A few Saturdays ago I reported that several anglers who were targetting other species of fish had caught trout from the Thames, writes Andy Webber.

I had an anonymous call from some chap who told me that the reason there were trout in the river was that pike anglers used them as livebaits and these fish had escaped.

I had another call from Ray Disley, who used to run Dells Tackle shop on the Cowley Road.

He told me that about 20 years ago, the Environment Agency put about 200 trout into each weirpool on the Thames.

I also received an email from Brian Lingham, who told me about some trout he caught from the Thames at Sutton Courtenay.

Ray went on to say: "It is well known that every weirpool holds large predatory trout."

He also mentioned the improved water quality, plus plenty of weed growth and natural food.

As the river continues to improve, more of these trout will move out of the weirpools and into the river.

Watch this space!

  • Thames Water are going through the consultation stages for their proposed new reservoir between Abingdon and Didcot.

The Environment Agency have asked Thames Water to prove that this new reservoir is needed, as it is going to affect a lot of people.

EA area manager Craig Woodhouse said: "We want to be involved from the beginning to see that we get the best for both people and the environment."

  • If you have any news, views, photos, contact me on 01865 725606 or email andrew@webber01865.fsnet.

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