A big rudd revolution is happening on the Fens


by Freddie Sandford |
Updated on

Early each season, anglers head to the UK’s eastern flatlands to target specimen rudd on countless miles of Fenland rivers and drains. A few good fish are usually reported, but the past week has been extraordinary, with a whole rack of three-pounders hitting the bank.

The largest fish of the week was caught by Ryszard Warman, who had an exceptional 3lb 14oz rudd.

“I fished a swim I’d prebaited twice beforehand, and it was evident there were fish present when I arrived,” Ryszard told us.

Using slow-sinking breadflake below a Puddlechucker float, I hooked a good fish first cast, and at 3lb 14oz, it equals my PB! I’m excited to see what else the Fen drains throw up this year.”

USING ONE OF THE BEST FLOAT RODS WILL HELP IMPROVE YOUR FLOAT FISHING FOR SPECIMEN FISH.

This 3lb 14oz rudd is the best fish of the season so far.
This 3lb 14oz rudd is the best fish of the season so far.

Locating these rudd is key to success, and Alistair Galbraith showed you can find them even under the cover of darkness, taking a night-time 3lb 4oz specimen.

“I’d fed a few bits of bread before this beast revealed itself with an almighty swirl!” he said.

“Using a slow-sinking piece as hookbait, the float shot under and I connected with what I knew was a very special rudd right away.”

A SET OF THE BEST FISHING SCALES WILL ENSURE YOU CAN ACCURATELY WEIGH BIG FISH.

Alistair Galbraith with his stunning 3lb 4oz fish.
Alistair Galbraith with his stunning 3lb 4oz fish.

Last but by no means least to get in on the action was Paul Brooks, who banked a fine fish of 3lb 3oz. “I was out early in the morning and found a few good rudd, but they weren’t interested in my hookbait, and I had to head home,” he said.

“But that evening I went back out, and I’m so glad that I did! A freelined bit of slow-sinking bread did the business.”

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Paul Brooks 3lb 3oz rudd
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