World Carp Classic 2015 official magazine by Angling Spirit

DIFFERENT TIMES: CO SCHIJF AND THE EARLY MADINE DAYS

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INSIDE Official Event magazine

5 Welcome Message from Ross Honey World Carp Classic Founder. 7 Meet the Event Team

8 Welcome message from Darryl Hodges of Dynamite Baits. 10-15 A Year in the Life of the 2014 World Carp Classic Champions. 16 – Roll of Honour and Results round up of the 2014 prize winners. 18-19 The mega Prize Table 22-27 Tim Paisley reflects on the mighty Madine 28-29 Qualifying event round up.

92-95 Larysa Switlyk is an American Abroad

30 The Swedish scene. 31 The Polish pitch

98-100 Clive Hicks and Keith Turner’s story of the WCC 2005, which they won, against all odds

32-33 World Carp Classic Participants list 2015 34-35 Andy Chambers our Head Marshal 36-37 Andy Chambers with some advice on safety and rules. 38-39 Media Mania - Capturing your moment to remember 40-42 Co SchiJf looks back at an eventful 2014 Classic

44-47 Hans Sissingh on why it’s important to use your opportunities wisely 48-50 Peter Vlasveld is the Flying Dutchman 52-53 52-53 Steve Howard is a Raymarine convert: here’s why 56-58 Hans Sissingh on making the connections and the team event listing 62-63 Map of Lac de Madine including the Sponsors Sections. 64-66 Spotlight on Madine and a message from the President of Madine. 68-69 Steve Howard is a man on a mission 70-73 Keep on Running, 30 years and counting for the incomparable Shimano Baitrunner 74-75 The mighty Gladiator Games

77 Bivvy City - all you need to know 78-88 The World Carp Classic Junior Section - a new event set to become the proving ground for the future

102-105 Editor, Chris Leibbrandt, interviews Vadim Korunskij about his revolutionary Karpela Cont bait system 106-107 Plano - organising anglers worldwide 108-109 VMC - 100 years of cutting edge hooks 110-111 Wiley X- the eyewear of champions 112-113 Natural Born Krillers Northern Baits just keeps getting bigger 114-115 We proudly present the 2014 World Carp Classic Section Sponsors. 116-117 Into the Deep, groundbreaking technology you can’t take your eyes off 118-119 Czech Mate! The World Carp Classic’s new venue for 2016 Lake Pavlov 120-121 Ross Honey talks about his latest Classic, the fast and furious action that is The World Predator Classic 122 A message from the President of EFTTA

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WElComE..

to the World Carp Classic 2015 It gives me enormous pleasure to welcome everyone to this fantastic venue. Madine is, without question, one of the finest lakes in Europe and we are delighted to return once again to renew our acquaintance with you all and the lake’s magnificent carp. Long hailed by all to be the spiritual home of the Event, Lac de Madine holds a very special place in the minds of many and, as the adage goes, home is where the heart is. It has been yet another incredible year for Angling Spirit with an enormous amount going on. I had huge pleasure in meeting a large number of the great and good from the angling scene at shows all over the world and I’m very pleased to say that a good many new friendships were forged along the way. This year, I am very proud to say, Dynamite baits will once again join forces with industry giant Shimano as Global event partners. These great companies are being joined by new sponsors Plano, VMC Hooks, Karpela Cont and The American Tackle company, in addition to the other great sponsors that we have from previous years. As the event goes from strength to strength, year upon year, it naturally follows that so too does the interest from the associated trade. With an impressive portfolio of successful events behind it, the World Carp Classic has long since attracted interest throughout the entire year, both from outside and within the sport. In line with that attention, the World Carp Classic global media platform has, of course, grown in accordance and is now at a level that no other carp-angling event has ever achieved before. This is very important for the anglers that will get crowned World Carp Classic Champions 2015, as they will be promoted all over the world. The now traditional Qualifying events have expanded to include Ukraine, Poland, UK, Czech Republic, The Netherlands and Sweden, in addition to the existing participating countries, which further ensures that there is focus upon the World Carp Classic, all year round. A very important new event has been staged this year, we have worked with Jakub Vagner and his team in the Czech Republic to stage the first ever World

Carp Classic Junior event. The reason for running the event was to raise much needed funds for children suffering from acute leukaemia. There is a section in the magazine about this event and the great cause it promotes. Please take a moment to read this section reflect on others that are less fortunate. As much as we loved our time in Italy at the amazing Lago di Bolsena, we are very excited to be at the magnificent Lac de Madine again for the 2015 World Carp Classic. It really feels like the event’s back home as it was here, in 1998, when the event was first staged. I would like to thank all of our Event sponsors, Support Sponsors and, of course, our gracious hosts at Madine, every one of you who have contributed towards making this event possible and not least the hard working and diligent World Carp Classic Team. It cannot go without mention that the most important people in all of this are those taking part as competitors. This is your stage and once again we are all gathered here to share your excitement, live every moment with you as one to celebrate the occasion amid the electric atmosphere that you always generate. Without all of you, we would not be here today to celebrate yet another remarkable event.

TOURNAMENT FOUNDER

As much as we loved our time in Italy, we are very excited to be at the magnificent lac de madine again for 2015. It really feels like the event’s back home as it was here, in 1998, when the event was first staged

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WORLD CARP CLASSIC

EvENt Head of Event organisers

Ross Honey Event Founder

With gratitude and pride, I would like to introduce you to my team, the hardworking World Carp Classic staff for 2015. The dedication of my team is to be admired and respected, as their efforts are not restricted to only the few days duration of this tournament. Each member of my team remains focused throughout the year on his or her specific role and the culmination of this effort as individuals before the event, ensures that it will run seamlessly when we all come together here at Madine as the World Carp Classic Team 2015.

marianne Guillois Event Director

Andy Chambers Event Head Marshal

Dave Richards Event Manager

Event Support & Co-ordination

Sylvian Schumacher Local Liason Officer

lars Brood Event Assistance

matus Svec Event Assistance

official media team

Robert Kiss Dorien van de Kuilen TV Production Director Official Photographer

Rob Hughes Sky TV Presenter

Sebastian Heinz Bank Interviews

Sylvi Flugel Bank Social Media

Robert Schaffer Underwater Coverage

Stage Presence

Special thanks to Dorien van de Kuilen and all the photographers who provided pictures for the magazine

Sophie & victoire Honey Parade & Prize Giving Assistance

Adam Svec Fun Factor!

2015

Event marshals

tEAm

Ron van Den Bergh martin Carter Event Technology Logistic Manager

Silvia omastova Event Assistance

valentijn van Schooneveld Event Assistance

Jeremy Cocker Daniel Cooch First Response First Response

Richard Engelkes International Logistics

Jan van der Knaap Communication Officer

Hubert Guillois Event Support

Dominique Guillois Event Support

official Event magazine

mike madeley Media Officer

Janice Harteley Instagram

Chris leibbrandt Magazine Editor

Steve Howard Magazine Editor

Roy oostindiën Social Media

Arnold Constanze Bank Social Media

Chloe Hood Event Support

lucy Allsopp Art Director

World Carp Classic 2015 Agents

Dean McNeill Damien First Response Davies Daniel Chaplin Andrew Tye James Cameron Lee Dimmer Will Greeves Dinus Herrewijnen Luuk Heesters Hasse van Keulen Rafael Exposito Dennis Ludwig Damian Ripson Tim den Hartog

Joey Lunenburg Yannick Boogert Niels Koetsier Floris Oomens Emiel van Dam Roel Franssen Thomas Zwetsloot Ondrej Janoska Yannick Janssen Stephanie Lestiou Mick Coxon Ingmar Hokke

A Big thank You .. We know we couldn’t do it all ourselves, and rely on the co-operation of many different people throughout the year. At Madine, we have one such helper and are really grateful for the dedicated team that Sylvain Schumacher has been heading to clear and prepare the peg and swims for this year’s World Carp Classic. There has been a massive amount of work and effort undertaken by Sylvain and the team to ensure that everything is perfect for the event. It is amazing to see how nature has retaken its place in the areas used only four years ago. Sylvain lives near to the lake and is a passionate, dedicated and a very good carp angler. He has caught many Madine carp over the 20Kg mark, with some topping the magic 30 kg barrier. The experience that he has and his love of carp fishing have made Sylvain a great asset to the Angling Spirit team. Sylvain will be on hand during registration to answer any questions about the lake, the swims and local conditions. Don’t be afraid to use his extensive local knowledge of the mighty Madine.

Sylvain’s Prep team ..

Hans Sissingh Przemek mroczek Netherlands Poland Janne Bohlin Sweden Jakub vagner Czech Republic

Riccardo Battisti Italy

Daniele Colapicchioni Italy

Fabien Hermal Phillipe Hermal Rolot Romain Patrick Perrin Pierre Coche Jean-Robert Guillot Jean-Louis Cannitrot Michael Bech

Jean Marie Frolinger Irwing Menicucci Gille Menicucci Katy Henry Nicolas Erik

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DARYL HODGES

DYNAMITE SPONSOR

WElComE to mIGHtY mADINE

Once again, a huge welcome to all competitors, old and new! I’m really looking forward to another World Carp Classic!

I’m sure this event will be very different to the impressive Lake Bolsena but I’m confident the mighty Madine will not disappoint. It is a lake I have not fished but have heard much about and of course it’s where everything with the WCC began! Bolsena was a tough nut to crack – ask many of the top anglers who blanked and although Madine may be more familiar territory I know this lake will bring it’s own challenges. 2015 has just flown by and as I write this with Autumn seemingly around the corner my attentions are well and truly starting to focus on everything WCC. It sounds like a cliché but seriously where has the last year disappeared to? Amongst the usual trade and customer shows some of our highlights were welcoming the champions (Kris, Andrzej and Gabriel) from Poland to our factory in the spring and spending a great few days together - they also made a seriously great boilie - combining The Source base mix with a deadly squid and fruit flavour – very nice! At the end of May was the first Junior WCC at Lake Katlov in the Czech Republic - organised in conjunction with Jacob Vagner, what an amazing event this was and one that will be remembered by all the anglers for years to come and also myself. There have been qualifying rounds in more countries again this year and I’m personally very happy that a team from our boilie factory who decided to enter secured first place at Furzton lakes to win their rightful place In this year’s

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Madine final as well as plenty of new Shimano gear to put to good use! Look out for Josh and John you won’t miss them – I don’t think they have stopped smiling since! A team from Dynamite are currently competing at the huge Chalon tournament in France and sitting a very respectable 5th place with 14 carp. The new products from Dynamite are nearly all ready now but you will have to wait until later in the year to see everything - we are keeping them under wraps for just now but rest assured there are some really good new baits in there. There is no brand new boilie this year (we are saving that for 2017) but Dynamite fans won’t be disappointed. For all anglers we will again give you a Dynamite goody pack with one or two bits that just may come in useful over the week - and of course we look forward to welcoming all of you, old and new friends for a welcome beer or cider at the Dynamite tent after registration. We will have a few extra bits and bobs in the tent to purchase as well for anyone who has forgotten a crucial tub of pop ups or bait dip. Come and see us we will be happy to help if we can. I hope you all have a safe trip here and enjoy what promises to be a great week in France. Finally I wish everyone good luck and I hope the draw is good for you – remember though, with the new rules and only the biggest 3 fish counting it should make for a very exciting match that could go right to the wire! Enjoy!

n DARYL HODGES BRAND MARKETING AND EXPORT SALES MANAGER

Source of Success? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all going off, Dynamite Baits event sponsors do a lot to make

sure the event goes off with a bang, buckets of goodies for everyone involved

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2014 CHAmPIoNS

A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF WCC WINNERS

PolEPoS

2014 WCC Champions run us through the last year of their busy schedule, the prizes, the media attention, the events and of course, the preparations to defend their crown... It has been nearly a year since the WCC 2014 Campions award ceremony, and our heads are still full of the memories of those precious moments. The final moments of the last year’s battle might be used as a screenplay for a good horror flick!

Half an hour before the end, a film crew appeared at our swim with Ross Honey holding a flare, which is normally lit at the peg of the ‘unofficial’ winners, we had our hearts in our mouths. Was it possible for us to experience what each carp angler taking part in the WCC dreams of? Could it be really us? After consulting results on the phone with the competition office, they left as if nothing had happened, without saying a word. It was the toughest moment for the three of us. Just a few minutes before we were the winners, and now, standing in silence, staring at our rods, hoping for a miracle of sorts, hoping we weren’t wrong. Before the competition, we would have taken the second place without any question, but now? Nobody remembers those who finish second. A quarter of an hour passed quickly, the flare burning at the Dutch swim, and we were still standing in stoney silence, as if waiting for a miracle. And the miracle came true. A whole crew of organisers appear round the corner, with their index fingers pointed at us. “You are the winners of WCC 2014,” they said. That kind of mood swing made even the toughest guys break into tears out of emotions of relief, excitement and joy. Bolsena turned out to be a very fair fishing lake for such a large tournament, because at practically every peg it was possible to compete for the win, the only thing needed was good weather. We enjoyed both good weather and a stroke of luck in the draw. We drew the swim that gave the third place to another team in

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SItIoN

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Before the competition, we w the second place without any Nobody remembers those wh

Winning streak! It’s not looking like skinny dipping as the champs take a lucky dip

the previous event. It was potentially a good place, with a good strong wind, and great determination and fortitude, this combination of peg, weather and attitude was the combination that gave us victory. Kris and I already worked in the carp business, we are the owners of the www. baitbox.pl shop and representatives of SolarTackle, Carp’R’Us , Sonik, Kryston and several other manufacturers for Poland, so the victory was a great springboard for us, it helped us promote the shop and the sales of our brands. In November we opened a fishing store in Wrocław, a specialised carp shop, which – as the ‘WCC WINNERS SHOP’ - quickly became famous in Poland. The new year started with a series of fairs, including the most-important Rybomania in Poznań, where the Polish celebration of the WCC cup took place. Thanks to Ross Honey, we were able to show the beautiful trophy with our names engraved on it, to the entire carp-loving community of Poland. Another event that we visited was the Czech fishing show in Prague. The party was fantastic thanks to our Czech friends from Carp’R’Us. We also met Jakub Vagner, who told us a long and interesting story about his Katlov water, where the first edition of World Carp Classic Junior was, at the time, planned to be held. The event was to take place in May, and we had already planned to return to Bolsena in April. For me, Bolsena is a magical water, where carp fishing is a real pleasure. During the first of the WCC events at Bolsena, I won a

sector, during the second one, I competed for another sector win, and the third event was the culmination of the series of success. However, Bolsena was also great for us during private trips, six months before the WCC 2014, during a week-long session Kris and I caught a dozen or so fish, including three over 20 kg. The largest one was 23.5 kg. We were so happy to be back. That time Bolsena didn’t turn out to be as generous, but it gave us several really beautiful fish, and what is more important, so hard fighting that you would have a hard time finding fish like them in other waters. During the trip, we shot an hour-and-a-half video presenting the way it looks out there, and most importantly we referred to the mood of the days when we visited all the magic spots, giving the inside story of how we became the

thanks to Ross Honey, we were able to show the beautiful trophy with our names engraved on it, to the entire carp-loving community of Poland

would have taken y question, but now? ho finish second

PolE PoSItIoN

2014 WORLD CHAMPIONS

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PolE PoSItIoNS

Lucky Dip! 2014 Tournament winners will be hoping for a Madine dunking as 2015 winners WCC champions. In May we took part in the first edition of WCC Junior on the Katlov lake mentioned before. We arrived to talk to the young generation of carp anglers, provide advice and promote the WCC Family idea. Young anglers from many European countries, including Poland, were there. We were delighted that Poland was represented by our young protĂŠgĂŠ, Jakub Ziemianin, and a friend. None of the junior teams lacked ambition, however, the young English men impressed us most. They stood out in terms of diligence supported by really broad knowledge. They were very consistent, precise and orderly, which allowed them to compete for the win right up to the last minute. Despite the fact that the event was primarily charitable in nature, it was a great experience for the young people. During our past year, we cannot forget about the Dynamite Baits factory visit. Thanks to the WCC sponsor, we had the opportunity to see what the professional production of fish bait looked like, and we were also allowed to create our own boilies on the Dynamite Baits production line. The effectiveness of these baits could be seen in our video from April; they were very effective. Summing up the past year, we must mention several private fishing trips of ours. Both Kris and I had an opportunity to fish on the Rainbow lake in France with fairly good results. In November I caught several beautiful carp, including one with very characteristic loss of scales, and Kris during the July trip, caught a Scare Common weighing 34.6 kg, amongst others.

The year passed really quickly, it seems that we have just a few moments before the next edition of WCC 2015 at the mighty Madine. We are going to fight like lions to defend the title we won, this will not be an easy task, but we will not give in easily! We wish all the teams participating in the WCC the unforgettable experience of competing against the best in the world, and maybe living the dream, just as we had a chance to do through the past year. See you all on Madine

WCC WINNERS 2014

We are going to fight like lions to defend the title we won, this will not be an easy task, but we will not give in easily!

Roll oF HoNoUR 1998-2013

Girl power.. 2013 Netherlands Champs Bianca Venema & Lizette Beunders

1998 Champion: Paul Raymant, England Weight 127.15lbs Best Lady: Cathy Bell, England Weight 30.3lbs Biggest Fish: John Craven, England Weight 49.5lbs 2000 Champions: Paul Harrison & Paul Watts, England Weight 81.3kgs Team Event: Team Cobra/GB Baits, England Weight 114.3 kgs 2001 Champions:

T Stunnenburg & R.Bredenbeek ,Netherlands Weight 164.4kgs Team Event: Fishermans World, Netherlands weight 258.9kgs Biggest Fish: Sam Oakley & Barry Mann England Weight 21kgs

2003 Champions:

Mark Gardner & Jo Gardner, England Weight: 67.35kgs Biggest fish: Hans Sissingh and P Vermeulen Netherlands Weight: 1.6kgs

2004 Champions: Mick Hinson and Tony Kirrage, England Weight: 85.35kgs Team Event: Birch Syndicat Carp Team, Wales Weight: 20.85kgs Biggest fish: Brian Warwick & Michael Perry, Wales

Weight: 31.6kgs Biggest fish: Mavis Unwin, England Weight: 17.4 kgs

2006 Champions: Mariusz Chiach & Jarowslaw Plochoki, Poland Weight: 80.85Kgs Team Event: SBS, England Weight: 23.5kgs Biggest fish: Eddie Matthews & richard Bradley, England Weight: 23.5kgs 2007 Champions: Jean Pierre Becker & Yves Hauk, France Weight: 22.1kgs Team Event: Carpworld, England Biggest Fish: Jean Pierre Becker Weight: 22.1kgs

2008 Champions: Andrew Judd & Peter truckle, England Weight: 140.4kgs Team Event: Carpworld, England Weight: 89.6kgs Biggest Fish: Pascal Gallon, Luxembourg Weight: 23.7kgs 2009 Champions: Rob Tough & Tom Duncan Dunlop, England Team Event: Carpworld, England Biggest Fish: Axel Wacker, Germany Weight: 28.9kgs

2010 Champions: George Czonka & John Roberts, England Weight: 216.2kgs Team Event: team Renmar Latvia 2005 Champions: Keith Turner & Clive Hicks, Weight: 167.7kgs Biggest Fish: England Mikulas Elek & Weight: 35.5kgs Pavel Snevajs Team Event: Weight: 27.4kgs GB Baits, England

2011 Champions: Jens Gassen and Thomas Muller Germany 337.6kgs Team Event: Team Deutschland, Germany Weight: 409kgs Biggest fish: Aivars Rudzinskis & Varis Lazo, Latvia Weight: 25.3kgs 2012 Champions:

Peter Micula and Norbert Pongracz, Romania Weight: 329.9kgs Team Event: Thomas Vanek & Peter Hofierk, Cz Republic; Andrea Campanini & Filippo Mongrandi, Italy; Stuart Downing & Rob Nunn Weight: 382.8kgs Biggest fish: Peter Micula & Norbert Pongracz, Romania Weight: Weight: 22.5kg

2013 Champions:

Bianca Venema & Lizette Beunders, Netherlands Weight: 366.5kgs Team Event: Andre Pieters & Craig Wood Netherlands Bianca Venema & Lizette Beunders Netherlands Wim Hanegraaf Dave Kesseler 366.5kgs Biggest fish: Krzysztof Mroz, Poland Weight: 22.6kgs

2014 Champions.. Andrzej Walczak-Gabriel Starzec-Krzysztof Charmuszko of Poland

We proudly pay homage to all of our past Champions and present them here to share their achievements and relive their moments of glory. For most anglers, their personal journey will sadly not include such achievements and even where they might, they are quickly forgotten by everyone but those who hold the memories close. The World Carp Classic title has only been won just 17 times, and that fact is significant when considering the thousands of talented anglers who have taken part in the tournament. Will your name be added to this list of notable achievements next year?

WORLD CARP

2014

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P CLASSIC

Hitting the big time.. in the middle of the most amazing storm the biggest fish of the WCC 2014 was caught by Terry Broughton from team Spomb (above). Co Schiejf and Cobri Baits took third (main picture, top) and in Second place, Hans Sissingh and Carp Connections (left).

WINNERS

PRIZE tABlE

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WORLD CARP CLASSIC

0 0 0 , 0 7 £ E v I S S A N Am o W E B o t S E Z I PR World Carp Classic 2015 Champions n Title “Champion of the 2015 World Carp Classic” n 2 x trophies, £10,000 cheque n Half a ton of personalised boilies rolled to their own recipe by Dynamite including a factory visit * 2 x unique golden Reuben Heaton scales n 2 x Wiley X sunglasses n 2 x Raymarine Dragon Fly Down vision fish finder chart plotters n 2 weeks international fishing holidays for 4 people n A years of international PR and Marketing as the World Carp Classic Champions, Invitations to have guest appearances at international anglings shows, A 4 page feature in the 2015, a promotional video made about a year in the life of the WCC champions.

Second overall winners 18

n 2 x Trophies n £3000 cheque

n £1000 RRP of Dynamite products of your choice* n 2 x WileyX sunglasses n 2 x Raymarine Dragon Fly Down vision fish finder chart plotters n 2 weeks International fishing holiday for 2 n 2 x Reuben Heaton Competition scales

third overall winners n 2 x Trophies, £2000 cheque n £500 RRP of Dynamite products of your choice* n 2 x WileyX sunglasses n 2 x Raymarine Dragon Fly Down vision fish finder chart plotters n 2 x Reuben Heaton Competition Scales n One weeks international fishing holidays for 2

Section Winners n 2 x trophies, £500 per section, n £2,000 in sponsors products There are seven sections, the sponsors being: DYNAMITE SHIMANO, NORTHERN BAITS, MIVARDI, PLANO, CARP R US, KARPELA, AMERICAN TACKLE COMPANY

EvENt ItINERARY Your guide to all the events for the World Carp Classic 2015

Friday 18th September n 10.00: Bivvy City at Maison de Madine open

to welcome participants.

n 11.00-13.00: Broadcast yourself n 15.00-18.00: On-site Participants Registration

Saturday 19th September n 09.00-18.00: On-site Participants Registration n 15.00-18.00: Broadcast yourself n 18.00-20.00: Carp Connections

F o H t R Wo R A E Y S I H t

E Com ACH WIll PEtItoR RECE SHI SUN mANo t IvE G R REm lASSES IBAl otE lAN & ACE tERN WE PlUS! lCom E BA GS

WCC15 Biggest Fish Trophy, ÂŁ500 RRP of Dynamite products of your choice * and other sponsors prizes

Gladiator Games winners n Sponsors prizes

2015 Event Record Fish n Angler to receive Dynamite Baits sponsorship for 1 year and the opportunity to work closely with the team, WileyX sunglasses

tEAm m EvENt EvENt W Ev WINNERS n 1st Place 6 x trophies, holiday for 6 at Lake Du Der resort from Carp Connections. n 1st Place 6 x trophies, holiday for 6 at Lake Du Der resort from Carp Connections. n 3rd Place 6 x trophies, holiday for 6 at Lake Du Der resort from Carp Connections.

