2021: Every Angler’s Dream – Interview with the First IBCC 30kg+ Carp Catchers
Since the beginning of IBCC, everyone had been waiting for this moment – and in 2021, it finally happened! 🎣🏆
The Cereal Boilies team from Romania, fishing from the Tihany Hajóállomási promenade, made history by landing the first-ever 30kg+ carp in IBCC. Their incredible achievement proved that while luck plays a role, success also requires dedication, skill, and the right strategy.
We spoke with David Nicusor, Economu Tudorel, and Neatu Velentin about their feelings, tactics, and the unforgettable moment when they landed the 30.4 kg giant.
A Unique Spot on Lake Balaton
Tihany is a fascinating location on Lake Balaton, where the two basins meet. It’s a narrowest point between the northern and southern shores and features some of the lake’s deepest areas, creating strong currents that challenge anglers.
How did you feel when you drew this particular peg?
“After the draw, we immediately went to inspect our fishing spot. It was close to the hotel complex where the draw took place, directly by the promenade. The area was busy during the day, but we expected the best bites to come from here. Based on our past experience, we knew that the harbor’s boat traffic meant we would only get bites at night – and on the second night, we proved that theory right by landing our 30kg+ dream carp! Our strategy was set, and we knew we had a chance to finish among the top five.”
The First-Ever 30kg+ Carp in IBCC History
Catching the biggest fish in a competition is always special – it’s like winning the lottery. But luck alone isn’t enough; at an event like IBCC, bait selection is key.
How did you manage to land the first 30kg+ carp in IBCC history?
“At around 3:00 AM on the second night, I woke up and was on the phone with another Romanian team, encouraging them, telling them that a big catch would come sooner or later. Of course, we were also waiting for the big moment ourselves. At 5:30 AM, the bite alarm went off, my heart raced, and I rushed to the rod. As soon as I picked it up, the fish started stripping line. I placed the rod back in the holder, ran to wake my teammates, and quickly put on my waders. Then, I jumped into the boat – and the fight began.”
“After 20 minutes, I caught my first glimpse of the fish and immediately knew it was a big one. At first, I estimated it to be over 20kg, but as time went on, I became more and more convinced that it was something even bigger. Finally, after 15 more minutes, we landed it. By the time we reached the shore, the marshals were already waiting for us. It was only when we placed the carp on the mat that we realized just how massive it was – the scale stopped at 30.4kg. We were speechless with joy. It was like a dream come true.”
🐟 The carp was caught 350 meters from shore, in a hard-bottomed area at a boat turning point, using two 24mm boilies – squid and plum flavor.
A Legendary Catch
For those who saw the fish on the shore, its sheer size was breathtaking. But beyond its weight, this carp was special in many ways.
Looking back at the photos, what comes to mind when you see this incredible fish?
“Pure joy, happiness, and big smiles on our faces. This is why we can’t wait to return to Lake Balaton!”
Did you know that this carp had been caught in a previous IBCC competition?
“No, we only found out later, and it made the moment even more special. It’s incredible that these big carp remain active and continue feeding on large boilies. One thing is certain – Lake Balaton is home to an incredible number of giant carp!“
Why IBCC is Unlike Any Other Competition
The team has fished in several big international competitions in Italy, France, and Romania, but they say nothing compares to IBCC.
“The IBCC is like a World Championship, where 250 teams compete in one of the world’s most unique carp fishing arenas – Lake Balaton, the sea of carp. The fish population is incredibly well-balanced, with carp found throughout the entire lake, constantly on the move. This makes the competition both challenging and exciting.”
“We firmly believe that any peg can be a winning peg, even in the final days of the competition. And the biggest thrill? You never know what’s going to take the bait next – it could be a 30kg+ carp… or even a 40kg+ monster!“
🎣🔥 The legend of IBCC continues… Who will be next to make history?