Top Anglers Reel in Big Wins At Cofton Cup 2025

The Autumn Cofton Cup 2025 delivered six unforgettable days of drama, determination, and world-class angling here at Cofton Holidays in Devon, culminating in a moment of triumph for Richard Rumney, who hauled an outstanding 103lb 05oz from legendary Peg 13 to claim the £500 top prize, the Cofton Cup Champion title, and a well-earned spot on the prestigious Cofton Cup trophy. 

Set against the picturesque backdrop of our five-lake fishing complex, 45 talented anglers travelled from across the UK to battle for glory, gold, and bragging rights, and this year, the competition well and truly bit back. 

THE WEEK THAT WAS: DRAMA, DETERMINATION & BIG CATCHES 

The week ignited instantly as Andy Bishop stormed ahead with an incredible 107lb 10oz, firing a warning shot that echoed around the lakes. Close behind, Tony Rickard smashed through the century mark with 106lb 13oz, while Rumney, quiet but deadly, booked his place in the final with 76lb 04oz. Meanwhile, Gary Hennesy laid down an unchallenged Silver Fish marker at 18lb 07oz , a total that would remain unbeaten throughout the week. A champion performance in its own right. 

On Day 2, Momentum began to shift as Ade Holland produced 97lb 08oz, staking his claim among the frontrunners. Seasoned competitor Clive Handcock netted 78lb 10oz, while the ever-determined Steve Prophet weighed in at 60lb 09oz, both earning their places in the final. Three more contenders. Three more threats. The pressure was building. 

Day 3 had Steve Bridle delivering 88lb 10oz, securing his seat at the high-stakes table. Craig Smith clawed his way into contention with 84lb 09oz, landing late edge-line fish that had spectators holding their breath. And ever-popular Andy Everill cheered on from Peg 1,  showed nerves of steel, finishing with 79lb 01oz and earning his shot at Cofton glory.

Rain. Wind. Relentless pressure. As the conditions worsened, bites slowed and patience was tested, but true champions rise when the weather turns. 

In the Spoon Final, Martin “Henry Bird” White, a late entry with a big heart, took the win with 43lb 09oz, followed closely by Ian Walvin with 41lb 09oz. A standout performance came from Aneka Woodman, who impressed everyone on her Cofton Cup debut with 36lb 12oz from Peg 24, earning praise across the banks and sparking calls for even more female anglers to join the 2026 competition.

The excitement didn’t stop there. In the Plate Final, Lee Prophet claimed victory with 72lb 09oz from Peg 8, while crowd favourite Carol Williams landed 64lb 04oz, proudly taking bragging rights over her partner, Daryll. In third place, Gary Hennesy secured a podium finish with 53lb 06oz, helped by a stunning late whistle carp weighing nearly 7lb! 

FINAL DAY: WHERE LEGENDS ARE MADE

Under mounting pressure and the watchful eyes of fellow anglers and spectators, Richard Rumney delivered the net of his life — 103lb 05oz, cool, composed, and utterly unstoppable. 

Second place went to Geoff Boardman, a formidable force from Peg 1, with 60lb 11oz, while Andy Bishop rounded off the podium with 52lb 06oz, proving that his Day One heroics were no fluke. 

A final defined by skill, instinct, and heart, and one that will be remembered for years to come. 

FISHING WITH THE FUTURE IN MIND

At Cofton, we’re incredibly proud of how far our lakes have come, and sustainability sits at the heart of everything we do.

Over the past year, we’ve invested £900,000 into environmentally focused projects across the park, including our fisheries. Each of our lakes is part of an eco-friendly system designed to keep the waters healthy, the fish thriving, and the surrounding wildlife flourishing.

We’ve introduced natural planting schemes, improved water management, and nurtured habitats that benefit both fish and local species, all while ensuring a brilliant angling experience for everyone who casts a line here.

This commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed! Cofton recently scooped Green SME of the Year at the Green Awards UK 2025 and Gold for Sustainability Pioneer at the Food Drink Devon Awards.

“Sustainability is central to how we run the lakes,” says Chris Jeffery, Director at Cofton Holidays. “From fish care and habitat planting to the park’s wider green energy systems, it’s all about great fishing today and healthy waters tomorrow.”

LOOKING AHEAD TO THE COFTON CUP 2026

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who took part, supported, or cheered on the anglers during this year’s competition. The Cofton Cup continues to grow year after year, and it’s all thanks to the fantastic community that surrounds it.

We’ll be back in Spring 2026 for another week of competitive angling, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments on the banks of our beautiful lakes.

Think you’ve got what it takes to lift the trophy next time?