Anglers look forward to upcoming competitions on the Leeds Liverpool Canal

As preparation takes place for the teams competing in the Angling Trust Division One National on the Wigan and District AA Lengths of the Leeds Liverpool Canal, anglers from all over the country can be sure to enjoy the splendours of surrounding countryside that has greeted them during their visits. I’ve always been one for taking in the surrounding scenery when I’m out fishing, and with a keen interest in wildlife, I’ve never underestimated what the land around the canal side can actually offer us in many ways.

As well as the many different species of birds that surround us, lots of mammals, amphibians and invertebrates not forgetting our fish, all set stage for a whole lot of new learning for many, and like I always say, fishing techniques aside, every day’s a school day. On the fishing front, huge open matches are being held on those west Lancashire lengths out at Burscough and Parbold, all before the grand event being held on the August 17.

Coming back to Liverpool, on the L&DAA’s stretch from the Saracen’s Head at Halsal, our waters are fishing tremendously well, with tench making there presence known right through the lengths back to Liverpool. Clear evidence that the L&DAA’s ongoing stocking programme has been working since the implementation of regular young strains of fish being introduced into the canal, competition within the ranks for habitat and food has also seen ‘old’ stock becoming more active, providing anglers with some fantastic sport on the bank.

READ MORE: The change in season sees anglers address their fishing equipment

All licence money taken on the purchase of a Liverpool & District AA membership goes into this incredible stocking fund and with that I must urge everyone who enjoys fishing on our fabulous canal to be mindful and purchase your licences from the associations site at liverpooldistrictangling.co.uk.

On the commercial scene, Mescar Fisheries in the wonderful Downholland countryside, the canal is a superb complex that is in terrific form. On the Sunday open match held on Mistral Lake, Bruce Peggs (BAS) took the top honours with a weight of 65.12.0. Paste at 6m and 8m saw Peggs take carp to 8lb.

Luke Haskayne (Mescar) also opted for a paste approach and that saw his carp for 64lb just beaten with third-placed Colin Craven’s dead maggot tactics weighing in 56.10.0. Staying at home on Chapel Pool Sunday, the Alliance had 15 members on the lake which saw Southport’s Dave Langton take this one in style with a mixed bag for 103.15.

In-form Lydiate rod Colin Pellow took the runner-up position with 94.2.0 with Kirkby’s Glyn Jones third with 93.2.0. On the sea front and also taking to the road to enjoy some enjoy idyllic scenery upon a secret mark on the North Wales coast, Litherland’s Steve Moffat (below) took his first tope of the season and marked his efforts this week with a lovely 30lb fish.