Dennis Hale took the honours at the first round of the Essex Summer League -- but did not land the Jetty Anglers golden peg prize of £1,000.

Southend's Hale missed out by seven pegs after winning the East Tilbury match with 30 flounders and an eel for 809cm.

The golden peg has now been capped at a grand and a new prize fund will be set up to run in conjunction.

Second place went to Canvey's Dion Macfayden with 18 flounders, three bass and an eel for 588cm.

Southend's Gary Lloyd took third spot with 19 fish comprising flounders, sole and an eel for 534cm.

The longest fish was landed by Canvey's Jason Speller (42cm sole).

Around 400 fish were caught by the 36 anglers. A catch and release system operated and the next league match is August 15.

Published Thursday July 8, 2004

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