The Royalty Fishery on the Hampshire Avon has been in remarkable form for large pike captures this season, with 23 fish reported over the 20lb mark since pike fishing resumed on October 1st at the renowned venue.
In addition to this impressive number of large pike, numerous double-figure fish have been caught throughout the length of the fishery, which bodes well for the future of predator fishing on the historic stretch. We spoke to river keeper Dan Gale, who shared his insights into why he thinks pike fishing has been so exceptional this year.
"To date, we have had 23 pike over 20lb, with the largest weighing in at 26lb since October 1st. I feel a 30lb fish may very well be caught at some stage," He said.
"Among the 23 fish, some will be recaptures, so while they aren’t all different fish, it shows that treating pike with respect on the bank has no ill effect on their health, and they are content to keep feeding," he added.
"The lure anglers who frequent the fishery have also reported fish over 100cm. Although they tend not to weigh their catches, a pike of that length will likely approach, if not slightly exceed, 20lb."
"I believe a perfect combination of easier fishing conditions and an abundance of small sea trout in the river has helped boost pike weights and keep the fish spread throughout the fishery."
"The weather has also stayed mild, making it easier for anglers to catch live baits, which have produced plenty of fish," he explained.
One angler who had a trip to remember was James Newman, who landed the biggest fish of the season so far as well as another 20lb fish in a few hours on the river.
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"I decided to get down to the Royalty Fishery on the Hampshire Avon as I love the fishery and my pike fishing," James said.
"My session couldn't have gone any better, as I managed to catch pike of 26lb 8oz and 20lb 2oz, one of my best days ever on the river."
“Both fell to livebaits, which the fishery permits. The larger one took a bait fished presented on a paternoster, while the 20lb 2oz fish was caught on a trotted bait.
“I had the pleasure of sharing the moment with the old man, which made it even more special!”
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