How To Start Match Fishing | First EVER Match - What to expect!

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/ @winningways
Fishing your first match can be a bit daunting, Andy and Jamie talk you through a typical match and any rules you might need to know!

[@berkshiregolfer]

I wish I had this info before my first match! I was an out and out specimen carp angler and I was on holiday at Whiteacres, I was surrounded by the pole brigade and I wandered down to Twin Oaks for the Gold Match on the Monday, I found myself walking up and down following what was going on and ended up sitting behind a very good match angler who invited me to stay. I watched them all weigh in and afterwards he offered me a go in the margins with the pole, I WAS HOOKED! I entered the Bronze match on the Wednesday and I kid you not I walked up to the draw carrying a chair, a rod, a small rucksack, landing net and two keepnets that I borrowed off the lodge next door! I looked a right state! We were fishing the low numbers on Twin Oaks and I pulled out peg 10. Clint from Whiteacres took me to one side and told me I had drawn a good peg and asked me what my plan was? I shrugged my shoulders and he pulled me in the shop and said 'take some of that, use some of this, cast this right across and use this down the edge but only with 60 mins to go.' I left with a bag full of bait and feeders, ready made margin pole rigs etc. I set up the method feeder but only after I had plumbed up the margin line and the taken off the pole rig and laid it out on the bank behind me! I started chucking a feeder across and got a bite in seconds, a small F1, I carried on catching across on the feeder for 3 hours and then it died. With two hours left I fed my margin and sat back and ate my sandwiches! No rod in the water or anything, I fed purely corn down the edge and with 90 mins to go the tail patterns started. I took Clint's advice literally and counted down to the final hour, I looped my pole rig onto my feeder rod line and dropped it in, the float danced, bobbed and flew under! I caught a 10lb'er with minutes to go and then someone told me it was all over! I weighted in 84lb for second in the match and £30 in my pocket!! The lads doing the weight in could not believe it when I pulled out two bulging keepnets! I went straight to the shop and told Clint, he laughed his head and was made up for me. Before I went home I maxed out the credit card on a margin pole and a seatbox, I have been back many times and always make a point of finding Clint for a chat, just goes to show you don't need the latest gear to match fish. Keep up the good work guys, love your channel.

[@leebuck8139]

I know this is an old video lads but I want to start match fishing and found this so helpful, cheers guys

[@chrismarshall3225]

Couldn’t have come at a better time for me this video..booked on my 1st commercial match on Sunday at Partridges 🙈🙈

[@WinningWays]

Good luck 😁

[@chrisoldman6674]

Have no intention of match fishing but just watched it anyway! Recently back into fishing and these two are a credit to the sport

[@alexclarke7270]

A really helpful video. For somebody who would like to try (for the first time) fishing a match in the near future this has really eased my mind. Thanks a lot!

[@andreim841]

I went to my first match 2 months ago and I knew I was going to get destroyed, so my target was not to blank and to not finish last...after the two sessions I achieved my goal. For the next one in September, my goal is to finish in the top half 😊

[@WinningWays]

As long as you are enjoying it and improving each time then it's a great result :)

[@brianwelbourne9896]

Watch what others are doing during the match, after the match ask about bait, depth, rigs etc, and anything else what could help in the next one. Try to stick to a few same venues and also go for a practice before the match. I am no miracle man but have learned a huge amount through match fishing and it also gives me confidence when I go for a days pleasure fishing. Good luck for the future.

[@davewilkins9981]

Fantastic video ! Thanks very much for the advice and info . I hope to fish my first match this year so much appreciated !

[@pughton]

Thanks guys, really helpful!

[@simmo0916]

Good Timing and great info as per. I'm fishing my first match in October - The Browning Warhorse Match. Fishing with a 20 year old pole will be interesting :D Suprised it's still in working order!

[@JohnSmith-fw5mk]

Great video guys Joined a fishing club two years ago and most of them were ok but you have one or two that don't speak and when I asked about how they fished they wouldn't give you any advice. First season I was blanking on a few venues and finished bottom of the league So over the winter i started to watch videos of Jamie and Andy and and then fished last seasons league and what a improvement in my fishing i even came first on one occasion and boy was i beaming

[@garywilliams9147]

I'm still scouting pegs never mind trying to get paid for it. Love the vids guys. Getting back into fishing after 16 years off. Still a young lad

[@cwp0]

Great advice

[@aaronsanglingchanel1913]

Iv booked my self on the daiwa 2021 feeder comp up on rivington in Lancashire 5 rounds and then two days for the finals 1,500 for 1st Iv jumped stright in with the big boys . I have done open matches before but stepped my self up this year 😁 good video lads

[@Pbmgm]

Entered my first match yesterday at Lindholme Lakes, thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Got myself in a proper flap about it on Wednesday but shouldn't have. Wish I'd done it sooner but glad the first one is out of the way. Onwards & upwards!

