A WORTHY WINNER OF THIS SPECTACULAR FISH O’ FINAL
I was truly delighted for this year’s youngest ever champion
FISH O’Mania 25 was a spectacular event in stunning weather, with a wonderful winner in Pete Black – the youngest champion in the history of the event at just 21.
The match was dominated by the big Hayfield carp. Fish were caught on virtually every feasible method and produced some great TV viewing and brilliant sights for the big crowd of spectators.
One of the biggest stories of the match revolved around Steve Openshaw. He possibly broke a fishery rule by not using a freerunning feeder and there was talk of a disqualification. I had nothing to do with the decision, but I was called on by the producer to make my views known on air and, as you would expect, I did.
My view was that as Steve couldn’t possibly gain an advantage from fishing with the wrong kit in the way he was, a ‘yellow card’ warning was sufficient. Fortunately those who had to decide agreed.
After the match I was talking to David Kent, the man at the top of the Angling Trust Competition Committee, and he is now considering taking the yellow and red card punishment system to Matchroom for any future indiscretions. It happens like that at FIPS World Championships, and if it’s good enough for them…
Back to the match. A magnificent performance by Andy Power on the ‘other bank’, which was in a Fish O’ final for the first time, saw him gain his second consecutive runner-up cheque for £10k. Even Jamie Hughes admitted that he wouldn’t try to compete with The Power on the pellet waggler.
I’m sure there will be a search on for the miscreant who broke Nathan Watson’s top kits. I suspect the culprit was very close to home, with the initials NW, as he had a ‘good night out’ on the Friday, apparently. Nathan is a one-off and I have been accused of not liking him. We had a major falling out when I felt he disrespected the event some years ago, but it’s all water under the bridge and any kind of unique talent, as Nathan undoubtedly is, has my respect.
Well done Pete Black, you have a long and handsome career in front of you. Use your skills wisely.