FISHING at Sharpley Springs/ Water was challenging this week due to some ice and more snow – however, the rod average was 3.4 with bags of up to 14 fish reported.

Ice reappeared at the end of the week soon vanished with the onset of overnight rain and all lakes are ice free and fishable, with the heated fishing lodge offering free tea and coffee making a welcome retreat from the unpredictable weather.

The fish soon rallied to take pink and black lures with yellow Blobs fished under indicators also accounting for good numbers of fish.

Fishermen should note that the best results were produced when these were fished static with the eastern bank of the Doxford near the aerator soon becoming a “hotspot”.

Anglers planning a trip to the fishery should call (0191) 5818045 or 07860757527 for the latest conditions update.

Chatton Lakes are still frozen but are hoping to re-open on Monday (January 17).

Anglers should check www.chattontroutfishery.com or ring 01668 215226 before travelling, if there is no answer when you call then the fishery is still closed.

South Linden Trout Fishery, Northumberland, is now scheduled to re-open early next month.

Any angler planning a visit should also telephone ahead on 01670 788366.

Alternatively, they can visit the fishery’s website, which is at www.southlindenfishery.org, to check the conditions and availability of tickets.

Those preparing for the new season on the River Tyne will, undoubtedly, be encouraged by an announcement from the Environment Agency towards the end of last year.

The EA revealed that the number of migrating salmon in the River Tyne was the highest since records began. Figures from the agency also showed that up to the start of December, 45,598 salmon and sea trout passed their fish counter at Riding Mill on their way upstream.

In 2009, the number of fish passing through the counter was 22,731 – less than half the 48,668 recorded in 2004.

Fly Box

Sharpley: Pinky, Pink/Black Zonker, Bloodworm, Cat's Whisker, Blobs.