Fraser on Fishing: Big fish kept a low profile during Leadburn comp

A FEW anglers appeared for the open competition at Leadburn Manor last weekend.

As with all these competitions a good draw is an advantage, especially in testing conditions.

Using only the island, the competitors managed to get round at least twice in the session. It did not take much to figure out what the majority of anglers were using as all manner of sizes of Yellow Dancers cascaded down on the water.

The best start was three fish taken on the one platform in a matter off minutes. I got off to a fairly slow start and managed only one two-pounder in the first half hour, but hey, it was a start. As it was a catch and release match and all the hooks were barbless - I dropped a few. But that applied to everyone so it was a level playing field.

It was not until I got round to the other side of the island where the sun was shining that the offers improved. However, despite several takes I could only land another one for the day.

Some of the big fish were keeping a low profile as the biggest on the day was only 4lb. As with any sport there has to be winners and losers and it ended in a tie with both anglers managing six fish each. It was a friendly match despite the rivalry and all enjoyed the chance to get out and fish again.