Tactics were to be simple. I had waited for the right time to fish the water, and now was that time. The water was running well, but it was also very clear with bright blue skies and sunshine. The ultimate weather for floater fishing. We began our journey searching out the water by introducing a little floating crust, and then waiting for it to get 50 yards or so away from us before following it downstream. After walking for a bout 10 minutes, some fish started to take in the bread. The lads were happy for me to go first, and as l left them further up setting up, I crept down into position. With the undergrowth being a nightmare, I tried to work out where the fish were taking without making my presence known. This meant that I had to kneel and creep on all fours amongst countless stinging nettles - ouch!

My pain proved short lived however, as I carefully parted a couple of stingers, I could clearly see a group of good Chub casually holding up in the current, no more than mere feet in front of me. I threw a couple of pieces of flake up stream and watch as these mega mouthed brutes engulfed whatever came in range. I knew this was my moment, and that I was only going to get one chance at this. I cast a piece of flake right over the stinger and watched as it approached one of the slightly smaller residents. With lightning speed it was taking and I sprung to my feet amongst the stingers. I had no idea at this point how big the fish was, but I could tell by the fight it was going to be a decent fish. After countering it's last attempt at freedom, it lay safely in the net; it was a lot bigger than I had first thought! I ran back down to the guys and showed off my prize - a PB equalling 6lb 1oz Chub, I was over the moon! The day end spectacularly as both Dougie and Giff landed Personal best Chub. Dougies weighed in at 3lb and Giff's 4lb 9oz. We walked back that day three very happy anglers. I know something, when I head back later in the season, I'll be one very excited angler!