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Isle of Wight: IW Freshwater Fishing Association’s annual IW Open

Pegs mean prizes at IW Open

Friday, July 18, 2008
Pegs mean prizes at IW Open
Steve Morris puts a chubb he caught in his keepnet. Picture by PETER BOAM.
Sport/AnglingTO THE untrained eye, angling seems a peaceful sport, with success built on good bait and a lot of patience.
But who would have thought the humble peg could prove the most important factor?
At the IW Freshwater Fishing Association’s annual flagship event, the IW Open, last weekend, the 23-strong field were all hoping to pick one peg; peg 18.
This peg gave the lucky recipient the prime position at Merstone Lakes on Sunday,
And, as predicted by the rest of the competition, the angler at peg 18, Chris Calder won overall with a total catch of 56lbs 15oz.
In second place was venue expert Dave Haddon, who fished from peg 12 and caught 39lbs, while nine-time club champion Ian Jones, from peg 24, caught 31lbs 11oz to come third.
Making a rare appearance, former eight-time club champion Vic Warren, caught 30lbs for fourth place and a section win. Section 2 winner was Rob Ribbens, with 28lbs 1oz , including a 15lb carp.
There was space for up to 40 anglers to take part but numbers were down this year because, according to organisers, mainland competitors found travel costs too high.
Of the 23 anglers, 17 weighed-in with a total of 360lbs in carp and silverfish.
John Milligton, match secretary, said: “The best result we have ever had here was 165lbs but more normally, like this year, the winner will catch between 50lbs and 60lbs.
“After the weigh-in, there was a barbecue and refreshments which everyone really enjoyed.”
The club’s next match is on Sunday, fishing on the River Yar, Brading. The draw takes place at 1pm, with fishing between 2pm and 7pm.