Gladiator Games

n 19.30 onwards: Pre event party with

catering and entertainment

Sunday 20th September n 09.00-18.00: On-site Participants Registration n 10.00-12.00: Broadcast yourself n 16.00: Official Flag Parade followed by Official

Picture

n 17.15: Official Opening Ceremony n 17.30: Official Peg Draw

monday 21st September Friday 25th September n 07.00: Anglers invited to go to their swim n 07.30-13.30: Boat and equipment inspection

at competitors peg n 14.00: Start of the competition - 114 hours non-stop n 20.00: Madine Live - Internet TV

Saturday 26th September n 07.00: End of competition n 13.00: Closing Ceremony followed by Prize

Giving

‘‘ EvERY PICtURE tEllS A (mADINE) StoRY

TIM PAISLEY REFLECTING ON MADINE

1998: I’ve cribbed the title from a Rod Hutchinson piece from many years ago, because Rod had a big influence on the acceptance of the first World Carp Classic in 1998 – although I’m not even sure Ross Honey knows that. What excited Rod was the news that the match would be pegged on areas of the famous big-fish water Lac de Madine which couldn’t normally be fished. Rod had assembled a Dream Team to represent his company as consultants, and enrolled them, and himself, in the event, which I think was probably the only carp match in which he took part. Rod’s attitude to the event had a knock-on effect and influenced many other anglers to participate. From left: Rob Hughes, Simon Crow, Rod, Martin Clarke, Mally Roberts and Steve Briggs. Stars? Between them these guys have now had upwards of 15 books published! One of my memories of that occasion still makes me smile. With Rod being as impractical as I am, he turned to my wife Mary to make the necessary travel arrangements. She explained to me that Rod didn’t want to make the journey in one leg, but wanted to

stay at Coventry overnight before crossing the Channel. That stopped me in my tracks, and I had to think about it. Coventry? Mary wasn’t strong on geography. In the end I figured that Rod had probably said ‘Canterbury’ (he had). I never did ask Mary if she had already made the accommodation bookings in Coventry before I enlightened her! (For our overseas readers, Coventry is about 150 miles further away from Dover than Canterbury.) The fact that Rod gave the thumbs up to that first Classic did a great deal to establish it in England. (Picture 1) 1998: Then and now. The first picture is of the first draw at Madine in 1998. The second and third are from the draw, again at Madine, 10 years or so later. The ‘pomp and circumstance’ attending the event have come a long way in the intervening years. (Pictures 2,3 & 4) 2008: Quite simply one of the greatest trophy shots ever. England internationals Mark Bartlett and Kevin Hewitt with one of the fish which gave them a secondplace finish in 2008, and secured the second successive team title for Carpworld (after we had won the team title at the Orient the previous year). Lee Jackson and I had photographed this glorious sunset from our unproductive swim on the old night section, so when I saw this shot of the same sunset with a big fish involved, it bowled me over. (Picture 5)

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Quite simply one of the greatest trophy shots ever. England internationals mark Bartlett and Kevin Hewitt

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tIm PAISlEY.. REFLECTING ON MADINE 6

2009: Rob Tough and Tom Duncan-Dunlop at the pre-match draw in 2009. They were late out of the bag, but had done their homework very thoroughly. Their first swim pick wasn’t a bad prospect, but they knew there was a flier still in the bag. The first choice went back, and they hit the jackpot when they pulled out the flier. Here’s part of the result. They made the most of the draw and won the World Carp Classic title by a country mile, securing a hat-trick of wins for Carpworld in the team event in the process. (Pictures 6 & 7) For us, and many others anglers, the prematch socials have always been a special part of the Madine events, and here are a couple of shots from the social side, remembering special people who are no longer with us. 1999: Wife Mary (standing on my left) loved these occasions, and enjoyed keeping our groups wined and dined before and after the match itself. Pip and Jemima took part in the Classic that year, and Alan Atkins and Micky Sly were there to help supervise the Junior event held on Little Madine in ’99. Mary was around for all the first crop of Madine Classics, prior to the move to Amance, and her death in 2003 at far too young an age. (Picture 8) 2011: Bruce Ashby, on my right, was one of the pioneers of modern carping in England. I had interviewed him for Carp Fisher magazine in the 1980s, but had never really had the chance to socialise with him over the years. This was his first Classic, and he loved it. He was recovering

Rob tough and tom Duncan-Dunlop they made the most of the draw and won the World Carp Classic title by a country mile, securing a hat-trick of wins for Carpworld in the team event

from cancer treatment when this shot was taken, and managed a couple more Classics before the cancer caught up with him again and he was lost to us in 2013. He was a lovely man, with plenty to say for himself, who has left behind an indelible carp-fishing legacy. We had a party of Japanese anglers staying next to us that year, which explains partner Julieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exotic headband. (Madine 9) 2008: This was the first time I fished with Lee Jackson (Jacko) in these matches, and we were drawn on a small island. He had a freezer box which weighed a ton, which we had to manoeuvre down a slippery bank, in the rain, into the boat, and up on to the small, ultimately unproductive, island. I presumed the freezer box was full of bait, but it turned out that it was full of fresh food, and lugging it round the lake was well worth the effort. Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an accomplished chef. (Madine 10) 2009: The team that won two of the hat-trick of team titles. (George Csonka and John Lilley helped secure the first of the wins at the Orient.)

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tIm PAISlEY.. REFLECTING ON MADINE 11

We finally put this 21+ kilo fish on the bank on the fourth morning, it was a cause for some celebration

Jacko, yours truly, Mark Bartlett, Kevin Hewitt, Tom Duncan-Dunlop and Rob Tough prior to the pre-match draw. (Picture 11)

2010: Sometimes during sessions and matches alike, you just have to settle for the odd good picture. I’ve used similar shots of this occasion before, but not this one. Quite simply, one of the best shots I’ve ever taken, of Jacko in our Classic camp on the back of the long island in 2011. I didn’t use any sort of filter for this shot; this was how the misty sunrise actually looked. (Picture 12) 2011: To the woods! Base camp with partner Lee Jackson and runner Benji in the woods on the long island. My memories of this occasion are strong, and this shot always makes me smile. The bank was steep and muddy, and we had to cut steps to make access to and from the lake easier. We gave the job to runner Benji, who turned out to be a useless engineer. I thought I was impractical until I saw Benji’s efforts, which spurred me on to get stuck in and create the wondrous stairway, complete with ‘banister’, in the centre of the shot. (Picture 13) 2011: Lee Jackson and I both caught during the first Classic in 1998 (which was an individual event), since which time we didn’t ‘trouble the scorers,’ as they say in cricket, until the 2011 event (although Lee hadn’t fished as many Classics as I had). On the second night of the event, Lee had a run and lost it, so when we finally put this 21+ kilo fish on the bank on the fourth morning, it was a cause for some celebration. (Picture 14)

2011: The part you rarely see – time to go home. All that gear, and all those boats to get it back to base. On this occasion a weather front caught up with us halfway down the lake, leaving us nowhere to hide. We finished up looking like drowned rats, with all our gear drenched. Returning to civilisation is always one of the highlights of carp sessions for me. (Picture 15)

2011: On reflection it doesn’t seem quite right to end on an entirely sombre note after all the joyous occasions at Lac de Madine. Here’s one last picture, as a thanks to two special people, the remarkable Ross Honey for making it all possible, and my friend Jacko for sharing the socials, the effort, the frustrations, the cuisine, and even the capture of a carp. Thanks for the memories, Madine. You started me on my pursuit of carp from big waters, so you have lot to answer for!

‘‘

I’ll end on a more sombre note. The monument overlooking Lac de Madine is an ongoing and stark reminder that this was one of the main battlefields of the First World War, and figured in the Second World War too. Some of the local monuments and graveyards are touching in the extreme. A hundred years ago, the lake we are now enjoying was a scene of ongoing carnage. Lest we forget… (Picture 16)

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2015 UK QUAlIFIERS FURZTON LAKES

DYNAMITE RESULT With a £10,000 prize table provided by Shimano and Dynamite baits and a place in the WCC at lac de madine at stake, this was the real business.

What a fantastic event this was, held at Furzton lakes, Milton Keynes on the 23-26th July.

This 70 acre lake promised plenty of action. The event was hosted by Shimano and Dynamite baits and organised by Ross Honey’s Angling Spirit Team. The Thursday started off with a BBQ and a few drinks along with lots of great banter. All the competitors, 17 teams in total, had a chance to walk the lake and look at the swims hoping to pick out their first choice. During the draw, the tension was soon building as the rules would be exactly the same as those applying to the main WCC event at Lac De Madine. With only the three biggest fish counting, the anticipation was growing and the prospect that anyone could win, right up to the very end, sent a buzz of excitement around the competitors. It is a great moment seeing the flag parades and with the St. Georges cross being held high by this fantastic group of dedicated carp anglers, marking the beginning of the UK qualifier. So, once the swim draw had taken place, the

competitors made their way to their swims and started setting up, patiently waiting for the hooter to sound the start of the competition. At 12 noon on Friday 24th we were away and with this came the typical British weather. At times the rain became absolutely torrential, but this changed nothing. With a £10,000 prize table provided by Shimano and Dynamite baits and a place in the WCC at Lac de Madine at stake, this was the real business. As the competition progressed a few fish started gracing the bank, the weather conditions had really slowed the lake down, and made the fishing really hard going, but Shimano media producer Alex Gretton was kept busy along with the marshals, some of the remote drone footage was incredible. The lads knew the lake was fishing hard and every carp counted and it went down to the wire. The rain drenched marshals, who were on hand in seconds weighing and recording the catches were brilliant. Early leaders Josh Buxton and John Brett, who were hanging on to the final second, pacing the bank, praying they had

2015 CZECH QUAlIFIERS LAKE SANDBERK

Czech ‘em out.. LK Baits team of Petr Pudil and Josef Liston managed to land carp at both pegs

Qualifying round ticks all the boxes on Czech list

done enough were eventually announced as the WCCUK winners. It was a dramatic finish to the competition with only 1 kilo separating first and second place. A big well done and thank you to everyone for taking part and staying behind for the prize ceremony. Richard Griffiths, Shimano UK Marketing Manager along with Ross Honey handed out the fantastic prizes to the winners Josh Buxton and John Brett, Matthew Eden and Jacob Dale who were runners up and Jonathan Budd and James Pither who came in third. No doubt the World Carp Classic will be an event copied by others, but here’s a thought: with the fantastic £10,000 quality prize table provided at the UK Qualifier, when added to the qualifier prize tables in Poland, the CZ Republic, Sweden and the Netherlands, all adding up to make the overall prize table value for the World Carp Classic in excess of £100,000. How about that? Well, the whole weekend has no doubt made some great memories for everyone. Thank you to all and hopefully see another epic World Carp Classic UK Qualifier next year.

MIkE MADELEY Angling Spirit, Media Coordinator

In August the Czech Republic held the qualification for the World Championship in carp fishing - World Carp Classic, which will take place at the popular lake in France, Lac De Madine. The title of the competition could be a bit misleading – the qualification for WCC 2015 was planned to take place at the Lake Katlov. However man proposes, but nature disposes, and so the qualification had to be moved to a beautiful gravel pit nearby Kolín called Sandberk. The Lake Sandberk belongs amongst the legendary Czech lakes, not only because of its variety, but also because of amazing carp living in its waters. This qualifying event brought a special element not common in carp fishing competitions – during the draw, each team drew two pegs. In the middle of the competition they moved from one to another, meaning 38 hours at the first and 38 hours at the second – 76 hours of fishing in total. Thanks to this special rule, one could partly avoid a sometimes typical situation when someone draws a really bad peg and due to this their chances are over before they start. The start list was filled in very quickly and on it were several famous names in the Czech carp fishing world. During the entire competition the weather was very hot and every angler will tell you that these are not ideal conditions for angling. That’s why most of the takes came during the night and early morning. Carp were the only fish point-valued, but there were also another fish landed like catfish, bream, a grass carp weighing almost 18 kg and the first fish of the entire competition was a tench measuring 55 cm. How did the qualification end up? Deserved winners were the LK Baits team of Petr Pudil and Josef Liston, who managed to land carp at both pegs, showing their angling

skills and a local knowledge. The total weight of their three heaviest carp was 28.94 kg. Second was the Tropic Liberec team of Jan Hubka and David Fort. Their weight added up to 25.96 kg. The third position was the CT M+M team of Jirí Král and Martin Pavlík. The weight of their three carp was 24.75 kg. In addition, Jirí Král won a special prize for landing the heaviest carp of entire competition weighing in at 13.05 kg. There’s no point to mention other positions. The history remembers only the winners. But all teams deserve our respect. At the end of September the first two teams will go to France to take part at The World Carp Classic! Let’s cross our fingers for the guys who are representing the Czech Republic!

RADEk HOLub

THE SWEDISH CARP SOCIETY

Well stocked .. Birger Holmqvist with a 10 year old lovely mirror carp from one of our many stocking projects (above) and a real stunner as a part of the future of carp fishing in Sweden

Promoting modern carp fishing in Sweden

The Swedish Carp Society was formed in March 2000 to become the national interest organization for carp fishers in Sweden. The main purpose of the orga-nization is to promote modern carp fishing through increased knowledge and awareness of the sport and to unify carp fishers’ interests in Sweden. With around 250 members who learn from each others’ fishing experiences, also of-fering a unique source of information for young and novice carp fishers. The Swedish carp society also produces a carp fishing journal which is released three times a year where all articles are authored by members. The carp society organizes a national carp fishing competition called ‘The Swed-ish Carp Challenge (SCC)’. All income from sales and entry fees go directly to the promotion of Swedish carp fishing. During the last couple of the years the winning team(s) have also won the entry fee to the World Carp Classic (WCC) tournament. The Swedish carp society is proud to announce that it is entering two Swedish teams in the WCC 2015. One major project for the Swedish carp society is to create inventories of known carp waters and also to create new carp fisheries. The organization also works extensively with stocking existing carp lakes to reinforce and rejuvenate older carp stocks. All stockings are performed in close collaboration with land owners, fisheries management areas, and county administrative boards responsible for stocking permits. The general rule for the Swedish carp society is to co-finance 50% of the costs

for purchasing carp in their stocking project. However, the co-financing rate can be as high as 100% depending on the proposed level of access to the fishery for carp society members. In more recent years, the society also covers costs for improving other forms of increased accessibility to fishing, like clearings of ob-structive vegetation and construction of fishing piers and platforms. We have included a non-exhaustive list of stocking projects in which the Swed-ish carp society has been involved throughout the years, starting in 2001. A total of over 2,500 carp have been stocked in a large number of lakes for national an-gling interests. The size of stocked carp has increased in recent years and stocking is nowadays more commonly focused on fewer, but larger specimens which are more unlikely to be killed by predatory fish. 39

‘‘ Carp fishing is still spreading across Poland, but there are still many undiscovered wild waters that may hold unknown giants... Carp can be caught in nearly every Polish water, in fact the famous Galician carp originates in Poland.

Modern carp angling started in the 90s with the first anglers starting to use high protein based boilies. However, very few heard then about catch and release (C & R). In 1997, I wrote in the first Polish book about modern carp angling, which even now, has lost little of its topicality. The real carp boom only really started at the beginning of the current decade. In 2003, I established ‘Karp Max’; the launch of a completely new magazine was one of the most important events in Polish carp fishing. Today carp angling is the fastest developing field in Polish angling. Tens of thousands of anglers are catching carp and the carp fishing bug. Most important is where to catch. In Poland we have many different carp waters. They are: natural (glacial) lakes of different sizes, gravel pits, clay pits, small, medium and large man-made lakes, and also rivers. The majority of the venues belong to Polish Angling Association. These waters have been stocked with carp for many years. Poland would be the richest country in Europe for carp if it were not for so much carp killing in previous years. Now a lot has changed, it still isn’t at all easy locating or catching carp over 30 kg. For example, this year, there have only been two carp caught with weight above 30 kg. So, a carp of 20 kg is certainly a specimen for us. However, the fact that nowadays the vast majority of anglers are practicing C&R and letting carp go is very important. Anyway, we have hundreds of wild waters where old carp and stocks of carp are living, many of them have never been caught. These are the lakes that are still completely undiscovered, hiding carp and angling secrets. More and more commercial fisheries are being created exclusively for carp anglers. For Polish carp anglers, catching on many different kinds of waters means they have great experience, and have the experience to deal with many different venues and

‘‘

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CARP WoRlD

PRZEMEK MROCZEK

OUR HIDDEN SECRETS their obstacles. It’s not by chance that they’ve already won the World Carp Classic on two previous occasions. So, what is so special about Polish carp angling and anglers? Certainly the fact that they nearly always use boats to row out the baits, because the rules on the majority of waters allow it. Moreover, in Poland bait boats are extremely popular, so the classical casting style of fishing isn’t too often seen. Carp competitions are also very popular with around 100 taking place every year. Of course, there are Polish qualifying events for the WCC among them, organised through Karp Max. So, look out WCC the Polish are coming and are hungry to win! Przemek Mroczek

this year, there have only been two carp caught with weight above 30kg. So, a carp of 20kg is certainly a specimen for us

No shortage.. there are a lot of big grass carp in Poland (above) but big carp, like this 24.5kg (top) from famous Rybnic Lake are hard to come by

WoRlD CARP ClASSIC 2015 Welcome to you all from the WCC2015 team and our Sponsors ... fight hard, play fair and tight lines!

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ANDY CHAmBERS HEAD MARSHAL WCC2015

mARSHAl’S BACK IN toWN

Andy Chambers, Head Marshal and his boys will be back in town, making sure the tournament is run friendly, but fair way. Andy also runs us through some of the changes to the venue and some of the new rules that need

It still seems hard to believe that it is nearly 4 years ago that I left Madine following the successful 2011 edition of the event, I wasn’t sure then whether or not I would be back to the lake, either to fish there or for another event.

‘‘

Of course, in the intervening years the Classic has been held at Lake Bolsena in Italy and what a truly great lake that is with some jaw dropping, spectacular common carp being caught. I’m sure that we will be going back there again sometime in the future, in the same way as we’re popping back to Madine now and to sample its equally spectacular mirror carp which have no doubt grown even bigger over the last few years. Lake Madine is a really great lake, but for various reasons it is not fished that much for its lovely carp which means when the World Carp Classic rolls into town and puts on an event there, then there’s still some mystery as to what could be caught during the event. Madine still holds the WCC record for the biggest carp caught to date, but it wouldn’t it be great if it could go one better and break its own record with a carp over a 30kg, I’ve got a sneaky suspicion it may well do this year, remember you read it here first! The event is also going to be slightly different this year with only the three biggest carp caught by a team to count, this should throw the question of where the competition could be won from wide open. Add in the fact that the small

Mirror .. mirror.. a big Madine mirror from the small Island area which produced the winners for the competition from 2008 - 2011 will not be pegged means it could be won from just about anywhere around the lake. I have only fished Madine on a couple of occasions, once on ‘Jetfish’ island and the other time in the area known as the ‘dark side’. Both seem unfancied areas when it comes to competitors choice of swims, but both areas have produced big fish for me, with the 3 fish rule, they could be real winners. Also take into account the fact that the lake really hasn’t seen any carp fishing pressure over the last few years and the carp could have spread out to new areas, so my advice is don’t rule out any area, there will be surprises! A visit to the lake back in July was a real eye opener, there have been some major changes since 2011 with new

facilities, restaurants and bars that I am sure the competitors will find appealing, added to those improvements is a new bivvy city area. All in all, a complete move to the other end of the lake for preevent activities which really will be a nice change. Whilst from a distance the lake looked much the same, once I started to explore some of the old sections, it soon became apparent that many of the swims had become overgrown, so much so that it was impossible to see where they had once been, so there will be a lot of work needed to open up the swims for the anglers. One area that hasn’t got overgrown, nor needs cutting back, is the dam wall. This hasn’t been used in the competition whilst I have been helping with the organisation of the event, but I understand that in the very beginning of

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On watch! I want every competitor to treat the marshals with respect and I will come down hard on anyone who doesn’t may help that we are holding the event a few weeks later than in the past, so if the weed has grown up during August it still has time to start dying off before the event. Again, be prepared to tackle the weed and the problems it can cause. Now I suppose it would be wrong of me not to mention a little about the rules which haven’t been changed to any great extent, but I need to warn you of a couple of rules which I shall be tightening up on this year. The first one will be the distance some competitors seem to think is acceptable to have their rods away from the peg board. If you don’t know the answer, then it is 3 metres left or right, that is all and you really need to remember this as I won’t be giving out any warnings this

year, but will give any team flaunting this rule a straight yellow card! Distance is also a rule that many teams have a problem with and will go to any lengths to fish beyond the distance boundaries that are put out around the lake. This year the team of marshals will be even better equipped with night vision and other equipment to help catch those that want to cheat. Anyone caught will be punished accordingly; I really don’t like to give out red cards, but am more than happy to do so for those that deserve it, you have been warned! I will take this final opportunity to welcome you back to Madine, to meet old and new friends, fish well, obey the rules and have a great time. n ANDY CHAMbERS

‘‘

the event back in to the late 1990s it was. I didn’t peg the dam wall during 2008 2011 because it might have been tricky for competitors when using the boats, but it is such a good area that I had to agree with Ross when we decided to include it in this year’s event. It probably won’t be the most comfortable fishing along there, but do you want to win the event and become WCC champions or are you simply out for a nice five day camping holiday? Remember big water carping can be tough at times, so go prepared and you will be fine. During the visit it was noticeable that the weed didn’t appear to be quite as bad as it had been in the past, now this might have been because it was still only early July and the worst of the weed growth was still to come. We shall have to see, it

this year the team of marshals will be even better equipped with night vision and other equipment

GEt oN

BoARD As with any major competition, there has to be rules .. not only to ensure fair play, but most of all safety. One of the main aspects of this is boat safety as Madine is a large and sometimes unpredictable lake so it is imperitive that your boat is up to the job

ROUND-UP OF GENERAL RULES

n The Rules The most important one of all is that you read and understand all the rules before you start competing; the set of rules provided to each team is comprehensive and covers everything you need to know. If you break one of the rules and try to come up with the excuse that you hadn’t read or understood the rule, that will not be acceptable. You will no doubt have come a long way and spent a lot of money, so don’t jeopardise your place and earn an early exit by disqualification. n Distance One of the most important rules for the competitors, as it dictates how much area you have to fish, although in the case of Bolsena distance is less important given the depths of the lake. The further out you go the deeper it gets and the carp will simply not feed there. I think it is a mistake to think you have to go out as far as you can, as carp prefer to feed in the shallower water. The allowed distance for competitors to fish has been raised this year, so I will be very strict on anyone who thinks they can go beyond this limit. I have rangefinders and night vision for myself and my team of marshals so be aware. n boats Lake Madine is big and even an average wind can create very choppy water. Your boat needs to be up to the job and it needs to have all the safety equipment that is required. We have been having boat checks for long enough now that you should all know you need to have proper lifejackets, horns, bailer, anchor and anchor rope plus, of course, oars to row the boat should the battery run out for the electric outboard. So make sure you have a boat to do the job as the guys at the boat check this year will be much stricter. n boat Checks To ensure that all of the boats/security equipment to be used during the competition has been checked and approved by the event organiser and local authorities, all competitors must arrange to have their boat ready to be checked at their swim on Monday morning between 07:30 and 13:30. Once checked and approved, competitors will receive a boat pass that will be securely attached to the boat by the Marshal. Only then will the competitors receive the Official Catch List Form and Security Tag. n boat Safety Safety whilst out on the water is a major aspect in the rules and lifejackets are an absolute must, not just occasionally but every single time you go out on the water. More yellow cards are given to competitors for not wearing a life jacket than any other broken rule. It really is quite simple - be prepared; given how quickly conditions can change on the lake there will be no warnings given this year, the first time you go out without a lifejacket, you get a yellow card, if you do it again then it is disqualification. n boat Propulsion The only means of propulsion for your boat is either by rowing or using an electric outboard. You should ensure that you have enough battery power to last you the competition plus a means to recharge batteries. We are not able to provide charging facilities for you. Some competitors have no idea how long a leisure battery actually lasts when going out into the wind to place baits, I have said this before, rowing will save the

n Carp Care

Make sure you are prepared, with enough retaining slings and sacks to manage any situation. Any carp caught must be notified to your local marshal as soon as it is landed so that the fish can be weighed, recorded, photographed and returned to the lake as quickly as possible. It goes without saying that the safety of the carp is of the highest importance and proper unhooking mats must be used, the fish wetted if necessary and not kept out of the water for photographs/ filming etc. any longer than is necessary.

life of your battery considerably, leaving you enough power to use when they are really needed – when playing and landing of fish. Not making proper use of your batteries and running out when the carp go on a feeding spree could cost you dearly and even the chance of becoming the champion. n boat Time Something else that always seems to crop up each year and I do not know why… This is the allowed time when competitors can go out on the water. It is quite simple; when the hooter goes for the start of the competition! There is no period when you can go out on the water to try your echo sounder or to put markers out, so stay off the water ‘til it is time. n Peg Markers Your peg marker indicates the spot where you must place your rods, and you have discretion to have them no more than 3 metres to the left, right, front or back of the peg. Any further than that and you will be asked to move them. There may be an exceptional reason why this is not possible and in that case you must get the okay from the Marshal who is looking after your peg.

