News

Overnight Success for the Doc

A recent session on the St Ives Complex in Cambridgeshire resulted in a total of seven runs for the Doc topped by this chunky 21lb pike with three double-figure back-up fish. Dynamite Baits Smelt and Joey Mackeral baits popped up straight off the lead were used to combat the weed present.

“The lake had literally only become fishable as the ice had melted a day previously. The water temperature was still incredibly low, but crucially rising slightly. Finally, after being unable to fish the Complex right through the New Year I found myself with the chance to fish. In recent years I have caught an increasing number of pike in the dark and this fish picked up a whole joey mackerel at about 3AM.”

“The fish fought really well, although was very lightly hooked, and I think the fish were only mouthing the baits in the cold conditions, as I hooked another good fish shortly after that fell off during the fight when it shook its head.”

Paul presented his baits on 20 inch traces made of 30lb seven-strand wire and two size 8 semi-barbless trebles. Most of the action came from no more than two rod lengths from the bank in around eight feet of water.