Although the Linear Fis-heries complex at Stanton Harcourt is recognised as one of the best big carp waters in the country, the lakes also contain other fish reaching specimen size.

Two members of the Tenchfishers, Paul Hawkins and Archie Pike, proved the point during a session on Hardwick Lake.

Both anglers caught good-sized tench on maggot, Paul using an inline feeder with crumb, while Archie used a maggot feeder.

They topped their session with a 8lb female and an 8lb male.

I remember years ago, my predecessor Peter Stone used to fish this lake and caught some decent chub and roach from it on maggot.

So although Linear is mainly a carp fishery, it is certainly worth a try for other species.

On the carp front, a new Linear common carp record has been set by Anthony Hartwell.

The 41.10.0 fish came out of St John’s Lake.

Anthony spent 48 hours on the water and also had a couple of doubles.

All his fish fell for Xmas Puds Peanut and Pineapple HNV Hybrid Boilie Mix baits.

Meanwhile, an Oxfordshire syndicate water has produced the largest surface caught carp this year.

The mirror known as ‘The Slate Grey’ weighed 41.6.0 and was caught by Bristol carper Kev Hewitt. It is a personal best.

He also landed a 31.6.0 linear carp, a low 20 and three upper doubles.

The fish were taken on Sonubaits Oily Floaters attached to a size 10 ESP Raptor hook and 12lb line.

Kev had to work very hard for these fish and at one point he missed five good takes. He then waited for another group of carp to come along and that did the trick.

  • Farmoor Fly Fishing Club are holding free training days at Darlow on May 20 & 27 and June 3 and 10 starting at 7.30. Contact Ken Day on 01235 554618.