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

ANDY CHAmBERS

n Markers Competitors may use up to six permanent markers in their swim and no more, these must be removed at the end of competition. The markers must be placed within the confines of your swim; Some competitors try to extend the boundaries of their swim as much as possible into the water of other pegs. If you cannot sort out the boundary of your swim with your neighbour and I have to be involved in a dispute, then I will cut down the amount of water you are able to fish considerably. So it’s simple, sort it out as you really do not want me to come and do it for you. There will also be competition markers out in the lake marking the maximum range you are able to fish. If you remove any of these markers you will be disqualified immediately – you have been warned. n Weighing The minimum weight of the fish that may be recorded for the competition has been raised this year to 5kg as there are many small carp in the lake and not all of these are of the strain cyprinus carpio so this new minimum weight will eliminate the problem of another species being mistakenly recorded. n Rods Competitors may only have four baited rods in the water at any one time and two reserve rods, but these must be broken down. Each rig used by the competitor must only have one hook. All hooks must be micro barbed or barbed, which is generally the case these days with hooks from the major brands. n Respecting Madine Lake Madine is a beautifully well-kept and clean lake and we want to keep it that way. It is disgusting the way some competitors think they can leave their swim after the competition and if I had my way every single one of them would be banned for life. There is no excuse for this – remove your rubbish and put it in the rubbish bins or the designated rubbish areas which will be signposted. If you’re still not sure, ask your Marshal.

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Paparazzi .. A huge amount of requests for onsite presence are received from press and media teams all over the world, in fact, so many that we have to control the number of those media teams attending. Press & Media passes and badges are issued in order to clearly identify officially permitted personnel in order to prevent a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;paparazziâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; type situation. We fully understand and appreciate the desire to report on the event, but we must maintain control in the best interest of competitors. Our first priority must be to ensure that press intrusion is not allowed to go unchecked. As responsible event organizers, fish care and safety is of primary importance to us and we will not allow this to be compromised by overzealous media activity. Please report any such incidents to us so that action can be taken immediately.

In-House teams .. Our own media team will be on site to cover every aspect of the event as it happens. The team will also upload images and information onto the official website. All teams will display passes to identify them as officially approved Press and Media.

World Carp Clazzic Film Crew .. A World Carp Classic Film Crew, familiar to previous contestants, will be on site throughout the event capturing VT on all aspects from long before the opening ceremony during the peg draw and to beyond the closing ceremony and prize giving. Your cooperation with this team is requested at all times; team personnel are fully aware of the boundaries and will not infringe upon any of the set guidelines. Daily video reports will be uploaded to the official website and youtube throughout the event.

Event Updates .. There will be an ongoing catch report update on the event website as fish captures are reported to HQ. Every fish caught will be added as an unofficial result. The results will later be made official when the catch reports - which must be signed by both the angler and marshal - are verified at event

HQ. Catch reports and information will also be uploaded to Twitter and Facebook throughout the event.

We are confident in presenting a high-speed system that will enable everyone, including participants, to check progress during the competition.

lIvE leader-Board .. In the 2015 World Carp Classic a complete and topical overview of all the catches and statistics will be accessible both in total and per team. Marshals will be working in pairs 24/7 and as soon as a qualifying carp is landed, the marshals will then note all of the relevant data. Firstly using pen and paper onto the official catch report sheets and, secondly, using a smartphone. Depending on the quality of the GSM network, the marshal will take and send pictures for the leader-board. An image of the fish together with all relevant data will then be registered online and the information will be instantly available worldwide. We are confident in

CAtCHING t

The World Carp Classic draws an incredible amount of m

MEDIA MANIA

CAPTURING EVERY MOMENT

presenting a watertight and high-speed system that will enable everyone, including participants, to check progress during the competition.

Participate & Co-operate .. It is important to remember that your cooperation with Official Media representatives is essential for publicity, not just for the benefit of the World Carp Classic, but also yourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and your Sponsors. Official Media Personnel will be easily identifiable by the Press Pass badges they will display at all times. If anyone approaches you with requests for filming or photo work and they are not displaying a pass, and cannot produce one, you are not obliged to cooperate with them. Please also remember that the World Carp Classic ethos for fish welfare remains our

highest priority. To aid in this respect, when preparing for an Official Media or Marshals photo shoot, please ensure that everything needed to provide sufficient fish welfare is in place and subsequently used in the correct manner.

Be Prepared .. A suitably sized unhooking mat, mattress or cradle. A container filled with clean lake water to help cool the fish and keep it moist and comfortable. A position of shade or dappled shade, if possible, in a position that provides a good backdrop for film and photography. Your peg board should be clearly visible in the capture shots and all clutter removed from the area, and finally, remember to record the details of your capture on the Official Catch Sheet.

THE ACTION

media attention each and every year ... but it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end there

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DUtCH

CoURAGE Angry swans, wild boars and mudbaths ... you had to be made of strong stuff to compete during the early years at the World Carp Classic!

Sitting in front of my PC and looking back at the WCC 2014. Going through a lot of pictures brings back brilliant memories. What an amazing event it was in Italy, first of course, because it was in Italy, the food, the people, the countryside, the smell, the sightseeing.

1999 on lac de madine

In my mind I go back years and think about my first WCC in 1999 on Lac de Madine. Oh my goodness, the preparation, all the plans ,organizing, research and reading so you know what to expect from the water and fish, talking about carp, dreaming about carp, leaving home, family, wife and kids. The World games! Will I catch fish? Am I prepared enough, don’t forget this, don’t forget that, and that, and that and that too. I must buy some more things, did I pack that in my case already? Grrrr, unpack and go through all the stuff again. But then…Yeahhh, the day is here! I wake up and the adrenaline starts running the moment I open my eyes, I jump in my car, pick up my fishing mate and head for la belle France. When we arrived I was in a euphoric state, so many people, not knowing where to go, or what to do. Such a feeling of excitement. Okay, first sign in at Bivvy Camp and get the entrance ticket. Then mingle and blend in with all the people and within an hour I met so many that I know, sitting with them and talking about: CARP of course. I must be honest and say that some things were not that organized, such as the time that the events must take place, casting matches that happened an hour late, the BBQ didn’t open on time, but okay, more and more people are coming and it gets crowded, cosier. People were bringing their own booze and getting louder and getting in a singing mood. Although I think maybe less alcohol is better in a match. You’ve taken some time to drive or walk around the lake, which peg will have the carp? The BBQ is announced, you take a seat and see all the guys with the same look in their eyes, GAME ON! Finally, peg drawing! Choose two pegs in your head and fingers crossed that you draw one of them as you’ve been given two changes for the peg draw. You can only hope the carp gods are with you now. Arriving at your peg you absorb the space in front of you and know that there are a lot of massive carp swimming out there. Then the adrenaline starts raging again, what system to use, a lot of weed so change the system, sand, mud, stone, gravel? Pffffff...make up your mind Co, trust in your knowledge and get those lines in the water ASAP!

Feeling a little bit sick in the stomach and tired from the stress we realized that we hadn’t eaten yet, we made our meal, took a chair, settled down and enjoyed the sight, it was like paradise. Next day and still no fish. You realize that you miss home badly and think to yourself: “It is an adventure, it is great, a very nice opportunity, but is it worth to go next time?” Then: piepppppppppppppppppp - fish! Any carp angler can guess the decision that was made for a 2nd WCC in that moment. With the third carp from my mate we managed second place. We’ll be back!

2001 on lac Amance You think because you participated once that the second WCC will be less stressful, but no! What will this event bring, will it be better, worse or just different? Have they changed this or that? It’s a new water so there’ll also be new tactics. Then you arrive at Lac Amance and get that special feeling again. All those guys with the same ambition, the friendly vibes and humour, the laughter among old friends you see again and know they are doing well, other nice guys to speak

to again. Peg drawing! The adrenaline starts rushing again: we did well. We arrived at the peg and we were very happy with it, but we heard a ‘hissing’ noise coming from the water, so we needed to check it out, when we got closer to the water there was a mean mother of a swan sitting on her eggs hissing her lungs out at us. You could see in her eyes that she’d made a commitment to herself to kill me the first chance she got. Even when she didn’t get a chance to attack me, you can’t cast and fish near a broody bird, that would be animal abuse. So we called Ross and explained the problem and he arranged another spot for us where I caught a small carp during the tournament. Lac de Amance: nice with big carp, but it was swampy.

Another water.. lac de orient Very nice to arrive at Lac de Orient, open and very well organized. It seems like a holiday resort with the small bars at the beach side and the promenade. This was a match that I remember very well, so

CO SCHIJF

LOOKS BACK IN WONDER

many problems, so many weird things happened, it really took a lot out of me, but also for the staff and organization this was out of proportion. Yes, this time I was exited again, seeing friends again, spending time with them, but anxious to start the match! Peg draw! Ay ay ay..my peg is on the other side of the bank, that means through the woods to get at your spot, so I jumped in the car and drove over there, arrived at the entrance to a road through the woods but that was closed, so take the stuff out of the car and walking, and walking and more walking. Pffffffff much too far, so retrace my steps and put everything back in the car. Okay, turn around and take another road, Grrrrrrr also closed! Okay turn and try to find another way and guess what: closed!!! Back to HQ to get some help, it seems that the French rangers closed up everything so the organization needed to find a solution for the anglers. Stressssssss, the match starts in an hour, now what?! Ross called all the marshals to help, boats where arranged, drive to a meeting point and again unload the car, and put all the gear on the shore. Everything goes in the rubber boats,

Now and then ... My first experience of the World Carp Classic in 1999 at Lac de Madine (above) and at Lago de Bolsena last year

Who is touching my bivvy all the time? I unzip and take a peek outside, well, I closed the zipper quicker than I unzipped it. Wild boars outside with their babies eating my bivvy!

CO SCHIJF LOOKS BACK IN WONDER

Going Dutch ... This was the first WCC I fished as part of a trio ... and yes, dreams do come true

and that took quite a time before all the stuff from the anglers was on the other side. And the temperature? Hot as hell! Finally, I arrived and stepped out of the boat in shallow water and sunk up to my knees in the mud! I soldiered on, wading and struggling through stinking mud for 5-6 metres before I stepped on solid ground. All right, take it as it comes, so full of confidence I prepared the rods so the lines can go in the water when the signal is given, the match started one hour later because of the earlier problems. But first a chair, my body is complete a mess, the heat is unbelievable and what is that awful dirty smell? I noticed during the boat trip that as far you can look there was weed from the bottom to the surface. The water was 70-100cm cm deep for about 300 metres, this match was going to be a hard one! Tweeeeettttttttt..the signal was given. Game onnn!! Tight lines and a lot of luck my friends, we’re going to need it! The camp was set up, so my plan is to first have a bite to eat and then get some early sleep. But no, from a distance I see people coming my way, huh who are they? Five marshals coming to help us out, “Can we do anything for you sir? Can we get you anything sir?” Wowwww so kind of them! No early sleep, they stayed until uhhhmm...late, but it was a very nice end to a stressful day. Sleep now. Tomorrow’s going to be a busy day, I want to catch carp. Settle down looking for some sweet dreams. Aaaaahhhhhh, it’s 2 am, what is that noise outside my bivvy? And who is touching my bivvy all the time? I unzip and take a peek outside, well, I closed the zipper quicker than I unzipped it. Wild boars outside with their babies eating my bivvy. Now I know where that awful smell comes from, they made a mud bath that smelled like a toilet that wasn’t cleaned for a year 5 metres from the bivvy. I am not a great naturalist, but I know that when they have babies those animals are really dangerous, and I need to pee! Where is an empty bottle? Going outside was absolutely no option whatsoever! Searching for tools or anything that I can use as a weapon because the first creature that is sticking his nose in my tent will be getting some treatment, I’ll give him what for, or maybe I’d better not. WCC arranged the pegs so a lot of teams had

the comfort of a toilet and shower in the close proximity, but guess what? Yes, you already have, no comfort for us over here, damn. Oh well, it’s not that strange, after all how would you provide those in the middle of nowhere, so no hard feelings! If you think all of this was bad, now imagine what it was like for me in this match, I brought my wife with me and we fished the match as a couple! This gives me the opportunity to give my wife so much credit and respect, I heard no complaints from her, she made it fun for me, we laughed so much, making food for the Marshals, giving out drinks, every day during the day, the marshals sat with us because every time they came to see us it took them more than half an hour walking, once they took a seat they didn’t want to leave. Dutch hospitality I think. I’d just like to say thanks for all their efforts and kindness, we appreciated it! During the match a camera team from sky TV visited us and Danny interviewed me in 2006. A new phenomenon for me as an angler during a match was TV media, and now in 2014 we have tweeting, whatsapp, facebook, skype and heaven knows what else during the match. It was not possible to catch fish, not any way, not by any system, not even with all the luck in the world, our match was done two days before the end. Can we go home? Well no, you can’t. You can’t expect the boats to come and get you while the match is still going on. Other anglers also wanted to leave, but also couldn’t and that was a blessing for all of us. Kevin Knight with his mates and I were neighbours, so the last two days together with the marshals we had the time of our life. Those last two days made up for a lot of the lesser things. There are no regrets, it was a match never to be forgotten.

Lago di Bolsena Another country, so different from France, the Italian people were very friendly and were willing to speak English. This was THE holiday environment, a huge water with a lot of potential, but it also seems hard with a lot of obstacles. It is not just a match where you want to win the first prize, it is so much more! For me it is an adventure, use and try other tactics, learn from other anglers, and what I described in

all my WCC adventures: to see all those anglers again, ones you have known for so many years, some of them starting their own business and doing well. You belong to this certain special group and see that you are not the only one who is looking older through the years...It feels a bit like coming home. This was the first WCC I fished in as part of a trio, what will these days bring for us? Lars, I know him already as a friend in daily life and Peter I didn’t know him at all, but what a match we were together! Peg draw! I had the peg already in my head and YES, dreams come true! Then after walking off the stage a friendly woman is waiting for us with microphone and camera? Weird feeling that family and friends at home can watch what you are doing at that moment. It looks so much more professional, and knowing all the inventions that are available what more can you expect in the future? Game on! The match starts. We spoke about our strategy, one team, one tactic, knowing what the bait will do when used properly, the rigs all nicely made up and made especially for that water. Will we catch ? Two hours after the start signal a young guy needed my car and he brought it back, a total wreck! Luckily he was unharmed, but it gave me a bunch of problems, never heard from him again and he didn’t take any responsibility for it. Shame on you! Calling home about the car for the whole day, I was knocked out because of it all. I needed to recover and get the pleasure back and the spirit to keep on fishing. What to do to find it? I called my wife and she talked me round, put me back on track. “Forget about all that for now darling, you can’t change things right now, so put all your energy into the game.” And so I did! We had a lot of fun, Darren Mullard, our Marshall was a great guy and liked him a lot, he took so many pictures that he sent to me when I got home, so thanks Darren, he’s another one of the guys I hope to see at my next WCC. Yesssss! Carp hooked, and more carp follow, we went out of our minds, but it was hard, very hard. The weather changed into a very ugly storm, thunder and lightning that was extraordinary, but still fish on the spot. To go into a rubber boat in that kind of weather with the big waves is a little bit like suicide, your body smashed from left to right and back again…no, no, no, I can’t land the fish, it swims around a marker held in place with big chains, and oh no, SNAPPPP ...line broke...fish gone *&*%#!(&%#!!! As I said about the media, we knew what other teams did. Facebook revealed a lot, WhatsApp told us the latest result it all added to the PRESSURE. We hooked more carp and we lost another five carp. Which place is going to be ours? Fifth, fourth maybe? No, one better, we did it! CoBRI team were number three on the prize stage. Wow! If you ask me which water to fish again then that would be Lago Di Bolsena. All the stories I have told, I have talked about me and my experiences. But of course, I didn’t fish the matches alone, but to describe my mates their (our) stories would fill a book. I thank each and every one of them who participated with me on the WCC! All of them made every particular WCC special! Back home, I dropped on the couch and couldn’t move, my body was black and blue, my legs felt like rubber and covered with scars. A cup of coffee and then onto the internet for some breath taking footage, drones in the air, catch and release underwater, wow! The whole WCC in front of the camera. Interviews which were so professional. You nailed it Ross! Will I do another WCC? You bet! See you in 2015 on Lac de Madine folks!

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WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

DUTCH COURAGE

n CO SCHIJF

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

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Hans Sissingh tells us how the WCC not only helps your carp angling, but also your carp angling business, success breeds success, read how Hans made sure every opportunity helped to to build his brand. Since 1998, Lac de Madine has been my home lake. I’m afraid that, my regular spring area, the legal nightfishing zone at Montsec, was closed down for the benefit of the predator anglers. Madine has taught me how to deal with big public lakes, how to read the depth map of the venue, how to predict the migrating fish movements and where to expect the bigger carp. Although I learned a lot about how to find the bigger fish, it never really helped me much trying to win the World Classic. Winning first prize you needed to catch as many fish as you could, whilst catching the bigger ones hardly made a difference to the total result. This year is different. Winning the 2015 event is all about catching the big specimen carp as only BIG fish count, and only the three biggest: game on! Therefore it wasn‘t hard to decide whether or not to participate this year. It wasn‘t hard to figure out how to combine anglers with complementary skills into six trios and ask them to fish for my two Carp Connections teams either. After finishing second in last year’s event and gaining loads of publicity, finding sponsors was a piece of cake too. The toughest bit, preparing for this year’s event, was how to achieve an even better result publicity wise..

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TEAM

HANS SISSINGH

BUSINESS IS ON THE BANK

BUILDING

TEAM BUILDING HANS SISSINGH

Participating in the Gladiator games brings the Carp Connections brand right in the picture, and therefore in the magazines, every year. At the Bolsena event we introduced a brand new marketing tool, our full colour printed shirts, like the American Bass Pros, produced by Valley Fashions USA. In the meantime, American TV star Larysa Switlyk joined our team; having her catching Italian carp, drew the attention of all the local media to our Team. Then ‘unleashing’ Larysa to fish at one of our lakes, finally helped us getting both Carp Connections and its flagship Fishing Resort Du Der on the American network, seen by millions of households for several shows. Not only that, members of our team wrote several six and eight page articles, we even managed to get Ferry Verhofstad’s article in a Japanese carp magazine! Big in Japan! So how can we top last year’s huge success? Well, I decided to enter two teams instead of one team in the competition, in total no less than six trios. Carp Connections 2 is also represented by a beautiful Dutch lady and one hell of an angler, Liza van Zomeren. The Gladiator games will include some new funny games this year, so camera attention is guaranteed! Lucky for us the two times World Carp Classic Qualifier winners and big lake anglers Richard van Leeuwen, Sander van Triet and Cornée Zwijnenburg,

all said ‘yes’ to my request to join us again this year. Richard is also the all time record holder at the Fishing Resort Du Der with a carp of 67 lbs. We decided to keep the full coloured Jerseys, and Larysa has redesigned them for this year’s event and turned them into real eye catchers. Also new for this year, to make sure we won‘t be short on food during opening weekend, we have catering on site, sponsored by PAVE Fishing team. Then, last but not least, we have our bait sponsors, AVK and MYproducts, bringing along a huge stock of carp food. What’s new? The three sponsors: Ronny van Berlo, Martin Hertogs and Yoann Cloarc are great big fish anglers and they will also fish as members of our teams. Of course, those who could find the time have fished Madine already, with some stunning 20Kg fish being registered, and more important some great information on the condition of the lake and its carp was collected. I would like to use this article and magazine to wish all anglers good fishing, good luck, and may the best team win! Team Carp Connections is ready to deliver some prize winners and for me, ‘Business is on the bank’! n HanS SISSIngH

Big Fish count! Proof that there’s beauties to be found like this one caught in Madine 2009 (top). The lovely Liza who’ll be joining out team this year (above) and Ferry, Mattie and me at last year’s World Carp Classic securing second place.

PETER VLASVELD

24 HOURS AT DU DER FISHING RESORT

Mirror image..Peter proudly presents the 22.2kg mirror carp .. his first bite at Resort Du Der

DUT

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Peter Vlasveld a member of the Carpconnections set up as a flying Dutchman on his road trip through France and tells us of his 24 hour visit to Du Der Fishing Resort that his team won during the WCC 2014 in Bolsena The moment WCC 2014 in Bolsena ended, my teammates and I knew we hadn’t won any prizes, due to the fact we only caught one fish. Fishing an awesome location such as Bolsena was an amazing experience, even without winning, we had an fabulous week and our other team from PB Products/Cobri Baits ended up third overall and proud is what we were! Well done guys! Now this is where it gets a bit complicated, during the prize ceremony it became clear that we also didn’t win any prizes in the team category. The team category prize was won by Carpconnections. The team prize was a trip to Du Der fishing resort for the whole team! So Hans Sissing was kind enough to donate this prize to team PB Products, because during the competition we helped each other out. This was their way to show their appreciation. Thanks to their generosity, we were all heading for a trip to Du Der! On the 15th of May I arrived at the Du Der fishing resort. I planned a road trip through France to fish several lakes, starting my trip at Etang de la Haije (JRC lake). Unfortunately, a few team members cancelled the invitation resulting in an almost empty JRC lake. Richard and Peter decided to fish the Lodge at swim 3, and I decided to setup camp at swim 1. The anglers from Shimano were fishing Berkley lake, and it was nice to see all those familiar faces again. I would only be spending 24 hours at the bank, so I would have to come up with a really efficient way of fishing. Using a baitboat fitted with a sonar, Ifound some very interesting features. Etang de la Haije has a lot of different depths and interesting hot spots. The lake has

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THE FLYING

TCHMAN

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

FLYING DUTCHMAN 24 HOURS AT DU DER FISHING RESORT

depths and interesting hot spots. The lake has a very sharp slope away from the bank and Hans told me that some anglers try to land the fish from the bank, resulting in losing a lot of fish because their mainline would break, all fish needed to be played from a boat, so I prepared my small boat. I decided to fish all rods with just a solid PVA bag applied with a short fluorocarbon rig, almost invisible in the clear water. That slope also meant that I could easily lose the fish, so preventative actions needed to be taken. So I decided to use the Hit N Run lead system from PB products. With this extremely safe system, the fish would travel around with only the rig instead of a rig with a leader and a piece of lead, like most systems when the mainline breaks. In my opinion all anglers should use those safe systems for safety purposes.

From peg 1 I could fish the middle of the lake with 2 rods, and I could also fish in front of the bridge or even to the dam. This way I could spread out my chances of catching one of those big fish traveling around in this lake. Once all rods were positioned it was time to relax. I didn’t get much time to relax though, because within an hour the first rod took off, and after a hard fight from the boat the first Du Der resort lump was landed. Fighting an enormous carp with a 8.6 ft JRC stealth rod from the boat in clear blue water is just amazing! Once back on the bank I realized that I just had landed a mirror carp that clearly would exceed 20kg. The scales proved me right as I had just landed a 53 lb mirror! I was over the moon!