[@WinningWays]

Think everyone does that first time - mega venue too, so much variety 👍🏻

[@elliotpan90]

My favourite venue that I have fished so far I love bonsai but it has a lake for every style of match fishing I just love it

[@michaelgray1351]

Thanks guys, I'm one of those I've never fished a match before and going to a venue soon for a holiday that do matches so now at least I know what to expect. Thanks Winning Ways top fishing and tips, your my virtual coaches 👍🎣🍻🍻

[@WinningWays]

Michael Gray good luck 😉

[@michaelgray1351]

@@WinningWays thanks will let you know how I get on👍

[@Esoxluciouss11]

Andy MAY U ARE A LEGEND,

[@JeffOrtega33]

Nice one gents 🌟

[@tomonewton]

After drawing next to the great Jamie at Decoy on Tuesday, could you do a video on pegging for match organisers! it was a pleasure being battered! :P

[@scottessery100]

what did you weigh in tom?

[@tomonewton]

@@scottessery100 145lb Jamie had 188lb 🤣🤣🤣

[@stephenpyner4156]

What a good insight into how matches work, I've always wanted to try fishing a match but due to ill health the last 18 months and the Corona I haven't had the chance but will definitely try once I'm in better health

[@WinningWays]

Let us know how you get on 👍🏻

[@stephenpyner4156]

@@WinningWays will do, I will probably try at my local fishery which holds 2 matches a week normally

[@pedrobandino5391]

Really good advice as always, will probably go the club match way to put my toes in the water, just a shame my area is mainly the Hampshire Avon and Dorset Stour. Keep the videos coming

[@WinningWays]

Have a chat at a few local shops and I’m sure they will point you in the right direction if you’re not sure 👍🏻

[@paulcarpenter2670]

Fishing my first match this coming Sunday ! Not expecting anything just don't wanna blank and have a look about maybe learn a few things 🎣

[@WinningWays]

Good luck!

[@trkarting9660]

Great video guys, Not fished a match since in 7 years been looking at getting back into it after I've got on the bank a few more times! only 24 so hopefully the anglers are friendly like they we're when i was 17.

[@WinningWays]

There’s always a few who won’t be mega friendly, same as any walk of like. But on the whole most match anglers are a decent bunch 👍🏻😁

[@trkarting9660]

@@WinningWays keep up the great content guys!

[@gregbiddle670]

I fish club matches every Saturday, but as yet I have never fished an open. One day soon, hopefully put that right.

[@jhocktro]

Great video guys! I have only just started fishing open matches and it can be quite intimidating at first.

[@elliotpan90]

The club I fish with has a bronze, silver and gold peg So after the draw three pegs are drawn out and it goes from £100 for golden, £50 for silver and £25 for bronze which I think is good and it all depends on how much bo bo is in the pot as to how many pegs we have i mean we could hav 1 gold 1 silver and 2 bronze or we could just have a gold or a gold and silver etc.

[@mickplatt9373]

I agree on club fishing first :P as it helped me to get back into fishing after a few years of :), good banter to also it gets you used to the set up and managing your set up time. P.s Don't forget the banter after the match to lmao.

[@peterarmett6973]

Good video guys. Do you need to put carp in a separate net or everything together?

[@WinningWays]

peter armett it varies so just check fishery rules on the day, some will want you to, others won’t.

[@pedrobandino5391]

HI, What does the not standing on box mean, I have seen that on some rule lists

[@chrisallen7956]

Are there many people who fish matches using a rod with a float, or is it usually just for feeders?.

[@stevetowell6797]

Fished my first match in 30 years ... jeez very serious Match angling is hard work on them commercials The lads either side never stopped all match slapping on the pole and feeding . A lot of practise needed haha . But loved it !

[@stevehansler9014]

Most places don't allow keepnets in until 15 mins before the start of the match

[@chriscooper2596]

Hi guys thanks for that, can I ask a question what about islands in front of you , whats the general rule can anybody!, within reason, cast to it or only you if its directly in front ...?.

