MORE or less continuous spells of heavy rain have kept river levels high over the last few days and although the forecast is for dryer conditions, the local fishing scene is likely to take some time before sport improves, especially with regard to the River Aire.

One or two anglers have been fishing the river when it has been running well above normal level and have managed to catch some mainly out of season brown trout.

If the river drops down as predicted then grayling and chub should start being caught again but it will need a fairly long spell of dry weather to get the river into pike fishing trim.

Canal anglers are still trying their luck throughout the Skipton length but are finding the fish difficult to locate.

One local man has spent 12 hours over three days without catching a single fish and this poor showing is most unusual even for winter time. Things can only improve.

I would think that no-one will be fishing Embsay Reservoir at the moment due to the weather and its exposed location.

The Skipton Angling Association’s Whinnygill Reservoir at Skipton has recently been stocked with ide, carp and bream and will be the venue for an open match on Sunday, December 30. The draw will be at 9am with four hours of fishing from 10am.

The reservoir is now full to the top and hopefully the weather will be kind for the competitors on match day.

The annual general meeting of the Skipton AA will be held at the Skipton Working Men's Club on Wednesday, January 9, commencing at 8pm.

The agenda is not too long this year and all current members are cordially invited to attend and give the officials their support.

JOHN W PRESTON