The future’s bright .. the future’s orange? Peter with a few of the team members from AVK Cobri and PB Products (top) and his last fish caught at Resort Du Der (above). After the big mirror it was dinner time and I enjoyed the sunset, preparing myself for a night sleep. That night, however, I didn’t get much sleep at all, as I landed a few smaller fish. During the night I could hear the big fish jumping and crashing in the water, how exciting. In the early morning I ended my session with another gorgeous looking smaller mirror carp in the mid-twenties. What a way to close off the session, happy days! All fish were caught from the middle part of the lake, fishing the slope of the deeper parts. And all fish were played from the boat, and

within an hour, the first rod took off and after a hard fight from the boat the first Du Der resort lump was landed

that makes fishing even more exciting. I can’t imagine why other anglers prefer to fight a fish from the bank in those conditions, when you will have the opportunity to play the fish from the boat. It even makes fishing more like an adventure and you will have more chances of successfully landing the fish. After breakfast I decided to pack up and have a social with the other anglers in the beautiful looking resort. Peter and Richard had caught several fish from the lodge and we talked about our captures as we had some coffee. All too soon it was time for me to leave, and after I had a good chat with my friends from Shimano at Lake Chenet (Berkley lake), I followed my road trip through France. Thanks Carp Connections for the invitation and an awesome 24 hours session at Du Der fishing resort! I’ll be back! n PETER VLaSVELd

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

FINDERS

‘‘ 52

Angling has defined my life, and having been an all-round angler for the first 25 years and a dedicated carp angler for well over 30 years since, you’d be correct to assume that there has been very little in the way of innovative angling related products that have escaped my attention. That said, the sheer level of innovation throughout that time has never ceased to amaze me… it has evolved immensely in that almost 60-year period. So, given my lifetime of fishing and having owned my first boat in 1966 at the tender age of just 14 years old, it would be fair to suggest that I have been in the position to gain a reasonable level of knowledge across a fairly wide spectrum. As far back as I care to recall, I can honestly say that there have been very few innovations that have impressed me to the extent that they have become ‘must have’

essentials, and perhaps only a handful of items would be termed as such. Sure, in this particular field, for a very long time there has been a wide selection of feature-finding and navigation instruments on the market to choose from, and it’s fair to say that most are more than fit for purpose. However, the level of technology available for use in small boats, such as dinghies, has traditionally fallen some way short of what has been available in the non-portable devices. Until now, that is, having owned and used various such aforementioned devices, I would suggest that the incredible Dragonfly7 has more than bridged that gap and it is now firmly included in that mere handful of benchmark, indisputably fantastic products on my ‘must have’ bucket-list. I would urge you, if you haven’t yet seen the brilliant Dragonfly7 in action, to really make the effort and take a good, long, close

look at this seriously impressive high-end technology. You won’t have to look too far around the scene, either, to find positive reviews on this superb piece of kit and you can be assured that it will come highly recommended by some of the sports very top names. Raymarine have recently made this incredible technology available to freshwater anglers, although it had been available to, and enjoyed by, saltwater anglers for some time previously. What I can say is, that unless you have either visited the Raymarine website (www. raymarine.co.uk) or you have been fortunate enough to have either used, or seen it in use, the Dragonfly7 is like nothing that you have ever seen before. In my wildest and most fanciful dreams, I could never have conjured up a more perfect aid for my fishing and something that could provide the catalyst to impact my results emphatically. The

KEEPERS!

Impressing carp angler Steve Howard is not an easy task, but now that he’s the proud owner of Raymarine’s new Dragonfly 7 ... he’s never letting go!

Dragonfly7 really is that remarkable. Over the years, and without mentioning any brand names, in my experience the previous feature finders that have been available for small boats have been found wanting. Most anglers who have had occasion to use those devices, will admit that they leave a lot to be desired and that they have traditionally been no more than basic and yet expensive depth finders. Certainly, in the valley of the blind, the one-eyed man is king, but that in itself was the problem here as, without a good deal of knowledge, understanding and ability by the user, those images displayed upon the screens would tell us nothing of much reliable value at all - apart from the depth! No, it is clear that our own input is integral to their success and that unless in the hands of experienced anglers, whose skill in deciphering the information displayed into a workable ‘picture’ in their minds, these instruments were indeed cycloptic!

Thankfully, now that I am the proud owner of a magnificent Dragonfly7, I no longer view regular feature finders as instruments that possess much in terms of usefulness. I now know that, to pinpoint those spots exactly, there is nothing out there that I can use to achieve the same precision achieved with the Dragonfly7. What’s more, with its integral GPS function, it means that I can save those extremely precise hot spots and return to them time after time, again and again. With the Dragonfly7 DownVision and Chirp with sonar, I now have all the technology at my fingertips that I could ever want for my fishing. With this amazing tool now in my armoury I will be so much better placed to reap the full potential of any rewards from any swim so, with that in mind, it’s a huge and grateful thumbs-up from me for the truly amazing Raymarine dragonfly7! n STEVE HOWaRd

Hat’s off to you! The Raymarine Dragonfly Fish Finder caps the lot, quite simply, life changing technology.

MAKE THE CO an optional third angler, would not only resolve the difficulties in attracting the old style ‘team runner’ but also add other great opportunities for all competitors

TURN TO PAGE 58 FOR THE FULL LIST OF TEAMS COMPETING

HANS SISSINGH: CARP CONNECTIONS

ONNECTION The World Carp Classic Team Event adds an extra dimension and an exciting element for competitors and companies taking part

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

2015 TEAM EVENT

The oldest and certainly the most exciting side event, the “Team Event” is, as it always has been, sponsored by Carp Connections in 2015.

AT THIS YEAR’S WCC2015 EVENT

The WCC-team competition was originally organized for three pairs (six anglers) right from its inception. Not surprisingly, because it was inspired by the ‘International pairs of golf’ organized by Ross Honey, this format was introduced to the world of carp angling as a brand new anglers endurance for pairs. But angling for carp is not like playing a round of golf. Once one of the anglers goes out in the boat, the other has to stay behind to guard the rods. The angler in the boat could ideally use assistance to row the boat, however. So, soon after that problem was highlighted, Ross decided to allow a so-called “team runner”. Now the angler in the boat had assistance whilst the other angler remained on shore with the remaining rods and, as from that time, a team now contained nine anglers. How frustrating it was, though, for the “Runners” who were mostly carp anglers themselves - to assist but not take part in the actual fishing! Therefore, another decision was made; to include an optional third angler, which not only resolved the difficulties in attracting the old style ‘team runner’ but also added other great opportunities for all competitors, even financially! Plus, why not still allow a helper who can assist the three anglers with other non-angling duties and allow the anglers to concentrate on what they need to do. So, now a team has consisted of up to nine anglers, and twelve including helpers! For the 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed winners the prize is a fantastic holiday at the Fishing Resort Du Der. The Resort Du Der is a 100 acre complex of four lakes, of which three are designed for carp angling. With 400 fish from 20 to over 60 lbs per lake, this prize is good reason to celebrate. As an example, Lizette and Bianca, the 2013 overall winners and members of the Dynamite team, fished midweek and broke their own record on total weight. Their first run was not just one run, but three! They lost one of those three and landed the other two that were stunning fish, a forty and a fifty – and all of that incredible action came within the very first hour! Although the number of anglers per team has grown, Carp Connections insisted that all members of the winning teams should win a Holiday. Whereas in 2001 there were no less than 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes, and meant that 18 Holidays were sponsored, now, in 2015 the Dutch tour operator will present 36 holidays to winning contestants for the incredible Northern France venue. Make sure you subscribe to a team. Even if the three pairs/trios have different sponsors, they can form a Team, name it and compete for a great prize table with a fishing holiday at a great resort with its lovely fish! You will find all Carp Connections sponsor contact details at: www.carpconnections.com n HanS SISSIngH

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

2015 TEAM EVENT

SPONSORED BY CARP CONNECTIONS TEAM CARP CONNECTIONS 1 Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-002 WCC15-035 WCC15-017

Larysa Switlyk Martin Hertogs Richard V Leeuwen

Hans Sissingh Frank Hertogs Sander van Triet

Mattie Curfs Yoanne Cloarec Corne Zwijnenburg

TEAM CARP CONNECTIONS 2 Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-058 WCC15-067 WCC15-073

Kevin Nieuwenhuis Ronnie Van Berlo Twan Boekelder

Liza van Zomeren Alex Poot Maarten Gommers

Patrick Verbeek Daan Uijen

TEAM CARP R US Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-001 WCC15-093 WCC15-091

Andrzej Walczak Karel Nikl Ivan Fabian

Gabriel Starzec Jan Dadak Jan Hupka

Krzysztof Charmuszko Ludovit Vitek

TEAM CARPSPOT Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-031 WCC15-042 WCC15-088

Jochen Petsch Markus Bernhard Viktor Lehmer

Alexander Petsch Timo Lilkendey Andreas Gumilar

Pia Petsch Thomas Cygan

TEAM COBRI Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-068 WCC15-069 WCC15-070

Co Schijf Harry Baartscheer James Brouns

Edwin Wouters Janus v/d Ven Berry Wingelaar

Jeffrey Kremer Ben Kok Dave Moers

TEAM DYNAMITE/SHIMANO 1 Company

Captain

Vice Captain

WCC15-007 WCC15-008 WCC15-009

Pascal Kowalik Radek Bis Frank Granados

Cyril Martin Rostislav Gaspa Angel Bonal

3rd angler

Andy McGregor

TEAM DYNAMITE/SHIMANO 2 Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-010 WCC15-016 WCC15-099

Robert Wolak Joshua Buxton Rene Lieke

Marcin Bielawski John Brett Philipp Czapla

Leszek Gulczynski

TEAM SHIMANO/DYNAMITE 1 Company

Captain

Vice Captain

WCC15-011 WCC15-012 WCC15-013

Jeroen Hoving Remond van Dijk Andrea Fava

Raymond Dekkers Frank Wijnands Davide Decataldo

3rd angler Roy de Vet Giovanni Borgognoni

TEAM SHIMANO/DYNAMITE 2 Vice Captain

Company

Captain

Vice Captain

WCC15-026 WCC15-028 WCC15-039

Katy Henry Hugo Espinar Marin Jens Gassen

Gilles Menicucci Jesus Espinar Marin Thomas Muller

3rd angler

TEAM SPOMB Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-004 WCC15-029 WCC15-072

Bryan Houghton Paul Sharman Gary Peet

Andy Philips Paul Butler Keith Standley

Terry Houghton

TEAM WaveArmy CARPING Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-020 WCC15-033 WCC15-036

Antun Kuzele Gary Benney Martin Wihlstrand

Dalibor Klaric Birger Holmqvist Gert Samuelsson

Rikard Bengtsson Hakan Olsen Janne Bohlin

TEAM ULTIMATE PRODUCTS

Company

Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-014 WCC15-015 WCC15-023

Lizette Beunders Bianca Venema (Winners 2013) Stanislav Porozhniuk Viacheslav Trofimov Vitaly Kremenets Dominik van den Eijkhof Niels Goossens Marc de Jonge

TEAM NORTHERN BAITS

TEAM PLANO

Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

WCC15-043 WCC15-050 WCC15-092

Macin Mizera Arkadiusz Zaremba Pawel Zajaczkowski

John Lilly Roman Kubiak Marcin Lechowicz

Wojtek Zaremba

3rd angler

TEAM POLAND

Company

Captain

Vice Captain

3rd angler

Company

Captain

Vice Captain

WCC15-032 WCC15-040 WCC15-055

Henrik Hansen Chris Thompson Frank Warwick

Fredrik Mangotsson Mike Madeley Ardy Veltkamp

Bjame Remmer

WCC15-003 WCC15-047 WCC15-052

Leszek Rutecki Witold Smolarczyk Jan Zawada

Krzysztof Mroz Dariusz Kulczycki Adrian Modzelewski

Guy Aitkins

WORLD CARP CLASSIC 2015

SHIMANO

DYNAMITE BAITS PRINCIPAL PARTNER & SECTION SPONSOR

Dynamite Baits – The Company has a worldwide reputation for the effectiveness of its extensive range of top quality bait. Being co-Title sponsors with Shimano speaks volumes on the companies standing. www.dynamitebaits.com

PRINCIPAL PARTNER & SECTION SPONSOR Globally recognised giant, Shimano, founded in 1921, launched the sale of fishing tackle abroad in 1978, from which time the company has earned a worldwide reputation in the world of angling for its superior quality products. www.shimano.com

CARP ‘R’ US

KARPELA

SECTION SPONSOR Karpela Cont is the unique, innovative bait delivery system that offers anglers complete versatility in their choice of baits, whether it’s particles, maggots, method mixes or meal worms, Karpela Cont gets the bait to the fish: guaranteed. www.karpelacont.com

SECTION SPONSOR

Plano appreciate the passion outdoorsmen possess because we are a company built on that same passion and love for the outdoors. www.planomolding.com

MIVARDI

SECTION SPONSOR Mivardi is the biggest fishing tackle brand in the Czech Republic and an important brand right across central Europe. M-CARP products are built to last for uncompromising carp anglers, premium quality carp gear. Mivardi: as good as it gets. www.mivardi.cz

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

SECTION SPONSORS

NORTHERN BAITS SECTION SPONSOR

Located on Norway’s West Coast, we produce top quality baits and ground-baits for carp, coarse and sea fishing utilizing ingredients, stimulants and attractors developed by the Norwegian fish farming industry. www.northernbaits.com

AMERICAN TACKLE COMPANY SECTION SPONSOR

CARP ‘R’ US

SECTION SPONSOR A highly innovative UK based company producing tackle founded and inspired by Ray Dale-Smith. During the past few years, Carp r Us International has concentrated on a range of products specifically for large Continental Carp. www.carprus.eu

The radical, innovative line control system from the American Tackle Company that cuts down on drag and increases casting distance and accuracy, a multi-award winning system that gets your bait where you want it to go, get them fitted: join the wave army! www.americantackle.us

LAC DE MADINE YOUR 2015 GUIDE 7

6 8 6 8

7 7

5 5

6 5

Section Northern Baits 2 Section Mivardi 3 Section American Tackle PEG GUIDE 4 Section Karpela 1 Section Northern Baits5 Section Carp R Us 2 Section Mivardi 6 section Dynamite Baits/ Shimano 3 Section American Tackle 7 Section Plano 1

4 5 6 7

Section Karpela Section Carp R Us section Dynamite Baits/ Shimano Section Plano

MAP GUIDE 1 Maison de Madine

Opening Ceremony

2 3 4

Marina Point 3 Bivvy City Village stores and small supermarket New Madine with bars and Restaurants

5 6 7 8 9

Gites 4 and 6 places Block of twin rooms Heudicourt Camp Site Wooden caravans Ship Chandler Bars and restaurants

4 2

3 1

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

LAC DE MADINE

OLD FRIEND, NEW RULES & A FACELIFT

SPOTLIGHT In our return to the spiritual home of the World Carp Classic, we take a look at how the venue has been improved to the benefit of all leisure users, but particularly participants in the tournament

The magnificent Lac de Madine is very well known to many of the events past competitors but this year, as you will discover, there are one or two things that have changed somewhat around the complex. Since the last appearance of the Event here in 2011, the complex has undergone a multi-million euro transformation that you may agree is something akin to a pupa metamorphosing into a butterfly. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wish to spoil your voyage of discovery, but you might appreciate it to be a nice keepsake if we share with you here just a few images of some of the changes that have been made around the complex.

Welcome changes ... Competitors and Sponsors have welcomed the move back to Madine and at least some of this enthusiasm has been generated thanks to a change of the rules, where the 5 biggest fish only will count towards the team total per peg . Further to that change, the exclusion of the

winning pegs from the last three events held at Madine was met with mass approval. These new introductions for 2015 will certainly provide a very open competition and level playing field that will keep the nerves jangling for everyone, right to the very last minute of this years event. Madine, as every past participant on the venue knows, holds some fantastic carp and in fact, the venue still holds the World Carp Classic biggest fish record with the 28.9 kg carp caught by German angler Axel Wacker, back in 2009. Having undergone a recent multi-million facelift, the complex will hold a few nice surprises other than its magnificent carp, which will be 4 years older, bigger and stronger than the last time they were fished for in the event in 2011. What a mouthwatering prospect that is!

Stepping the light fantastic .. The view down to the magnificent water from the war memorial. Serene: Swans checking out the new bay included in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tournament

ON MADINE Surprises in store! Madineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s euro multi-million face-lift will bring a smile to your face

the venue still holds the World Carp Classic biggest fish record caught by Axel Wacker, back in 2009

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF MADINE Le lac de MADINE retrouve les participants au World Carp Classic avec une grande fierté en ce mois de septembre 2015. Le renouveau des infrastructures du site de Nonsard permettrons au pécheurs et à leurs accompagnateurs d’apprécier l ‘intégration dans la nature des nouveaux bâtiments d’accueil,de commerces ainsi que la nouvelle capitainerie du port . L’environnement et la préservation de la nature on était une priorité pendant cette phase de travaux . C’est un enjeu partagé par la Région Lorraine et le département de la Meuse soucieux du développement harmonieux de cette destination touristique et économique . Il est certain aujourd’hui ,que le pari est en voie d’être gagné au vue de la fréquentation ,aussi bien touristique, sportif et du nombre croissant de pécheurs. Les activités tel que le parc acrobatique en hauteur, le golf, le centre équestre, l’école de voile ,le port de voile ,les sentiers découverte ,l’observatoire et les nouveaux hébergements insolite en roulotte et en gite contribuent largement à ce succès. Une restauration de qualité ainsi que des brasseries, permettent à notre site de Madine, d’ouvrir toute l’année et de recevoir les visiteurs dans d’ excellentes conditions. Toutes ces activités participent à la destination touristique de notre belle région Lorraine ,qui reste encore pour certain à découvrir . Les équipes du Lac de Madine reçoivent les pécheurs du World Carp Classic avec beaucoup de plaisir , et sont prêtes à collaborer au mieux afin de réussir cette événements majeur en cette année 2015. Bienvenue a tous, et bonne Pêche. Christian Legatelois Président Syndicat mixte d’aménagement du Lac de Madine

It is with great pleasure that Lac de Madine welcomes back the World Carp Classic. Lac de Madine has undergone a complete overhaul with brand new restaurants, bars and even a new marina harbour office since the World Carp Classic was here last. These new facilities will provide competitors in this year’s event with a fresh new welcome to our magnificent lake. The new buildings have been constructed in perfect harmony with nature to ensure that they blend into its natural environment. This was a priority set out by the Lorraine Region and the Meuse county, assisting the site to become an outstanding tourism destination for all to enjoy. There has also been significant investment made to enhance and refurbish activities on-site, including: tree top adventure, golf course, horse riding centre, sailing school, marina, walking tracks, nature reserve observatory and to complement this, a range of accommodation facilities ranging from rooms, mobile homes to gites. The site now also boasts completely new catering facilities to include restaurants, snack shacks and bars which all provide a high quality service, all year round. We, at Lac de Madine, are all delighted to welcome you back to the home of the World Carp Classic and wish you all the very best of success in the event. Christian Legatelois Président Syndicat mixte d’aménagement du Lac de Madine

‘‘

Translated from the President of Madine’s welcome

ROSS HONEY

Finland, Rapala Factory Visit: November 2014

As part of their prize, the World Predator Classic champions were taken to the Rapala factory in Finland to see the luremaking process in action, from initial design right through to manufacture.

Belgium, VBK Meeting and Show: December 2014 Ross with Frank Warwick, Jemima, Pip, and Tim Paisley at what is considered to be the Belgian Carp Society show and a major event on the calendar. Pic 19

France, Paris Boat Show: December 2014

The Paris boat show is an interesting show for us from the perspective of the use of boats in all of the main Angling Spirit Events. It puts us in direct contact with corresponding boat and boating associated manufacturing companies.

Netherlands, World Predator Classic (WPC) Preparation Meeting: December 2014

Several pre-event meetings are necessary for each Angling Spirit Event, each and every year. Only one or two have been registered in this timeline for obvious reasons.

Poland, Polish Fishing Show: February 2015

Normark Poland Marketing and PR manager, Joanna Bigowicz-Piątkowska, with the World Carp Classic Trophy. This was only our second visit to the show but the growth of this show was very evident.

Netherlands, Zwolle Carp Show: February 2015

One of my favourite shows of the year and the biggest ‘carp only’ carp show in Europe. I have attended this show every year, in total seven times.

Ukraine: February 2015

Vadim Korunskij, owner of Karpela cont, and Ross Honey with the Junior World Carp Classic Event winners’ Trophy.

Czech Republic, Fishing Show: February 2015

The 2014 World Carp Classic champions proudly displaying the trophy publicly in the presence of angling celebrity Jakub Vagner and event founder, Ross Honey.

Russia, Fishing Show: February 2015

Ross in Red Square on this, his first visit to the show in Moscow. Many TV and media contacts were made and broadcasting on mainstream Russian national TV was established.

Slovakia, Fishing Show: February 2015

It was good to meet some of the 2015 family who will be present at the World

ALL IN A YEAR’S WORK ..

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM CLASSIC.COM

WELL TRAVELLED

To highlight just some of the aspects that are undertaken within the punishing schedule of Angling Spirit’s Founder, Ross Honey, we have compiled this partial timeline of events. Of course, this list only represents a small fragment of the overall, day-to-day operations that, as we all know, can consume our time as rapidly as a large and ravenous shoal of carp over a bed of bait.

Carp Classic 2015 Event at Madine in September. Pic 6

Netherlands, WPC Preparation Meetings - March 2015

General pre-event meetings with various local concerns and notaries. No stone is left unturned, or allowed to gather moss, in our desire to provide the best possible events.

UK, Dynamite Baits Factory Visit March 2015 A visit with the 2014 World Carp Classic Champions to the Dynamite Baits factory to create their own choice of bait, which forms a part of the winners’ prize.

Netherlands, WPC Preparation Hellevoetsluis - March 2015

Hans Roelants, the Director for Benelux and Germany Mercury Marine with Ross at preparation meeting at one of the boat shows.

Netherlands, WPC Presentation Hellevoetsluis: April 2015

Netherlands, World Predator Classic Event Hellevoetsluis: June 2015 Ross and WPC Team members prepare themselves for an explosive start to this exciting and action-packed event.

France, Lac De Madine Live and Preparation: July 2015

Head Marshal Andy Chambers being interviewed for Madine Live and the 2015 WCC. This is the time that the swims are selected and plans are made to ensure that every aspect is covered.

USA, ICAST Fishing Trade Show - July 2015

500,000 sq ft of exhibition space defines the USA show as being the largest in the world. Some greatly useful meetings took place which will lead to very exciting developments in the very near future.

UK, WCC Qualifying Event: July 2015

A proud moment for all concerned as the city of Hellevoetsluis was voted the Netherlands’ Angling Capital Of The Year, as the Elderman and Bert Van Houten made the presentation.

Thurston Lakes, Milton Keynes. The second staging of the annual UK qualifying event produced some great looking fish and we look forward to greeting the Qualifying Event champions in France this September.

Czech Republic, WCC Junior event: May 2015

Czech Republic, Preparation: August 2015

It was an amazing moment to be handed the microphone by the Arch Bishop of the Czech Republic in Santa Barbara Cathedral, is a world heritage site under UNESCO, with 1500 people present for the launch of the World Carp Classic Junior event in Kutna Hora.

Poland, European Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition: June 2015

The European fishing trade show was held in Poland where meetings took place with Angling Spirit event partners and sponsors. Ross is pictured here with the EFFTA President Jean-Claude Bell.

Lake visit and evaluation meeting to prepare for the World Carp Classic 2016. Ross also took this opportunity to meet the competitors of the Czech Qualifying Event and the magnificent venue that it was held on.

Czech Republic, Junior Fishing Academy: August 2015

One of the most important aspects for Angling Spirit is considered to be the support of young anglers. In addition to this academy here in Czech Republic, there are others in various countries.

It’s a small, big world! Just some of the many visits Ross has made throughout this year ... so many, we couldn’t fit them on this page!

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM 68

‘‘

Personally, I am delighted to once again have the opportunity to visit and fish for carp in the magnificently majestic Madine. Yet, as you may have deduced from the title of this piece, in my consideration the great lady has, thus far, denied me that most desirable and intimate meeting with her, that fleetingly uplifting moment of success that we all crave. Enticed by her obvious charms, I first feasted my eyes upon her most glorious majesty in 2000 and I have continued to lay bare my chest, unconditionally, offering my heart to her ever since. On that initial occasion, when I had travelled over with a small party of anglers headed by Rob Hughes, Lady Madine revealed to me the cruellest side of her nature and set in motion the pattern that will be revealed here. At that time, with two World Carp Classic events having already taken place there (in 1998 and 1999) the resulting publicity had served as a formal introduction to Madine for the carp angling world and it reached a huge audience. It didn’t take a genius, therefore, to work out that before the hordes descended en masse, it was, perhaps, the prime time to enjoy her delights? I was soon treated to my first ever experience of big water carping that summer and, just like that magical first love affair, it was something that despite the outcome, I’ll never forget. After driving all night and arriving at Madine amid monsoon conditions, I was the only angler in the party to set up and begin fishing while everyone else slept for several hours. I had put in the effort, and felt that I deserved some reward. As it transpired, though, my best efforts were to be cruelly thwarted. My only run of the entire week came in the form of a full-blooded screamer on the 4th day. Long after others in the party had been successful and had landed carp, I was finally called to react instantly to a rod-flattening run that was vicious in the extreme. We had set up along the north bank, affectionately known back then as the English bank, and with a 5 foot ‘cliff-face’ drop to the water confronting me and attached to an extremely agitated Madine carp pulling against a tight clutch for all it was worth, I was fearful that I would be pulled headlong onto the rocks beneath me. It was exhilarating stuff beforehand but, then, out in my boat and being towed around Madine with my mind running riot on how big this leviathan might be, I felt that awful, sickening vibration up the line that indicated all was not well. About midway between the bank and the spot where I had hooked the fish, my line had encountered a large tree stump as the fish kited. Patiently, I tried every trick I knew to free the line, and I even considered diving down to free it. Discretion being the better part of valour, I decided against such drastic action because I am often the voice of reason and the first to remind people that personal safety is crucial. Beside that, and truth be told, I never had an anchor in the boat, another lesson learned! Obviously, exiting the boat with a stiff breeze blowing that would cause the boat to drift quickly, plus a rod, and potentially a large carp to deal with at around 250 yards from shore, it

As the line dropped slack, so too did my jaw. I stood there in anguish and awe, watching this very big fish barrel across the lake for quite some distance

wasn’t really an option anyway, was it? To my brief delight, I eventually managed to coax the fish to swim out and clear of the snag, but no sooner had my line cleared and I could feel the fish swimming freely, the hook pulled! Well, at least I could now feel happy that the carp was safe and it would not be tethered, but I have to admit that the loss was a painful, bittersweet moment. Fishing at extreme ranges = extreme challenges. Thanks to Madine for that harsh, but well learned lesson! After that experience, my newfound love of big water carping ate into my very fibre and took over my thoughts. Thanks to Madine, I now had no hesitation in venturing, with a reasonable degree of success, to other big water venues. However, I was yet to learn that The World Carp Classic draw at Madine was not going to be one to display any form of kindness toward me. Having fished the venue on only one other occasion outside of the event, where I caught my only Madine carp, even that experience was tainted by a degree of misfortune. This was a planned practise session, where I had designated a few days

STEVE HOWARD

MAN ON A MISSION

UNFINISHED

BUSINESS If effort equals reward, then persistence should too, it’s only fair, isn’t it?

big fish barrel across the lake for quite some distance creating an enormous bow wave as it angrily made haste, seemingly to the far bank! Although the spectacle was awe inspiring, it was also quite a sickening sight although I could not take my eyes off it as I searched for an immediate answer to the question: “why?”

