Wayne Swinscoe reflects on a really promising start to the new Drennan Coors Trent Masters series.
Just six weeks into the river season and the new upper Trent Masters sponsored by Drennan International and brewery giant Coors seems to have captured the attention of river anglers across the Midlands. The demand for tickets has been incredible with over 240 anglers fishing the first three qualifers.
The fishing has been pretty good, too. Normally the Burton stretches don’t really start producing consistent sport until the end of August, but this year things seem to have changed. All three matches have been won with between 13lb and 15lb and double figures needed to frame (top 7).
Surprisingly the majority of fish making up these weights have been dumpy perch from 2oz to 4oz backed up by dace, chublets and only a few roach. These perch can be caught on a variety of methods but the best seems to be either a whip or short pole over small balls of groundbait containing chopped worm and maggots.
With four more qualifying matches taking us into September, the roach fishing should really come on strong. Eighteen anglers have all ready qualified for the 42-peg Final in October, which is going to be a really strong river field.
To qualify for the Grand Final you have to finish in the top six of any of the qualifying matches. The draw will take place at the Washlands Sports club (Postcode: DE14 1TD) at 8.45 to 9am with fishing from 11am to 4pm. To book on, telephone Tony Vandome on 01283 512711.
Remaining qualifier Dates: August 2nd, August 16th, August 30th, September 6th. Grand Final: October 4th.