Many consider the reason for such big roach in these large Stillwater’s to be down to carp anglers baits – and that’s exactly what Alan Rio used to bag himself a 2lb 12oz from another undisclosed Stillwater.

The Woking-based rod used scaled down carp rigs consisting of a Drennan feeder fished helicopter-style down to a 4lb hook-link and an 8mm boilie hookbait. Alan said: “With mild days, this time of year is perfect for roach fishing when they are likely to feed in short sporadic bursts.”