Wingham produces first fifty

KENT’S Wingham Carp Lake produced its first 50-pounder in the shape of this chunky mirror for Matt Jones.

The lake-record carp, which came out last year at 49lb 12oz, was caught along with a 34lb 8oz common from a sport at 95 yards.

Matt, from Croydon, said: “This fish is almost following me around as this is the fourth time I’ve had it and I’ve only just started my third season here!

“It gave me a terrific scrap, and when I got it into the margins and saw it was the big one I was worried about landing it, especially as it powered off again.

“It would be great to do the 50lb double from Wingham as the Carp Lake also contains a fast-growing common that had already got to 47lb 8oz last year.”

Matt used a Nutcracker boilie from Terry Dempsey’s Urban Baits on a naked chod comprising a size-six hook and 15lb line.

Steve Burke, who created the Wingham complex, said: “I’ve just lost a bet that the Main Lake would do a 50-pounder before the Carp Lake, but I’m happy to have to pay out! This fish was born at Wingham and has put on over 11 lbs in just over three years. Who knows what it’ll weigh in another three?”