IT took Oxford specimen hunter Steve Kilbee and his brother Richard eight hours to drive up to Scotland’s Loch Awe for a spot of pike fishing, but it was certainly well worth the trip, writes Andy Webber.

Although it is a long way to go, the fishing up there is brilliant, and along with some magnificent scenery, it’s a fabulous place to go.

And so this proved as Steve got his hook into a substantial pike of 21lb 4oz.

Using sea baits, including mackerel, sardines and herring, either under a float or ledgering, Steve and Richard caught 16 double-figure pike in total.

But the splendid 21-pound specimen was by far the best of them.

I’m not sure how you go about planning a trip like this, but I’m sure if you were to look on the internet, you would find plenty of information.

The other option is to join the Pike Angling Club of Great Britain, who would be able to provide all the details.

l THE big perch at Blenheim Palace, in Woodstock, have started to show already this season.

Chorleywood angler Richard Goad was delighted with his trip to west Oxfordshire when he landed a superb fish weighing 4lb 2oz.

Goat baited up an area around three rod lengths from his boat in about six feet of water with a mixture of maggot and chopped worm.

He then fished a waggler with a large lob worm on the hook that enticed the big stripey.

I will be having a go later on this year, hoping to have similar success.

  • OXFORD Bus AC will hold an open match on their School Waters on Sunday, October 30.

More details will be released shortly.

  • PANSHILL begin their Winter League on Saturday, October 8, and there are still places available.

For more details, phone Tracey on 07740 707795.

  • IF you have any news, views, photos or just want to have a chat, you can contact me on 01865 725606 or email agw@awebber20.orangehome.co.uk