As I said, the draws were never kind to me, and the opportunity to even get on just one fish gave me a wide birth.

Infamously, when I became stranded in Spain, after my car had broken down en route to Madine and I was unable to be there for the draw, we were forced by the rules to accept the very last swim out of the hat. We knew right away which swim that would be, even before the draw had taken place, and we weren’t wrong…it was the very same swim that we had drawn (legitimately) the previous year! That was hard to take, as in two events - a year apart - we had to fish from the least favoured swim on the venue and as if to support that argument, we never once saw a carp in the area, let alone in our swim.

That aside, Madine has created some unforgettable moments and truly great memories over the years, and it has always been a joy to be there despite things not going my way and the traditional heavy thunderstorm, or two, each year. After all is said and done, there is no place like home, and Madine is most certainly ‘home’ to the World Carp Classic, isn’t it? In closing, I should now draw your attention to a comment that I made earlier in this piece where I suggested that I thought (at the time), that the year 2000 would possibly see the best of the venue. However, if you fast forward 15 years to now, that thought was clearly wrong! I now believe that this year, after a three-year absence of the event and further time for the carp to grow on, that 2015 will prove to be an outstanding time to visit Lady Madine. And who knows, I might finally get my hands on her jewels! n STEVE HOWaRd

‘‘

to try to perfect some methods of fishing into holes within dense weed patches. The tactics I employed had worked initially and I had banked a couple of carp, which was a confidence booster, but, just when it mattered most, problems arose. My rod had been instantly slammed over violently without warning and, as planned with this set-up, the carp barrelled up to the surface causing an immense swell of water. I can only presume that what happened next went pretty much as follows: after the lead was dropped on the take, and with the fish now breaking rapidly towards the surface, the line had become settled deep into the surrounding fibrous weed (despite my attempts to prevent that from happening), and suddenly it became taught again. Then, as this much larger than average resident felt this sudden new resistance it made off, pushing violently through the surface weed with the pressure and tension created on the line building up quickly - this was simply too much to sustain the hook hold. As the line dropped slack, so too did my jaw. I stood there in anguish and awe, watching this very

Baitrunners are simple to use, strong, lightweight and built to last. I first bought two X-Aero 8000 Baitrunners to use on my 9ft tribal rods for stalking, after landing some stunning old fish to low 30s, I decided that I wanted a third Baitrunner and use them all the time. I would be lost without them, no reel comes close for what I need. MaRVIn WaIT SMALL WATER CARP EXPERT

New release.. The X-Aero is the latest addition to the family, featuring the classic compact body, with spools that are 30% larger in circumference

STILL STILLRU

UNRIVALLED PERFORMANCE

Celebrating 30 years…Shimano’s innovative reel that changed carp and specimen fishing across the world is still going from strength to strength Baitrunner benefits for everyone? Carp and Specialist anglers have long reaped the rewards of using a Baitrunner. Whilst being ideally suited towards a compact set up for smaller waters, they are also perfect for snaggy situations and floater fishing. Add the greater spool capacity that the long cast offers and carp anglers really do have a Baitrunner for every situation.

There will be very few barbel and specialist coarse anglers who have not owned a Baitrunner. There is no greater sound than the ticking of a Baitrunner to signal a take. The ability to set two drags is particularly vital to predator anglers, one drag set to peel line off with feather weight resistance has certainly led to a lot fewer dropped takes, while the main drag, set tight, engages at the turn of the handle and sets the hook firmly in position. With the introductions of 2500 sized Baitrunners, match anglers started to see the benefits of the reels as well. They are perfect for dropping a method feeder into the margins without the fear of being broken on the take. The larger 4000 model has also found a place in match anglers’ hearts, the flexibility offered creates more time and has certainly led to many match wins.

What is baitrunner? A Baitrunner reel features a secondary drag system which can be switched on or off. With the lever in the ‘off’ position the reel acts as a normal drag reel. In the ‘on’ position a secondary drag is engaged, this allows you to create two separate drags. For instance, you may want to be fishing with a loose drag so a fish has free run on the take, but the moment you turn the handle the main drag will be engaged. This can be set much tighter, instantly giving you greater control to steer fish in the direction you want.

The history of Baitrunner The Baitrunner was born in 1985 when the Triton Sea Spin was first introduced to the Australian Saltwater market as a Tarpon reel. Word spread quickly and specimen anglers on the other side of the globe quickly started to see the benefits for their own angling; the Triton was officially introduced to the European market in 1987. Over time, more and more anglers discovered the benefits to using Baitrunners in most forms of angling. From Catfishing on the

Ebro to tench fishing in weed, over the years the face and development of Baitrunner has evolved to help anglers, no matter their quarry. Introductions such as the Big Baitrunner Longcast in 2000 and the compact and pocket friendly ST’s in 2009 prove just how versatile the Baitrunner system can be. To date, there are eight models in the range which cover every angling discipline. Baitrunners have landed a variety of the biggest fish in the world, including the biggest carp in 2008. Many of the technologies we take for granted today have stemmed from the early models of the Baitrunner. Aero Wrap is a classic example of this, way back in 1990, in conjunction with Twin Oscillator (now known as 2 speed oscillation) this offered the best line lay available. Both Dynabalance and the iconic Double Handles were introduced to Baitrunners in 1993. Other firsts include Hypergear in 2000, anti-rust shield bearings (S A-RB) 2003, AR-C spools in 2010.

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SHIMANO BAITRUNNER

The current range The Baitrunner range currently comprises of eight products, each specifically designed with a purpose in mind, click on each name to find out more information. Baitrunner X-Aero is the latest addition to the family, these reels feature the classic compact body, with spools that are 30% larger in circumference. This vastly improves casting distance and drag performance. Five models are available (2500-10000) with the 8000 and 10000 models featuring single handles, creating greater winding power. The classic XT is as high class internally as it is externally. The 2-Speed oscillation provides excellent Aero Wrap II line lay and the hybrid aluminum body provides a lightweight, but strong, outer shell. Three models are available in the range 6000, 8000 and 10000. The new Baitrunner DL incorporates many of the features and technologies found on a reel twice its price. The popular mid-priced Baitrunner not only benefits from an array of top quality components, but also some seriously stunning updated cosmetics. Four models are available, two front drag (2500 and 4000) and two rear drag (6000 and 10000). The ST offers Shimano Baitrunner reliability at an affordable price. The ST benefits from Shimano features developed for other reels, meaning it is till packed with top features such as AR-C spools, Varispeed oscillation and Power roller. The ST is available in the same classic Baitrunner sizes as the new DL. Baitrunner Longcast bridged the gap

UNNING

I love using the Baitrunner facility when feeder fishing, it eliminates lost fish on the bite and because it’s an innovation unique to Shimano, you know it won’t let you down. ROB WOOTTOn UK CHAMP & MATCH FISHING EXPERT

New release.. The X-Aero is the latest addition to the family, featuring the classic compact body, with spools that are 30% larger in circumference

between small compact Baitrunners and supersized big pit reels. Powerful, work horse reels full of the best Shimano technical innovations, these reels offer the effortless Baitrunner technology to a casting reel capable of tackling the biggest of waters and the toughest of fish. Medium and large versions are available in both standard and with Ci4+ technology. The Ci4+ technology really takes the long-cast reels to a new level, providing massive weight savings and outstanding casting performance. Considering they are the only Baitrunners featuring Shimano’s X-Ship gearing, it is easy to see why these reels have won so many awards. Super strong Baitrunner D’s and saltwater worthy Baitrunner OC’s are also available in 4000 to 12000 sizes.

What the angler’s say .. Don’t just take our word for it! Countless anglers have been using Baitrunners for over three decades here is just some of the feedback we have received.

DARRAN GOULDER

Specimen hunter, Drennan Cup winner “My first ever Baitrunner was a 6010 Aero GT which my dad bought me for my birthday, close to 20 years ago! Back when you bought reels in singles, not three at a time! They lasted me for many summers and winters, fishing for everything that swam until I was approached by Shimano to be a consultant some 10 years later! Ever since then, I’ve used them in 4000 size up to

10000 for all of my fishing. When casting feeders for tench, or setting traps stalking for barbel, switching the reel to freespool couldn’t be simpler. I dread to think how long I would have spent adjusting the clutch over all the years without it. They are reliable and without it, it would no doubt have cost me fish at some point or another. They have stood the test of time, and expect they will do for another 30 years.”

IAIN MACMILLAN Carp Fishing expert

“For me there really isn’t a smoother, more finely balanced reel out there than a Baitrunner. It’s stood the test of time for more than 30 years and will never be beaten, not just for sheer pleasurable looks, but for its out and out performance from every single part it’s manufactured from. Whether it’s punching a rig out 100 yards, dropping a bait right under my rod tips, or trying desperately to outwit one off the top, Baitrunner takes it all in its stride and does what it has always done… performs.”

MARK POLLARD

Match fishing expert and coach “I have fallen in love with the Baitrunner X Aero FA in both 2500 and 4000 models. Two main points come to mind, one, they perform so smoothly, and two, with the spool reducers provided, they make the casting of larger diameter lines easy. The confidence the Baitrunner gives you in fishing the method feeder or straight lead is that every take is a fish in the net. I can remember fishing without them and having my rod and reel pulled in. That is a thing of the past and, providing your Baitrunner is set correctly, you will be confident of not being broken on the bite. To me, a Baitrunner is a must on all commercial tip work.”

I have been using the smaller Bait Runners for all my open water commercial fishing and would not be without them MaRK POLLaRd MATCH FISHING EXPERT & COACH

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GLADIATOR GAMES CARP CONNECTIONS Special significance projects itself again this year with the Event once again being held in France, at the spiritual home of the competition, Lac de Madine Hopefully, there will be no blood spilled in our light-hearted and fun-filled Gladiator Games event, and of course, we don’t expect that our gladiators will wish to fight to the death either. Thumbs down to that!

But be warned, though, as we are sure that Hans Sissingh will expect his pound of flesh as he puts the Gladiators through their paces in a typically madcap array of challenges. This unashamedly wacky event includes all manner of crazy themes and it is certainly a spectacle not to be missed even if you only want to watch. It’s very easy to enter and there will be some great prizes awarded to the victorious combatants. But remember, this event is more about having fun than anything else, so come along and join in the frivolity even if it’s only to make fun of your friends who are competing in the games! The games are organised for participants in the World Carp Classic Team Event (the sponsors teams), but anyone who can organise a team of 6 gladiators can enter. The proviso to that, however, is that there will be a limited number of teams allowed, so please be quick if you want to enter! – Please organise your team of 6 and go to HQ to register it in good time. This year, the area in front of the new boardwalk, with its bars, restaurant and facilities will become the Gladiators Arena… We welcome everyone present to the World Carp Classic Gladiator Games and we encourage you all to make the most of the occasion!

Weight Lifting ..

Have you ever caught a 30kg carp?? This event will see how you get on as and when you do. The winner will be the team that keeps the “carp” up the longest. We won’t be using 30kg carp in the competition we have 30kg of Dynamite baits that will be used instead!.

INTO C

A chance to test your metal at the 2015

The Boot Race ...

Just to round off the events there will be the hilarious â&#x20AC;&#x153;boot raceâ&#x20AC;?. Competitors clad in giant size waders will be worn by members of the teams to move as much water as possible, in the shortest time, from the start line to the finish line. Just to make things interesting they have to wear the waders!!

Tug of War ..

Teams will try and pull the opposition over and into a slimy wet pit filled with indescribably nasty things. This was very popular last year and sure to provide great entertainment for the on lookers.

COMBAT!

15 Gladiator Games ... definitely one for the bucket list!

AT MADINE

Bivvy City activities Friday to Sunday n Participants Registration. (see Itinerary for times) n Friday Team Registration (see Itinerary for times)

Friday to Saturday n Gladiator Games n Registration (bookings

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BIVVY CITY

taken at HQ before Saturday evening)

n Saturday 18.00 Accuracy & Distance Casting competition sponsored by American Tackle Company n Gladiator Games @ The Boardwalk – Bait Boat competition n Saturday 18.00 Gladiator Games continues with wader run and tug of war.

CARRY ON CAMPING Bivvy City at Madine will be a hive of activity with an opening night party, the Gladiator Games and competitions and all with the exclusive use of the campsite and its facilities

As everyone who has previously attended a World Carp Classic will confirm, the atmosphere generated in the build up to the opening ceremony is unique and charged with emotion.

For your comfort and enjoyment, we will have use of the Madine complex and all of its facilities throughout the duration of the event. So, if you fancy freshening up, the showers and toilets will be available to you. On the Saturday evening preceding the event, it’s party time with DJ’s rocking Bivvy City ‘til the early hours! For those who would prefer a relatively quiet night, it might be prudent to pitch camp a little further away from the festivities to ensure a sound night’s sleep.

A Guide to Bivvy City This year, Madine provides us with an exceptional site, and with a large number of contestants, runners, sponsors and other attendees, Bivvy City will be a thriving community prior to fishing. With the unique atmosphere of previous events in mind, Bivvy City 2015 is set to become legendary, and if there was ever any doubt that World Carp Classic contestants know how to enjoy this period of free time,

this year will surely end all speculation! n How to get there We are delighted to say that this year, Bivvy City 2015 will be located in a lightly wooded area on the right-hand side of the new boardwalk area (looking towards it with your back to the lake) and a short, 200 metre walk from HQ, registration, the bars and where the activities will take place. n Onsite Insight On the site there is a supermarket, with bars and restaurants. The site covers many hectares and is divided by a network of tree-lined groves and open areas that extend right down to the lake shore.

n Saturday 20.30 Bivvy City Party Night including food & beverage plus entertainment from EndFragment

Carp Connections gladiator games Hans Sissingh of Carp Connections will once again be the master of ceremonies as entrants are put through their paces. In this highly entertaining not-to-be-missed spectacle, the typically madcap goings on are certain to attract attention… Don’t forget to enter this light-hearted and fun competition… with some nice prizes for the victorious Gladiators it’s very much a case of he who dares ... wins!

W SPEC CC2015 ! s d i k INTR IAL SEC he sick t r o f d F e UND ODUCIN TION s i a r e -RAI r sa d SINGG THE n a s u I o N h JAKU SPIRED EVENT ... and t BV BY ROS รกGNER A S HO NEY ND

OFFICIAL EVENT PARTNER OF THE JUNIOR WCC2015

Let’s not forget.. whilst we may worry where our next fish is coming from, this little chap fought hard against leukaemia

During the last week of May, the Czech Republic became a centre of carp fishing. For the very first time, the World Carp Classic Junior (hereinafter WCCJ), the world championship in carp fishing, was held at the Lake Katlov. Not only does this give junior teams from around the world the chance to experience the competition environment, but also to raise funds for CLIP (Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague) of the FN Motol Hospital. When Jakub Vágner and Ross Honey started to think about this idea lot of people didn’t believe they’d be able to make it happen. But, where there is a will, there is a way

DOING IT FOR THE KIDS Competition, Charity, Juniors and Families All Come Together in The World Carp Classic Junior 2015

Part of the Angling Spirit vision is to make the whole world of fishing available to all ages, genders, races and abilities. Working over the last 17 years with the Angling Spirit ethos of fairplay, sustainable angling, and best practice catch and release, so that we will all have a heritage of fishing to fall back upon in our moments of need for the great outdoors. Ross Honey, Angling Spirit and their stable of World Angling Classics are working towards that legacy, international angling events enjoyed by all anglers and their families. For many years, perhaps unbeknown to most of the angling fraternity, Ross has been a tireless worker helping those less fortunate than ourselves. This year, he has broken his silence and created an ambitious charity event that brings together the separate strands of the Angling Spirit ethos, and woven them into one fabulous new event, The World Carp Classic Junior. This event not only showcases the young talent that is up and coming across the carp fishing community, it brings together age groups, creating small families within the one giant WCC family. Not only that, it also

succeeds in the stated intention of giving something back to those less fortunate. This year over €40,000 have been raised for the Children’s Hospital and its leukaemia sufferers who are in the same county as the venue of Lake Katlov, in the Czech Republic. Over the next few pages are the stories of how this event unfolded, up against a deadline, how determination, and an unbending will to succeed not only created, but also delivered the World Carp Classic Junior 2015. Czech Republic journalist and author, Radek Holub relays the ‘official’ story of the WCCJ event. How 14 teams from around the world competed for three gruelling days, with its dramas, trials and tribulations and how the event finished by raising money and awareness for Children with Lukaemia and the local hospital. Also interspersed and featured are the separate stories of how one man helped, and in doing so, gained a place in the tournament, but also how his became one family in the bigger, international WCC family.

AND SO TO BATTLE: RADEK HOLUB GIVES A BLOW BY BLO

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM Starting them young! The sooner they start the sooner they’ll grow up champions, fishing, fun and fundraising, that’s the WCC Family!

OW ACCOUNT OF THE THREE DAY EVENT

After fun and laughter at the Opening

AND SO First, let’s introduce the competitors and the rules. Each national team consisted of a captain and two competitors between 14 and 18 years of age. The captain or, coach could only help with advice, encouragement and experience, but they couldn’t assist with any fishing, or rod action. The rules were simple. Each team could use no more than four rods and one spod rod. They could use boilies, pop-ups, pellets, method-mix, etc. They could fish only by casting from the bank. The winner was a team with the highest average weight of the three heaviest carp. There were 12 countries taking part and two bonus teams which were The WCC Family team and the team of the supported hospital FN Motol. There were also many other activities for angling and non-angling public, filling the programme for the tournament. There was, for example, an angling school, an Indian village, a film tent of Czech TV channel, etc. There were really a lot of options of what to do. Among the highlights of the entire programme were concerts Koláą and Miro Žbirka which took place on by Petr Kolá Saturday evening.

WCCJ Opening Ceremony and Swim Draw

That’s entertainement! Kutna Hora took on the WCCJ and created a fabulous show through its historic streets

All through the day before the opening ceremony, young competitors and their adult companions were arriving. The company Mivardi became the global partner of the entire tournament and they started to build a bivouac camp on Monday morning. They took care not only of bivouacs, but they also delivered all the equipment necessary for the tournament, such as camp beds, sleeping bags, rods, reels, etc. Those who wanted, could use their own equipment, but those who wanted to save the hassle of transporting all their baggage to the venue certainly appreciated the help. The USA team especially who would have the transport of entire equipment for carp fishing would have been a real (not only logistical) problem. Despite the weather, which wasn’t ideal, there was good mood prevailing at the Lake Katlov venue. During the morning all teams were exploring the banks, which became their new home and also their arena for next few days. The lake with its lush weed meant this wasn’t going to be an easy battle and that every single fish would mean highly valued points. The stocked carp have been doing very well in the Lake Katlov after their move to this location. So this meant there was another difficult task to complete, to encourage them to

Drawing the crowds.. Jakub and Ross get the angling spirit! Drawing on divine inspiration, the pegs were drawn on the balcony of the Cathedral Church of St. Barbara. feed on boilies and other goodies. The bottom and the water of Lake Katlov provide an incredible amount of natural food. You can see a lot of plankton practically everywhere and thanks to its natural filtration, the water in the lake is amazingly clear. Inside the bottom mud and lake bed you can find big leeches, tubifex worms and bloodworm. Around lunchtime, the entire staff including management, referees and others moved into a bus and several other accompanying vehicles. Their

List of Junior competitors and their pegs .. n PEG 1: USA Larysa Switlyk, Austin Pass, Brandon Pass n PEG 2: POLAND Zibi Hukalowicz, Jakub Ziemianin, Bartek Stec n PEG 3: CZECH REPUBLIC

Tomáš Blažek, Ond_ej Týč-Jan T_ma n PEG 4: UKRAINE Vadim Korunskij,

Milan Stucenko, Vladislav Kozlov PEG 5: FN MOTOL Jan Hubka,

Ivan Krivosudský, Martin Macek n PEG 6: ITALY Riccardo Battisti, Damiano Montesello, Samuele Rossi n PEG 7: NETHERLANDS Lars Bood, Rowan Bood, Tony Hertogs

n PEG 10: SWEDEN Fredrik Magnotsson, Albin Sundnäs,Vinsent Johansson n Peg 11: Germany Thomas Keutmann, Luis Niedergassel, Fynn Brautmeier

n PEG 8: THE WCC FAMILY

n PEG 12: SLOVAKIA Ivan Fabian, Vladimír Koren, Marián Zauška

Silvia Omastova, Samuel Knažský, Michal Chudý

n PEG 13: ENGLAND Thomas Cywka, Liam Morgan, Nick Longpre

n PEG 9: NORWAY Thomas Hesmyr, Magnus Nilsen, Sebastian Pearce

n PEG 14: DENMARK Henrick Hansen, Oliver Krytz, Laurits Rovsing Sloth

TO BATTLE

direction: Prague! Yes exactly, Prague and then to Kutná Hora where the entire ceremony and the draw was scheduled to take place. The event was organised in cooperation with Czech Railways and it was a kind of attraction for those who decided to use the train to get to WCCJ. In the train Jakub Vágner and Ross Honey could shake hands and chat with each team. The train ride was a pleasant distraction before the opening ceremony itself. Before the train arrived to Kutná Hora it took its passengers on a little symbolic journey, travelling alongside very important Czech carp locations, like the Elbe River or the Samberk Pond. After arrival, everyone headed through the historical centre of Kutná Hora towards a scenic view of the castle next to the Church of St. Barbara. The view is amazing and it literally took the breath away from many competitors, so the team photographs with flags of all participating countries was even more wonderful. Then the entire procession moved to the neighbouring Italian court. Its historical interior was superb for such a ceremony as the opening of The Junior World Carp Classic. After a fanfare from the castle guards, the mayor of Kutná Hora, Mr. Martin

Starý, said a few words and then the programme continued with historical jugglers and musicians. Fencing, dance and comedy of skilful clown intrigued the whole of the audience, whatever their age. The atmosphere was festive and relaxed. The entire procession culminated with something that has been a favourite at The World Carp Classic for a long time – the flag parade. To be honest, the flag parade at the WCC in Bolsena last year made a very good impression on me. However, the historical surroundings of Kutná Hora, music resounding around the labyrinth of streets and the enthusiastic crowd made this even more special. The lines of people rolling through the streets and waving flags ended in The Church of St. Barbara – the pride of Kutná Hora. After speeches from the archdeacon Mr. Uhlí, Ross Honey and Jakub Vágner, the formalitiies were completed with the national anthem of the Czech Republic. Then, everyone went outside and the competitors waited for what mattered the most – the draw. The draw took place from a balcony of the church and from that moment the Junior World Championship officially began.

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Ceremony, the Peg Draw. Now things get serious ...

Tension mounts.. Preparation is everything. Above: A hairy moment as one of the Italian team steers a carp to the net.

