The penultimate match of this year's POHAS Winter league took place at Hall Lane Fishery On Merlin’s Pool. Upon arrival we found out that we had the whole lake, consisting of 50 pegs, so lots of room again for the 18 anglers who turned out to fish.
            Due the amount of space between pegs and the island blocking my view of everyone on the opposite bank, it was difficult to see/hear what was going on throughout the match, hence a slightly less detailed report than usual.
A variety of methods were used today ranging from pole down the track, across and down the edge, whilst others opted for the rod. Bait-wise, pellets or maggots seemed to be favoured on the day by most anglers.
            Again, we had some good individual nets today with several 30lb & 20lb back up weights in blustery conditions with the odd heavy downpour.
The blustery conditions made it difficult to fish long across, but today's winner James Bryan persisted with that approach and it paid off, winning the match by the narrowest of margins (14oz) with 46lb 14oz – well done James who also tops the Winter League standings with just one match to go.
Congratulations to Ken Whibley who had to settle for second place with 46lb 0oz and third place today went to Tony Savage who weighed 38lb 14oz after getting off to a flying start with Carp after Carp during the first hour (gave me a sore neck).
Several BIG carp where caught today, the largest specimen by Dave Newton which weighed in at 13lb 11oz, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough to pip Alan Lamb’s 14lb 11oz monster at Lindholme which currently holds the biggest fish this year (so far).
There where also a few tales of “the one that got away” with some anglers getting off lightly with just a snapped hook-length whilst others weren’t so lucky and will be busy re-elasticating top kits ready for their next match.
The ‘unfortunate’ Paul Roby also had an expensive day, inadvertently losing his only number 3 section before the match had even begun, giving him no option but to fish on a top kit all day. A few members did suggest he “go in” and rescue it, to which he declined much to everyone's’ disappointment.
            Our recipient of Golden Peg today was Phil Morris who decided not to weigh in, so unfortunately the curse continues! Surely it’s due to go soon…
            Finally, well done to everyone who fished, we hope to see you at the Fur & Feather match, taking place on Covey 6 at Partridge Lakes on Saturday 2nd December 2017. Remember, there will be a carvery at the Stonemill following this match for everyone who fishes it. See you all there!