  concluded Chris, who kindly helped Angler’s Mail with some of the photos in this article..

Rod Hutchinson memories of Chris Yates

Former carp record holder and great pal Chris Yates was devastated at the death of Rod Hutchinson. He shared some of his most treasured memories of the great man.

Chris said: “Rod’s passing is such a terrible loss. We first met on the dam at Redmire in 1972 when Rod was lying flat on his stomach in his great coat peering into the water and it was one of my great angling moments.

“We had both somehow managed to wheedle our way into the Redmire syndicate without hardly having previously caught a carp between us.

“Rod was a scaffolder at the time and an ex semi-pro footballer. We were both completely overwhelmed by Redmire and immediately got into its rhythm.

“We both wanted to do things differently and had ideas bouncing off each other.

“I had brought a tin of sweetcorn along to go with scrambled eggs for breakfast and that evening I asked Rod whether it was worth trying a bit as bait.

“He said that he had used it once so give it a go and that evening I had my first ever carp going 12 lb. Meanwhile Rod was stalking carp with worm and actually caught one of 6 lb while fishing from a tree.

“After that our particle fishing took off and we moved onto things like hemp, beans and black-eyed peas.

“I had the best two years fishing off my life with Rod at Redmire. I think the biggest carp he had there was a 32- pounder in 1973 but in those days that was a cracking fish.

“Rod then went on to other venues and I eventually started to fish more for other species while he stuck to the carp.

“He went on to put France on the map as far as carp fishing is concerned ending up catching 50-pounders out there at Cassein.

“Rod really revolutionised fishing. He was a great innovator. He was also very warm hearted and generous. It was always a pleasure to be with him and a privilege to fish alongside him. I will miss him terribly,” Chris added.

Big hair, big fish – Rod Hutchinson was a carp star through the decades.

More Rod Hutchinson tributes

Angler’s Mail  columnist Colin Davidson was amongst a generation of  anglers who followed Rod Hutchinson, hugely inspired by the trail he blazed.

Colin said: “Rod was a carp angler the likes of whom we will never see again.

“I grew up on his writings and his epic The Carp Strikes Back should be compulsory reading for anyone, who to borrow Rod’s own words, ‘ever had both feet on the accelerator aiming for a swim on a Friday after work’.

“His ability to catch carp was second only to his humour, from his woes with big fish and not having ‘the knack’ through to tales of accidentally poaching swimming pools in the dark to his dog biting him whilst being dragged from a burning van – some things it seemed could only ever happen to Rod.

“His obsession with carp, the amazing years of the explosion of modern carp fishing, and the characters of the time, gave the most colourful backdrop for any carp books ever written.

“Aside from his giant technical contributions in particle fishing, boilie formulation and the development of modern tactics and rig theory, Rod was a true gentleman and an angler that raised the bar with his achievements both home and abroad.

“He quite literally inspired a generation, will be sorely missed but very fondly remembered.”

Former carp record holder Lee Jackson said: “Rod was my biggest influence in carp fishing as well as a good friend.

“It is such a sad loss, he was a true legend. A god of carp fishing has passed away, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of carp fishermen everywhere.”

Great friend and fishing companion Ritchie McDonald, who first met Rod on the Loony Rota at Savay, said: “Rod had an angling brain like no other.

“He was an inspiration to everyone, and is up there with the angling greats like Dick Walker. We had some amazing times together, and it’s a sad loss to angling.”

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

New cache of Dick Walker stories revealed in this ‘100th year’

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ONE the cleanest rivers in the UK is being hit with a deadly cocktail of phosphorus and sediment that is destroying vital insect life.

A three year study by the Salmon & Trout Conservation on the famous Hampshire Avon found a staggering 52 per cent decline in insect life plus over 60 per cent of sites showed a worrying chemical footprint.

Chief executive Paul Knight revealed: “Phosphorus and sediment do occur naturally in rivers in small amounts, but in excessive quantities are lethal to water insects.

“They promote algal growth, which chokes the river of life and negatively impacts egg development of invertebrates through suffocation.

“We believe these stressors are responsible for the shortage in these essential insects.

