We opted for the two smaller lakes, Ash and Alder, where I set up the long rod and waggler with a three pound line direct to a 12 hook with small pieces of luncheon meat at the business end. Casting just two rod lengths out it was fast and furious right from the off. After less than five hours, I was rewarded with 50 carp to eight pounds for an estimated 120lb bag.

Martin had only taken a bomb rod and although that wasn't the ideal presentation on the day Martin got the most from it to put 25 carp on the bank for approximately 60 lbs. Good company, good sport, that's what fishing is all about.

Another enjoying a great day's sport this week was 13-year-old Croydon angler Michael Adams who visited Willow Park at Ash Vale with his father Paul and came away with a new personal best tench. Maggot feeder with double caster had given Michael a few bream to two and half pounds. On the advice of dad Paul, a cast further out brought a take and after a five minute battle royal a beautiful 5lb 12oz Tench was safely in the net.