EXCITING STUFF: ROD-BREAKING AND FIRES.. PAGES 84 & 85

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The Norwegians got so excited they missed a bite..and Day one – a healthy nervousness The morning was very busy around Lake Katlov, with anglers moving to their pegs, long distances being covered by two quads available to transport tackle. The weather was supposed to improve during the first day of the championship, but it was still quite cold. These conditions gave some hope to those teams fishing the deeper parts of the lake. The excitement at all the fishing spots was slowly growing and there was a lot of debate about how to deal with the large areas of weed in the water. The most frequent choices were chodrig and other pop-up systems. The beginning of the competition was scheduled for 14:00. So there was plenty of time to tweak every detail. The Czech team at the peg no. 3 wasn’t too happy. They were afraid that any sudden warmer weather could drive carp into the shallower part of the lake. On one side there was a peg no. 6 which hosted the Italian team. On the other side there was a peg no. 5 and the team of FN Motol Hospital. But let’s get back to our competitors. Everyone was feeling enthusiastic everywhere and that was great. The time to start was quickly approaching and so Jakub and Ross with horns in hands took their positions on the pier near the emergency spillway. Then a long blast announced the start of the competition and the first rigs and baits began to land on the water. With the beginning of the competition the weather suddenly changed, the sun started to shine and the temperature rose. The Italians made sure they explored the terrain very carefully. So, as almost all the other teams had cast to begin their assault of the championship, the Italians were still plumbing the depths, exploring the bottom and weeds on their left hand side. Was this the investment they needed? The the outcome wasn’t yet evident. The day went on slowly, the weather was very pleasant and the carp showed themselves mainly in weeds, but every alarm remained quiet. At half past six everything changed. There is a take on peg no. 12, so we’re hitting the road! The Slovak team is battling their first carp and they are doing OK, a few metres from the bank, however, and the carp gets stuck in a clump of grass. The young angler slowly pulls a whole bunch of grass towards the landing net. Is there a carp there at all? Suddenly in the clump of grass in landing net there’s a big fin and Slovaks begin to rejoice. The carp isn’t small at all – after subtracting the sling the scale shows 17.6 kg! This nice common carp, unfortunately blind in one eye, moves the Slovak team into the front of the race. This is the start of the competition as it should be. It is interesting to note that during the day, a lady who has a cottage nearby told the boys that they will have a wait until around 18:00 for the carp to bite. A few minutes later there is second fish - right opposite to this peg, the Polish team landed a common carp at peg 6. A long common carp weighs 14.5 kg and it seems that fish will feed here really well. I’m afraid that was a mistake, after releasing that carp nothing happened all the night. It was a beautiful night, but for the anglers, all too quiet.

Day two – morning feast

The morning wakeup call is early, an alarm bursts into life at 4:45 - a carp for Italians. It is a nice long common carp weighing 14.1 kg and there is a great Italian celebration. So we are taking few pictures of the fish and then we get the good news: the Czech Republic has its first carp! We take off immediately to witness this fish. The boys are just returning from the water with a carp that weighs in at 12.0 kg, which is nice start. It seems fish are feeding all over the lake and that’s great, and during the morning they continue to take.

MATUS SVEK: MY LOVE FOR CARP ANGLING, At 5:30 the Norwegians almost lost their rod, the clutch on the reel wasn’t loosened and set properly and the rod disappeared under the pier. Fortunately, the boys manage to catch the rod, but the carp is now buried in the weeds and escapes the rig. The Norwegians have a problem dealing with the pressure, despite coaching from their captain they are having trouble keeping their excitement at a reasonable level. In a rush of blood to their heads, they literally try and snatch fish from the water. The result of another fight is a broken rod tip! The sun begins to increase the temperature and another carp is reported from the Italian’s camp. This time it is a small, but nice orange koi carp. And this isn’t the last one. The benefit of their peg begins to be evident. The next 40 minutes

shifts the Italians to the top of the leader board with a help of a carp weighing 10.6 kg. Back at peg 5 Honza Hubka and boys from the team FN Motol report their first take too, but unfortunately the fish falls off. For this team, however, this is just the beginning. It doesn’t take long before they land a nice mirror weighing slightly over 10 kg. After lunch the Italians counter with beautiful common carp weighing 16.7 kg. This was the carp that really started the battle between the boys from FN Motol and Italian team. From that moment both teams have regular takes. There is no point in describing every single landed fish, but they are all around 10 – 14 kg. Both team camps are full of enthusiasm and the carp are worth it – either hump-backed mirrors or long aggressive commons. The atmosphere was spoiled a little in evening when

saw their rod disappear into the water!

A gentle touch.. Jakub congratulates the brave angler after he put out a fire in his bivvy the Dutch captain in front of our bivouac. He gesticulates angrily and takes me with him to his son standing nearby. At first I don’t know what’s going on but the light in the bathroom makes it clear – the boy’s hand is burned badly. In no time at all there are a few people awake and guys from the Netherlands are on their way to hospital. Fortunately, everything turned out well and in the morning the young injured Dutchman is ready to fight again. So, what happened? A mobile phone in a suitcase overheated and began to burn very quickly, the whole suitcase caught fire. Seeing the danger to the bivvy, beds and all of the equipment, bravely, the boy threw the suitcase out of the bivvy, but unfortunately he burned his arm doing this. He did at least he get a small consolation at the party of champions – a special prize for his bravery. In the morning the battle continued between the team FN Motol Hospital and the Italian team. Ivan and Martin from FN Motol Hospital got their heaviest carp – 13.4 kg and 14.5 kg, the Italians immediately countered with weights 17.2 kg and 15.5 kg. It was real excitement right until the end, especially because of the rule where the average weight of the three heaviest fish counted towards the result. Due to the colder weather other teams succeeded in the end too – WCC Family had two at 11.0 kg – these carp that catapulted them to third position, the Netherlands landed an 8.5 kg specimen and the Danish anglers landed their first carp 40 minutes before the end – although it didn’t change the final results it was a nice 13.5 kg fish.

Closing champions’ party

FAMILY AND HOPES FOR THE WCCJ.. PAGE 86 the Italians put in a protest against Honza Hubka and team FN Motol. They didn’t like that Honza helped the boys land a fish - or that he touches rods. The case is, however, unfounded and the head marshal and referee, Andy Chambers, reject the complaint. It’s worth noting that (due to the obvious reason that they’re from hospital) it wasn’t easy to create a team FN Motol. To form the team, both boys from this team were younger than the rules allowed and therefore Honza had to be close to the boys permanently primarily because of safety issues. During the afternoon, I went to visit the complex for the accompanying programme of events, located nearby Katlov. Lots of children were interested in the angling school at the shore of small pond right next to Katlov. Famous carp

experts like Milan Tychler, Karel Nikl or Pepa Konopásek carefully helped each of the children who visited. It was nice to see the children enjoying angling and how every single little carp, tench or roach that was landed made them so happy. The entire complex was bringing pleasure to both children and adults. What will the approaching night bring us? According to the weather forecast, it should be little colder which could bring some hope for the teams at the deeper parts of the lake.

Young Talent: (Clockwise) The victorious Italian team with another superb common; Jakub and Ross with the second placed FN Motol team; Ross and Jakub start the show; The WCC Family team finished a fine third; A team captain holds a carp Day three: a wild night and for the camera; A finally .. joy fabulous 6.0 Kg koi That night we’re woken up at about half past carp for the Italians midnight. The reason is not a giant carp, but

The World Carp Classic Junior ended on Saturday, May 30th at 16:00. The announcement of results took place at a stage in front of a fantastic crowd of almost one thousand people. During the championship there were 33 carp caught and their average weight was 12.1 kg. The winners were the Italian team with the average weight of three heaviest fish 16.46 kg, second place went to the hospital team FN Motol – 13.60 kg and third was the team WCC Family with two carp weighing 11 kg. Other teams caught one fish (Czech Republic, Slovakia, England, Germany, Netherland, Denmark and Poland) or they had no success. The heaviest fish was caught by the England team – a brilliant 17.8 kg. At the final party and concert there was great atmosphere and it was an excellent way to celebrate and bring to a close the first year of WCCJ. After a perfectly organised event, it is also important to note that organisers and sponsors managed to raise enough money for professional devices for CLIP (Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague). Let’s hope we will meet next year at Katlov and you will be there too! n RadEK HOLUB

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First stumbling step i My name is Matus Svec, I´m 35 years old. I was born in Bratislava, capital city of Slovakia.Growing up in the north, near the Poland border, the winters here can be sever, with temperatures of -35`C. I studied in the heart of Slovakia, at Banska Bystrica University and graduated in Economics. After that, in 2004 I fell in love with Silvia and have now ended up living in Vienna. My job – the boss of the ticket ‘mafia’ in Austria and Slovakia. Silvia is the best wife in the world, a beautiful blonde girl, with amazing assets, sexy cuban backside and the biggest heart in the world. Like Ross says: “Silvia is special.” I am also proud the father of Adam Carlos Svec, who managed third place in the World Carp Classic Junior 2015 in the Czech Republic. My fishing career started when I was six years old, catching trout in small local rivers. I had really been caught by the big carp scene when I was a young teenager of 13. My fishing friends and I were like pioneers in Czechoslovakia, because back then you couldn’t find anything about the boilies or rigs. Absolutely nothing! The first man who helped us was Andy Little with his book ‘How to Catch a Big Carp’. My home water was the massive Liptovka Mara, around 2,700ha. A really big, big dammed lake under the High Tatras mountains. Here we caught our first carp over 10kg after three years trying, and trying, and trying.

we never gave up, fighting until the last minute and we got a good result – 8th in the individual, 4th in the team competitions. It was one of the best sessions in my life. Fishing with Silvia was like being in carp paradise!

My PB is a common of 21.30kg from Lago di Pusiano and my first mirror over 20kgwas caught during the WCC 2009 on Lac de Madine, that year Team Jetfish ended up in 4th place in the team event and I managed 8th in the individual rankings. I had been in Team Jetfish from 2004 until 2015 and I learned a lot from Jaroslav Tesinsky and Peter Simonic, so a big, big thank you to you guys, you are two of the best carp fishermen in the world, in the Top 10, for sure. I was dreaming about World Carp Classics, maybe I could participate one day, but when the WCC started, I was too young, around 15. So, at that time it was just a dream. The dream of a student of modern carp fishing, a real beginner. I tried to get as much information as I could and I practiced. With time, growing up, practicing and spending all my spare time by the water, slowly it was becoming possible to compete, the dream slowly true. So, the first time I fished was in the World Carp Classic 2007 on the Lac de Orient. Really beautiful big lake, something so absolutely different from any water in Slovakia. The air smelled like the the sea, a little bit of mussels, a little bit of weed, it smelled good, it was a really nice feeling. The organisation was also great, with a nice warm welcome from Ross, Marianne, Andy etc. The atmosphere in bivvy city, like a great big family and the opening ceremony with its flag parade, it was all

Life long carp angler, Matus Svec aka Don Matteo on how he began a long path to the WCC and how on his own, he began what would be part of the WCC carp fishing family

p into the carp world amazing. Also interesting was the registration, boat check and gladiator games. I think that the most exciting part before the competition was, for sure, drawing the pegs. That year, on the Lac de Orient it was difficult, very few fish were caught. But the next year on the Lac de Madine a lot of nice carp were caught and the next year, 2009, we had the luck with us at the peg draw ‘lottery’. I was fishing with my girlfriend Silvia and we had a really successful start, after two days we had the biggest fish and we were in third place on the fourth day of the competition. But after that came a dreaded day, it was like ‘Black Friday 13th’, with a little bad luck, we lost three fish, got a yellow card, and with some small troubles with our boat motor, we lost a really good position. But we never gave up, fighting until the last minute and we got a good result – 8th in the individual, 4th in the team competitions. It was one of the best sessions in my life. Fishing with Silvia was like in carp paradise! On the WCC 2010 we got a new member by our team, Silvia with bump, 6th months pregnant and in December Adam was born and we became a real family. After that great event I took a long, five year holiday from carp fishing. So our comeback to the WCC Family was this year on the Katlov lake with a great third place on the WCC Junior 2015. Look out, we’re coming soon…

A family affair: dreaming of the ultimate Classic

A new runner on the way? Silvia relaxes during some tough carping. It’s never too young to learn how to bait up!

World Carp Classic ... is it the dream? Is it the challange? Is it the test? Yes it is! It’s the dream of every carp fisherman in the world. It’s a challenge for every one of us, and every year it’s a new challenge. That’s why we love to fish for carp. Every spot or hotspot changes, every session, every day, every hour. It is challenge for the elite of carp anglers. Where can you meet Tim Paisley, Dave Lane, Frank Warvick and other household names every year at the tournament? Because for them, and every one of us, we have changed this great challenge, this great competition into a family of anglers, the WORLD CARP CLASSIC FAMILY event. Testing? Sure, but which test is toughest!? Testing our physical condition and the most important psychical condition of every of us, like the competitors, like the marshals, like the organisation’s management staff. Thank you to you all, because you make this event unforgettable. Testing our tactics. I think this is also one of the most important elements, it can make you a winner in last six hours, or even six minutes of the competition. Just like us, we have been battling in the WCC Junior tournament, with exactly six hours before the end without a single fish landed, and a change of tactics and bang! We are landing fish, ending up with a great third place. I can tell you as a father of one of the WCC family teams, which was a wild card in the WCC Junior event, that felt like a moment when my dreams were coming true. The incredible sunrise over the Katlov lake, with thousnds of fans applauding in front of you. Standing on the stage like a guardian of a great team, a part of the WCC family, competitors Michal Chudy and Samuel Knazsky, captain Silvia Omastova (my girl!!!) and vicecaptain Adam Carlos Svec (my 4 year old angel), believe me, you will be in heaven. I was crying. Testing your experiences, that you have been collecting the whole of your life. Your memories and experiences of the natural world, of your life in the wild and magnificent countryside. Experiences of the weather in all of its different guises: cloudy, wild and windy, raining, thunder, lightning and storms, but after every storm, come the sun.

THE DIFFERENCE A CALL MAKES.. PAGE 88

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The difference one phone call from Ross Honey makes .. “Hi, Matus, how are you? Ross Honey calling. I have great idea!”, is how it started, and we were on the phone for hours and hours. Ross explained his idea to me, some people say would he’s amazing or he’s crazy, some would say he’s on mission impossible. What can I tell you about that idea?! Ross said “Let’s make a difference together.” It was one of the best ideas in carp fishing that I have ever heard. It was actually a great message! A message for living your time, living right now. So we spend our time making our big career, working from morning to night, we think that our children are happy, because we can buy them what they want?! But you can’t return the time, you can’t buy it back. You can earn the big money, but you lose time to be with them, with your family, friends and just living the life and just enjoying the moment. I had never thought about it, I had become a father, with the most beautiful wife and small person in my life, my son Adam. It changed everything and I started to live differently. Not for me, but for him, for her, for us, for family. It also made me think about the second life changing event in my life, which was last year, when I lost my colleague Mario, he was same age as me, and tragically, he died of leukaemia. Some people die young.

“What do you think about World Carp Classic Junior, like the WCC, but for children? It is not only the competition, but we want to help the children in hospital who have leukaemia. A child like that only has one thing, what they have is hope. Hope that they win the fight, they win and stay alive. They need the financial support, but most importantly they need practical help.” Ross Honey asks, “What do you think?’ So, for the next few days, next few weeks, we are speaking about it, thinking about it, could it be done? We were trying to do our best, to make it work, make it happen. Ross the founder of WCC, the organizer, manager, director etc. Me, Ross’

Matus continues his story of how he became an integral part in the planning stages of the ambitious WCCJ friend, a joker on the phone, and because I am from Czechoslovakia, and I am a carp fisherman for more than 20 years, I want to help him with this event. But how can I help with all the things he needs. I had no idea just how much goes on behind the scenes to organise an event with this level of quality. Was it possible to get the first World Carp Classic Junior 2015 on Lake Katlov in Czech Republic in June? I arrived with my wife and son a few days before the competition started. We got lucky, drew the wild card entry so we could participate as the WCC Family team: captain Silvia, vice-captain Adam, competitors Michal and Samuel. I was the manager/guardian of our team. Lake Katlov is situated near the small city of Kutna Hora, where the really fantastic opening ceremony took place with its flag parade through the town and the peg draw on the balcony of the Cathedral of St.Barbara. In the evening, during the dinner and afterwards, you could see and hear discussions everywhere, between competitors, captains, organizers, sponsors and friends. A fantastic warm atmosphere, in the shadow the Cathedral of St.Barbara, with great food on the tables, with everybody talking about carp, fishing, boilies, families and stories of the life of a carp fisher. The next morning saw the teams moving from bivvy city on to their pegs and competition starts. On the lake that has never been fished before, the owner Jakub has some original wild carp and of course, some new carp stocked in the 10-20+kg category.

The competition started slowly, just a few runs in first day and night, it looked like it was going to be a difficult event. If you had a really great peg and you can’t fish, it is pretty similar to the best fisherman sitting in the worst peg. There were some better pegs, but with the new rule – three biggest fish you can win from any peg and most important, you have a chance right up until the very last minute. We lost several carp and five hours before the end of the competition we hadn’t landed a single fish. We had to cast a long way to our hotspot near the small island. The problem was the amount of weeds in a water full of mussels and snails, which were cutting the line. You can imagine the atmosphere and feeling of our team on the last night after losing around seven fish. But, live your dreams and never give up, and you have to believe in what you do and just make the best of a bad show. We were trying boilies on the bottom, pop-ups, snowmen rigs and the dream of Samuel was the bait boat from Karpela, the dream of Michal was to win. I had found out about the Karpela containers from the Ross’ visit to the Carp Show in Slovakia. My four year old son Adam was playing with this interesting new form of bait and he like it. Ross was asking my opinion and I told him “Let’s try and we will see.” The prize for the biggest fish caught on a Karpela Cont bait was the bait boat. So we tried the Karpela Cont bait ball system and we managed to win the boat! In the very last hours Michal and Samuel landede two nice commons and in the end we ended up in a great third place on the first World Carp Classic Junior 2015. So, it’s a really big, big thank you to all of you who participated and the biggest thank you to Jakub, Ross, Marianne, Andy and all Marshals and to everybody else who helped to make this competition an unforgettable event. See you soon on Lac de Madine. n MATUS SVEC

Family values ... One big happy WCC family. The carp gets the best job!

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MIVARDI

QUALITY TACKLE

TACKLE ANY FISH WITH MIVARDI On behalf of the MIVARDI brand I would like to wish you all the very best in the upcoming competition ... probably the most important fishing event of the year for most of us. Let me introduce our brand that is a new section sponsor at WCC main event this year.

The Mivardi brand is based in the Czech Republic and was established over 10 years ago. In their first year, Mivardi designed and offered our basic product portfolio that consisted of several hundreds items. They quickly became popular because of their construction, design and great value for money. After their successful entry into the market we focused on the top level carp fishing tackle and we have continued this policy ever since. These items of the serious carp tackle are exclusively branded with our M-CARP label and nowadays they represent the most important segment of gear in our Mivardi brand. Today we have about 2000 products in our portfolio. They are now considered

to be the best selling fishing tackle in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. They have also been recognized and successfully used by thousands of anglers in the other European countries. Our aim is to produce uncompromising carp tackle that we personally want to use in any of our fishing sessions. Our key product families have been carefully designed and developed with a lot of innovations. We are pleased to see they work really well and ensure anglers catch their dream fish. On several occasions during fishing tackle shows, anglers already voted Mivardi tackle market leaders when they voted for them as winners of the awards like the “Bivvy of the Year” or the “Chair of the year”.

In 2015 we became a general partner of the World Carp Classic Junior event. We are providing the participants a full tackle pack to be used in this great competition. It is a great honour to be sponsoring a carp event of international status. The feedback from all participants to the tackle was excellent and we have already confirmed our support to this junior event for the 2016 season. The next challenge is going to come in September when we will be a section sponsor at the World Carp Classic. We hope the prizes that we provide will make the winners happy and help them to keep the best memories of their success in this highly respected international carp tournament. Tight lines!

OFFICIAL EVENT PARTNER OF THE JUNIOR WCC2015

FOREIGN Globetrotting all round angler and Team USA regular, Larysa Switlyk runs us through her adventures in Europe chasing the carp, and finding herself as the USA coach for the inaugural World Carp Classic Junior.

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N AFFAIR ‘‘

LARYSA SWITLYK AN AMERICAN ABROAD

It was my third year fishing for Team USA, but this was the first time I ended up on the stage during the prize giving ceremony. Despite having a tough swim and only pulling out one fish, Team USA came in second in the team event thanks to the help of the other two teams from Holland and United Kingdom making up team Carp Connections. Part of the prize was a week fishing holiday on the Fishing Resort Du Der in France. Since I was already in Europe I decided to cash in this prize right away. So, two days later I found myself in France with all my left over carp gear and Livingston Lures just in case I had time to sneak away to a close by Lake to go after some pike or perch.

French Lessons I’ve never fished in France before so I was excited to be able to spend a week at the Fishing Resort Du Der thanks to Carp Connections. Staying in one of the cabins on the lake fully equipped with a kitchen felt like a 5 star hotel coming from camping on the bank of Lake Bolsena. I brought my left over Dynamite Baits with me and decided to try what I thought would work on the lake. I wanted to see if these carp

were hungry for the spicy vs. sweet challenge. The nice thing about the Fishing Resort Du Der is that the lakes were built specifically for carp fishing, so when searching for spots, you don’t have to worry about unknown snags on the bottom. I went out in the boat and decided to mark some spots. After putting one rod out a storm rolled in. I feel like it is always my luck when trying to get rods out to start fishing, a storm rolls though, but that didn’t stop me from putting the rest of my rods out. I was abruptly awakened at 2 am by the beeping of the alarm. With no hesitation I ran right out the door without any shoes, straight to the rod with its screaming reel. That is what carp fishing is all about, being woken up from a dead sleep one moment and the next you are fighting a monster fish while you’re half asleep and half dressed. But nothing matters because right then, you know all your preparation led you to this special moment. I’ve caught all sorts of species of fish and I get asked all the time in America why I fish for carp. My response is, until you catch one on a rod and reel only then will you understand. Carp are a strong fighting fish and, in my opinion, smart and sometimes stubborn. You get a sense of accomplishment when you can outsmart a carp and get to admire them on the bank. That first carp was hooked on a 20mm Dynamite white chocolate coconut cream with a 15mm fluoro two-tone strawberry and

‘‘

I had the privilege of representing Team Carp Connections at the World Carp Classic 2014 at Lake Bolsena, Italy.

coconut popup. That right there told me these carp were digging the sweet, but it wasn’t until I got another two hits on that same rig, that I was convinced enough to change my spicy set ups to sweet. Over the course of five days I caught a ton of carp including my PB Mirror, but I got the majority of my runs in the middle of the night. That definitely made it hard to get any good sleep, but that’s what makes carp fishing so addictive and fun. I learned a lot while fishing in France and it was the perfect lake for me to brush up on my carp skills. I figured it also didn’t hurt to get in tune with these French carp, so I can get a head start on pre-fishing for World Carp Classic 2015.

Czech Mates Ross Honey rang me earlier this year and started excitingly telling me about a new junior carp tournament he had in the works, all planned to help raise money for cancer research and help donate much needed equipment to the local children’s hospital. At the end of him explaining the whole deal, I was sceptical of him being able to pull it off in such a short amount of time, so I asked him, “Okay, why are you telling me about this?” He replies with, “Think about it.” I quickly thought about who I knew in the United States that carp fished, but more

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FOREIGN AFFAIR LARYSA SWITLYK

Team building .. Larysa at the WCC Junior event with fellow Americans, brothers Austin and Brendan (above).

