There were about 15 boats from Lightning Ridge and 54 nominations in the competition (34 adults; 20 children). Most people caught a fish except of course for Charlie Brown - even though his boat was responsible for 11 fish and he had twice as many lines out as everyone else did.

The fishing inspector was out in force and we did witness him chasing Johnno's boat but it did not look like it was ever going to catch him although rumour has it that one of our members was fined $200 for not having his fishing licence - apparently it was washed in the agitator along with the rest of his wallet and contents.

The adults' competition was winner take-all with $680 up for grabs.

Chris Stevens, eventually the runner-up, was winning from the very beginning with a 7.1lb yellow belly only to be pipped at the post by Dean Alchin with an 8.2lb yellow belly caught on Sunday morning.

Cindy Brown won the most improved fisherman with a catch of about six fish.

The kids were in fine form, many embarrassing their parents with their fishing ability. Brandon Morris took out the honours with a 6.7lb yellow belly; Darren Pocock was runner-up with 6.1lbs and Thomas Alchin came in third with 5.9 lb. Every child who caught a fish got a prize and there were lots of them - Ben Morris, Nathan Claus, Blake Phillips, Ben Walford, Amanda Morris, Will Weeks, Ryan Pocock, Cooper Scoles, Steven Kelly, Bill Turk and Clare Weeks.

A big thank you to Butch and Pauline for the trophies; Skell for the ice; Lightning Ridge Hotel Motel for prizes; Supersave Dave for fishing gear; and Kimbo and Max for spare reels for the kids.

Quite a big storm hit the dam on Saturday afternoon. Consequently the evening party was called off and it will be held in Nobbies beer garden on Sunday November 9 beginning at 4pm. Barbecue and drinks will be provided for all members.

The next fishing club meeting will be held Friday November 7 at 6.30pm at Nobbies and all members are welcome.