Young angler Luke Kearns, from Meath, had his best day’s fishing yet last weekend as he managed to catch his very first double figure pike. Fourteen year old Luke had been out fishing on a number of occasions with his friend, Shane, but all he had managed so far was a couple of jack pike from the lakes and mixed coarse fish from the canals.
This time, while staying close to the River Shannon for a couple of days, Luke was determined to land a better pike. On day one, Luke and his mates fished for roach, rudd and perch, landing plenty. While reeling in one roach, a good pike engulfed it and Luke had it hooked for a good 10 minutes before the fish bit through the line. Gutted, he kept at it and a couple of hours later, the same thing happened – only this time, after a nerve wracking fight on a light match rod, Luke landed it – a fine fish of 8lbs or so.
On the morning of day two, Luke totally had the pike bug and he fished hard with lures and wobbled deadbaits. Just before midday, a good pike smashed the wobbled roach and, after a thrilling fight, the guys netted a super 10.25lb pike – Luke’s best fish yet. For Luke, perseverance and determination paid off and we’re sure there will be many quality fish landed by him in the future!
