THE end of the coarse fishing season on the River Mersey finished with some cracking roach around 10ozs, topped by a specimen fish of 2lbs.

I know that there is a lot of natural food in the river so anything is possible on here for Waerrington Anglers' Association members.

The River Vyrnwy at Four Crosses produced quality sport for James Edgeworth when a succession of chublets were followed by fish of 5-4-0, 4-8-0 and a solitary barbel which although heavier at 6-0-0 did not put up the same spirited fight. Feeder fished maggot was the method.

Fred Edgworth reported on the Severn salmon action and reckons that fish are being caught at Holt Fleet and Diglis weirs with a fish of 25-4-0 from the former. The fish are in our waters at present although not in good numbers. The prospects look really good for the Easter holidays. Any members' reports will always be treated in the strictest confidence, but I need to know to enable an ongoing evaluation of your fisheries.

Bailiff Steve Lewis went on the Macclesfield Canal at Scholar Green and despite a slow start on bread punch a change to 'squat and slop' saw him finish a two hour session with 30 to 40 large gudgeon, a few small roach and perch. Steve saw some really large fish moving in the margins.

Sport on Trent and Mersey Canal is patchy but Lodge Lane and the wides at Barton are worth a visit.

Appleton Reservoir has had a boost stocking although there are already plenty of fish in this water. The fishing has been badly affected by cormorants, however they have started to leave for their coastal breeding grounds so hopefully the fish will once again start to feed more freely within casting distance.

Tomorrow, Saturday, there is a charity match on our stretch of the Macclesfield Canal to be held in aid of Hope and Homes for Children. Tickets £10 all in. Further details from Bernard Chappel on 01260 278843 after 7.30pm.

HQ Parker Street is open as usual tonight, Friday. I can be contacted with catch reports on 01928 716238, or fax 713898.

Frank Lythgoe

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