large gravel pit produces big eel

A 90-acre water is a daunting prospect, but Paul Faint’s decision to target the eel population of a southern gravel pit was worth all the effort when he banked this 5lb 13oz beauty.

After baiting a gravel plateau 50yds out in open water, Paul had his hooklength broken by the first fish he hooked, but after this he stepped up his gear and took the big eel in the early hours of the morning.

“At 4am the bite alarm sounded, and on striking I knew I had a good eel pulling the opposite way. 

“After landing her at the second attempt I carefully weighed her to register a new personal best of 5lb 13oz,” said a delighted Paul, who tempted the fish on a bunch of maggots.