NEIL Plunkett went lure fishing again on the Bridgewater, landing three nice jack pike that were all in great condition.

Using his antique, but trusty, 6ft Abu solid glass spinning rod, he lost another larger one on the way in.

Nevertheless a tally of half-a-dozen from the canal in the past week – taken in five hours – isn’t bad.

Anglers struggled for bites during Saturday’s Mersey Series match, but Jim Gannon kept his head down – fishing on a groundbait feeder with maggot on the hook to win with 10 small roach at 1-6-0.

Ray Boden was runner-up with a net of small roach caught using the same method.

However Martin Lenihan put 7-10-0 on the scales to win Sunday’s contest.

A haul that included a bonus bream of 4lbs, a 1lb skimmer and 30 roach taken on a groundbait feeder left the rest of the field well behind.

Alan Morris took second spot after catching a skimmer and small roach that weighed in at 2-5-0.

George Barber pipped Lennie Dutton to top spot in the disabled and over 60s match on Monday, when the Dead Length came through again for the series’ regulars.

The fish shoal up in the sheltered area during the winter, and George made the most of his draw on peg 236 to catch a roach straightaway.

He claimed first prize after putting 8-0-8 on the scales.

Lennie replied with 5-2-6.

Grey Mist Mere has benefited from weed being cleared, evidenced by the number of anglers booking for the night.

I’m told everybody caught on Saturday, with the biggest one of our stocked carp at 19lbs.

Another work party is planned for this Saturday, from 10am.

We’re at a time of year when reports are becoming scarce, but email details of any catches to frank@warrington-anglers.org.uk or call me on 01928 716238.

Our headquarters at 52 Parker Street are open every Friday, from 7pm, for subscriptions, memberships, night permits and any queries.

Results

Saturday, Mersey Series: 1, Jim Gannon 2-1-0; 2, Ray Boden 1-14-0.

Sunday, Mersey Series: 1, Martin Lenihan 7-10-0; 2, Alan Morris 2-5-0; 3, Derek Bibby 2-3-0; 4, Roy Everson 2-2-0.

Disabled and over 60s (Bridgewater): 1, George Barber 5-12-4; 2, Lennie Dutton 4-5-0; 3, Mike Daniels 4-6-0; 4, Jimmy Byrne 4-5-2.

Fixtures:

Saturday, Mersey Series: draw 10am, Victoria Park.

Sunday, Mersey Series: draw, 10am Mersey Walk.

Monday, disabled and over 60s: draw 10am, Tramps Grave, Moore Bridge (peg 205).