A glorious spring morning greeted anglers on the opening day of the new season at Grafham Water on Friday 16th. The weather conditions, combined with a rod average of 4.7, made for a great start to the new season. The New Lodge Trophy, for the best fish weighed in on the day, was won by Gary Hardy from Toseland, St Neots, with a 3lb 11oz rainbow. Gary’s fish took a cormorant fished on a floater from Gaynes Cove/Plummer Park bank and was part of a five fish bag. Dennis Thorp took the best bag of the day with 8 fish for 20lb 8oz.
Boat fishing was consistent with some good bags taken, particularly at the south end of the Dam and G Buoy. Most anglers anchored and success came to various methods, including floating line with nymphs or lures on long leaders and to fast sinkers with orange boobies in particular, although black and green also worked well.
Bank anglers found fishing challenging with fish moving in and out from the banks during the day. Fish were mostly caught at the south end of the Dam, Hill Farm, G Buoy, Plummer Park and the Harbour.
Anglers are reminded that all browns must be returned to the water until 1 April
best rainbow 3lb 11oz taken by Gary Hardy of Toseland
best boat areas South Dam, G Buoy
best bank areas South Dam, G Buoy, Gaynes/Plummer Park, Harbour Arms
mid week boat winner Carl Peers from Potton
best methods boat anglers various methods, including floating line with nymphs or lures on long leaders also fast sinkers with orange boobies
fish stocked 2,000
forthcoming events Beginners courses 31 March, 21 & 25 April
GWFFA/EDFA competition Sunday 29 April
Bob Church Classic Sunday 9 May