SIX-YEAR-OLD Millie Wailes and her dad Darrel gave the 20lb fish she caught a kiss as it was returned to the water.

On only her third night-time angling trip, the Cinnamon Brow Primary School pupil can already claim to have landed the fish of many anglers’ dreams.

But the novice, who first started the sport with her twin sister Amelia three years ago, had already landed a 15-pound common carp on a previous adventure.

Darrel, 47, a retail company ecommerce manager, said: “I was absolutely delighted, but Millie on the other hand within a couple of minutes was fast asleep after the fight with the stunning fish.”

The proud dad explained how Millie managed to bring in a mirror carp of 20lbs 8ozs that looks bigger than her on the picture.

“Saturday was wet and windy with little sign of feeding fish but she remained confident,” he said.

“As we were settling down for the night tucked up in our sleeping bags and bivvy (tent), the bite alarm went ‘beeeeeep’ and she had one on.

“The fight from the fish was tough and fish welfare and Millie’s comes first, so collectively with rod in my hand and Millie’s – with her slowly winding the fish in – it went into the net. Jackpot!

“The fish was weighed, photos taken and carefully kissed and returned to the water.

“Millie is a very relaxed young lady and she just took the capture in her stride. I’m one very proud dad and can’t emphasise enough how a sport of fishing can bring so much enjoyment to children and adults.”

The 10pm catch, on Impulse Apex boilies, was the highlight of their session at Warrington Anglers’ Association water, Sandiway small lake, in Northwich.

“Next trip out is this weekend with Amelia so watch this space,” said Darrel.

“Amelia is yet to catch a carp and is very competitive.

“Spending time with the twins apart also gives myself and mum Nicola the opportunity to see the single side characteristics of both of the girls.

“A couple of big-name fishing companies are interested in doing work with them both but for the time being it’s just about relaxing with no ties.

“I’ve been fishing for 40 years, it’s my passion. If the twins decide it’s not for them later, hey ho, but I think they are hooked.”