5th January 2021 Warrington Anglers Association Guardian Notes
With most fisheries suffering from freeze-ups since new year it was nice to hear via the rumour mill that 'the big one' came out at Moore Quarry on New Years Eve. I don't know if it was before or after the bewitching hour but irrespective it is close enough to be a cracking start to 2021.
At least the River Mersey was fishable despite a couple of high tides and carrying plenty of colour. On Sunday committee member Ade Green needed to escape from his home 'work environment' for an essential trip to the river for a short session and some fresh air. Despite the fact that he only had one bite it was a pleasant day and at least he could watch Jimmy Byrne and Alan Faulkner catching on the opposite bank. Alan had seventeen roach fishing a small groundbait feeder, 2ft tail, with a small hook and single maggot and Jimmy nine fish. Certainly better than watching repeats on the TV.
With the vast majority of the Bridgewater covered in ice and matches cancelled a few of the Disabled & Over 60's regulars were out over the weekend making the most of it being virtually ice free on the Dead-length. There were a few 'icebergs' drifting through swims but nevertheless Ray Boden and Ron Durr managed a few roach.
On Sunday Appleton Reservoir was mainly carrying a sheet of ice but a couple of areas were kept free by members of the public feeding the waterfowl. I did see one hardy member wearing the brightest set of orange-coloured waterproofs fishing from the sandbank. I don't know if he caught but he definitely wasn't a poacher!
Whilst on the subject of Appleton Reservoir members should note that whether you are fishing or just visiting this water you must only park on our locked car park. If it there are no available places, I am afraid you must either visit another fishery or go home. A few members have been getting the club a bad name by parking on private drives which not only could see them losing their club membership but also getting their vehicle clamped by understandably irate residents. Be warned!
HOT OFF THE PRESS: We have been informed this evening by our governing body The Angling Trust that the Government has taken the decision that fishing in England will not be permitted from midnight tonight (Tuesday 5th January 2021) during this current national lockdown period. Whilst this is disappointing news anglers must respect these rules which have been put in place to help save lives and support the NHS. These are difficult times for us all but I am sure our members will recognise that as a consequence all our fisheries are closed to members residing in England until we receive new guidance from The Angling Trust. We are currently not sure what the situation is in Wales but will let members residing there know of any Welsh Government announcements/updates.
WAA Headquarters at 52, Parker Street, Warrington WA1 1LT will remain closed on Friday evenings until further notice. Members can simply post to this address or put their book or request in an envelope with their payment, a stamped addressed envelope, through our HQ door where mail is collected and dealt with most days. Alternatively, you can post to Warrington Anglers Association PO. Box 71, Warrington WA1 1LR where mail is collected weekly. New memberships, Renewals and night permits are also available online from Warrington Anglers Association website. If you need any further information please give me a call or email as below.
At this time of the year with less anglers out on the banks and sport slowing as we edge towards the winter period, I really need your catch reports. They are all very much appreciated by fellow members. Email frank@warrington-anglers.org.uk or give me a ring on 01928 716238.
Frank Lythgoe