Fish 829 (Season 7,815) Returns 209 (1,558) Rod average 3.96 (5.0)
Grafham Water has had a very busy week with the majority of boats being booked each day. Anglers came from far and wide, birthdays were celebrated and matches contended, all in fierce competition.
Bank fishing has been patchy this week, but the dam is still producing. The wind is always a factor so have a look at the direction and think where the fish are likely to be.
With an eye on the forecast for the coming week we recommend fishing the south bank, trying areas such as the Seat, Perry Point and drifting into Valley Creek.
Competition news
EFFA ProAm 20 June
The EFFA Pro Am on Thursday saw 18 boats take to the water, carrying 36 very enthusiastic and knowledgeable anglers. The majority of boats headed straight to Gaynes Cove where there was an abundance of quality ‘overwintered’ fish. Tempting them just below the surface with a FAB on the top dropper, then two hares ears and a booby on the point proved the killer combination; especially with a very long hang at the end of the retrieve.
The Professionals won with the results as follows
The Professionals
119 fish for a total weight of 274lb 12oz and a rod average of 7.44
1st Keith Jones 27lb 10oz
2nd Sean Hanlon 27lb 6oz
3rd John Hardy 26lb 12oz
4th Graham Pearson 25lb 12oz
The Amateurs
92 fish for 213lb 7oz and a rod average of 5.75
1st Steve Otteridge 28lb 8oz
2nd Gary How 27lb 7oz
3rd Keith Gilchrist 21lb 14oz
4th Peter Hartley 17lb
Anglian Water Airflo International Midland Heat 22 June
This eagerly anticipated match saw four teams of 6 anglers battling it out for a place in the International Final. Because of a change in wind direction the fish had moved and the method was a little more challenging. The winners were the Finatics with 29 fish for an impressive 65lb 7oz. Top rod was Cameron Neil with a weight of 27lb 12oz. Peter Hartley took the best fish of the day – a superb Rainbow of 3lb 14oz.
Fishing Stats
Best boat areas: Wind dependent – the Seat, the West bank.
Best bank areas: The dam (bowl area), the Harbour Arms (early morning and late evening).
Mid week boat winner: Barry Tayler.
Forthcoming events
Invicta Tuesday Night Boat League
Open to all; boat draw approx. 5.15 with fishing commencing at 5.30pm. The evening concludes at the Wheatsheaf in Perry for refreshments.
Anglian Water Airflo International – Southern Final 8 July
Anglian Water Airflo International – Midland Final 22 July
WPC 17&18 August
Anglian Water rudder match 24 August
Beginners courses: 30 June;6,19 & 28 July; 3,9,24 & 30 August and other dates throughout the season.
Boat handling courses: 2 & 24 July; 6 August and other dates throughout the season.