Steve Kings blog that he puts on Face Book I like to add them on here for all the non social media people out there 👍
A Challenging Day at The Sedges
Sedges Fishery’s Tile Lake in Bridgewater is a fantastic venue, known for its quality fishing and exciting matches. However, with the weather cooling over the past week, conditions could be tricky, as the fish tend to become less active. Sunday brought a glimmer of hope with slightly warmer temperatures, but the forecast of cloudy skies and eventual rain meant we were in for a challenging day on the bank.
When the draw came, I picked peg 21. My reaction was mixed. I’d been hoping for a peg in the 30s for a change, but peg 21 is known to hold a few carp, so I knew it could produce. With cautious optimism, I set up two rods: one for the straight bomb and another for a small method feeder. I also prepared an edge rig for fishing meat close in, hoping to pick up a few bonus fish.
The morning started well. I managed to catch a few carp early on the straight bomb and later added a couple more using the method feeder. These initial bites gave me confidence, but the session soon took a turn for the worse. For several hours, I couldn’t buy a bite. Paul, fishing peg 40, was in a similar situation during the middle of the match, but he’d already done the damage in the first 45 minutes, landing six carp in rapid succession to secure a solid lead.
As the match progressed, I needed a new plan. In the final hour, I switched tactics and moved up the right-hand bank, fishing meat close in. This decision turned out to be a game-changer. The carp I landed were absolute “crocodiles”, big hard fighting fish that bolstered my final weight significantly.
When the whistle blew, I ended the match with 71lbs, enough to secure second place. Paul Lock blistering start on peg 40 earned him the top spot with 89lbs, while Tony Newell on peg 35 rounded out the top three with over 50lbs. Meanwhile, Rob Eagle took the silvers pot with a solid 16lbs.
Reflecting on the day, I’m pleased with the result, especially given the tough conditions. Peg 21 proved to be a decent swim despite my initial reservations, and adapting my tactics in the final hour paid off. The next big event for me is the Avalon Fisheries Christmas Match, and I’m already looking forward to getting back on the bank. Until then, tight lines!
