The Legendary Catch Angler Hooks the Fabled “Carrot” Carp

It all began with a simple goldfish won at a fairan innocent introduction to the world of angling that ignited a lifelong passion. Growing up in Banbury, Oxfordshire, fishing quickly became more than a hobby for me. My father introduced me to float fishing at the local canal, where I celebrated every catch with the excitement of a child, capturing those moments with my trusty Polaroid camera.

By the time I was 14, I had already experienced the thrill of fishing in lakes and had landed a massive 39lb (17kg) carp. The adrenaline rush from reeling in big fish became an addiction, driving me to explore the best weights, rods, and baits. Today, as a plasterer in Brackley, Northamptonshire, I find fishing to be the perfect way to unwind after a physically demanding day. I often embark on fishing trips abroad, where the carp are known to grow even larger.

A Dream Trip to France The Quest for the Carrot

This spring, I booked a much-anticipated trip to a renowned fishing spot in the Champagne region of France. With a curated list of fish in each lake, anglers could create their own “wishlist.” At the top of mine was the elusive Carrot, a stunning orange carp weighing over 61lb (27kg). Rarely caught and often talked about among fishing enthusiasts, the Carrot was known as the “world’s biggest goldfish.”

Despite my best efforts during my first week, I returned empty-handed but undeterred. I arranged a second trip in July with a group of friends, excited to share the experience. We decided to pool our resources, with prizes for the biggest catch and the most fish caught. If anyone managed to hook the Carrot, they would take home the entire pot.

On the second night of our trip, around 2 AM, my line alarm jolted me awake a sign that I had a bite. The alarm beeped frantically, an unmistakable indication of a strong fish. My heart raced as I scrambled to put on my shoes and rush to the water’s edge. Though it didn’t feel like a massive fish at first, the struggle to reel it in grew intense.

After about 15 minutes, my friend Marco waded in to help with the net, excitement radiating from him. “You’ve got the Carrot!” he shouted, sending my adrenaline levels soaring. I could hardly believe it; I felt the weight of expectation as I pulled the fish closer.

Once I finally landed her, the scale read 61lb 4oz a little shy of my personal best but a moment I will cherish forever. I carefully examined her for any injuries, administering antiseptic to prevent infection. After ensuring her health, I released her back into the water, adhering to the fishery’s strict “no-retention” rule.

Catching the Carrot earned me a £160 prize pot, a perfect excuse to indulge in some delicious fish and chips on the way home. Sharing my success on Facebook led to a flurry of congratulatory messages, and a friend from an angling publication even asked to feature my photos. The story quickly gained traction, making its way into tabloids and sparking conversations among fellow anglers and friends alike.

Recently, while plastering a customer’s house, she recognized me from the news, asking about my encounter with the iconic fish. The fame was exhilarating, and I relished in the glory that came with landing such a legendary catch.

Sadly, just weeks after my incredible catch, I learned the heartbreaking news that the Carrot had passed away from natural causes. I felt a deep sense of loss for both the fish and the owners of the lake. Yet, I take pride in being one of the few who had the honor of seeing her in person.

While the Carrot may be gone, her legacy lives on through her offspring, still swimming in the lake. I hold onto the hope that they will grow to become as famous and beloved as their remarkable mother.

Fishing isn’t just a pastime for me; it’s a way of life that connects me with nature and brings friends together. With every trip, I look forward to the next adventure, always chasing the thrill of the catch.