Open Competition - Rules

[tubbie2shoes]

It's raining and i'm bored so I decided to compare the fishing rules contained within a couple of old fishing brochures that accompany the open competition tickets; and to my suprise clubs have separate rules. Why is this?

Can the clubs not standardise the rules, so that they are all the same?

Some of the main differences include:

the size limits of fish,
whether anglers have to cast themselves or bait up, cast, hook, play fish themselves
the number of hooks permitted,
the use of eater crabs,

Any comments from fellow anglers or club reps would be welcome.

Also - Is there a base set of rules and regualtions that all open competions must comply with or is it purely the clubs discreation as to what rules apply.

[peter.m]

As long as your comp complies with any legal requirements such as DEFRA sizes etc then I say it's down to the individual club.

It would get a bit boring if all comps were fished to the same boundries, same rules, same prizes etc. It would then be purely bait and conditions. Remember variety is the spice of life.

It is these little changes and rules that make anglers prefer different events. For instance a number of years ago we introduced a free junior comp in the New Hartley Open and give them all a little prize if they came back, even when they didn't catch to encourage juniors. Many of these juniors have been returning year after year, it doesn't cost much when you see top anglers walking off with almost £1500. We aim to give value for money and money raised goes back into next years table.

I'll post full details soon but this winters event is Sunday 27th January 2008. And to change from last few years instead of guaranteeing £1000 first prize then table prize or a bit cash if good entry this time we are saying guaranteed £750, £500 and £250. Gives you a bit more chance of picking up a bit cash, may be more if plenty turn up.

That's £1500 on offer before sweeps.