“Always stay as late in the day as possible as that last hour before darkness falls into a magical time for big roach” Those are very wise words from Andrew Skirton who did just that on a recent outing which resulted in this lovely 2lb 10oz roach.

He told us “My local Hampshire chalk stream was in great condition, dropping in level and losing a little of its colour after the recent rain. Combined with a short spell of mild weather, I felt I had a good chance of a few bites. I legered breadflake in the crease just off the current and connected with this 2lb 10oz roach just as the light was fading. Initially, I suspected it to be a chub, but as I drew it closer and got a glimpse of it just below the surface, my pulse started racing as I realised I’d hooked a cracking roach.”