Preston Backed angler and England International Des Shipp managed to secure a win this weekend at the Home International Event held at Cudmore Fisheries.
With four teams up against each other on Arena Pool, also known as the Doughnut, the match would be a test of talent.

“I decided on three lines for the match; one at 13m, another at 10m with a short No.4 and 10m to my left around 3m off the bank.” comments Des. The 10m line would be the main line to fish.

“I started off by feeding chopped worms and casters. It was a simple decision to do this on this venue, with plenty of carp, barbel, skimmers and roach in the venue there was a chance of catching all of these with chopped worm and casters.” explains Des.

“My main rig was set up with 9Hollo elastic, perfect for the main target, roach, skimmers and hybrids. The rig line was 0.13mm Reflo Power down to a 4x14 Preston Chianti Float, below this was a bulk of no.9 shot and two no.10 dropper shot. Finishing off the rig was an 0.11mm hooklength down to a size 16 PR434.”
Despite regularly feeding his two other lines, the 10m line in front of Des produced a string of fish.

“I’ve had some lulls in activity but if I waited and kept feeding the chopped worms and casters, when the fish arrived I would have a good spell. This meant that I had no need to come off this line and fish my others!” smiles the Bristol ace.

The final weigh-in saw Des' total reach 32kg 700g; enough to see off second place by nearly 5kilos and help the England team to a decisive victory.

“It was a great match. It’s not often that we get to fish to international rules on a commercial venue, but it just shows that it is something not to be ignored! The team has fished extremely well and we’re glad to have won.” concludes Des.