Entered My First Freshwater Open Match

Went to my usual fishery on Tuesday (14 carp after a slow start) single maggot seemed the best bet.

I also got my name on the subs list for the following day's fully subscribed open match

The last time I entered a coarse match was about 50 years ago, I was at school! At least this time I'd done my homework!

That evening I got a message a place had become available!

Far too tired to prep up that night how I knew I should, I went for it anyway.

Not having got a second rod set up ready as I'd planned cost me time when fatigue led to me being in a tangle, it looked like I wasn't going to be weighing in!

With only 90 minutes of the 6 hour match left I finally saved the blank

5 of the 18 anglers didn't weigh in.
Most found it a hard day to reach 40lb.
Winner for the 3rd time in a row doubled that though!
(Maggot and the peg I'd been on the day before)

With only 3 carp for my 16lb 2oz weighed in I was second from lowest weight, but as that included my PB from this venue and possibly the best fish I've seen caught there I was still happy.

Not individually weighed but I reckon 9lb

Nice going Paul.like they say 'You've got to be in it to win it.'
Sounds like a well maintained and stocked fishery.
50yrs,time flies.

Well done Paul.

good report and pictures thanks for sharing well done on the outcome

Have you thought of giving Fjuka hookable baits a try?
I've just got 4 packs of different colours (£1.99 per pack)
Some of the reviews are quite good.
The bait is 'Squashable'you can make larger baits or even blend the colours.
A bit like modelling clay.
The heat from your fingers makes it pliable.
It can be used straight on the hook,no need for a hair rig.
Now for me with my old pork sausage fingers,that is going to save me a lot of time and messing about.
The bait has it's own attractant flavouring.
Fjuka do a full range of boilies and wafters,some predrilled.
Plus their own 'Magic liquid,haha.
I'll be sticking to my favorite dip,sardine oil.

Cheers for the comments chaps.

Interesting bait suggestions to research there VB

Hopefully next time I'll be nearer top of the class, I won't be leaving it another 50 years either!