[@xIProGamerZz92]

My first match i drew worst peg on the Reservoir plodded home with about 14lb after being told I wouldn't catch but we can't all be as good at drawing like Jamie 😉

[@joefarley1047]

Being a young angler wanting to get into club matches soon, this video has really helped! Thanks a lot Jamie, Andy and Rich!

[@WinningWays]

Get on it! You’ll love it 😁

[@jw_7782]

Had my last match last winter it was a charity match and I was the youngest there at 14 and I thought I was going to be smashed up but smashed it and came second 👌👌🎣

[@jw_7782]

*first

[@NAKFishing]

Hey guys - how would you go about mixing your ground bait with the rule about not breaking the water. Would you pre mix it at home or wait until the all in before adding the water to it.

[@WinningWays]

Using a bait box or something to get water should be fine 👍🏻

[@lenwhite8662]

I’m getting back into match fishing I use to do a lot back in the day of Ivan marks and Ian heaps on the Thames etc Silvers matches what fish can you catch on a silver match I’m a bit confused as obviously , roach , bream , skimmers etc but some have said crucians and not sure if there pulling my leg, so basically what can I catch in a silvers match

[@WinningWays]

Depends on the event/venue, some include crucians, some even include F1's, some don't. Just check before you start... If you're not sure, put it in your net and check before you weigh in.

[@stephengrange5300]

do you only fish commercials or do you fish deep pits 20 or so feet if so what rigs would you use with 15 mph wind , oh by the way i really like your videos

[@alandavies3727]

What happens if you go over your net fish limit? Is the whole net disqualified or do they just take off what’s over?

[@paulslatcher6836]

Just one question on your nets what size do you use on commercial i pleasure fish and have two 4m nets one for carp and one for silvers this also gives plenty of room for fish welfare.

[@WinningWays]

Most are 2.5-3m now. Just to make things easier when carrying multiple nets. More than enough space for 50lb or so which most fisheries limit to.

[@paulslatcher6836]

@@WinningWays Cheers guys and makes sense, keep up the great work and vids.

[@johnemerson2k10]

Sounds daft but is there any point in trying with a rod if you haven't a pole?

[@shaunbond5880]

Would be nice 2 see you three down at birch house met rich there about a month ago on an open match

[@craigturnbull7053]

Maybe a silly question but are there matches for beginners / less experienced match anglers?

[@WinningWays]

That’s where club matches come into it, generally a nice mix of abilities and a bit more sociable than opens.

[@eddyowen8160]

I'm not a fan of venues that want silvers and carp split then chuck them all in for weighing at the end. Cant see the point, what's the reason for splitting?

[@WinningWays]

To minimise damage to silvers, which are generally smaller and more delicate, weighing them with a load of big wobbly carp won't do them any favours. But it does sort of defeat the object if they then weigh them together!

[@Dansfishingvlog]

How can you get into this on a budget I have a old box with no footplate how can I attach my keepnets to my box. I'm trying to fish the open matches at Partridge

[@WinningWays]

There’s all sorts of arms and attachments, if you have a chat with your local shop they’ll be able to find you something suitable for your box. Leigh Tackle won’t be far from Partridge, they’d be worth a visit 💪🏻

[@tonysykes2221]

are there restrictions to how many hooks are allowed per rig

[@WinningWays]

Tony Sykes just one in 99% of cases. Only some natural waters might allow multiple but it’s rare

[@joecollins6186]

The most important thing in a match is do your best and concentrate on beating the person's to your left and right, that's all you can do... If you pick up some wonga then great!

[@HoundSharkFishing]

Channel logo looks like the mainline logo

[@littlehero7998]

am i able to fish from a chair rather than a seatbox provided i have keepnets attached?

[@WinningWays]

Little Hero Yes that’s fine, most people just use seatboxes as it makes fishing the pole easier with all the attachments. But it’s not a rule or anything 👍🏻

[@littlehero7998]

@@WinningWays thanks for the quick reply im relatively new, only been fishing about 1.5 years and i use a chair with a back and padding due to back problems. Any recommendations on things i can attach the nets to my chair with TIA

[@WinningWays]

Sure Korum used to do a universal clamp system for accessories. Get down to your local shop and I’m sure they’ll be able to sort you something out 👍🏻

[@davechisholm6313]

What happens if there is a 50lb per net and I have filled all 3 too the limit with 2 hours to fish?

[@WinningWays]

Just get another net. Obviously take enough with you for the expected weights at each venue 👍🏻

[@bluebois97]

should of mentioned dipping and drying out nets till just before the all in just a thought for anyone just beginning

[@WinningWays]

Good point, again venue dependant on specific rules but always a good habit to get into, laying nets out to dry before putting them in the lake to kill any bacteria or diseases you may have on them from other venues.

