The Angling Trust British Pike Final saw Peter Brice of Bicester, Oxon win the Championship title on Saturday 5th November 2011 on the 20ft River at Whittlesey AA’s waters, Peterborough, Cambs. This year saw 189 anglers converge on Whittlesey Angling Association’s waters to compete for the coveted winner’s trophy and British Pike Championship title.
Peter’s first run early in the match resulted in a Zander of 7lb-plus but his next two takes produced two well-conditioned pike to sardines offered on a straight ledger rig cast to the far bank that gave him a combined weight of 35lb 12oz. The first was an impressive 19lb 14oz specimen and just 45 minutes later he put the net under his second pike of 15lb 14oz. It proved to be a great day for Peter who is no stranger to the Pike finals having won this Championship title in 1984 as well as competing in 25 Pike finals over the years.
The rain that was forecast managed to hold off which created ideal fishing conditions with a little wind and overcast skies which made for good sport from the off resulting in 116 pike being recorded on the day, several of them personal best specimens. Many anglers commented that it had been one of the best Pike finals for years.
The Angling Trust would like to offer their appreciation and thanks to the event organisers, Ann and Ted Rowe for all their hard work and support for the British Pike Championship, and also Dave White and Whittlesey AA who worked very hard to ensure that all pegs were accessible on the day.
Results:
1st – Peter Brice, Bicester – 2 fish (19lb 14oz & 15lb 14oz) 20 Foot River.
2nd – Colin Bartrum, Wisbech – 6 fish (1lb 9oz; 2lb 4oz; 1lb 7oz; 2lb 6oz; 9lb 2oz; 12lb 1oz) Glassmoor Bank
3rd – Robert Harden, Letchworth – 5 fish (2lb 8oz; 6lb 12oz; 3lb 8oz; 1lb 8oz; 14lb) 20 Foot River.
4th – John Palmer, Whittlesey – 3 fish – (5lb 8oz; 2lb 8oz; 18lb 12oz) 20 Foot River
5th – James Jakeman – 1 fish (22lb 8oz) – 20 Foot River
6th – Gareth Dewdney, Whittlesey – 1 fish (21lb 12oz) – 20 Foot River
Top Junior: Oliver Tomlinson (13 yrs), Doncaster
Top Lady: Jean Lloyd Mansfield