Boilie in the bag .. Junior USA contestant using European tactics importantly, who was young enough to even be able to compete in a junior event. The Pass brother’s came to mind. I knew they had a passion for carp fishing, any free moment they have they are fishing and I also knew they were good because they kicked my butt in a carp tournament in Texas. I messaged Austin to ask if they were interested in doing a carp tournament in Europe, and to find out how old he and his brother Brendan are. Turns out they both made the cut and after talking it over with their father, they were in! I just built Team USA for the junior event in less than an hour, now, however, we have to put a lot of work in to preparing for it. I told the boys they need to make sure they could come over to the Czech Republic early so they could do some pre-fishing and figure out the European Carp. Carp fishing in America is definitely different to that in Europe. The boys admitted to me they never used boilies to fish for carp before. It was nice of Pro-Logic to set us up with their local distributor in the Czech Republic, Mira, who was quite the character. He arranged for all

of us to fish a private lake for three days before the competition. What I’ve learned from my experience is carp fishing in every country is a little different. When it is your first time fishing an area, it is best to get some local knowledge and learn from someone who knows how to fish that area. With that background information you can then apply your own tactics and fishing skills. Austin and Brendon quickly learned that using the European tactics taught by Mira and I helped them hook up on more carp. I think at first they were a little hesitant to listen to us, but they put one rod out with boilies and tried the others with their normal USA style of fishing with straight maize or fake corn. They quickly learned the boilies were doing the trick and started experimenting more with them. Austin and Brendon brought some materials to make pack bait which they use heavily in America and wanted to test it out before the tournament. They combined bread crumbs, corn grits, and creamed corn coupled with a short supple hook link with three pieces of Trilogy Carp Baits Tournament corn on the hair. It produced results right away which gave them a good insight on what these carp were attracted to. Since they don’t fish much with boilies in America, it was something for them to get used to, so it was good for them to have a few days experimenting. We gave them lessons in Z-rigs and had them practice creating different styles of rigs with different size hooklinks to see what worked best. What I wanted to see was the boys to apply what Mira and I were explaining to them, catch carp and build confidence in their fishing skills in Europe before the tournament began, which they succeeded beyond expectations. They were in fishing heaven on this lake, catching carp after carp, having back-to-back runs. I knew that in the rules of the junior carp

tournament, being captain I was not allowed to help or touch any of the gear or bait, which is actually a very difficult task when I have such a strong passion for fishing! I spent the three days literally training myself not to touch anything and making the boys do everything on their own with just a little guidance from Mira or me. However, Austin did end up getting a double run and Brandon was busy playing a carp on the other side of the lake, so I figured this could be an exception for touching one of the rods and landing a Czech carp myself. Besides this lake being stocked with carp, it also has some sturgeon and beluga sturgeon splashing around in it. After I got tired of watching the boys catch carp after carp I decided to focus my attention on catching one of the Beluga Sturgeon in the lake. Now that’s a fish that can fight! Team USA for the junior event had a very successful pre-fishing session, however we weren’t so lucky in the actual tournament. I was really proud of the boys for not losing their spirits, and trying everything in their power to catch carp, however, it is hard to catch fish that aren’t there. I think it was good for them to blank because that was their first time not catching fish during a tournament, and I feel it definitely builds character and makes them even hungrier for next year! I’m looking forward to this year’s World Carp Classic because I love seeing everyone from my carp family and catching up. Plus excited to apply my skills on these French carp. So Team USA and Carp Connections will be back, dressed to impress thanks to Valley Fashions and we definitely have our eye on the prize, so watch out world! Time to “Go Ahead, Unleash It!” n LARYSA SWITLYK

I spent the three days literally training myself not to touch anything and making the boys do everything on their own

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ANDY RACE REUBEN HEATON

Reuben Heaton, has forged an enviable reputation for quality and performance within the angling trade

THERE AND BACK AGAIN ‘‘

Is it that time again? It doesn’t seem five minutes since we were preparing the gold scales for last year’s event at the mighty Bolsena in Italy.

This year also brings a change of venue and something of a homecoming, as we are back at the awe inspiring Lac de Madine the venue that witnessed the birth of the WCC back in 1998, the place where it all started. As ever, the event will definitely not be one for the faint hearted, the WCC is an event that challenges both angler and equipment. The Reuben Heaton brand, synonymous with high quality fishing tackle for over 155 years, has been supplying performance

weigh scales and weighing equipment to angling competitions such as the WCC for almost ninety years and we are, once more, proud to be sponsors of the World Carp Classic, a truly world class event that offers an effective platform with which to showcase our products via worldwide media coverage. This year, as every year since the start of the World Carp Classic in 1998, Reuben Heaton will be supporting the event throughout the week, with logistical support in the form of weights and measures, but there is also a first for Reuben Heaton. A joint project between the Heaton’s and US hook giant Wright & McGill, better known for their Eagle Claw brand and Lazer Sharp brands, means that our anglers fishing this year’s event will be armed with the latest in hook technology. Until recently, TroKar hooks have been providing predator anglers with one of the most comprehensive and technically advanced hook ranges on the market. That technology has now been adapted to suit modern carp angling methods. Manufactured in the US, and designed to be the sharpest in the world, TroKar hooks feature patented Surgically Sharpened Technology (SST). In comparison tests TroKar hooks consistently pierced a test medium with as little as half the pressure for other hooks. Manufactured from a unique high-carbon Q741 steel specifically created for the brand, TroKar hooks are tempered to resist breaking with the perfect balance between wire strength and flex. Like Reuben Heaton, Eagle Claw has, over many years, forged an enviable reputation for quality and performance within the worldwide angling trade and the company celebrates its 90th Anniversary this year. It is this manufacturing heritage and innovation that builds reputation. By constantly developing and refining products to meet with the changing needs of anglers, leading brands like Reuben Heaton set the benchmarks by which others are judged. We have seen the World Carp Classic grow in stature over 17 years and are very proud that we have endorsed and supported every event and with the Official event scales. n ANDY RACE Managing Director Reuben Heaton

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AGAINST ALL ODDS Now with the experience of many expeditions behind us, we decided to try and get to Lac Amance early this year in order to give us time to have a good look around the lake without feeling too time pressured. We left for the tunnel at around 4:30 pm on Sunday evening and eventually arrived at the lake around 1:00 am in the morning. There had been torrential rain since we arrived in France and the prospect of getting a bivvy up was not particularly appealing; however the shower block (which would have provided a suitable overnight haven for our bedchairs) was locked so there was no alternative but to bite the bullet. As usual, soaking wet and five minutes after getting into our bivvies it stopped raining! We decided that we should use our first day to find out all about the water and the pegs, the end result of our first very long day driving and trudging around the lake – which incidentally is huge – was a list of all the peg numbers and a corresponding Yes/No, the idea being that we could consult the list after we made our draw and if it was a ‘no’, simply draw again, no discussion, no prevarication, no chin scratching, just a simple decision. A few drinks in the bar in the evening led to a few more drinks, which in turn led to us having a heated discussion with two lads from Scotland about whether or not we over complicate the whole business of carp fishing and at the end of the day it really boils down to something very simple: having fish in front of you and getting them to pick up a hook bait. When the bar closed and we continued to attack a couple of slabs of beer, as with all good things they eventually come to an end and following an all too brief sleep they were replaced by a terrible hangover on Tuesday morning. After our heads cleared sufficiently we were off round the lake to confirm that the peg numbers that had been temporarily assigned were actually the ones that were now in the swims, and that we both agreed our yes/no list. We were back at base by early afternoon to clean up and get ready for the giant BBQ and entertainment. Being the dedicated, keen sportsmen that we are, and realizing that the competition was starting the very next day it was of course paramount to keep a clear head for the draw and the start of the match. So, we both had way too many beers and eventually got back to our bivvies in the early hours! Assembling for the draw is a tense affair: yes/no list – check, lucky heather – check. All you can do now is hope for your name to come out early and to then pick a good swim before they are all taken. Up on stage, list in hand and draw…make or break time…out came peg 51. No time to waste, down the list to 51, the clock is running and it’s a NO. ‘He’s going to put that one back’ said Ross Honey to a slight gasp from the remaining assembled

My fishing partner, Keith Turner and I set out this year with the objective of not blanking and at least to pick up a little fish .. Little did we know that in an event when the carp were not cooperating with the 160+ anglers around the lake, breaking our duck would not only satisfy our personal goal for the competition, but also put us right up there with a chance of winning it!

anglers. Apparently, and unbeknown to me, pegs 51 and 52 were hotly tipped as areas that would be productive and were well fancied. Keith maintains that he told me they should be changed from ‘no’ to ‘yes’ on the list, but I have no recollection and so I drew again…peg 61… fortunately a ‘yes’ on the list. What a good result I thought and returned to my seat to a partner slightly concerned that I had thrown back the potential winning peg! You can imagine the pressure this put me under. Not only did we need to catch something in peg 61, but I also needed peg 51 to be unproductive. Imagine the grief if 51 ran away with the competition and we blanked in 61, this played on my mind for the early days of the competition. Peg 61 was at the southern end of the lake in an area known as Pig Wood. There were three other pairs to our right, along a section of forest lined bank running to the dam wall. To our left was a point and we had plenty of open water in front of us. We also discovered that 61 is known as ‘The Graveyard Swim’ due to a small graveyard to the left of us at a range of 140+ yards from when the valley was originally flooded. We hoped that the name was not a portent of things to come. It was by now close to 11:00 am and we had four hours to get set up and be ready for the starter rocket at 3:00 pm. I don’t know where the time goes in the run up to starting, but it seemed to fly by and we were only in the water with three rods by the time the Sparsholt marshal told us we were underway. Apparently the starter rocket had been of the roman candle variety, which I am sure

‘‘

WCC CHAMPS 2005 CLIVE HICKS & KEITH TURNER

was visually very pleasant, but lacking the ‘bang’ required to signify the start of the event. It was at this time that we had a significant setback. Keith’s mother was taken ill at home with a heart attack and admitted to hospital. It was a case of ringing home every two hours to assess the situation and if her condition deteriorated, to ship out and return home. Thankfully, as it was, her condition seemed to improve slowly and we were able to stay put for the time being. Keith positioned his first rod to the back of the weed bed to his left and the second beyond the weed in open water. I fished directly out in front with my first and the other rod went under the trees to my right in the margin. Nothing to do now but sit back and wait as darkness fell. We both (unfortunately) slept well that evening with no action from any of the rods. On Thursday morning the catch report from around the lake told us that we were not the only ones to be struggling and in fact no carp had been caught only a few instances of bream and tench. This is always good news because it confirms that you are not doing anything wrong if no one else is catching either, and more importantly, Peg 51 was not producing. At about 11pm the right hand rod screamed into life. I was out of the bivvy and onto the rods to see a swan disappear into the gloom – it had clearly been feeding on the free offerings in the margin and picked up the line. At 12:30am the right hand rod was away again, this time with a proper run. The fish decided that it would put a bend in the rod as it kited right towards the weed bed, sidestrain on and try and turn it back but in the darkness it was too late and it was in the weed; moments later the hook pulled and he was away. We had clearly been doing something right as the next morning’s catch report confirmed very few fish out around the lake, and more importantly 51 was still drawing a blank! We would do exactly as the previous day except we would change a few of the variables in our favour. We wanted to get the rods on the bank rather than out in the water, so we could get on a run more quickly. We borrowed a bow saw from the Sparsholt boys and cut back some of the overhanging bushes to give us a clearer path to the water and enable us to set up the rods on the bank. At around 1:00 am Friday morning the right hand rod was away again – this time it was important to make no mistakes. Once the hook had been set Keith had his waders on I handed the rod over. It’s pretty difficult to put chest waders on at the best of times but in the dark with a fish on it is virtually impossible without either falling over or getting them on backwards. Keith got the fish under control and then handed the rod back to me and took the landing net. A short struggle later we had our fist fish in the net – a common of just under 20lb, what a relief. At about 5:20 am the same rod was off

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty difficult to put chest waders on at the best of times but in the dark with a fish on it is virtually impossible without either falling over or getting them on backwards.

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

AGAINST ALL ODDS

CLIVE HICKS & KEITH TURNER

Home and Away ...Keith displays a fabulous English mirror, and Clive shows off a beautiul French common

The morning catch report was a big surprise. We were the only pair to have caught more than one fish and we were a few pounds ahead .. the nearest weight behind us being Tim Paisley and John Lilley 100

again – same procedure and it was beginning to look like we had got it sussed when another large carp was bundled into the net. Keith played a blinder with the landing net again scooping it up as it was just about to make another surge for freedom. As it happened, the hooklink snapped in the net which caused us both to breathe a massive sigh of relief. Another common weighing in at just under 30 lb this time. The morning catch report was a big surprise all round. We were the only pair to have caught more than one fish and we were a few pounds ahead in the competition – the nearest weight behind us being a single fish from Tim Paisley and John Lilley. No further fish were caught at all during Saturday and to be fair we knew now that the ‘feeding window’ in our swim was between midnight and 6:00 am so we took the opportunity to rest up. It was getting pretty tense now; we were in the lead going into the last night, but a single fish from any of the other competitors that had already caught would allow them to overtake us. We put the rods out to the same positions as the previous evening and sat up wondering what was happening around the lake. We were convinced that we could hear Delkims going off and that we were going to be pipped at the post. Dramatically, at 4:30am, the right rod, once again,

was in action with another screamer. Into the net came another common that was a good twenty and we knew that we were in with a real shout, particularly if action had been slow in other areas of the lake. With the competition due to finish at 9:00 am there was no way we were going back to sleep and were waiting for the first hint of the sun over the distant trees. We had a couple of visits from journalists that morning which we felt was a little premature. It is never over until the fat lady sings, but there were definite signs of her warming up in the wings! After what seemed like an eternity the rocket went up to signal the end of the competition. We knew we were in with a shout with three fish for over 77 lb but it was hard to get confirmation that we were there because it was not yet confirmed that no-one else had caught overnight. It is like a slow dawning when you finally realize that you have come in first and it takes a little time to come to terms with it! I suppose a combination of nervous energy and exhaustion, I have never seen Keith smoke so much or pace up and down the swim like that before. My heart was pounding too, but I tried to keep a cool head as we started the process of packing away to get back to the presentation - inside my stomach was really churning. Things then went from great to greater when Keith had a phone call to say that his daughter Marry Anne had just given birth to a daughter of 7lb 11oz, can you believe the timing! This news coupled with his mother making a steady recovery from her heart attack was all too much to take in at once, we were of course absolutely delighted. Collecting this prestigious prize has been a dream for us. I am pretty much ‘unknown’ in the field of carp fishing and Keith is certainly not what I would describe as a named angler, (although his website www.carpbookshop.com is quite well known and very popular amongst carp anglers), yet we had come through the World Carp Classic as winners! I think this is one of the great things about the event in that on a big water like Amance, everyone is in with a chance. So, if I was asked for advice for next time what would it be? Keep it simple, do what you do best and be prepared to try something a bit different. A combination of simple tactics good teamwork and lady luck got us through – and it is true that the harder you work the luckier you get! By the way, peg 51 blanked! n

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

VADIM KORUNSKIJ IN INTERVIEW WITH KARPELA OWNER

IT TAKES

BALLS!

In the summer, at the very height of the fishing season, Chris Leibbrandt, from Angling Spirit, talked to Vadim Korunskij, the author and the initiator of the unique project ‘Fishing Places: The Guide’, a web publisher, the owner of the same-name web portal and a manufacturer of interesting fishing accessories. Here’s the chat

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CHRIS: Vadim, we wanted to talk to you because we want to know more about this set of small balls, to which you have given such a high-sounding name - Karpela Cont Universal Container. Tell us how come such a simple, so it would seem, is invented and patented in the 21st century. VADIM: When I first showed the container design to a patent agent, he was very sceptical about the idea. In fact, the drawing showed a hollow screw-threaded half sphere with different types of holes. I was also somewhat doubtful about the project. My only worry was that I had never seen any accessory like it on sale, and not just in the Ukraine. It is important to remember that the container, the way you see it now, was designed in 2004 when I first read a ‘Carp Clinic’ article by the famous angler, Lee Jackson. At that time, carp fishing was taking off all over the world and in the Ukraine, new inventions were appearing several times every year. But to register an invention like this you needed specialists’ help and quite a lot of investment capital. Almost 10 years were spent on prototype testing, monitoring trends in the fishing industry and experimenting to identify fish preferences and behaviour. Originally, the container was planned to be used as a hard shell for soft natural baits such as boiled potatoes, boiled peas, semolina mix, etc. Our experiments showed us that containers filled with chopped

another predator hunting in its area. Besides, manufacturers of feeding activators now offer many different attractants. Usually, an attractant is spayed or applied to the bait. It is much more effective to fill a container with it. Because of the highly researched patterns of hole design, the CHRIS: Could you tell us more about the smell can last for ages. You can also use a piece experience of catching predatory fish? When I of fish, beef liver or even just dry blood in the look at a container of that size, the first thing that container. Halibut grains proved to be a great comes to mind is that it’s about boilies, maggots, attractant during sea fishing. worms or particles. How can this container attract a predator? CHRIS: Does a container fixed in front of the VADIM: Our experiments have shown us that bait have any effect on how the bait itself works? a predator never eats fish in its area unless How do you choose the right size and colour? meat and fish attracted predatory fish – zander, perch and pike. Because of this, we decided to extend the research and the container was used with tackle for catching eels and trout. In all cases the results were different but satisfactory.

it’s hungry. But fishermen have found a way to provoke them by using baits with feeding activators in them. A predator will nearly always attack the bait if it feels there’s a competitor,

VADIM:If the fisherman uses a trace or tippet, it is very easy to fix the container by using a rubber or threaded block placed inside the container. It is even simpler to fix it to the main fishing line.

It has no effect on the bait; moreover, if the bait is light and floating, you can make it heavier by using several lead shot, or vice versa, if it is heavy, several foam balls will make it pop up. As for the size and the colour, the slogan of the project is ‘Welcome to the world of experiments!’ Fishing is a never-ending experiment, and even if we give recommendations and advice, fishermen find all sorts of new ways and techniques to use, based on their own experience. CHRIS: Let us go back to the registration of the invention. Did a ‘sphere with holes’ really become a groundbreaking discovery for the 21st century? VADIM: As I have already said, I researched and studied all the latest findings for almost 10 years in the field of fishing accessories, at the same time

experimenting with all possible shapes, colours and smells. When I understood that the container would be interesting not only for anglers of nonpredatory fish, but also for those fond of catching predatory fish and keen on sea-fishing, then it was time to produce the Karpela Cont. Mikhail Markov, my childhood friend and I decided to patent this accessory and have it undergo international assessments to certify that it was a real innovation, meeting all criteria of an invention. It is a slow and costly procedure, but it now gets quite a friendly welcome abroad. Being the manufacturer, I feel proud making the packaging labeled with ‘Made in the Ukraine’, ‘Made in Russia’, instead of the more familiar ‘Made in China’. In all other countries it is manufactured under our license.

CHRIS: I know that anglers can be very conservative people. What was your colleagues’ reaction when you started demonstrating the universal container? VADIM:Angling is a never-ending experiment. Even when the fishing is good, we keep trying different baits, experimenting with new combinations. The universal container is ideal for anglers who experiment. If you need to make a new recipe for boilies, boiling and drying will take much time and effort. But if you use the container, you do everything right on the bank. You can mix the most incredible ingredients, fill the container and all is done! Anglers like experimenting by using halves of different flavour boilies. Using the container, you can make a variety of combinations right on the

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IT TAKES BALLS VADIM KORUNSKIJ bank. Anglers who’ve seen how simple it is now nearly always use out product. CHRIS: How difficult is it to introduce new inventions? VADIM:You have to solve an extremely difficult dilemma. If you discovered a new property of a hook or a float, you would only have to explain how good are these newly discovered characteristics of the hook and the float, accessories that are familiar to everyone. But in our case, we have to tell people that here is a universal container, Karpela Cont, which can be used for all types of fishing, all the year round. Anglers are always in search of new lines, rods, other innovations offered by well-known manufacturers, nobody looks for the universal container because people don’t know it exists. So, most of our efforts are applied to make anglers aware of this new invention. We participate in many international exhibitions. In 2014 we took part in the international carp fishing competition - the World Carp Classic, held in Italy. There,

Karpela Cont can be used for hunting predators too The Universal Container Karpela Cont is a new product which is designed to attract all types of fish and can be used with artificial bait, attractant or feeder. It can hold various kinds of fillings, from grains and boiled potatoes to luncheon meats and liquids. Ready for action .. Karpela Conts on a hair trigger! we got acquainted with many famous fishing tackle manufacturers. In 2015 we are the official sponsor of the World Carp Classic to take place in France and we have established our own prize. Being a Ukrainian manufacturer, we plan to carry out many fact-finding events organized as part of various fishing tournaments in Ukraine. CHRIS: Marketing, yes indeed, not at all simple. How long do you think it will take for Karpela Cont to become universally known? VADIM: Well, that’s impossible to say. Today you can find universal container fishing fans in Brazil, South Africa, France, UK, the Czech Republic and very many other countries. When you see the interest shown by specialists when they hold Karpela Cont, it may seem that everything will be quick and easy. But numerous problems with the laws of different countries, logistics, and organization of distributor chains sometimes deflect us from the main objective. In as many cases as we can we take advantage to demonstrate the new invention to anglers. n

It is a way to transport for all types of attractants and baits, either dry and dusty, or jelly and liquid, and deliver it directly to the desired swim. Have you ever dreamed about long distance casting soft baits attached directly near the hook? Now it is possible with Karpela Containers, the contents of the container is secured near your hook, even if it is a maggot or a bloodworm. It can be used on its own or in combination with other baits such as boilies or various lures for predatory fish. Karpela Cont is not an artificial bait, it is a hard shell made of very durable material which has no odour of its own and absorbs no odour at all. The Karpela Container is round, has two halves that screw together and is made in eight colours: black, brown, green, orange, purple, red, white and yellow. There are four diameters available: 10, 14, 18 and 22 mm. There are two different holes patterns: small round ones, and bigger long ones. Depending on your specific fishing techniques and tactics you can combine various halves with different colour and different holes sizes in a single container. In every type of fishing, Karpela Cont can be used in different ways. When predator fishing, an important advantage of using a container is to set the container below the artificial bait. This creates the illusion that the fish (which is your bait) is following its prey. This ‘hunting’ provokes the predatory to attack the ‘competitor’ and bingo! The predator is on your hook!

Carp fishers from all continents have already tried containers and used them throughout the fishing season. They point out that carp angling has become more dynamic. It is a great chance to try new techniques to catch fish and find your own new secret way of angling. The Karpela Container is really universal in its use and you can experiment with different options. Welcome to the world of experiment! What is Karpela Cont? It is a solid container for all soft natural ingredients which you’ll want to cast far away. How to use Karpela Cont? Fill the container with any kind of filling we want to use to catch the fish, and then attach the container to the hook. Why we choose Karpela Cont? Because it’s very easy to use! You can create new unique bait right on the bank where you’re fishing. Use whatever fillings are at hand. Why a set of Karpela Cont is packed as four containers of one colour? Four containers have different diameters 10,14,18, 22 mm. All of the different sizes can be stored inside each other, taking up very little room when you’re carrying them in your tackle bag. What size Karpela Cont should I use? When fish are active and bites are frequent the 22 mm container reduces the chances of small fish. When fish aren’t active and bites are infrequent, the 14 -18 mm containers are good. If you fish natural waters, you’ll probably use the Karpela Cont as an attractant using smell and colour. In that case the 10 -14 mm will be the best.

http://karpelacont.com/

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WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM 106

PLANO

PREMIUM TACKLE STORAGE

Become a w Tournament anglers have a limited amount of time during a competition. Those who keep their tackle and gear organized and accessible are the ones who keep their lines fishing and position themselves to collect pay cheques. The recreational angler is bound by the constraints of time too. Time spent searching for lures and other tackle can result in stolen memories and experiences. Whoever you are and wherever you fish, your time on the water is precious. Plano revolutionized the tackle storage business over 60 years ago with the creation of the first moulded plastic tackle box. Since then, the pioneers of practicality at Plano have created one new tackle storage solution after another – most incorporating their industry-standard, interchangeable 3500, 3600 and 3700 size StowAway tackle trays – giving anglers an unprecedented array of clever tackle storage and transportation options based on their specific fishing objectives and needs. “Our goal is simple to describe, but challenging to execute,” says Plano Synergy Vice President of Marketing, Pete Angle: “Provide a diverse and innovative collection of tackle storage products to help anglers stay organized, protect their gear, catch more fish and, ultimately, maximize their enjoyment on the water.” For 2016, Plano’s angling engineers have developed an unprecedented release of 30 distinct all-new soft tackle bags from a totally blank canvas, anchored by the adventurous A-Series and magnum-sized M-Series lines of soft tackle bags. For the past six decades, Plano has focused on innovating and elevating tackle storage and management so anglers can find more success on the water and make the most out of every precious outing. Today, Plano manufactures and sells over 200 distinct tackle storage products, each painstakingly designed to help anglers protect their passion with innovative, user-friendly function and pride-inspiring style. There are many reasons why anglers choose Plano, but our favourite is: “It’s what my dad always used.” Learn more at www. planomolding.com.

a well organised angler with

PLANO Plano’s new A-Series

A premium and distinctive line of innovative designs, combining high-quality materials with clean and rugged aesthetics. A-Series models consist of a 3600 size Tackle Bag, 3600 and 3700 size QuickTop Tackle Bags, a Tackle Backpack, and a Tackle Duffel, providing the discriminating angler with a comprehensive system for tackle storage and transportation. Each bag is constructed from a proprietary fabric in a classically subtle shade of deep green, adorned with MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing borrowed from the tactical industry for additional utility and visual appeal.

