I've been back to the canal a couple more times since my last entry but only for an hour or so per session. The first was spent checking out a new stretch that proved to be a bit of a struggle. Only one 50yard area produced, but the result was well worth the effort. I had a nice perch of approx 2.4 in the net but before I got a chance to weigh it the old man shouted that he was playing a bigger one. Sure enough, in the net it went and at first sight it was indeed a better one, we guessed around 2.8. However, after a quick weigh, it turned out to be substantially bigger at 3lb 1oz.. They're almost impossible to judge these perch. Some are evidently more full that others.

Unfortunately this one had a massive hook and 2 SSG's stuck in it's throat but after a bit of careful surgery I managed to get it out. Fingers crossed that one survives.. it seemed to swim off happy enough.

I also made use of the beautiful weather we had yesterday and popped to another new stretch for a rushed hour or so. 8 jacks and not a sign of any perch later and I was back off home.

I'd walked the stretch many times in the past, hoping to find the carp. I found a few fish on a few occasions but they seemed very nomadic. One day they where there, the next they where nowhere to be seen. One area in particular though seemed more consistent and sure enough, as I was fishing that area last night a decent fish of 18-20lb came ghosting through, right under my feet . I'll make sure to take a bit of bait with me next time I'm out with the lure rod.