18/06/2026
Terry Hearn banked Conningbrookās legendary mirror carp Two Tone in October 1997 at 50 lb 13 ozāpart of the same incredible 12-month spell that also saw him catch Mary at a British-record 55 lb 13 oz and the Black Mirror from The Mere. The fish came from Conningbrook Lake in Ashford, Kent (Mid Kent Fisheries) and was famed for its distinctive ātwo-toneā colouring, which gave it its name.
Hearnās Conningbrook result cemented his reputation for methodical big-fish angling; during that period he leaned on the hinged-stiff-link style that became synonymous with his approach. His capture pre-dated Two Toneās record-breaking era in the 2000s, when the fish went on to set multiple U.K. bests at well over 60 lb.
17/06/2026
Heard that Neil Spooner Carp Angler finally caught a UK fifty
17/06/2026
When medieval monks introduced carp into their monastery ponds, their intentions were simple: to create a reliable, controllable food source that could thrive in still waters and be eaten during fasting periods. What they couldnāt possibly foresee was the ripple effect this humble act would have for centuries to come. To them, carp were just a practical solutionāan obedient fish that grew well, tasted decent, and didnāt require hunting or seasonal migration. There were no thoughts of specimen lakes, 72-hour sessions, or debates over pop-ups versus wafters. Just a monk, a pond, and a fish.
Little did they know, they were sowing the seeds of an obsession that would one day capture the minds and weekends of thousands across the UK. These serene religious men could never have imagined bivvies lining the banks, carbon fibre rods replacing wooden nets, or anglers travelling hundreds of miles in pursuit of a 30-pound mirror. The carp, once destined for the dinner table, would become sacred in its own rightāphotographed more than caught, revered more than eaten. In their quiet acts of aquaculture, the monks gave birth to a sport, a culture, and for many, a way of life.
17/06/2026
The margins. The most overlooked area in carp fishing.
While most anglers focus on showing fish at range, carp often creep into the edge where they feel safe and undisturbed. Overhanging trees, reeds and shallow shelves all hold natural food and warmth, yet many anglers never give them a second look.
Heavy pressure offshore can also push wary carp tight to the bank, especially during low light periods.
Some of the best bites donāt come at 100 yards. They come from a rod placed quietly a few feet from the bank.
Before casting to the horizon next session, spend some time watching the margins. The lake often gives away its biggest secrets right at your feet.
17/06/2026
17/06/2026