21st March - Allan's Marine Open - Solent beaches

Conditions on the day

I always look forward to this competition. Normally held on the beaches further to the East at Eastney, this time the competition was to be held round the corner, on the beaches opposite the Isle of Wight, namley Gosport, Lee-on-solent and Browndown. Everybody knew that the fishing was going to be tough, especially as the day became very pleasant, with warm sunshine and calm seas. A lovely day to be by the seaside, but not condusive to good catches even when plenty of fish are around. The turn out was a little lower than last year, in part due to the terrible fishing at the moment, but still 144 hardy souls put in for a crack at the top prize, which I think was in the region of £650.

Allan's marine open in full swing

The fishing certainly lived up to expectations, with two zones failing to find a single fish. There was obviously a patch of fish to my left, as I saw a small flattie, a couple of school bass and a Bullhead pop out. I was determined to sit it out for flatties at close range, which I did, but without action save for crabs abusing my fine King rag, Red rag, White rag and freshout black lug baits. Although I didnt catch a fish, when you know no-one else is really catching anything either, it does rather leave you excited at the prospect of what might be, right up until the final retrieve. Thats when the deflated feeling comes. 22 anglers managed to return fish to the scales, but Southampton angler Steve Deathe took the top honours with a bag of no less than three school bass (18cm measure and release rules) on a day when multiple catches just werent happening. Well done on a top performance, and well done to all at Allan's marine for such a well oiled match. A cracking day out...........! (Also a big thanks to George for running me there and back.......)