Over the last five years, Northamptonshire angler Simon Davidson has dedicated much of his fishing to the pursuit of specimen perch on the Midlands’ large reservoirs, with a five-pounder his target. On a recent two-day session he achieved the milestone, landing this fish of 5lb 2oz alongside one of 4lb 2oz.

The first day of his trip was a fish-in with the Perchfishers specimen group, of which Simon is a proud member. He received one bite that day and was gutted to lose a big fish, but, undeterred, he decided to fish the following day, using Craw-style lures on drop shot rigs. Although an unconventional way to fish these ‘baits’, Simon says the tactic has worked for him in the past. On this occasion it certainly did, as both of his fish fell to the method.

Well done Simon!