The River Cam in Cambridgeshire is best known for large rudd, but the waterway holds a few huge chub, as Martin Croxon proved with this specimen of 8lb 4oz at the end of the season.
It’s the joint-biggest reported this season and, interestingly, was caught on a piece of steak, fished on a size 8 alongside a tiny cage feeder packed with mincemeat. The bait combo is a classic for the species, and one that Martin has huge faith in, having picked up the idea from an angler many years ago who was catching fish after fish on it.
Martin has caught some big chub from the Cam before, and always knew there were a few giants present, having watched them in the summer months, but knows that these fish are rarely encountered. The bite came after a series of small touches, with Martin’s rod wrapping powerfully around before he lifted into a fish that charged around downstream. After landing it, he was in shock – although he’s travelled the world has caught some huge fish, he knows that this chub is a specimen he’ll never beat.
Well done Martin!