THE most exciting report and notable catch for some time has to be the magnificent perch caught by Chris Stowell from Warrington Anglers' Association's popular Rixton Claypits fishery.

Chris was fishing mackerel bait intended for pike when the predator struck. The perch was weighed and witnessed at a massive 5lbs, certainly the fish of a lifetime.

Other large perch have come from this fishery but to date I don't think anyone has actually targeted the species. I'm certain that will now have changed.

Reports from around our fisheries have been in short supply this week.

No doubt the weather has played its part but obviously I desperately need information on catch reports, water conditions and generally matters of interest to enable me to write this column. It is all too easy to rely on others.

High water levels still restrict comfortable sport at Grey Mist Mere but stalwart Mike Johnson persevered and in two visits slid his landing net under two quality mirror carp of 22lbs 14ozs 0drms and 18-0-0 which were taken on the usual 'secret' boilies.

The Trent and Mersey Canal has quietened down but the wides at Watcroft are worth a visit for catches of roach and skimmers.

If you are intending to visit the Macclesfield Canal keep away from the railway station area as I am told that it has been dredged this past week and understandably sport is poor. Good reports of roach and gudgeon from the Kent Green Area.

Sadly, due to low ticket sales to date we have had no option but to cancel this year's fur and feather charity match. There is no way that at this late stage we can purchase and order prizes on only a possibility of covering costs.

We will still be running a match on the day as part of our Sunday Six Series. Any person who has already bought a ticket please return it for a refund either by post or call in to headquarters.

HQ Parker Street is open as usual on Friday night for subscriptions, new members, or simply call in for a chat and to catch up on the news. I can be contacted with your queries and catch reports on 01928 716238, fax 713898.

FRANK LYTHGOE

Coming events: Saturday: Senior Series Open, draw 11am, London Bridge (pegs 301-550). Sunday: Sunday Six Series, draw 9am, Grappenhall Sports Club (pegs 790-860). Monday: Disabled and Over 60s, draw 10.15am, Grappenhall Sports Club (pegs 124-164). Wednesday: National Squad Fund match, draw 11am, Star Inn (pegs 207-240).

Fly-tying class at HQ Parker Street, 7pm every Wednesday.