GAMECHANGER How getting a kayak took specimen perch fishing to another level
ANDREW KNOTS – 4lb 4oz PERCH
“MY LOCAL rivers were flooded and I was struggling to catch a big perch from the bank. I knew some anglers were doing well from their boats on a River Witham marina, but unless you own a boat there it’s hard to gain access.
I racked my brain trying to find a solution, then by chance I was scrolling through Facebook and came across a guy who was selling a kayak. It was a proper fishing one, too – complete with rod holders, paddles and an adjustable padded seat.
Straight away I sent the bloke a message and a few days later the kayak was mine.
That weekend I took it to my local River Trent and it was fantastic. I loved the freedom of fishing areas I couldn’t before and I caught more perch than I did while fishing from the bank!
The following Friday I decided to target the Witham marina and after getting permission from the owner I was soon paddling out equipped with a box of lures, a small anchor, my lure rod and a net.
I anchored the kayak in a likely spot around 3m away from a boat and started casting a gold paddle-tail lure around the swim. Almost instantly It was nailed by a small jack pike.
After slipping the pike back, I moved the kayak to get into a better position and, on my next cast,
I had another powerful take, but this fish was in a different league.
I knew it was huge from the off, but when I saw this giant perch’s stripes I lost my mind for a moment and started shouting over and over: ‘It’s a monster!’
The fight wasn’t long as I rushed to get the fish into the net, but once she was safe I was completely gobsmacked. I thought she must be close to 50cm long and a good three-pounder. Luckily for me she went 4lb 4oz, which beat my previous PB of 3lb 12oz. Happy days!
I ended the day with 31 perch, including three others over 2lb and eight pike to just over 10lb.
Kayak fishing has helped me catch perch on another level and I can’t wait for the weekends now, so I can spend more time afloat!”