“The Environment Agency have similarly demonstrated that there is too much phosphorus in the river from their own monitoring.

“Excessive quantities of phosphorus and sediment can be caused by many things, including fertilisers, septic tanks, road run-off, loose soil from farming practices, dust, dirt, and sewage.

“Indeed, the Amesbury and Ratfyn Sewage Treatment Works have had an increasing upward trend of phosphorus in their final effluent of 2012-2017 data, which we suspect is a large contributory factor.

“Overall, the Hampshire Avon ranked No.1 in terms of health and vitality in our 2015 Riverfly Census, now in 2018 it has significantly declined and taken a turn for the worst,” he concluded.

Former barbel record holder and water quality campaigner Ray Walton knows the Hampshire Avon very well indeed.

Ray warned: “You cannot see the chemical pollutants and pesticides in the river water.

“It may look ‘gin clear’ and ‘clean’ on the Hampshire Avon and other rivers, but they are there and hidden.

“The EA know it and the water and sewage companies know it, but very little is done to remove them or prevent them entering rivers and streams.

“The Avon is probably one of our UK’s better quality rivers in most sections though, but the sad thing is that majority of other UK rivers are much worse than the Avon,” added Ray.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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Chronic chemical dangers to fishing rivers

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Algae that has killed angling venues looks set to be defeated

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RUBY TERRY got her season off to a flying start with this fantastic PB 15 lb 10 oz barbel in a perfect family trip to Nottinghamshire’s River Trent at Maltkiln Lane.

The awesome Trent catch won Ruby £100 of super Richworth baits in our refreshed Fish of the Week competition – full comp details here.

Her partner Ashley Baker also chipped in with a PB 15 lb 1 oz barbel in a great Trent session at the bookable day and night venue.

Sheffield, South Yorkshire-based Ruby explained her successful Trent trip to Angler’s Mail.

“Me and my partner Ashley decided to go on a family trip to the Maltkiln Lane fishery where we love to go every season, and the kids love it too,” said Ruby.

“I am pleased to say we absolutely smashed it, having 18 fish in total, ten of them being barbel including our PBs plus others of 14 lb 14 oz, 14 lb 8 oz, 12 lb 10 oz and 11 lb 10 oz.

“Ashley also had three chub to 6 lb 3 oz and four bream to 7 lb 2 oz.

“We are absolutely buzzing and can’t wait to go back again next week.

“Thanks to Jo who owns the stretch for being so good to us and letting us take our camper van for the kids to sleep in. They loved it and even caught their first fish.

“It was a trip we will never forget,” concluded Ruby.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

Richworth bait prizes galore to be won with Fish of the Week in Angler’s Mail

The opening of the full 2018/19 fishing coarse season sees a brand new Richworth Fish Of The Week competition. Each…

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THE growing menace of gill netting has been illustrated by the discovery of a huge trap filled with dead specimen fish.

River Wye canoeist and angler Jet Moore was leading a group on a four-day Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme trip when he spotted the illegal net near Bridge Sollers in Herefordshire.

Jet, from Llandyssul, Carmarthenshire, said: “The net was strung across the river tied to a tree on both banks.

“That short stretch is particularly full of trees and is fairly inaccessible although fishing is very popular generally in the area.

“It was sad to see so many large dead fish in the net. There must have been about 15, mainly barbel up to double-figures, of which two or three were still alive.

“I cut the live ones out and released them and they seemed to swim off allright. From the way one looked partially decomposed the net could have been there for a week.

“Sometimes its easier to see nets in the water from a boat than it is from the bank although I hadn’t noticed anything when we passed by three days previously.

“I cut the net from the tree on one side and called the Environment Agency who were very responsive. We had to leave but I gave my number so I could help direct them to the site if necessary.

“They also rang me back to make sure I knew it had been cleared. I have seen gill nets in rivers before but never on the Wye which I use regularly,” added the member of the Wales Canoe Board.

River Wye and nets taken seriously by EA

Dave Throup, area fisheries manager of the EA commented: “We had to launch an operation to remove a 30 metre illegal net on the River Wye in Herefordshire this afternoon.

