Home|
News|
News Stories

Short session produces lifetime-best perch

by Aidan Bordiuk |

Published on24th February 2026 at 10.48am

Perch are said to be the biggest fish of all, and when they look as striking as the one Matthew Fernandez banked on a recent trip to a local stillwater, it is clear to see why.

While many of the huge perch that get caught and reported are from the bigger reservoirs these days, Matt's capture proves that even the smaller ponds and fisheries dotted around the country can hold some seriously impressive fish.

"With the conditions being bright I didn't fancy my chances, but as Sunday's are my only days to fish, I will still go out and try," Matt told us.

"Knowing perch usually prefer to feed into dusk, I arrived at my chosen stillwater around 2pm, opting for a swim with some marginal snags and cover where I hoped there might be one or two fish lurking."

Once set up, Matt lowered a float-fished prawn hookbait alongside the snags, occasionally feeding a few maggots into the swim. Remaining patient, he was eventually rewarded, and around two hours later Matt watched as his float slowly slid away, signalling a solid take! Upon lifting into the fish, he instantly knew it was either a carp or a seriously big perch.

"My friend on the opposite bank couldn't believe how hard this fish was fighting and shouted across that it had to be a carp, but from the tell tale head shakes on the rod tip, I knew it was perch," Matt explained.

"After a seriously heart in mouth battle the perch finally graced my net! The beast spun the scales to 4lb 10oz a new personal best perch! Caught down the edge float fishing! Buzzing!"

"One thing I like to do is soak my prawns in Dynamite Baits Predator Liquid, as it gives them a bight red appearance and a little scent that perch seem to love."

"Fishing is about a healthy balance. I arrived at 2pm and was home by 6:30pm to have dinner with my wife and kids, just proving you don't have to live on the bank to catch specimen fish," he concluded.

THE BEST FISHING CHAIRS WILL HELP YOU STAY COMFORTABLE WHILE WAITING FOR BIG FISH...

What a stunning perch that is, sporting all its winter colours!

Enjoying this article?

Subscribe to Angling Times for expert fishing tips, tackle reviews, and the latest angling news delivered straight to your door. Whether you're into coarse, carp, or match fishing, we’ve got the stories, advice and inspiration to keep you hooked.

Click here to see our latest subscription offers!

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us