New Yateley best with a 43lb common

This eye-catching 43lb 6oz common was Martin Gardener’s third forty of the season from Yateley’s North Lake.

The company director, from Flackwell Heath, Buckinghamshire, said: “I’m thrilled to catch this one still in its winter colours. It’s a new pb for me as well.”

The 51-year-old added: “It’s a great way to end my first full year on the North Lake and was my third 40lb-plus fish from there this season.”

The big common was the only bite of a 48-hour session at the historic Hampshire complex. Martin fished to a gravel patch 80yds out and baited with five Midi Spombs of whole 16mm Sticky Krill boilies and presented a matching wafter over the top on a Korda Wide Gape hook tied to N-Trap Soft.

He said: “Reliable tried-and-tested rigs and baits are what I prefer, with components that won’t let you down.

“That way, I can enjoy my fishing knowing that I have full confidence in what I’m using, leaving me free to concentrate on location and spots,” Martin added.