I was an avid teen fisherman who when reading the fishing rags decided to give match fishing a go. Well I had read lots of articles on matches, results and tactics so where was the harm.
I looked in the locals for a match and there was an open on Raveley drain in Cambs. I booked my place, and on Sunday turned up at some pub to draw.
I put my arm in the bag and pulled out a low number, left the pub and followed the train of cars to the venue.
I trudged up to the drain with gear in tow and stopped, did I go left or right?
A voice behind said 'need any help?' and asked what peg I was in. Number 11 was my reply, and he said I was on the best bit to the right of the bridge.
His face dropped slightly whilst telling me he was at the wrong end. oops.
Anyway I set up with the intention of fishing pinkie loose feeding odd bit of hemp, hoping to fish hemp later to get better stamp roach.
I wasnt paying attention, but the peg to my right was empty! Could I be that lucky? My luck was to run out when I saw a figure coming towards me with gear in hand...
When this figure got closer I could see he was wearing an all too familiar white cap!!...no it couldnt be....yes, it bloody was...it was only Bob Nudd!!
He set up next to me and in no time was ready for the match.
The whistle went and everyone started...
The fishing was hard and the levels were up and down. Roach were coming out everywhere and I was doing as well as any. Last 3 hours and I was keeping up with Bob in the next peg! well that was all to change when it was like the second whistle as everyone fished with hemp on the hook!
My inexperience soon told as my fish stamp stayed the same and everyone caught better stamp fish. After an hour my swim had nearly died and decided to stop and watch the master to my right.
All I can say is I would have paid to watch Bob all day. He was very polite and answered some questions.
I didnt weigh in but got some great tips, and for a 1st match it certainly was a winner for me.

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