ACKERS Pit has really switched on for Warrington Anglers' Association members this past week despite the clear water conditions.

Quality roach over a pound are being caught on pinkie and caster. Both pole and waggler methods successful.

Carp are still alive at Grey Mist although most anglers are only catching one or two fish. Good roach to pole and caster with plenty of perch.

Some anglers are complaining about the numbers of pike in Moore Quarry and that they cannot have a good day's sport without their swim being ruined by one of these predators. Members have to 'thank' the person who introduced pike to this fishery illegally for the current situation.

Unauthorised introduction of fish is not only against the law but could result in the introduction of disease to a fishery or, as in this instance, alter the balance of species.

A late report from the River Trent at Claymills is of the capture of a massive bream of 8-2-0. Successful method was ledgered lobworm fished mid-river. Dace and roach also featuring in catches.

Both the Trent and Mersey and Macclesfield Canals are fishing well with some large perch around the 2lb mark, roach and skimmers from the former. The Macclesfield is fishing even better now the boat traffic has diminished for the winter period with a bite every cast on pinkie or squat.

By popular demand we are starting a pre-Christmas beginners' course at 7pm on Thursday, November 28, at our headquarters, 52, Parker Street, Warrington. It will last four weeks. The course is open to everyone including non-members and is free. Numbers are limited so please give me a ring to ensure your place.

On the trout scene, Appleton Reservoir is fishing well with a catch average of 2.7 fish.

The trout match was won by Phil Shaw with a four fish limit bag for 6-14-0. Runner-up was organiser Nick Donald with 6-11-0.

We have gone to a lot of trouble to organise a fly-tying class for members. It would be nice if more of you supported our efforts. Interested? Call Nick Donald on 756192 or myself on the number below. Classes held at HQ on Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Loan equipment available.

HQ open as normal tonight, Friday, at 7pm for new members, subscriptions etc. I can be contacted on 01928 716238 with your queries and fishery reports.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.