In an explosive finish, Ali Hunt took the Spring Champs title and first place in the first club competition of the year held at Marske Reservoir on Sunday 19th April 2026 – coming from behind on the tower peg 4 with two late fish – including a specimen common carp of 18lb-15oz for a total of 32lb-07oz putting himself well clear of the other contenders.
With chilly overnight conditions and bright spring sunshine the first half of the match was hard going as the resident carp cruised in the upper layers of the water. As the day heated up several anglers managed to put a couple of carp onto the scales for 20lb+ weights and at one point it looked like next fish the winner until Ali took advantage of a drop in the easterly breeze to pick up the pellet waggler, hooking his two fish within minutes of each other in the deeper water by the tower – on the opposite bank on peg 22 David Scott’s two fish – the first being another big common carp of 14lb-07oz – went 25lb-15oz for second place by just five ounces from John Hopton round the corner on peg 16 who also managed two carp for 25lb-10oz and third place in the frame.
Once again the reservoir proved a challenging test but Ali’s win goes to show persistence can pay off and a high double or twenty can show up at any time to change the game! Well done to all in the frame and all who took part. Next up in the reservoir seasonal series is the Summer Champs on Sunday 19th July – Scroll down for pics…
