THERE were a record number of entries for Warrington Anglers Association’s October ‘Fish of the Month’ competition, but the clear winner in the junior section with his first Rixton Claypits carp, a cracking common of 18lbs, was Chris Giblin.

In the senior section Dave Harrison who had been trying to catch a double figure barbel for the past four years struck gold on our River Ribble fishery with a 12-1-0 specimen taken on the last cast of the day.

The fish took an 11mm halibut pellet wrapped in his own paste mix and wins him a £100 value of Bait-Tech products plus a Korda carp care kit.

Well done to the Ladies England team for their success in winning the silver medal in South Africa last week, especially to members Helen Dagnall and Wendy Locker of whom we are especially proud.

Our Disabled and Over 60s match fished at Walton this week showed the canal’s capabilities when you needed almost 4.5lbs for a section.

Ian McLean took first place with 6-3-8.

The 28 carp mentioned in last week’s column were safely released into their new homes in Sandiway Lakes.

The larger fishery (53 acres approx) on this occasion received 5 x 23lb plus fish and as an experiment 5 between 9lbs and 11lbs.

These were all distinctive mirrors so that their growth rates can be monitored.

The small lake (17.5 acres plus) usually receives the ‘smaller fish’ but on this occasion we put 3 x 22lbs plus in to add some spice along with 15 between 8 and 11lbs.

This water for some reason has a phenomenal growth rate so we should be seeing some interesting results.

VS fisheries stock are excellent although not cheap you get what you pay for, namely quality.

Viv has a particular interest in our complex as he reckons we will see some real specimens emerge as the result of our sensible approach to stock levels.

Orders have now been placed on an ongoing basis for the next three years, so maintaining our little but regular approach.

Fish have also been earmarked for Grey Mist Mere where reports are that the VS fish are doing quite well. Roach, rudd, and crucians are also earmarked for boosting stocks at various fisheries.

Keep sending in your catch reports as they are invaluable to both your fellow members and your committee.

Contact me on 01928 716238 or email frank@warrington-anglers.org.uk.

HQ Parker Street is open as usual on Friday evening between 7pm and 9pm for subscriptions, night permits, and new membershipson our website www.warrington-anglers.org.uk.