A bumper season

06/12/2007

THE curtain came down on another successful season for Northumbrian Water Reservoirs on November 30.

The prime waters of Derwent Reservoir sported an excellent rod average of just under three fish per visit in its 40th anniversary season, when a massive 40,000 trout were stocked. This is four times the number stocked three decades ago.

Trout to 18lb 11oz were landed during the season. Fontburn Reservoir, Grassholme, Blackton and Scaling Dam all averaged over three fish per angler visit during the season.

The massive 2,700 acre Kielder Water averaged just under three fish per rod day, and wild brown trout ‘haven’ Cow Green Reservoir in Teesdale performed well for those who like some time on the wild side.

This is very good fishing for such large expanses of waters. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – “you’ve never had it so good on the reservoirs,” yet still some anglers complain.

The one wish I have for the future seasons – and I’m far from being alone – is to see a boat fleet installed at the excellent Derwent Reservoir. This place could be the ‘Rutland Water’ of the North and would be a superb venue for pleasure and competitive angling combined.

The wardens and staff at all the Northumbrian Water Reservoirs wish to pass on their thanks and compliments of the season to anglers who fished the Northumbrian Reservoirs and look forward to meeting them again next season.

JUBILEE Trout Lakes were at the forefront with the big fish again this week, with Malcolm Dodd from Penrith experiencing a day of a lifetime, catching rainbows of 19lb 4oz, 13lb 12oz and 10lb.

He had never had a fish larger than 7lb 6oz prior to his Jubilee visit. His successful flies were Black Fritz and Black Zonker.

Prudhoe angler Richard Noble was at it again, this time landing a superb rainbow of 18lb 15oz on a diminutive Hare’s Ear Nymph. Cramlington rod Colin Thompson also took a 17lb 11oz specimen that also fell to a Black Fritz.

The first Pairs Competition held at West House on Saturday was a real success despite the appalling weather.

Winners on the day were Chris Makepeace and Martin Ruddick from Winlaton with 12 fish. Runners-up were Wayne Dent and David Leak with 11 trout. Third place went to Bill Webster and Robbie Armstrong with eight trout. The most popular method was a small Yellow Blob fished under an indicator.

The next £500 Qualifying Match will be held this Saturday. Anglers should meet at 8am for a 8.30am start with fishing until 2.30pm.

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