Despite rainy conditions, the atmosphere was fantastic at Sandown Pier last Wednesday (10th June) as 30 students from The Bay CE School took to the water for the highly anticipated annual Inter-House Fishing Competition.
Supported by a large crowd of enthusiastic family members, students braved the elements for a fantastic afternoon of friendly competition, community spirit, and impressive catches.
The event saw the school’s 4 houses, Blue, Yellow, Green, and Red go head-to-head. A total of 21 fish and sea creatures were successfully landed during the afternoon, showcasing the impressive angling skills of the young competitors. The diverse haul included a ray, bream, pollock, wrasse, conger eel, and even some spider crabs.
Following a highly competitive afternoon, the final House standings were announced:
- 1st Place: Yellow House
- 2nd Place: Green House
- 3rd Place: Blue House
- 4th Place: Red House
In addition to the overall House standings, several students were recognised with individual awards for their standout catches:
- Biggest Fish: Zak, for landing a massive Ray.
- Best Fish: Ollie, for a beautiful Bream.
- Ugliest Fish: Bella, for reeling in a rather horrid Conger Eel.
- Fish That Looks Most Like Me: Szymon, for an uncanny Wrasse comparison.
- Best Non-Fish: Oscar, for catching a Spider Crab.
- Most Fish Caught: Eloise, who dominated the numbers with an impressive five catches.
- Most Colourful Catch: Natalie, for a stunning Rainbow Wrasse.
Gareth Bricknell, Head of Blue House said
“Despite the very typical British weather, it was a wonderful afternoon of fishing, friendly competition, and community spirit. What makes the event so special is that we are joined by many family members, including parents and grandparents who enjoy helping the students and encouraging them.
“At The Bay CE School we place great value on providing enrichment opportunities for our students. The House system provides so many varied weekly competitions such as Gladiators, Capture the Flag, Bake Off, Gymnastics and Trampolining, Rowing and Pickleball. It is always great to run the yearly Inter House Fishing competition to add to the range of activities and include as many students as possible in the opportunities we offer.”
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Eloise, aged 16 said:
“I enjoy fishing because it allows me to have fun with the community and allows me to feel a great sense of achievement when I catch something.”
Very good nice that young people still into this and waters good quality so fish are thriving ..
I still fish on the pier and catch some beauties.
Good to see the youngsters taking up fishing
great pastime and doesn’t cost too much.
Another great place to fish near the Fishermens Cottage
in Shanklin.