WELCOME relief from the recent cold arrived at the end of the week at Sharpley when midge could again be seen dancing in still, warm spots. Pupal patterns did their stuff – provided they were black.

Otherwise, the bloodworm imitations have continued to work well, with pinkies and blood red rubber legs the pick of the bunch.

Lures in black or white took trout reliably too.

Occasionally an intermediate or slow sinker was required though and a dead slow retrieve.

Doxford Lake has fished best, its depth and volume ensuring a greater comfort zone for the fish when temperatures elsewhere can be sub-zero.

The FritznFly series qualifier was won by Paul Fenny from Hartlepool with 10 fish.

Second was James Stephenson from Middlesbrough with nine and third Glen Appleby from Peterlee with eight. Total fish caught 79.

Sharpley will open every day over the Christmas holidays. Visitors are welcome to join regulars on Christmas Day for complimentary sporting fishing.

At Chatton fishery, both Chatton and Ross Lakes are starting to clear after the heavy rain and fish are being caught in the first four feet of water and quite close to the banks.

The Eddie Brown Memorial competition racked up a rod average of 3.5.

Congratulations to Alec Bowler from Ayr, who caught 14 fish and won £300 and the trophy.

Second was Drew Dickson from Hawick;, third Kevin Andrews from Ayr and runner-up Andy Richmond from Irvine as 135 fish were caught.

At Knitsley Mill, fishing has been slow because of the cold weather.

A few of tough anglers who have braved the chill have been catching on intermediate and sinking lines.

On the middle lake any method is proving successful.

FLY BOX

Knitsley: Bloodworm, Consett Budgie and egg flies.

Sharpley: Pinky, Red Devil, Black Buzzer, Black Zonker/Nomad, Black/Green Mini Nomad, Goldhead, Hare’s Ear, Cat’s Whisker, Okey Dokey.