THE RECORD BASS THAT ALMOST WAS!

WHEN charter skipper Lee Hall took a customer out for a spot of cod fishing he had no idea he was about to battle a colossal bass weighing 20lb on the nose!

The Black Rock Charter owner’s unbelievable catch pipped the previous British bass best of 19lb 9oz 2dr, but due to current UK regulations for the species Lee’s effort had to be returned alive – meaning a record couldn’t be claimed. He didn’t let it dampen his spirits though. “My late father taught me how to fish for bass and he was so happy when I caught my previous PB of 12lb 2oz,” he told us. “I’m pleased knowing he will be up there celebrating this once-in-a-lifetime catch.”

Lee’s 20-pounder took a cuttlefish deadbait from a mark off The Needles.