Kids’ Fishing Match at Stathe Drains – A Day of Challenges and Triumphs
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Published on April 3, 2025
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Kids’ Fishing Match at Stathe Drains
A Day of Challenges and Triumphs
This weekend saw an exciting yet challenging fishing match for our young anglers at Stathe Drains, West Sedgmoor Drain, Stathe, TA7 0JN. The competition brought together juniors and cadets eager to showcase their fishing skills, but it wasn’t without its difficulties. Five children were unable to attend, but for those who did, the day was a memorable experience of teamwork, resilience, and moments of triumph.
A Picturesque Location with Unpredictable Waters
Stathe Drains, set amidst the tranquil landscape of Somerset, is known for its beauty and diverse fish population. The area is a favorite among local anglers, especially for young ones learning the ropes. But on this particular day, the waterway proved to be unpredictable and, at times, challenging. Pike were abundant and actively feeding, with several large fish seen jumping through the waters, chasing after the smaller fish. For our young competitors, this added a layer of complexity to the day, as the usual calm waters became lively with predators on the hunt. Yet, despite the tough conditions, the children gave it their all, determined to make the most of the opportunity.
The Tackle and Bait: A Lesson in Strategy
Fishing is as much about strategy as it is about patience, and the kids proved this as they adapted to the conditions. Most of them opted to fish with chopped worm and caster on their long lines, hoping to lure in their catches despite the distraction of the pike. For the shorter whips, many chose pinkies and maggot, with a good helping of ground bait to attract the fish. It was a great way to encourage smaller fish into their swim, though getting them to bite and stay on the hook in such chaotic waters was another challenge altogether. The sight of pike actively hunting could be intimidating, but the young anglers handled the situation with impressive composure.
Hard Work Pays Off: The Junior Results
The junior competition was tightly contested, with every participant working hard to land a good catch in the face of tough conditions. Despite the slow bites and pike interruptions, the juniors demonstrated great skill and perseverance. The results were as follows: Ava – 1st place: Ava displayed remarkable focus throughout the match, earning her well-deserved first place. Her strategy of sticking with a combination of worm and caster paid off, allowing her to stay consistent and finish on top. Jaxon – 2nd place: Coming in a close second, Jaxon also worked tirelessly throughout the day. His persistence, particularly in the final hours of the competition, kept him in the running for the top spot. Calum – 3rd place: Calum secured third place with a solid performance. His patience and choice of bait selection were noteworthy, as he managed to land several key catches despite the competition’s ups and downs. Harrison – 4th place: Harrison may have finished just outside the top three, but his effort was commendable. He took a more tactical approach, trying different methods to adapt to the conditions, which helped him secure his position in the competition.
Cadets Show Their Skills
For the younger cadets, the competition was equally fierce. The cadet category saw a special outcome, with brothers Harry and Tommy tying for joint 1st place. Their teamwork and shared passion for fishing were evident throughout the match. Both Harry and Tommy demonstrated excellent technique, with a keen eye on their whips and quick reflexes when the bites came. They made a formidable duo, and the joint win is a testament to their hard work and shared love of the sport. Their dedication throughout the day did not go unnoticed, and the shared victory was a fitting end to their match.
The Pike Factor: How Predators Added to the Challenge
One of the most interesting aspects of the day was the frequent presence of pike. Known for their aggressive nature and predatory instincts, pike can significantly alter the dynamic of a fishing match. Throughout the day, the pike were seen chasing smaller fish, jumping, and splashing in a frenzy as they hunted their prey. For the children, this was both an exciting and frustrating challenge. On the one hand, the sight of large pike jumping out of the water was an incredible spectacle to witness. On the other hand, it made attracting the smaller fish more difficult, as they were constantly fleeing from the predatory pike. However, this didn’t deter the kids from giving their all. Many showed impressive resilience, sticking to their baiting tactics and remaining patient, even when the pike disrupted the calm of the waters. The ability to maintain focus despite these distractions is a skill that will serve these young anglers well in future matches.
The Spirit of the Match: Learning, Fun, and Growth
While the conditions were tough, the spirit of the match remained high throughout the day. For many of the children, this event was about more than just winning; it was about learning, having fun, and growing as young anglers. Whether it was choosing the right bait, adjusting their techniques, or simply enjoying the time spent by the water, each child took something valuable away from the day. Fishing, after all, is about patience, observation, and adaptability. These kids displayed all of these qualities in abundance. It was inspiring to see how each of them handled the challenges presented by the weather, the pike, and the unpredictable fish.
Moving Forward: The Next Match Awaits
As the sun set over Stathe Drains and the competition came to an end, there was a sense of accomplishment in the air. The children had faced a tough day of fishing, but they had also learned valuable lessons that will help them in future matches. The juniors and cadets alike left the day with smiles, memories, and new strategies to try next time. As we look forward to the next match, it’s clear that these young anglers are building a solid foundation for a lifelong passion for fishing. Congratulations to all our participants, especially our winners: Ava, Jaxon, Calum, Harrison, and the Clark brothers. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you for your hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the day. Here’s to many more fishing adventures and successes in the future!
Final
Thoughts
Fishing is a sport that teaches patience, resilience, and the importance of staying calm under pressure. The kids who participated in the Stathe Drains match exemplified these traits, making us incredibly proud. The sight of pike jumping and feeding may have made the day more difficult, but it also added to the excitement and adventure of the event.
We can’t wait for the next match, where no doubt, the kids will bring even more determination and skill to the water! Until then, tight lines and happy fishing!
