Simon had already banked several fish over the 2lb mark this season, topped by a 2lb 9oz fish, but with low pressure and high winds forecast he knew there was a chance for something special.

Arriving late in the day, Simon walked many miles up the stretch before spotting a large fish roll. Casting out his float fished flake, he received a few sensitive dips on the float before it sailed away and he connected with a solid, heavy resistance, and after a ponderous fight he was greeted by this huge-framed rudd.