May is regarded by many specimen hunters as prime time for tench, and two-time Drennan Cup winner Dai Gribble proved precisely why when he caught this 11lb 9oz fish on his very first cast of a recent trip.
Tench are Dai’s favourite species, and they become his primary focus as they near prime condition in late spring.
On this latest session at a Kent stillwater, Dai had a few nights at his disposal, so he took his time getting his kit ready, finding a spot and baiting it up accurately.
NEED THE RIGHT KIT FOR YOUR TENCH FISHING? CHECK OUT OUR BUYER'S GUIDE.
The Wolverhampton ace then cast his trusty worm kebab rigs over the top – a set-up he’s used for tench to a massive 14lb 3oz in the past – and had his three rods out by 4pm.
Three hours later Dai had a bite on the first rod he’d cast out, and connected with a heavy fish that turned out to be the 11-pounder.
Over the remainder of the memorable session Dai had no shortage of bites, and landed an additional 28 tench, including another heavyweight of 10lb 9oz and several plump nine-pounders.
WANT TO GO TENCH FISHING BUT CAN'T FIND A VENUE? CHECK OUT OUR WHERE TO FISH GUIDE.
This page is a free example of the amazing content Angling Times Members get every single week. Becoming an Angling Times Member gives you access to award-winning magazine content, member rewards, our back issue archives, bonus content and more! Join our fishing community and find out more today!