The 7th April 2019 was a somewhat cool and overcast day, with a stiff easterly wind blowing for most of the day. This did not deter 14 winter league anglers from contesting the ninth round of our series at Heron Brook Pools near Eccleshall. The water condition was strange as the pool had a clay muddiness to it, but this did not preclude some large carp from feeding, along with F1s and occasional skimmer bream. With the wind on his back, Brian Tinman used this advantage to take the win with 32 Lbs 10 Ozs taken at about 8 metres on the pole and pellet. Second, from the other side of the pool, was Bob Smith with 29 Lbs 8 Ozs despite smashing section 6 of his pole towards the end of the match. Third spot went to yours truly with 27 Lbs 4 Ozs taken on pole and pellet.

Two weeks later, the weather couldn't have been more different. For a week before the 21st April it suddenly became summer! Temperatures soared into the mid-20s and the sky was azure blue with light winds over the Chestnut Pool at Boldings Fishery near Bridgnorth. Just 10 of us fished this match, as it was Easter Sunday. Drawn at the fancied permanent Peg 1 was Ken Arnold who trounced the remiander of the field with an impressive 67 Lbs 8 Ozs taken down the margin on pole and pellet. Second (facing Ken) on permanent Peg 40, was Brian Tinman with exactly 51 Lbs using the same approach. Third was yours truly with exactly 43 Lbs taken on pole with pellet and corn.

With the final match to be fished on the Mallard Pool at Springlea on 5th May it couldn't be tighter in the race to win the league. I now have managed to get my nose in front with 63 points, with Clive Biddulph second on 57 and Ken Arnold third on 54. With 10 points maximum up for grabs, it will be a nail-biting finish - especially for me!

For the full result, cick on the link.

Winter League 8 & 9 HERON BROOK & BOLDINGS.pdf (35.32 kb)