This stunning picture is former Drennan Cup champion Dai Gribble cradling a new personal best pike that topped the scales at an impressive 32lb 4oz.

To catch a 30lb plus pike from a day-ticket venue is a rare feat, but the Korum-backed specialist was fishing Thames Water’s Farmoor Reservoir when he smashed his previous ‘pb’ that stood at 28lb 14oz and caught from the River Wye.

It took a float fished smelt that was presented on a simple rig made from 20lb braid, a wire trace and size 8 trebles.

“At first I thought it might be a big trout, but you can imagine how I felt when I saw the enormous frame of the fish as it rolled five feet down under the boat,” said Dai.

“I’ve had some impressive fish in my time, but to have caught such a big pike from a day ticket water is right up there with some of my best achievements in fishing.”