Chris Wilkes came within 6oz of beating his all-time barbel best after landing this fine 17lb 10oz fish.
It was caught from the lower River Severn, which on arrival Chris found to be carrying plenty of extra water.
FANCY A TRIP TO THE RIVER SEVERN YOURSELF? HERE ARE THE BEST SPOTS TO STAY AND FISH.
Given the conditions, he opted for a large piece of meat as his hookbait, and about an hour after casting, his rod melted off. The fish made a few powerful runs, and he knew it was a good one, but when he finally netted it, he was shocked by just how big it was!
The fish smashed his River Severn personal best and is his 12th double-figure barbel from the venue this season.
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