SKIPTON Summer League competitors had to contend with a sharp turn in the weather last Sunday when a strong, cool wind and frequent showers replaced the almost summery conditions that had been here for several weeks.

Catches consisted mainly of small roach and perch and although some anglers had plenty of fish, the weights were quite poor for this time of year.

Kenny Wright recorded an easy win with 410g, while in second place, Andrew Thomas had almost half that weight with his 210g.

Other leading weights were: 3, Russell Heaton 190g; 4, Andy Wharton and Mark Bradley 150g; 6, Jason Aldis 90g; 7, Bill Davenport 40g and 8, Simon Chenier and Steve McIlroy 10g.

The results had little effect on the league positions with Russell Heaton out in front with 11 points. Jason Aldis is second with 16, Andrew Thomas third with 17 and Andy Wharton fourth with 20 (all subject to confirmation).

Reports from the districts local fisheries suggest that most of them are fishing well, although the bigger fish seem to be avoiding capture.

On the canal, there is an abundance of roach, perch and skimmers on almost any length. The bid bream have now dispersed following spawning.

One fish that is apparently doing well in the canal is the signal crayfish, which are very numerous around Bradley and the edge of Skipton near Horse Close bridge.

Embsay is fishing well for rainbow trout on the fly and some smallish brownies are also turning up, with plenty of small perch, mainly down the road side length.

Whinnygill Reservoir is producing good catches of roach, ide, perch and skimmers, including some decent sized fish.

The reservoir will be the venue for another taster day this Sunday for anyone interested in trying their hand at fishing. Just come to the water any time between 10.00am and 4.00pm and tackle, bait and all the help you need will be available.

The River Aire is full of fish, with small brown trout doing very well on most lengths, which augurs well for the future.

The low water level and extensive weed growth is a handicap and the bailiff recommends that the fish are left alone until the river is carrying extra water.

The warm weather and poor flow with reduced oxygen levels is not conducive to fish survival after the exertion of being captured, and the fishing would be best served by abstaining from angling for the time being.