Big rudd falls after dark - Kevin Sanders

“The sun had set when I arrived at a Fenland river, but after walking the bank for a few hundred yards and trickling in breadcrust, it wasn’t long before a big rudd was slurping it down off the surface. 

“I carried on feeding that area and two or three more big rudd joined the party. So I tore off a chunk of crust and threaded it on to a size 10 Drennan hook. Before casting it out I glugged it in Dynamite Baits strawberry liquid for added attraction. 

“It was now dark, so I taped a Starlite to my waggler so I could see any bites I might get. The fish were still taking off the surface, and I could just make out a fish swirl at my hookbait. 

“I watched as the light on my float slid away under the surface, then I struck and my rod hooped over. 

“Initially the fish thrashed on the surface, but then quickly dived and snagged me in the marginal lilies. I had to change angles a couple of times to try to release it, and was expecting the hook to pop out any second, but the trick worked and I scooped the fish up as soon as it came free. It was a massive relief after that tense battle!”

Kevin Sanders and his after dark 2lb 10oz rudd