“Sadly many fish were already dead including some very big barbel and a metre-long salmon. It was highly irresponsible thing to do and represents a danger to all wildlife as well as pets and canoeists,” he concluded.

An EA Press officer said: “Gill nets are illegal and pose a significant risk to fish and other wildlife. We take illegal fishing very seriously and anyone fishing illegally can expect to be prosecuted and face a substantial fine.

“Over the last 12 months we received 21 substantiated reports of illegal nets and the he offence is unauthorised fishing with a maximum fine of £50,000.

“We track criminals on an intelligence led basis using information gathered by ourselves, the police and other partners and reports from the public. We urge anyone to report illegal fishing to 0800 807060.”

Since the incident many stretches of the River Wye have closed to fishing by anglers due to disturbing  low summer water levels.

If you fancy a crack at the river, we recommend you watch this video below with Mail columnist Steve Collett and a River Wye expert and guide, Adam Fisher.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

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GEORGE CORNWELL knows the big roach on his local Throop Fishery on the lower Dorset Stour have switched onto boilies - and his use of the bait has paid.

Boilies but with scaled down tactics brought police officer George this impressive 2 lb 14 oz redfin, which starred in the Fish of the Week competition, exclusively in Angler’s Mail.

The 37-year-old police officer, from Bournemouth, has been targeting Throop Fishery, which is one of the most famous coarse fishing river venues in Britain.

Its mill pool also starred on BBC TV recently in the acclaimed Paul Whitehouse and Bob Mortimer series, Gone Fishing.

George explained his tactics: “The big roach love small boilies these days after the spessy boys have been using them.

“So I used a 12 mm Sticky Krill boilie with a small running lead, size 12 Drennan barbel hook and a knotless knot hair-rig.

“It had cooled down slightly, the sun was just starting to drop. It was an evening session, and I spotted a small group of fish… and the one I caught was the biggest, luckily.

“I trickled some mini boilies in upstream, waited until they gained confidence.

“The bigger one hung at the back so I waited for it to briefly disappear then lowered my rig in where is had been and ten minutes later I got the bite,” concluded George.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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THE fight against plastic pollution in our waterways has been joined by a new Facebook group determined to address the mess made by angling products.

Anglers Against Single-Use Plastic In The Tackle Trade is a first step in spearheading a campaign for the industry to change from plastic packaging.

The fast-growing group was  quickly joined by over 3,000 people, and has continued to grow since featuring in Angler’s Mail magazine.

They want a shift over to using biodegradable alternatives instead of potentially harmful plastic packaging.

Founder, Norfolk-based fish artist and conservationist Chris Turnbull explained: “Our environment is being swamped in single-use plastic, and I decided the other day to try to have an impact in the angling world.

“Very little of it is recycled and tons of it is ending up in our rivers and oceans every day where it gradually breaks up into ever smaller pieces and is consumed into the food chain.

“The fishing tackle industry and trade adds a huge volume of waste plastic packaging to this problem and it is time it put its house in order.

“Frankly I have been overwhelmed by the response to the group in such a short space of time.

“We have already been joined by a number of tackle dealers, a pike bait company has been in touch for advice about viable alternatives to plastic bags for freezing bait, and Simon Gardner, who runs a carp bait company has enquired about alternatives for bagging boilies.

“I am in the process of forming a steering group and we have people on board who work in plastics or are in the angling trade.

“We will be containing all tackle manufacturers in due course, and will then be planning an email by members to encourage them to make changes.

“The Anglers National Line Recycling Scheme have also joined and we hope to get advice from them on our strategy,” added Chris.

The recently established ANLRS has shown the way forward in fighting litter pollution by providing outlets in tackle shops and fisheries where anglers can leave unwanted and discarded line.

Fishery scientist and fish farmer Viv Shears, who helps runs the scheme, said: “I have been invited to be on the steering group of the new plastics group and hope to put forward ideas from our own experience.

“We now have 120 tackle shops signed up and a dozen fisheries and so far we have collected 400,000 metres of line.

“We have recently completed a survey of 1,060 anglers from which we estimate about 1.25 million kilometres of line is used annually in this country so the potential for more recycling is vast and it is vital that anglers are encouraged to recycle as much as possible,” he concluded.

