5 VENUES TO CATCH A 20lb-PLUS NET OF ROACH

1 RIVER WELLAND, SPALDING TOWN CENTRE, LINCS

At this time of year the roach fishing is at its best, with 30lb bags commonplace. Pinkie, breadpunch and maggot all work well on the hook when fished over a light groundbait. Contact: Granz Angling, 01775 712206 Prices: Free fishing

2 LINCH HILL FISHERY, STANTON HARCOURT, OXFORDSHIRE

Some of the sport’s biggest names have visited Willow Lake after the roach, and it is no surprise when you consider that redfins over 3lb are regular visitors to the bank. Contact: 01865 882215 Postcode: OX29 5BB

3 AIRE & CALDER CANAL, ALTOFTS, W YORKS

This section is fished regularly by match anglers for the quality of its roach sport. Bags to over 20lb are often caught on the pole, waggler or small feeder tactics. Contact: Chris Roberts Tackle, 01484 545032 Prices: £3.50 from Chris Roberts Fishing Tackle, Mirfield AC

4 SION FARM FISHERY, KIDDERMINSTER, WORCESTERSHIRE

Use slightly bigger baits to try and get through the smaller roach. Corn, triple maggot or caster are all worth trying for a potential personal best. Contact: 01562 730386 Postcode: DY10 4PF

5 OLD RIVER NENE, MARCH, CAMBS

A top winter roach venue where simple whip and pole tactics can account for huge bags of roach amounting to over 30lb. Contact: Millview Tackle, 01354 660566 Prices: Free fishing in the town centre