[@michaelianson592]

Joining clubs in Nottinghamshire is dead mans shows at the moment. Midland Angling aren't accepting anyone and I am 1678 on Ashfield Districts waiting list! I can't seem to find open lists to fish matches that don't require club membership.

[@SteeeveO]

I think the last match I fished I was using a swing tip, arlesey bomb & anatto maggots....... I still think I'd do ok though, but find the current scene too complex - analogue guy in a digital world.

[@samcrawley8690]

What if the limit is 50lb per net you have 3 nets and you have a blinding day and catch more than 150lb with say a hour to go... What's the process there

[@baldnutbaz]

Sam Crawley stick another net in.

[@michaelgray1351]

@@baldnutbaz But if you only own 3 nets then what do you do?

[@WinningWays]

Either see if you can borrow one off another angler, or have a word with the fishery owner, they might have spares available to use. Worst case scenario would be stopping fishing, but hopefully you'll have already won by then :D

[@scottessery100]

what if you accidentily put 55lbs in a net?

[@WinningWays]

Again varies between venues. A lot will have a tolerance so for example. 50lb net limit, 50-60lb in a net will be knocked back to 50lb and anything over 60lb will have the net disqualified. This varies depending on venue so always check and always err on the side of caution 👍🏻

[@calmdownken8872]

Oh ...... Some FOLKS !!!!! Thought Andy said something else. ?

[@kenzie4202]

Can I fish with you tomorrow

[@thealan8998]

No way did Jamie catch a fish on a band 😂😂

[@paulgoodwin81]

If you happen to bag a bigger fish to go in your net, call out for a balliff to weigh it for you.

[@tonymaddock6114]

What I really like is all the want to be's giving it large before the match and then watch them wheel spin out of the car park ,or want to bes saying I would have caught more off that peg ? When they have done no good The green eyed Monster is a live and kicking in open match fishing 😂😂😂

[@poodle559]

Cash in the net when you roll up where we are.

[@ashleysharma8537]

So what Andy number so I can call him up for help 😅

[@alfiehowell6162]

Are there any for kids

[@WinningWays]

Alfie Howell there are various junior matches all over the country, a lot run by local clubs. Best thing to do is ask at your local tackle shop and they will be able to advise of some near you 👍🏻

[@alfiehowell6162]

Winning Ways yay thanks I am young (12) and have fished for 8 years I caught a pike 12lb in a tiny river and a 25lb carp I really want to take my self to the next level any tips

[@WinningWays]

Just keep getting out on the bank as much as possible and enjoying it. Nothing beats experience 👍🏻

[@alfiehowell6162]

Winning Ways I’m going tomorrow so best of luck I caught a 13 lb in there

[@warriorrob1]

Match fishing feels so closed up I turn up to fish as a pleasure angler and the blokes doing draws look at me like a dick, really wouldn’t fancy trying a match as much as I’d love too

[@WinningWays]

Not all venues and anglers are the same. You do get the odd one which is a proper closed shop. On the whole match anglers will be pretty friendly 👍🏻

[@warriorrob1]

Winning Ways don’t suppose you know any or can recommend any venues? I’m I Wigan but would drive I’m trying a lot of stuff I see on videos (badly) but I’m enjoying fishing again, I hadn’t fished for 15 years and I for some reason watched a video of Andy acting daft and wanted to give it a go so I’m on a bank every weekend I can :)

[@WinningWays]

Blundells wont be too far from you - one of Jamie’s favourites

[@buckrichard7690]

Roblowe Lowe I know just what you mean. If you don’t have the right make of equipment you can feel like such a noob. Having come back to coarse fishing after a thirty year break mainly spent golfing, fishing feels so much more ‘snobbish ’ in a weird way. Every sport I’ve ever been involved with I’ve played competitively, with fishing I feel like it will be a long time before I’ll be doing that.

[@djsimonrossprice9400]

When you pick your own peg you know its you that have actually picked your peg.... CAN YOU TRUST the venue where they draw your peg esp on video . Where the balls not shown on screen. One FAMOUS venue does this .... !!!!!

[@marktully2718]

Feeding paste by hand and not balls of groundbait by hand, what's that all about, whats wright and wrong fellas, testing rigs without a plumb'it what¿¿¿nobody mentioned that, no wonder I'm crap🤣