Trade backs plastic packaging call

NAIDRE WERNER, chair of the Angling Trades Association believes it is time for the tackle manufacturers to act on plastic packaging.

Naidre commented: “I think that it’s a great idea that anglers are coming together to make everyone aware of the consequences of litter and pollution.

“The second Blue Planet series narrated by David Attenborough did a massive amount to help raise awareness of the damage that can be done to our seas and waterways.

“I have no doubt that manufacturers and others in the trade are paying attention but the public needs to be aware that planning and changes to production processes do not happen overnight – it all takes time, and money.

“In addition, the knock-on effect of changing processes and changing packaging to biodegradable products could have an effect on the overall selling price.

“But if we are all serious about saving the planet for future fisherman, then a few pence extra per item should be worth it,” she concluded.

Giant tackle firm Mustad are already looking into using biodegradable and sustainable cardboard boxes for their hooks as an alternative to plastic packaging.

UPDATE: Anglers Against Single-Use Plastic In The Tackle Trade are not just on Facebook, they now have a website – visit their new website HERE.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

SUBSCRIBE TO ANGLER’S MAIL MAG AT A LOW PRICE!

The best weekly print magazine, Angler’s Mail, will be delivered to you.

Just subscribe to one of the top Sale deals for the print and/or digital version online at our official website for magazine subs >> magazinesdirect.com.

You’ll then get Angler’s Mail print magazine delivered to your door, anywhere in the world, at discounted rates from just 96p per week (print version), and even less for digital!

You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

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THE Environment Agency have carried out the biggest barbel restocking ever after putting in 100,000 fish into the Great Ouse above Bedford.

The much-needed fresh fish are going into the Ouse, which produced a string of  record barbel,  are the smallest ever stocked by the EA. They are just a couple of inches long.

Whilst the reduced catches in the past decade or more suggest restocking action would provide a future Ouse barbel population, survival rates might be tiny.

Some anglers also wonder whether the fry are just a publicity stunt after the area was hit by recently a detergent pollution killed 2,000 prime fish at Brackley.

That pollution left a ten-mile stretch of river looking like a bubble bath and the EA were waiting on test results to see if they could bring any prosecution.

Former record barbel holder Ray Walton caught his 17 lb 6 oz British best from the Ouse at Adam’s Mill. He thinks few of the fry will reach specimen size.

Ray said: “They usually stock barbel at over two years old, not fry, which gives them a much better chance of survival and growing on in the wild.

Record barbel of the future? These were some larger fish of the size normally used for river restocking.

Ray continued: “Fry probably won’t survive due the river contamination from pollutants from water company sewage works, and farmers’ pesticides.

“This happens to most wild baby barbel in most UK rivers, hence why they have to re-stock every now and then to maintain the species presence.

“They also usually stock them in winter, not summer, which is a bit strange.

“If they are re-stocking the area of the pollution as a quick fix and to gain publicity, then the tiny barbel won’t survive anyway.

“The macro-invertebrates food would have been wiped out too, so (there would be) nothing to feed on,” he added.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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KOI herpes virus is back in Britain - with warm water temperatures having encouraged the deadly disease.

Four venues spread throughout the country were initially confirmed as being hit by the killer koi herpes virus.

All were temporarily closed while containment measures were put in place.

These initial koi herpes virus affected fisheries were:

• Newstead and Annesley Country Park in Nottingham
• Parkers Fishery in West Midlands
• Essex’s Church Lane Lake
• Mawgan Porth Pools in Cornwall

Sam Mulholland, of Parkers Fishery, said they had lost 150 carp since the outbreak, all of which were incinerated.

Since then many more sites around the country have had problems, some being officially confirmed with koi herpes virus. They include…

• Holme Grange Fishery, Berkshire
• Clear Water Fisheries, Lancashire
• Trench Pool, Shropshire
• Old Hough Fishery, Cheshire
• Woodside Fishery, Hereford & Worcester
• Coopers Arms, Derby
• K Lakes, Skegness
• Martham Pits, Norfolk
• J & K Aquatics Ltd Wholesale unit, Somerset
• Blagdon Water Gardens, Somerset
• Watermarque, Yeovil. Somerset
• Ashland Lakes, Buckinghamshire
• Shadwell Pool, London

This carp’s gills show clear signs of it having koi herpes virus.

