I decided to try a local gravel pit where I know the perch run to over 4lb. I fished it at this time of year a couple of years ago and had one of 2lb 6oz, but when I tried it a month ago I blanked. Possibly the fish were spawning then, but after blanking I always need a bit of assurance from the fish that they are still around.

WT 12degC - no change in a month. 7.10 - 8.45pm

Float fished maggot for the first hour - just one small perch. Switched to lobworm and had one reasonable perch of about 12 oz just as it got too dark to see the float. Not exactly bite-a-chuck, but it was good to see the fish are still there! Hmm, I wonder if I should consider prebaiting as I normally pass this lake earlier in the day?