What special tools are required for match fishing

For example do all anglers need a measuring stick, permanant marker pen etc etc

Seriously i need to no what i need before i turn up looking like a complete novice.

Possibly the most important part of fishing a competition would be a plan of attack. As I said in an earlier post, consider what’s to be caught and fish for them. Last April’s local beach comp was won with three rays at a total weight of 10.140k – however, the winner was the only competitor to catch them and the second winning weight fell to 1.260k of odds. It takes a brave man to gamble all on specimen hunt, nevertheless, it paid off on that match.

Make sure you have enough rigs ready and bait prepared for the occasion. When the fishing gets going, speed can sometimes make a big difference to the end result. Making up tackles in the middle of a comp takes up time and concentration; and a match can be lost by a few grams; or a missed fish. An available spare rod and reel to hand if the one you are using blows up, instead of taking 10 minutes to unpick a birdie … again the speed side of it comes into force.

As for tackle … depends on the weather and species you target. Makes sure you have breakaways as well as fixed wire leads. Hook sizes are normally on the small size for snatching (I have been using size 6s for the last couple of months). Naturally a measure stick is essential and knowledge of the sizelimits. A filled bucket to keep your fish in not only limits shrinkage but also allows you to return the fish alive (after weighing in) if you so want to. Knowledge of the rules is essential. Most comps are fished under old NFSA rules which I’m sure can be found on the net. The larger comps, normally issue their version on paper before the event; and it is worth reading them thoroughly … to save embarrassment.

It takes a while to get in the swing of things and an early place or even a win helps. The main thing is to get enjoyment out of it and try and hone up your skills at catching what’s out there – instead of hoping to catch the mythical fish. Saying all that, luck can and will play its part.

Try it; if it’s not for you – fair enough … at least you might have contributed to Davefish’s pay day … most of us have.

Stix wrote:For example do all anglers need a measuring stick, permanant marker pen etc etc

Cellocant -you beat me with your reply by seconds, yours is much more comprehensive than mine but as mine was typed I am posting anway.

Depends on the type of competition but generally its just your normal gear. Yes a measuring stick is required but I have been known to forget mine and you can usually find a nearby angler who has one. If its a catch and release comp you will be provided with a scorecard and a pen is therefore helpful although again you can usualy borrow one. If its not catch and release I find it helpful to take a big bucket or two to keep alive unwanted fish like dogs, ling etc which can then be returned after being weighed.
I would anticipate most regular anglers have everything needed to fish a competition.

My main advise to someone trying match/competition fishing for the first time is to check with the organiser when booking in or in advance,the size limits, any bait restictions, the fishing times and how long to get to the scales, fishing limits and any variances to the the standard NFSA/Angling trust rules.

Davefish

Thanks for the replies chaps, i guess it will all come as time goes on, and you mentioned speed so that's me out before i get going
I have taken it all on board, and some homework needs to be done.

Looking forward to it.