First twenty is 27lb 14oz specimen

John Ashurst caught his first-ever 20lb-plus pike, this cracking 27lb 14oz specimen, from Esthwaite Water Trout Fishery in the Lake District.

The impressive predator was the best of three fish which the Wigan-based joiner landed during the day, with pike of 18lb and 14lb also gracing his net.

All of his fish were hooked on trolled Spro BBZ lures, and the biggest of the trio was taken from an area of water 9ft deep with deeper holes on either side.

He said: “The water is still fairly warm and the fish fought like an absolute demon. As soon as I saw it I knew it was going to be a new pb and I was delighted to get a twenty under my belt.”

The pike season on Esthwaite is open until the end of March and for up-to-date information call 01539 436541