A CHANGE of swim proved to be a great move for HGV driver James Stewart when he landed this impressive 18lb 8oz barbel from the Thames – the biggest of the season.
After introducing some bait while setting up in the new swim, where overhanging trees provided cover on both sides, James presented a 15mm boilie on a running rig with a 3oz lead.
He fished through the night with no action, but come sunrise the rod hooped over, and as soon as he picked it up, he knew it was a good barbel.
The fish stayed deep, surging powerfully along the bottom, but after 20 minutes James finally got a glimpse of a barbel that set his heart racing. It’s a new personal best, and one he is already looking forward to try and beat.
James Stewart – 18lb 8oz barbel