A THREE-HOUR session at the crack of dawn produced this huge 5lb 3oz canal perch for Paul Bailey.
Targeting a spot on the New Junction Canal, Paul fished two rods on legered lobworm hookbaits. One was cast to the far bank, while the other was dropped just off the near margin shelf. Both rigs incorporated free-running 1oz leads.
After approximately 30 minutes it was the near-bank rod that signalled a take, and after setting the hook Paul battled the fish for five minutes. Once it was placed on the landing mat, Paul recognised it as one that he had caught last season when it was a ‘big four’. It set a new PB for the Pontefract angler, beating his previous best for the species by 2oz.
A few other anglers were on the bank to witness the whole episode, and gave Paul a round of applause as the fish was returned.
