SIX TOP VENUES FOR A WINTER ROACH NET
COLD WEATHER IS CONCENTRATING THE SHOALS
THE current cold weather will mean dense shoals of roach in a water near you – get things right and you could be in for a keepnet full!
The matchmen among us will be very interested in the following venues where, even in the depths of winter, 30lb-plus bags of roach are commonplace.
MESSINGHAM SANDS, SCUNTHORPE, NORTH LINCS
Despite a sharp drop in temperatures, Oak Tree pond has produced great roach sport in the recent Drennan silver fish winter league, with winning bags of 25lb-plus. Top tpegs were 36, 45 and 39. Bites were forthcoming on maggot, caster and pellet. There’s vehicular access to all 50 pegs. Contact: 01724 763647 Postcode: DN17 3AX
WHITTLE DENE, OLD MILITARY ROAD, NORTHUMBRIA
There are three beautiful lakes on site here, all set within the rolling hills of Northumbria. The scenic lakes hold easily accessible swims, along with more adventurous areas for those who wish to explore. The Great Southern lake is your best bet for roach, with the potential for some of the best roach fishing you will ever enjoy! Contact: 01669 621368 Postcode: NE15 0QA
RENNY LAKE, EAST HORSLEY, NORTHALLERTON, NORTH YORKS
Renny Lake offers day-ticket coarse fishing in beautiful surroundings. Although predominantly a carp water, through the winter months great bags to 30lb of roach are possible. Fishing up in the water on a short line, with simple pole tactics, has proved fruitful. Maggots or casters are the stand-out baits. Contact: 07885 776291 Postcode: DL6 2EA
HAMPTON SPRINGS FISHERY, HAMPTON MALPAS, CHESHIRE
At this vast day-ticket fishery, Alice Springs and Rock Pool are the best bet for some winter roach action. With the redfins in the 6oz-10oz bracket, big bags of up to 30lb are on the cards. As
on many venues throughout the winter, fishing shallow with caster or maggots is the winning method. Contact: 01948 820789 Postcode: SY14 8AD
RIVER DEE, FARNDON, CHESHIRE
This free stretch of water is prolific throughout the winter months, and with a migration of roach holding up here, a keepnet full is certainly possible. Most baits will bring results, with hemp and caster a firm favourite among the locals. The water here is deep, so be prepared by carrying suitable floats. Prices: Free fishing Contact: Tackle Locker, 01244 345069
AIRE & CALDER CANAL, ALTOFTS, WEST YORKS
This Mirfield AC-run stretch is a renowned winter spot for roach, where even under terrible conditions a good bag can be put together. Most tactics will produce, with pole fished maggot, bread, hemp and caster all effective. There’s a wide stamp of fish here, from 4oz through to at least 1lb 12oz. Prices: £30 a year, Mirfield AC Contact: Mirfield AC, 07887 712823