CATFISH aren't really known for their looks, but the stunning dark colouration of this specimen landed by big fish specialist Rob Young would make any angler smile.
“I visited a 25-acre southern gravel pit in the hope of catching a catfish on my first overnight session of the year," he said.
“I landed fish of 16lb and 22lb, before connecting with something much more substantial. It ran 70 yards, but I managed to get control over it before too long. However, as it neared the net, the catfish started swimming backwards and went through my other line! It was a real battle to land it, but luckily my friend was on hand to help out.
“It weighed 56lb 11oz, and will form part of a wellbeing challenge I’m doing at work for Macmillan Hospice, whereby I’ve given myself 11 months to catch six different species of specimen fish.
“I beat the big cat using a 4.5lb test curve rod, 35lb line and a strong size 4 hook.”
