CSSC Annual Inter-Regional Shore Angling Match: North East v Yorkshire

Since 2003, there has been an annual shore angling match between the North East and Yorkshire regions with each area taking turns to host the event. As it was the North East turn, the match was arranged for Saturday 21 November on Tynemouth Pier, followed by a buffet and presentation at The Tynemouth Lodge.

Early indications showed that approximately 24 members would be fishing, so a request was made to the Regional Treasurer for financial support. It was much appreciated when the Treasurer said £100 would be awarded.

A week of wet weather, high winds, and a bad forecast led to a number of withdrawals from the home team, whilst the Yorkshire organiser was admitted to hospital with heart problems so both he, plus two team members he was going to give a lift to, could not attend.

Seventeen anglers (including 2 ladies) arrived at the venue and we were treated to glorious sunshine and a flat calm sea, although the forecast for later in the day was for 30mph winds and pouring rain. That aside, we walked along the pier and set up base at our randomly selected pegs. Fortune shone on Dave Grieve as he drew one of the two favoured end pegs, whilst I was stuck in the middle of the pack.

By the time the first baits went in, the wind was blowing quite hard and clouds were dark. This didn't deter the fish as a succession of fish were being caught all along the pier. The length of the fish was measured and recorded before being released alive back into the water.

At about midday, the wind picked up a notch and the heavens opened for the next hour. Although not very comfortable, we battled on and, with an hour to go, I was well in the lead. However, I never caught another fish and was overtaken on the last cast by two anglers and yes, one of those two was Dave Grieve from the favoured end peg. Judging by what our members had caught, it was obvious that the North East had won but we had to get the exact scores before a result could be declared.

The refreshments and open fire at the Tynemouth Lodge were most appreciated and, when we thawed out, the results and trophies were presented. Details are as follows:

Team Event

North East                        46 fish             11.62 metres

Yorkshire                         33 fish             7.64 metres

Individual Winner 

Dave Grieve                    10 fish              2.62 metres

Individual Runner Up

Alan Walsh (Yorks)          10 fish               2.57 metres

Everyone agreed that, despite the conditions, the day was a success and we all are looking forward to next year's event in Bridlington.

Dave McKenzie

Sea Angling Organiser