Angling for a big catch this season

MORE than 40,000 rainbow trout were released into Hanningfield Reservoir ahead of the launch of the latest angling season.

Many of the 150 anglers who descended on the waters at the weekend, went in the hope of reeling in a catch that would rival the 24.1lbs wild rainbow trout caught there in 1998.

This giant catch remains the largest of its kind to be caught in Britain but it is hoped that record could be smashed this season, especially as an extra 1,000 plump rainbow trout are being kept in cage-housing ready to be released later in the year.

This could give someone a tasty meal because anglers at Hanningfield can take home a maximum of eight trout.

However, other species must be returned to keep supplies up.

Just last year a trout weighing in at 15lbs was pulled out and David Brown, who works in the shop, believes another big catch is just around the corner.

"There is something in the water here. It is very rich, productive water, one of the most productive in Europe."

Among the fisherman testing the waters was Peter Halfhide, 45, of Latchingdon, who was fly-fishing from the banks of the 875-acre reservoir using booby bait.

"This is one of my favourites because I like to fish in big waters," said the angler, who had one catch for the day. "I like the open air and find it relaxing."

Adrian Cornell, 49, of Coggeshall, who was also fly fishing, said: "Hanningfield is big, well-stocked and I always find people in the shop very helpful. It's a nice place to be and relax."

He had also caught one trout when we visited his bank location but added: "I have been here and caught eight before and had to put some back."

The new season brings with it the usual boat hire and bank fishing, along with full-day fly fishing tuition or a half-day in other methods – a new event.

Graham Brown, the senior ranger for Essex and Suffolk Water, said they were always keen to see more youngsters taking up angling and added: "We encourage anyone from eight up. If they come with a full-paying adult, children can fish free."

Visit www.eswater.co.uk/gofishing or call 0845 155 0236.