In a remarkable feat that has captured the attention of anglers across the UK, Steve Ricketts, a dedicated species enthusiast, landed an astonishing 11lb 3oz eel, setting a new British record. This achievement breaks the nation’s longest-standing record for a coarse species and represents a lifetime of dedication and perseverance.
Steve’s record-breaking eel was caught in a southern gravel pit, a location he turned to after his usual fishing spots in the Colne Valley were disrupted by the construction of the HS2 railway. Despite the change in venue, Steve continued to pursue his passion with unrelenting enthusiasm, leading to the capture of this extraordinary eel.
A Serendipitous Capture
What makes Steve’s accomplishment even more impressive is the unconventional bait he used to lure the giant eel—16mm halibut pellets, more commonly associated with carp fishing. This choice of bait was born out of necessity and experimentation, as Steve found that traditional eel baits like deadbaits and worms often attracted smaller, “bootlace” eels, while the larger specimens seemed more interested in pellets.
Over several trips to the gravel pit, Steve had already enjoyed success, landing eels weighing over 5lb on every visit. On this particular session, he had already caught two four-pounders and a six-pounder before the record-breaking eel took his bait just after 7:30 PM.
The Fight and the Realization
Initially, the eel’s fight was unremarkable, leading Steve to believe it wasn’t particularly large. However, as he reeled in the fish and saw it surface, he was struck with disbelief. The eel was so long that even with its head at the spreader block of his three-foot-arm net, a significant portion of its body was still hanging out the back.
After carefully folding the eel into his net, Steve weighed it using his digital scales, which initially showed a weight of 11lb 5oz. Doubting the accuracy, he rechecked the weight using his Salter match scales, which confirmed the final weight of 11lb 3oz. Realizing the significance of his catch, Steve immediately contacted witnesses, including Tony Kellner, the National Anguilla Club Records Officer, to verify the record.
Defying Expectations
Steve’s achievement has sparked discussion among anglers about the factors that contributed to the eel’s impressive size. Theories have circulated regarding the fish’s age, with some speculating it could be over 100 years old. However, Steve believes this is unlikely, given that the gravel pit is only 40 years old. Instead, he attributes the eel’s size to its unique diet, speculating that it grew large by consuming the pellets left by carp anglers over the years.
This capture challenges long-held beliefs about eel habitats and growth patterns. Traditionally, it was thought that large eels only thrive in low-stock venues, where they have limited competition for food. However, Steve’s experience at this well-stocked gravel pit suggests that eels can also reach impressive sizes in more populated waters, provided they have access to a plentiful food source.
The Gear and Technique Behind the Record
Steve’s setup for catching the eel was meticulously planned. He used a six-inch hooklink made of 45lb Quicksilver, coupled with a 30lb braided mainline and a 3.5oz lead on a running rig. This rig is designed to ensure that the bait remains stationary, allowing any taking fish to hook itself against the reel. Steve explained that this setup is highly effective for eels, with 95% of his catches being hooked in the bottom lip, which reduces the chances of the fish escaping.
A Lifelong Dream Fulfilled
For Steve Ricketts, the capture of this record-breaking eel is the realization of a lifelong ambition. It marks the culmination of years spent fishing in challenging waters, often in secret locations, in search of such a prize. The unexpected success at a venue with grassy banks and easy access contrasts with the grueling environments he has previously fished, highlighting the unpredictable nature of angling.
This extraordinary catch not only sets a new standard for eel fishing in the UK but also serves as a testament to the skill, patience, and adaptability required to succeed in the sport. As Steve basks in the glory of his achievement, his story will undoubtedly inspire countless other anglers to pursue their own dreams of landing record-breaking fish.
Image/Source: anglingtimes
