Fish 302 (Season 1,134) Returns 52(204) Rod average 5.8(5.5)
Strong winds last week meant an enforced break for boat anglers with bank anglers restricted to certain stretches of the bank. A rod average of 5.8 for the week is testament to the water quality and number of fish in the margins, even in a big wind.
Floating or midge tip lines have again been best with fish in the top two or three feet of water.
Small imitative patterns and small blobs/FAB’s have accounted for the majority of fish with diawl bachs and hares ear patterns best.
The prevailing wind has meant that much of the banks were not fishable, with Sailing Club and Duffers banks allowing the only shelter. The water is still very clear with visibility easily 10 feet or more.
Sunday saw the first of the Mid Northants Fly Fishers bank matches. The day had a mixed bag of weather ranging from bright sun to 30mph plus wind and frequent hail showers. Hardly surprisingly this effected the fishing with several anglers struggling. The match was fished to a four fish limit and top rod was Hank Needham who had four for 9lb. Second place went to newcomer Matt Collerson who had four for 8lb 13oz. Matt also had the biggest fish of the match at 3lb. Fraser Duffy took third place with four fish for 8lb 12oz. Special mention must go to Matt Collerson who only began fly fishing five months ago, having enrolled on one of Anglian Water’s beginners courses with Peter Hartley.
The forecast for the coming week is looking far more settle so both boat and bank should fish well.
Fishing Stats
Midweek boat winner: Dave Newens
Fish stocked: 2,500.
Forthcoming events
Beginners courses: 24 & 30 March; 3 and 16 April; 2 and 18 May and other dates throughout the season.
Boat handling courses: 1,15 & 28 May and other dates throughout the season.
Mid Northants Trout Fishers Association
Hosts monthly open sessions for beginners at Pitsford where fully trained instructors are on hand to offer advice on fly casting, fly tying and water craft. Non members welcome. All sessions are 2-5pm
6 April, 4 May, 1 June, 6 July, 3 August, 7 September and 5 October.