LYMM Angling Club river reports are beginning to slowly drift in with all the indications that a visit is more than worthwhile.

Member Ste Daley caught a string of grayling from Wincham Brook, with the best coming to the net at a little more than 3lbs.

Steve points out that each of his recent visits to the water has been an adventure, due to the changes made to the river by heavy rainfall.

Pegs that were favoured over the last few years are not now as productive as pegs that were previously not rated at all. He states that, such are the changes, trial and error is not always required as basic watercraft can lead to the good spots almost immediately.

Tom Casey, another river specialist, has found a bit of time to spend on his beloved River Severn, this time at Atcham.

Tom managed to land some good chub, although he never managed to land any barbel. He did, however, have one on which was lost in quite a battle.

Tom pointed out that over the settled weather of last week, the conditions were perfect for river pike. I am reminded of Ste Daley's brush with one of these monsters last year, when it took a 3.5lb. barbel he was playing. It eventually released its prey which was banked much the worse for its encounter but was still alive and fighting fit.

On the still waters ice has been a problem although there have been many free enough of it so as not to cause too much of a problem.

Whitley and Village Pools are just such waters and have produced good fish over the past week. Village is the best option for general anglers, although Whitley specialists produce fantastic fish catches, regardless of the conditions.

Lymmvale continued to produce chub, and the occasional orfe. Unfortunately there have not been many carp caught since Christmas.

Work parties begin this Sunday with work scheduled for various waters. Due to this participants are asked to meet at Whitley Pool at 9am.

Club officials have prepared materials, although problems may be caused due to the fact that the club vehicle is currently under repair, making the transporting of them difficult. If you have a vehicle suited to towing a large trailer, and are willing to help, you could solve our immediate problems.

I can be contacted on 411774.

Neil Jupp