A-Series QuickTop Tackle Bags n Innovative hybrid soft/hard design n Viewable, fast-access storage in hard top lid n Proprietary polyester soft bag construction with water-resistant lining n Moulded, impact-resistant, waterproof base n Choice of two sizes: 3600 or 3700 n Includes four StowAways in either 3600 or 3700 sizes n Exterior zippered pockets plus two tool holders n MOLLE tactical webbing n Reinforced carry handle and padded shoulder strap

A-Series Tackle Backpack n Carry your tackle and additional gear while keeping hands free to fish n Includes five x 3600 StowAway Utility Boxes n Large interior storage compartment for StowAways plus additional gear n Interior includes front organization flap with three mesh pockets plus one large zippered pocket n Four exterior pockets: two zippered, two snap-button n Cushioned back pad, adjustable shoulder straps, and reinforced top carry handle n MOLLE tactical webbing for added utility

A-Series Tackle Duffel

n Store tackle, rainwear or other gear all in one bag n Holds a total of 14 x 3600 size StowAway Utility Boxes n Includes six 3600 StowAway Utility Boxes n Durable, proprietary polyester fabric construction with water-resistant lining n Second inner compartment to separate gear n Four large exterior pockets to hold phone, sunglasses, keys, gear and more n Four carrying methods help ease transport n MOLLE tactical webbing on front for added utility

A-Series Tackle Bag

n Holds five 3600 size StowAway Utility Boxes (four are included) n Zipper-free main compartment for fast access and durability n Maximize storage efficiency with compact footprint and 12 exterior pockets n Durable proprietary polyester fabric in attractive, deep green with water-resistant lining n Interior includes lid organization featuring four small pockets plus one large zippered pocket n MOLLE tactical webbing on front for added utility

Plano’s new M-Series Whoever coined the phrase, “less is more” was probably ashamed of his undersized and underperforming tackle bag. Less is least. More is the new Plano M-Series. With more features, more quality components and aesthetics, and maximum capacity, the all-new M-Series consists of 3600 and 3700 size Tackle Bags, a Hydro-Flo Tackle Bag, and a Messenger Bag – innovative tackle storage designs merging voluminous interiors with a sexy signature look in olive green with cerulean blue accents.

M-Series Tackle Bags

n Available in 3600 and 3700 sizes n Cavernous interior holds eight StowAway Utility Boxes n Exterior pockets secure all your tools, accessories and gear in easily accessible locations n Moulded, impact-resistant, waterproof base n Includes four StowAway Utility Boxes in corresponding size

M-Series Messenger Bag

n Unique fold-down sides provide quick access to gear n EVA-moulded insert stores a 3600 StowAway in one side for fast access to hot baits n Exterior includes eight pockets plus two tool holders n Holds nine 3600 StowAway boxes n Includes five 3600 StowAway utilities

M-Series Hydro-Flo™ Tackle Bag

n Hydro-Flo base allows water to drain out bag’s bottom for drying or rinsing of lures n Cavernous interior with 25 hanging bait compartments to house your large lures n Exterior pockets to secure all your tools, accessories and gear in easily accessible locations n Holds 25 hanging compartments, plus one 3700 Series StowAway n One StowAway included

WORLDCARPCLASSIC.COM

VMC HOOKS

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

A CENTURY OF

EXCELENCE

100 years of cutting-edge fish hook manufacturing

In 2015, renowned French hook giant, VMC®, celebrates its 105th anniversary of creating the world’s finest fish hooks.

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VMC is proud to have sustained hook production at its factory in France for over 100 years, but interestingly enough, the VMC family did not set out to make fish hooks. They were reeled into the fishing industry by a rival brand. Dating back to 1796, the family of

Viellard-Migeon created a company and a tradition of manufacturing the highest quality steel products such as wires, screws and bolts. That same year, the Viellard family appointed Jean-Baptiste Migeon as manager of its steel forge. In 1835, Jean Baptiste’s daughter married Juvenal Viellard. With this marriage, their initials were combined (V. – Viellard, M. – Migeon, and C. for company) to form VMC. At the beginning of the 1900s in Europe, two families shared a common industrial thread and close relations. VMC® produced wires, screws, nuts and bolts, while the other family, among other goods, produced high-quality fishing hooks. By mutual agreement, neither would sell in

the other’s markets. But 1910 marked the dawn of a new era of competition. VMC’s counterpart expanded their business and began to sell nuts and bolts on VMC’s home soil in France. This decision fuelled Charles Viellard to step-up the competition, and in turn and to diversify VMC’s metalworking experience into fish hook manufacturing, the other, rival family’s specialty. Ten British families from the hub of the UK’s needle-making and fishing tackle industries were moved to France to help set up VMC’s new fish hook department. Thus the VMC family began to produce fish hooks, setting the stage to see which family could produce the highest quality of fish hook.

Picture hooks.. Getting stuck into the various operations of hand made hooks, drawing, bending, shaping, sharpening and finishing, the same care and skill is still very much in evidence, despite the huge investment in machinery

The first VMC hooks were 100 percent handcrafted, utilizing one specific machine or tool for each stage of manufacturing, which produced a quality of hook that was unmatched.

Vmc Today: Capturing Business Hook, Line And Sinker .. Nowadays, VMC produces 4 million hooks per day, with machines running around the clock to fill the demand. The company exports 70 percent of its hooks around the world. “VMC’s success has been made possible because of years of experience

and our ability to continue to develop and innovate in the market,” said Stanislas de Castelnau, president and managing director of VMC, “but even more important is the ‘savoir-faire’ of the people making our hooks.” VMC has consistently led the industry in treble hook design. The Needle Cone Point and the Cone Cut Point are just two of its world-famous designs. The Fastgrip triple mini-barb pattern was a world first. The company was also among the first to use Vanadium, a steel alloy for hook production. VMC’s success story doesn’t stop there. In November 2000, Rapala — the world’s leading brand of fishing lures — joined

forces with VMC. Today, the vast majority of Rapala and Respected Rapala Brands lures are equipped with VMC treble hooks, delighting anglers and helping them reel in the big ones wherever water exists on the globe. “VMC’s 100th anniversary was an exciting milestone,” said Tom Mackin, president of Rapala U.S.A. “Their superior-quality product and innovation will continue to set the benchmark in fish hook design and production.” www.vmcpeche.com

Today, the vast majority of Rapala and Respected Rapala Brands lures are equipped with VMC treble hooks

WORLD OF

WILEY X Military heritage and protection is the backbone of Wiley X. Built to withstand direct ballistic impact, Wiley X eyewear offers unmatched safety in the field, but with no compromise on style.

Wiley X eyewear is simply the best eyewear I have ever worn and I have worn them ever since winning the World Carp Classic in Bolsena 2012. Carp competitions during late spring or summertime with lots of sun can create trouble for me, if I don’t wear the right eyewear. Latest win in 2015 was at the European Carp Cup in Maconka, Hungary - where in a very sunny week we won by catching 1078 Kg of carp.

PETER MICULA WCC 2012 Champion

In fishing sunglasses you need three key elements: polarization, optical clarity and protection. In the case of many eyewear brands, sometimes only one of these boxes are ticked. With a huge focus on all three of those characteristics and many more benefits, the brand is making a real name for itself in fishing eyewear– and 2015 shows no sign of this stopping. With a staggering 17 new polarizing models for 2015 – a total selection of 39 different models – Wiley X is an eyewear brand that’s going places. Thomas Wæver explains: “Wiley X is the only premium brand in the world which certifies all products as protective eyewear. Some of the models even meet or exceed the US Military’s ballistic tests for impact – the most stringent in the world. This is extremely important because fishermen have lures, flies, spoons and hooks flying in the air all the time, causing facial and eye accidents every day, worldwide.” Wiley X also holds the patent for the removable Gasket System (Facial Cavity Seal™) featured in the Climate Control models. The inner section on the glasses forms a seal around the user’s eyes, protecting them from pollen, dirt, dust and wind. It is

WCC speaks to Thomas Wæver, the European Vice President and Outdoor Director of Wiley X Europe, learning more about what sets Wiley X eyewear apart from other premium eyewear

WILEY X PREMIUM EYEWEAR

also easily removable – allowing you to use the glasses both with and without the foam. Thomas continues: “Wiley X offers the best polarizing filter on the market – Filter 8™. This polarized film layer creates 100 per cent polarization, 100 per cent UV protection and is protected differently from other polarized films as it is layered between two layers of Selenite™ polycarbonate to extend the overall life and performance of the lens.” Superiorprotection does not come at the cost of style, comfort or performance. Wiley X glasses offers a superior level of clarity to other eyewear brands in the fishing market. They pay particular attention to ensuring a clear field of vision across the entire lens and not just a central area. Should you need fishing eyewear with prescription lenses, look no further. Wiley X offers a state-of the-art prescription lens programme – for both single as well as progressive lenses.

Wiley X eyewear is the choice of the WCC 2014 champions, Krzysztof Charmuszko, team captain explains: “After winning the World Carp Classic in 2014 – our team was invited to join the Wiley X Elite European Fishing team for the years to come. We have used a lot of different eyewear before, but we have never used eyewear like this before and the Wiley X eyewear can really make that difference in our way of fishing”. “When you wear Wiley X in dull light conditions it reduces the glare on bright surfaces while enhancing the dark parts – they are simply incredible. Wearing Wiley X polarized eyewear has improved our fishing results. “The high quality polarizer gives us

maximum - in depth - water view and the protective lenses and construction makes us feel secure, now we know we are safe from flying leads and hooks.” Thomas concludes: “Anglers across the globe are paying much more attention to optimizing their gear than they did a few years back – and eyewear is a key feature. When fishing you want to get the maximum out of your time spent at and on the water – Wiley X polarizing eyewear is designed and produced to provide you with just that. “Tight lines to all participating in the World Carp Classic and may the best team win.

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CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS

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Taking the bait.. Frank Warwick with his PB of 64lb caught on Northern Baits

‘‘

The company started with three of us making baits for ourselves in a small way, in the garage as carp fanatics often do. We obtained a small ‘Boilie Benz’ rolling machine and through my other business, servicing the big fish ingredient manufacturers in Norway and Scandinavia I very soon realised I could get hold of some of the best and freshest ingredients available anywhere in Europe, if not the world! I could get the purest low temperature fish meals such as Krill, LT94, pre-digested fish proteins and some amazing liquid shellfish elements not available to the public, nor indeed the angling bait trade. Very soon our baits were getting a lot of attention from friends and friends of friends and things began to snowball from there, we quickly grew and people were wanting to use our products. Demand grew and spread further afield, it was based on our total belief in using only the best natural and freshest

NATURAL BORN KRILLERS NORTHERN BAITS

A FRESH APRROACH

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products available and cutting no corners in any way that won through and we rapidly began to expand our production facilities to cater for the demand for the baits. The results in the baits were exciting and it only confirmed that our attention to detail and being able to obtain ingredients direct from the source was making a big difference, freshness was key. We realised when a distributor to the angling trade in Denmark approached us to supply our bait to the Danish angling shops, that the time had come to turn the hobby that had got out of hand, into a proper registered bait company, which we did here in Norway. We obtained an industrial unit near my home which we kitted out with a lot of machinery, some off the shelf, but a lot of it I made myself using my contacts and my own workers in my other business that develops and manufactures industrial machines for many big automated plants around this part of the world.

Very quickly we needed to make our production facility even bigger, as it organically grew faster than we had anticipated. So we obtained more machinery that was bigger and faster. Around this time, we decided to explore the possibilities of entering the World Carp Classic, we had followed this competition over the many years of its existence with great interest and fancied getting involved. I met Ross through a mutual friend and we became friends, and I had no hesitation in entering the competition and decided

to sponsor a section, it was a wonderful experience and has truly become the highlight of the year for me. I have met so many good friends while doing the WCC it warms my heart to think of it, there seems to be no negativity about this competition and is a true gathering of friendly, like minded people really enjoying the occasion and soaking up the unique atmosphere it creates. I even offered my services at the prematch party as a DJ as my other great passion in life is music! Ross quickly accepted this and I think the anglers had a good time. This great party sets the scene for the theme of the WCC and friendships made and renewed each year. The camaraderie and friendships made at the WCC are priceless. Ross had me perform my DJ thing at the World Predator Classic in Holland at its inaugural event, with the proviso that proceedings must stop at 1:00 am to avoid a repeat of the Bolsena carnage, he must have liked it though as I also had a return to DJ-ing duties at Bolsena in 2014.

The passion we have at Northern baits and relentless search for making the perfect bait, shows. We recently had to relocate to a new, custom built factory six times bigger than the old one in Norway. We now supply bait to Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Hungary, Italy, Germany, and have recently started in Holland, France and the UK, with much interest elsewhere. We have some very interesting new products and innovative things in the pipeline for the near future that we know you are going to love, so watch this space and remember carp fishing is not all about only catching big fish it’s a common passion and bond we anglers all share, it’s about friendships, good times and happy memories, we wish you all of these things and hope you all have a great, memorable time at this year’s event at Madine. See you there! n HENRIK HANSEN

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The shops and public here in Scandinavia really liked the baits and products, so things quickly progressed. At first, the three of us that started the company, would make bait in the evenings and late into the night after we had finished our day jobs, then it grew to every evening and all weekend, we found it began to swallow our lives completely, especially as the word about the bait had spread and we were now supplying anglers in Germany and Sweden and beyond.

At first, the three of us would make bait in the evenings and late into the night after we had finished our day jobs, then it grew to every evening and all weekend

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‘‘

It is the 6th August 2014 and we are watching a stunning moment in carp fishing history. It is the first ever time a carp take is witnessed in front of an underwater camera and sent live streamed to the internet.

We are at the Lago di Bolsena in Italy, and that first carp is an amazing 23 Kg common carp caught at the World Carp Classic Livestream Event and it is one of the biggest carp caught from the lake. This was definitely a breathtaking moment for all participants and also entertained thousands of screen users from 46 different countries. Everybody was fascinated by the images and how everything works, it is only possible by using the right technology from Carpspot that is positioned in exactly the right place. The whole event was made possible by using the Carpspot Spotcam Digital underwater camera placed at different spots. That was one year ago, their technology is now on the market, displayed at all the big fishing shows and is now sold all over Europe. Systems are now in place in Russia, Netherlands, France, Spain, Germany etc. and also at major brands of the carp fishing industry. At last year’s World Carp Classic, the underwater camera enabled the only underwater camera using team of Mario Gijbels and Bob Cuyvers to get into thetop 10 teams at the WCC 2014 fishing an unfancied peg. In this year’s World Carp Classic, the underwater camera technology will be used by three Carpspot supported teams at Lac de Madine. Carpspot will equip all three teams with underwater camera technology to get an insight into what happens underwater and to react to the pictures in realtime, through live transmitted images by wireless signal. These recorded images, with hopefully a lot of carp, can also be seen during the competition

it’s like fishing with six rods at any one time! .. two rods at your favourite locations and the you can check out four more locations with four underwater cameras

INTO THE DEEP

Sebastian Heinz, Director of Carpspot, tells us all about a groundbreaking event: the first ever live streamed underwater take resulting in a huge 23Kg common carp at the WCC Livestream Event. Happy days!

through the media channels of the WCC, so fans at home can enjoy the ups and downs of the competitors. After last year’s livestream event, we improved the cameras again and we have now got a perfect working underwater camera system ready for this year’s World Carp Classic 2015 event in the middle of September. Along with daylight recording and transmitting, it is now also possible to get live transmitted images at night through infrared cameras integrated in the normal camera. An innovative Carp Pad

was also developed as a very light and easy to hand-held receiver unit. Additionally, we have undertaken some incremental development in all of the technical components that has enabled the system to run continuously for over 60 hours. This is very important if you are fishing at distance and you don’t want to change batteries every day. Take your chance and have a look at the underwater cameras on our booth in before the competition, we’ll be next to the registration. The starter set consists of a portable receiver unit with one screen and one sender unit with marker pole, batteries, underwater housing and aerial, but expandable to up to four cameras with one receiver unit. The starter set costs from at €1398, but it is not made in China as some may expect.

SEBASTIAN HEINZ

CARPSPOT UNDERWATER CAMERAS

time more efficiently, by getting more insights about carp behaviour and reactions in realtime. Using the system is like fishing with six rods at any one time! You can use your two rods at your favourite locations and beside you can check at four more locations with four underwater cameras, you can see if fish are there, when they pass through and if they feed at those locations. It is now up to you if you want to use your limited time more efficiently and get more carp in less time through underwater camera technology solutions. n SEBASTIAN HEINZ DIRECTOR OF CARPSPOT

‘‘

The whole system is built in our factory in Germany. Every single cable is connected by us and consequently guarantees the highest quality you can expect. It is simply ‘Made in Germany’. The sytems are built on customers’ demand. That means that every system will be produced after we get the order and have a clear and honest consultation with the customer. At Carpspot, customer satisfaction is everything, it’s our target and we do not only talk about it, we deliver it. Ask Ross Honey or any of our customers and they will support that statement, without a doubt. Technology is part of all of our lives and fishing time is always limited. Hence, the increased use of advanced technology in carp fishing seems obvious. Underwater cameras supports anglers by using their

2016 ... THE SECRET’S OUT!

THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA FOR THE WCC

Jakub Czech’s it out.. some words into here please for Jakub checking out the lake and Ross above thanks!

WORLD CARP CLASSIC 2016 MOVES

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We are delighted to announce that the 2016 World Carp Classic will be staged on the amazing lake Musov in the Cz Republic.

The lake is conveniently located close to the boarders of Poland, Slovakia, Austria Hungary and Germany in central Europe and is the perfect venue for the event. There is a fantastic infrastructure including a central location for the event registration, and grand opening / closing ceremonies. As for the fishing the lake has a very high stock of big carp and is considered to be the best carp lake in the CZ Republic.

Importantly the World Carp Classic 2016 has the full backing and endorsement of the Cz Republic Government and fishing Federation

About Lake Musov.. The Novomlýnská vodní nádrž is a water dam and the fourth largest dam in the Czech Republic. The area of the dam is more than 1,600 ha and therefore, it is the largest water area in Moravia. It lies in the heart of Southern Moravia between Brno, the capital of Moravia, and B€eclav. It is a part of 3-dam complex with a maximum depth of 8 meters. lying on the Dyje

River, which flows through Moravia into the Danube and subsequently into the Black Sea. Throughout the season, a huge number of carp with many weighing more than 20 kilograms. This lake is totally different to Lac de Madine and lake Bolsena as part of the area that will be used is on the top of the dam wall which is certain to be challenging for anglers. We are really looking forward to working with Jakub Vagner and the team to make the 2016 World Carp Classic an amazing experience for everybody competing and involved in the event.

the lake has a very high stock of big carp and is considered to be the best carp lake in the CZ Republic

TO THE INCREDIBLE LAKE MUSOV

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The World Predator Classic in only two years has established itself as the premier predator tournament in Europe.

The Ryder Cup, as many of you will know, is the biggest event in golf in the World, there is nothing like it in angling until now

From the outset, I wanted to establish a high profile event that would capture the imagination of predator anglers worldwide: that all started with a simple idea. The idea developed and grew and a plan was put together. We are now three years into the plan and already the word is out that The World Predator Classic is a really special event, one that stands out from others. With three target fish, participating countries from all over the world, a genuinely fantastic prize table, a superb venue steeped in tradition and history going back hundreds of years, great event partners, tremendous participants and giant fish. These are just some of the elements that have been required and delivered. Having established the event, our next step is to develop our three year plan with the introduction of an international qualifying event structure. So that is the base plan…but that is not all. That is only one part of the vision that I have for the World Predator Classic. In fact that is just the start, and this is where it gets really exciting: it is my intention that the winners of The overall World Predator Classic and several event winning categories will form a ‘European and Rest of the

World’ Team to compete against the USA in what will be the equivalent of the ‘Ryder Cup’ in golf, but for angling. The Ryder Cup, as many of you will know, is the biggest event in golf in the World, there is nothing like it in angling - until now. So, in July this year, I travelled to the USA to meet with companies and partners to structure the USA side of the tournament, with the intention of staging the first event in 2017. The USA team will arrive in Amsterdam there

Dreams do come true .. 2015 Champions, Luc Coppins and Jeremy Staverman, with their prize boat and trophy

After the success of the World Carp Classic, Ross has established

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RIGHT FO

WORLD PREDATOR CLASSIC

ROSSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S VISIONS FOR THE FUTURE

will be the red carpet waiting for them, a band playing and they will the be taken by limousine to Hellevoetsluis where the will meet the European team and a big civic reception will await them. This is another level of competition, competitors will have to win their place in the team, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to buy your way in. Teams will comprise of 14 anglers and a nonfishing team captain. This event is all about pride and honour. Each team will have their

boats identically rigged and wrapped and they will look fantastic. The event will involve various combinations of anglers and boats competing. Team orders and tactics will be decided by the team captains who will have their own control centre from which they will be in direct control of their team. Each team captain will be able to see, in real time, exactly where all of the competing boats are and what and where they are catching fish.

As you can see, this is going to be highly entertaining to watch with a massive amount of rivalry between the teams. This category of the event will be a tremendous international showcase for exciting best practice, catch and release angling and I am working with my team every spare minute to ensure that this vision becomes a reality.

ROSS HONEY Tournament Founder

shed another World Championship event for Predator Angling

ORMULA

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EFTTA PRESIDEnT JEAn CLAUDE BEL FISHING IN THE RIGHT ANGLING SPIRIT

Limit your catch and never catch your limit For 17 years, Ross and his Team of Angling Spirit have been organizing major events in the world of recreational fishing, primarily the World Carp Classic, then the World Catfish Classic, and these last two years the tremendously exciting World Predator Classic. Year after year, these events have grown to finally become the most important international events of the sector, bringing the very best anglers from all over the world, who are not only attracted by the prizes, but are also eager and proud to compete together for their sponsors, their teams and their countries in such major events. These events, and especially the World Carp Classic have brought the loyal support of prestigious sponsors, conscious that being there and supporting these events is a massive benefit to the brands in terms of image, quality and engagement, in exactly the same way that the major brands supporting other events like tennis, formula one etc., will benefit. If the same sponsors are there, year after year, even in tough economic times, it is certainly because they see the benefit for their companies and the whole

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industry, even in our small world of Angling. Not only that, they support it because it is organized in such a professional and sustainable way, year after year for every one of its 17 years. But, it is not only a way to promote and showcase new products in the really tough conditions imposed by the competition, where, even if chance exists (without it fishing would not have the same excitement), there is no room for mistakes in strategy, tackle and baits. It is only possible to win with talent forged by experience, only the best ones have a chance there.) It is also a major way to promote the whole industry by spreading information, images and dreams through all possible media outlets with a huge emphasis on social media. What is good for the angling community is good for the angling industry and the employment, it helps the trade to go forward, being constructive, innovative and imaginative in terms of products and of course, where Angling Spirit place major emphasis, that of ethical fishing and care for the environment. Events like the WCC are not only good for industry or anglers, but also the medium or small cities where they take place because they have a big economic impact on local economy, it can be better over €1.5 million, which can be incredibly important for those communities. This year the

competition returns to la belle France and its spiritual home, Lac Madine. This venue has had major investment in its infrastructure, making it a state of the art destination for anglers and many other leisure markets. This investment will be handsomely returned as the World Carp Classic circus rolls into town. Fun can be business, and business can also be good for environment … We keep claiming that anglers are also watch dogs of environment, but a lots of education is still necessary to achieve that result, and, the voice of the top anglers attending the World Carp Classic are a great help, by spreading the right messages to help us, industry associations and anglers’ international associations to change the mentalities of the non-angling public. They should not only be seen as examples as anglers, but also as representatives for the community and future of ethical and environmentally beneficial angling. This year, I have seen a fantastic new event emerge in the Czech Republic, that of the World carp Clasic Junior 2015. This is a major step forward for the life and growth of competitive carp angling, not only in Europe, but internationally. Investing heavily in the event, and not forgetting the brilliant charity work and money it has raised, this event is set to become another world class event and doorway for the youth of the carp world into the adult and tough market of competitive carp angling tournaments. I am not personally, as a multi techniques, low average angler an unconditional convert to ‘catch and release’, I also like to cook my catch and share just the necessary with friends and family. Of course, in all ethical angling competitions it should be catch and release, with no exceptions, which, sadly, is not always the case, particularly in salt water and trout fishing, maybe this is where Angling Spirit can go next, who knows? Banning of mouth destructive fish grips should be considered along with minimum size increases to maintain the fish stocks for the future, even if the biggest damage is not done by the recreational anglers. Most of them are very respectful on environment, particularly amongst the growing population of young fishermen, we really hope that they will change the bad habits and the mentalities of the older generation, particularly is some countries I cannot mention here.