Tamsin Cochrane-Dyet, a fish inspector for CEFAS, explained: “Every year (koi herpes virus) cases break out at this time when water temperatures rise with the longer days. There hasn’t yet been any noticeable increase because of the heatwave.

“It is thought that many fish do passively carry the virus and it can become active if they become stressed for any reason like higher temperatures and lower oxygen levels.

“It is mainly spread by the movement of infected fish, sometimes following a restocking or by the illegal introduction of an ornamental species, and when cases are confirmed the venue is barred from all fish movement.

“It can also be spread via anglers’ nets so dipping of all nets is enforced on all venues following an outbreak. Anglers can help by always air-drying their nets.

“Research into the disease is on-going but little progress is being made at the moment so we can expect further out-breaks to occur and they could be anywhere,” she concluded.

Koi herpes virus ‘hard to eradicate’

Carp farmer and fish scientist Viv Shears said: “KHV seems to be something that is hard to eradicate, and just has to be controlled as effectively as possible when outbreaks occur.

“As a fish farmer I take every precaution to avoid it, only breeding from our own stock which is clear of the disease and disinfecting all our vehicles which deliver fish on their return.

“Fishery owners should only purchase carp from reputable sources known to be KHV free, and have good bio-security.

“Dipping of nets is a recommended practice, and compulsory afterwards until the all clear is given.

“Anglers can help by air drying their own nets in the sun, although in reality the risks of the disease spreading through nets is small.

“More outbreaks probably occur than are officially reported as smaller mixed fisheries with low carp stocks may only notice a few deaths whereas a carp commercial could lose hundreds of fish,” he added.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

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You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

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THIS could very well be the best catch of heavyweight crucians by any British anglers...

Darren Starkey and pal Matt Smith had a dream crucian carp trip to Sweden.

They  shared 48 specimens including eight fish over the 4 lb 10 oz British record.

The English duo netted two over 5 lb, seven four-pounders, 18 threes and 20 two-pounders and just a single fish over 1 lb.

The crucian carp caught by the pair averaged an astonishing 3 lb 9 oz each.

Selby, North Yorkshire-based Darren explained: “We both had four fish bigger than the UK record topped by a brace of fives.

“All the fish were caught float fishing corn and paste less than a rod length from the bank in 2 feet of water.”

Matt Smith shows one of the huge crucian carp.

Crucian carp mecca

Darren added: “I really can’t recommend Lake Ursjön enough. The fishing speaks for itself but the setting is stunning, the wildlife amazing and John B Eriksson was an awesome host.

“We knew the lake held some really big crucians but the holiday was amazing and the fishing really magical.

“Is it the best crucian haul ever? I don’t know but it has to be up there.

“I had a brace of 5 lb 1 oz each and I’m not sure a UK angler has caught a 5 before,” concluded Darren, a 51-year-old RSPB senior site manager.

As Angler’s Mail exclusively reported in 2014, Swedish fishing guide Kim Preducic caught the World’s heaviest crucian carp from the same venue at 6 lb 9 oz 8 dr.

The British crucian carp record is jointly held at 4 lb 10 oz from Surrey’s Johnsons Lake.

The official IGFA World record for crucian carp stands at 5 lb 5 oz from Lago Fasson in Italy by Giacomo Schiavon.

CAUGHT A BIG FISH OR GOT SOME NEWS? Email photos and details exclusively to: anglersmail@ti-media.com – you could appear in the must-read print magazine.

SUBSCRIBE TO ANGLER’S MAIL MAG AT A LOW PRICE!

The best weekly  magazine, Angler’s Mail, will be delivered to you.

Just subscribe to one of the top Sale deals online at our official website for magazine subs: magazinesdirect.com.

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Discounted rates start from just 96p per week (print)…. or even less for the iPad/iPhone version!

You may also like to read these Angler’s Mail stories…

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