South West canal hits top perch form

AN angler fishing for silvers on a Somerset canal recorded one of his best ever sessions recently when he encountered a shoal of large perch - including a monster 4lb-plus specimen.

Mark Affleck was fishing the pole on the Taunton and Bridgewater Canal, when after putting together a nice bag of roach on casters, he decided to switch to his worm line, with tremendous results.

“What a great fight on light pole gear, unfortunately the pictures didn’t do it’s size justice”, he said.

Taunton Angling Association’s Dan Baldwin told Angling Times previously of the canals potential for large perch, he said: “The perch are spread throughout the canal but there are some noted hotspots. Bathpool Boat Docks, Chalton Orchard and upstream of Maunsel Lock, all hold lots of perch ranging from 1-3lb.”

It certainly looks like now is a great time to try and catch these fish. If you fancy a go yourself head to www.tauntonanglingassociation.co.uk for tickets.