13/02/2025
Rudd Run Seals Victory for International Angler Nigel Beadle at Hamilton Lakes Match
In a testament to tactical prowess and patience, Auckland Coarse Angling Club's February match at Hamilton Lakes saw seasoned international Nigel Beadle claim victory with an impressive bag of quality Rudd.
Despite a reduced turnout due to international competitions in Christchurch, the Hamilton Lakes venue proved its worth once again as a premier coarse fishing destination.
The picturesque setting, though busy with public activity, delivered exceptional sport for all anglers.
With the traditional whistle blown by Gary at 9:30 AM, the match commenced with most anglers opting for the trusty feeder approach.
The venue's history of producing substantial catches of tench and Rudd had competitors optimistic, though the public footpath meant pole fishing was eschewed in favour of feeder and waggler tactics.
Speaking post-match, winner Nigel Beadle shared his winning approach.
"I kicked off with four large feeders fully loaded with Masterclass Baits Master Class groundbait at about 30 metres, introducing corn and maggot through the feeder," he explained.
"After a brief and relatively unproductive spell on the waggler, I noticed Gary catching consistently on the feeder and made the switch."
The decision proved pivotal, with Beadle's first cast producing an immediate result in the form of a small catfish. However, it was his impressive run of specimen Rudd that ultimately secured the win.
"We had Rudd up to a pound and a half, and when they really got going, the tip wouldn't even reach the 30-second mark before flying round," Beadle recalled.
The session demanded substantial feed, with Beadle working through a kilo and a half of groundbait, complemented by a pint of maggots and a tin of corn.
The consistent feeding pattern, refreshing the swim every five minutes or after each fish, maintained the quality stamp of fish throughout the match.
The victory was hard-earned, with Gary pushing Beadle close.
"I honestly thought Gary had pipped me, but I reckon my Rudd averaged slightly bigger," Beadle reflected.
The win not only secured club points but also, in Beadle's words, "a few beer" tokens"—making for a satisfying day's sport under the Hamilton Lakes sunshine.
With excellent sport enjoyed across the board, the venue has firmly cemented its place in the club's rotation, promising more quality sessions to come for Auckland's coarse angling community.
On a final note, we extend our best wishes to Tim Dave Garrett, who'll be flying the flag for Auckland Club, and to the entire New Zealand international side as they prepare to face Australia in this weekend's prestigious competition in the South Island.
Here's hoping those legendary South Island tench make an appearance and find their way into the nets of our Kiwi international anglers.
The entire coarse angling community will be eagerly awaiting the results of what promises to be an epic Trans-Tasman battle.
