Reported large catches in the opening week raised expectations of big weights for Bude Canal Angling Association's first match of the season on Sunday.

However, the 22 anglers had to work hard to find any fish on what turned out to be a slow day.  A 5lbs 14oz bag of roach and skimmers taken on 'wag and mag' was enough to secure victory and win the coveted Monica Jones trophy for Tony Pepperell. 

Pete Cummins finished second from un-fancied peg 43 with 5lb 3ozs,  a bag that included a 2∏lb carp.  Dave Allen only needed one fish, a bream of 4lbs, to finish third and save the dreaded dry net.

There were section wins for Nathan Underwood, Doug Gennini and Peter (Tacker) Giles.  Dan Underwood was best junior with 5ozs.

Results: 1st, Tony Pepperell, 5lb 14ozs; 2nd, Pete Cummins, 5lb 3ozs; 3rd, Dave Allen 4lb.