Match 3 2026 – Forest Lane – Don & Arena

Round 3 of the TVAA Summer League saw 22 anglers book onto the ever-reliable Forest Lane Fishery, with the match split across Don Lake and Arena Lake. With the field spread over two waters, expectations were high and the venue certainly delivered.

The day started off overcast and a bit chilly, but as soon as the all-in was called, the sun broke through and it turned into a glorious day to be on the bank. Perfect conditions, and the fish responded accordingly.

Over on Arena Lake, it was nothing short of hectic. Nearly 70% of anglers smashed the 100lb mark, making it a real bagging session for most. Don Lake was a bit more reserved in comparison, with only one angler breaking the ton, but it still produced some very tight and competitive weights throughout.

🐟 Don Lake Results

1. Neil Vickery – 104lb 07oz
2. Col Dickenson – 85lb 13oz
3. Pete Agar – 85lb 12oz (agonisingly missing out on 2nd by just 1oz—though rumours say he tipped a few pounds of silvers back after turning his net into a full-time carp hotel!)
4. Dan Howes – 81lb 12oz

🐟 Arena Lake Results

1. Ian Hutchinson – 188lb 15oz (making it three wins on the bounce and absolutely storming this one with a clear lead)
2. Jack Jones – 130lb 01oz
3. Barry Simpson – 122lb 15oz
4. John Hopton – 122lb 00oz (just one fish short of sneaking into 3rd)

And of course, no match would be complete without a bit of chaos this week provided by Gaz, who decided the quickest way to retrieve his top 4 from the island tree was to strip down to his undies and take a swim across the lake. Dedication or desperation… we’ll let you decide.

All in all, a cracking round with plenty of weight, close finishes, and a good laugh along the way.

Next up, the league heads to Tollerton Fishery in two weeks’ time, fishing Kingfisher and Coot lakes. Keep an eye on WhatsApp names to Jack after he posts the list Sunday night.

Don

Arena