After capitalising on a mild spell with the capture of a 16lb 1oz barbel from a small southern river, Adam Riches was keen to return. But, when he arrived this time, he the Northamptonshire Specimen Group member was greeted with low, clear conditions – far from ideal for the species.
![](https://www.drennantackle.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Adam-Riches-17lb-8oz-Barbel.jpeg)
To swing the odds in his favour, Adam reduced the size of his lead and hook, as well as going for a small homemade hookbait. Quietly casting out, he made every effort to reduce disturbance, and was rewarded an hour later when he hooked a good fish. Its splashes echoed around the snaggy swim on the still evening, before Adam slipped the net under a pristine 17lb 8oz specimen.Well done Adam!