Gudgeon and roach will lose out to zander
A NEW report has confirmed what many anglers have claimed for years... that zander quickly decimate stocks of roach and gudgeon after being introduced into canals.
The report, put together by researcher Dr Phillip Smith and published on the Canal & River Trust’s website, claims that once zander have gained a foothold, their numbers explode, particularly in canals that are popular with boat users.
It says: “Once introduced, zander establish large populations in canals that have high levels of boat traffic. Their diet is mainly smaller roach, but it appears they actively choose to eat gudgeon, which decline rapidly and can be almost wiped out.
“The zander is at an advantage in these murky waters because it has a specially-adapted eye to see in low light levels.”
The report claims that only intensive electrofishing can reduce zander numbers in a venue, but the Zander Anglers Club (ZAC) believes the changing tastes of UK anglers need taking into account before such actions are followed.
ZAC secretary Neville Fickling said: “Until recently we didn’t object to zander removal if it was to protect other fisheries, but it’s clear now that things have changed.
“The increased interest in lure fishing means that many anglers are targeting zander. With this in mind, provided zander anglers are supporting canal clubs, the removal of zander should be phased out.
“If angling is changing, then let the change happen.”
“The zander’s diet is mainly smaller roach, but it appears they prefer gudgeon”