More of Milton Keynes' fisheries re-opened as anglers thrive

The latest catches from the banks in Milton Keynes
RYAN McAdam's magnificent 10-4 Mount Farm tenchRYAN McAdam's magnificent 10-4 Mount Farm tench
RYAN McAdam's magnificent 10-4 Mount Farm tench

Almost like the end of an old-school close season with fish seeming to have been queuing up for the first day of term.

That was how it was for many as club's and fisheries re-opened – albeit on different days and in some cases without night fishing as operators wrestled with government guidelines and landlords' safety requirements.

But most people on the banks were just pleased to be back fishing.

MITCH Kingsmill's Tear Drops 27MITCH Kingsmill's Tear Drops 27
MITCH Kingsmill's Tear Drops 27

One of the best fish caught – one to make almost any angler green with envy – was Ryan McAdam's superb 10-4 Mount Farm tench! AND he had a 24lb common, too.

Not long after the 8am start on Tear Drops, Mitch Kingsmill landed a 27-1 PB common. Others found the 'Drops in fine form, too.

On Alders people where busy putting the fun back in fishing, and Ciaran Forth got going with a 42lb PB called 'shoulders'.

Furzton – no fishing outside of 8am to 8pm like all other MKAA waters except Bradwell Lake and the canal – has been a hive of well disciplined activity since it reopened.

AN 11-2 Caldecotte slab for Lee JonesAN 11-2 Caldecotte slab for Lee Jones
AN 11-2 Caldecotte slab for Lee Jones

The water has produced a flurry of fish to mid-20s and among others Anthony Keen had three, Matt Griffin five, Brad Greenmore one and Stewart Ball was 'in' within 30 minutes of Wednesday's start. Go Fishing's Neil Richardson had nine carp on his first session.

On Newport pits, the club's Ade Watson gave up two days – sat on the entrance road (between occasional fry-ups) – to ensure that landlord safety conditions were met. THAT's dedication.

Mark Levitt had a big, black, 'original' common and Angling Direct man Jack Maroney's young lad Charlie was over the moon with some roach.

Bradwell, night fishing allowed (three nights then leave) had a 'full house' daytime attendance, Saturday. Bailiff Pete Seidler saw granddaughter Annabelle, 11, beat his bream PB with an 8-6. Colin Richens had one a few ounces heavier.

AN 8-6 Bradwell bream for young Annabelle SeidlerAN 8-6 Bradwell bream for young Annabelle Seidler
AN 8-6 Bradwell bream for young Annabelle Seidler

Caldecotte produced an 11-2 bream for Lee Jones who was avoiding the crowds.

SAD news of the week was Newport-club stalwart and local legend Don WIlls' passing. He ran a tackle shop for decades in Newport – one almost as much a local angling world social centre as a business.

It was also where many wide-eyed kids gained tips and advice that would help them become seasoned anglers of the future. RIP Don.

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