The inaugural Muckno Mania coarse angling competition got under way today 1st July on Lough Muckno, Castleblayney in Co. Monaghan. The first day of this 5 day event was fished today Monday over four sections at White Island and Black Island & Yellow Island. Fishing conditions were ideal or a bit too good if anything, a mild warm day with clear water and a light breeze. The field of competitors included the cream on Irish and UK coarse angling amongst whom were top UK anglers Rob Wooten and Mark Pollard and World Pairs Champions, Cathal Hughes and Philip Jackson. A host of other well know anglers are also competing for this prestigious title. Pole and feeder were the methods of choice and tactics, as usual, were a closely guarded secret. Despite the conditions, great catches were still recorded at all locations. Catches consisted of quality bream to 6lbs, hybrids, skimmers and a good stamp of roach as well.
Dave Slater had the top weight of the day on Black/Yellow Island with 28.990kg narrowly beating Jim McAlastair with 28.090kg and Kevin Norcliff with 26.680kg.
Top UK angler Mark Pollard took his section on Black/Yellow Island with 23.300kg and other impressive weights included 18.860kg by Dick Caplice, Carrickmacross and 18.420kg by Rory O’Neill, Newry. Shamie Winters took his section with 11.500kg.
On White Island Philip Jackson took his section with a lovely net of 15.110kg followed by Darren Firhurst with 14.670kg and Rob Wooten with 13.100kg. Rob tweeted this evening that he never fished a nicer place.
Fishing is sure to improve as the bait goes in over the coming days and competing anglers are sure to experience some more of that Muckno magic.