South Our experts’ pick their hotspots
SIX TOP WATERS TO TRY
SOME of the biggest perch in the country reside in our Southern waters.
Dense shoals of fry and signal crayfish populations have meant the perch have grown to mammoth proportions and a 5lb specimen isn’t out of the question.
Here are six waters where you have a realistic chance of catching a monster.
EXETER CANAL, EXETER, DEVON
This canal (including the Turf basin) has the reputation as being one of, if not the best, perch venues in the South West with numerous fish in the 2lb-3lb bracket available to catch on lures. Prices: £6 from Exeter Angling Centre, Exeter AA Contact: Exeter Angling Centre 01392 436404, Postcode: EX6 8EE
GOLDEN POND FISHERY, ANDOVER, HANTS
Locate overhanging trees and underwater roots and the perch will be lingering nearby. Fish to 4lb can be taken on the pole or waggler with prawn hookbaits favoured. Contact: 07734 669738 Postcode: SP11 7LA
LEE NAVIGATION, HODDESDON, HERTS
Feildes Weir produced a stunning fish weighing in at 4lb 4oz recently and was caught on the worm fished in conjunction with a feeder. Livebaiting is also a worthwhile option here too. Contact: 07768 746059 Postcode: EN11 0RF
RIVER THAMES, ABINGDON, OXFORD
The towpath side adjacent to the Nags Head pub is starting to become an excellent lure venue for big perch. There are lots of crayfish in here and by working
crayfish imitation lures close to the bank and next to boats, you can pick up the larger fish. Contact: 01235 522642 Postcode: OX14 3HX
TRICKLE BROOK FISHERY, FIVE OAK GREEN, KENT
The Main Lake is the place to head for perch over 4lb and any areas providing cover are worth trying. Worms, casters and maggots should all be in your bait bag. Contact: 07743 955812 Postcode: TN12 6SH
WHITE SPRINGS FISHERY, SWANSEA, SOUTH WALES
A 5lb perch is a dream specimen but visit the Old Canal or The Pit and it could become a reality. Snags down the margins and against the island provide the perfect swim. Contact: 01792 885699 Postcode: SA4 8QG