HARDY anglers have suffered for their sport in the harsh cold snap but many have found it worthwhile.
At Chatton, where aerators are keeping the lakes ice-free, the colder weather with brighter periods has resulted in fish being hooked at all levels.
On Sunday, 18 anglers had Christmas cheer to keep them warm on a sometimes blustery but sunny day when Ladies Fishing held their Fishing and Festive Fun Day.
The day began with a friendly competition, when ladies and juniors had the magic touch with most catching fish.
Dads and husbands did not fare as well, as only one fish came to their nets.
After lunch, there were fun competitions such as hoy the haddock, organised by Cliff Johnston.
Winners were Ella Hall, 12, and Lesley Johnston; Maisy Hall, six, and Graham Hall; Rowan Hilary, eight, and Marion Matthewman.
Then it was back inside for festive fly dressing on a brooch for juniors.
Head coach Paul Little talked about equipment and how to care for it in winter.
A raffle organised by Janice Robinson raised £233 for Casting For Recovery UK and Ireland, which helps cancer patients.
Ladies competition winner was Lesley Johnston, dads' Gary Hilary and junior Matthew Anderson.
Trophies were presented to Chatton Lady of the Year Dawn Dixon, Ladies Fishing Lady of the Year Marion Matthewman and Junior of The Year Matthew Anderson.
The club gave special thanks to Alison and Roger of Chatton Trout Fishery, who have supported the group since its inception.
Their generosity has ensured the club goes in to 2013 in a strong position. This Sunday the ladies will be grayling fishing on the River Annan.
All Chatton's lakes have produced trout this week, with bags of up to seven.
Heaviest fish was a 7lb rainbow caught by Bob Smith from Morpeth using a black buzzer on a floating line.
Eric Gassner from Belford kept two fish and returned seven, using an Olive Nymph. Robbie Bell from Berwick caught nine on Buzzers.
Shane Kelly from Hawick caught nine using a Cat's Whisker, Blobs and Damsels. William Hall from Berwick returned a lovely 10lb rainbow to Chatton Lake.
This Sunday the fishery hosts the Eddie Brown Memorial Competition, when Dunnydeer and Chatton Lakes will be fully booked.
Ross Lake will be open, but anglers are asked to ring before travelling as space could be limited.
At Knitsley Mill fishing has been slow because of the cold. A few have braved the chill to catch on intermediate and sinking lines.
Top flies are Bloodworm, Consett Budgie and egg flies. On the middle lake, any method of fishing is proving successful. The fritznflies competition is still scheduled for Saturday.
