Tony Gibson (Specialist)

13 April, 2017 | Carp | Match & Coarse | Anglers

6 Comments

I received my first rod as a present when I was 7 years old.. and have never looked back! Since an early age I became interested in trying to catch larger than average specimens and the “buzz” I get from catching the big ‘uns never seems to diminish; in fact I think I’m as nuts about my fishing now as I’ve ever been! 

 

Name: Tony Gibson

Hometown: Northampton

Occupation: Semi-retired IT Project/Programme Manager. Angling consultant and writer.

Age: 55

UK PB Common: 50.02

UK PB Mirror: 43.10

Other UK PB’s: Barbel 20.06, Bream 18.07, Catfish (Wels) 109lb 8oz, Chub 7.13, Crucian Carp 4.01, Dace 0.14, Eel 6.14, Grass Carp 40.12, Grayling 2.14, Perch 5.01, Pike 30.14, Roach 3.06, Rudd 4.01½, Tench 11.05, Zander 10.10½, Sturgeon 142lb

Favourite boilies: For many years The Source has always been my “go to” boilie. However, the consistent results I’ve been getting on the Complex-T may mean I develop a new favourite in the near future.

Most used rigs: As I fish for virtually all the different coarse fish species, I enjoy the need to alter my rigs and tactics on a regular basis to suit the species and conditions.

Venues fished: Many and varied, but some of the better known venues would include Sywell reservoir, Elstow pits, The Cons, Burghfield, Gt. Ouse, Nene, Bawburgh pits, Fen Drayton, Ferry Lagoon and Bluebell Lakes

Favourite venue: It would be difficult to pick a favourite, but the challenge of the large, low-stocked gravel pits keeps dragging me back to these types of venues again and again.

Most memorable trip: I’m fortunate to be able to say that my angling has helped to provide a lifetime of amazing memories, though obviously the two times I’ve caught UK record barbel are right up there amongst the most unforgettable fishing trips ever.

Highlight of angling career: Catching some of my PB’s naturally rate as some of my personal angling highlights. However, being the first specimen angler to be awarded both the Drennan Cup and the Fox Cup in the same period, especially as the Drennan Cup is voted on by fellow anglers, must rate as one of the top highlights.

Fish you would most like to catch: If I continue to beat the odd PB every once in a while, whatever the species, then I’ll be a very happy angler.

Aim in angling: I’ve been involved with the Predation Action Group (PAG) since its formation, as I am very aware of the threat that otters and other predators can pose to our precious fish stocks. I want to continue to bring about awareness of the issues and to help to change and clarify the laws around protecting all types of fisheries to ensure we have quality fishing available to everyone in the future.

Top carp fishing tip: Decide on what you really want to catch and ensure that you’re fishing venues that can realistically provide what it is that you’re after.. and most importantly enjoy it all whatever you’re fishing for.

Read Tony’s latest article here