IT has been yet another challenging week for anglers with adverse weather conditions and rivers far from ideal.

Rain and strong winds have led to both the rivers Avon and Nadder carrying heavy colour as well as high levels of water. Shoals of minnows continue to be a menace and quality fish have been in short supply.

The 48 anglers who braved the elements on Sunday for the Open Pairs Competition on the Avon and Nadder, faced all these problems and it will not go down as a memorable match, a pity as it was the penultimate match before the river season closes on March 14.

Winning pair were visitors Ian Snook and Chris Gillot, who collected 11 points out of 12 and a combined weight of 18lb. Runners-up were local anglers, Dave George and Dave Tucker, also with 11 points but a lower combined weight of 15lb 10oz.

Individually, top weight on the Nadder went to Chris Gillot with 12lb 2oz of chub and roach while the best weight on the Avon went to Dave George with 7lb 12oz of mainly roach.

Anglers visiting the Britford fishery have also struggled with a few chub and dace being caught and grayling but roach have been notable for their absence. With more rain forecast, the prospects for the last week of the river season are grim.

The Teams of Four League has a new leader following the match, fished in high winds and squally showers, on Saturday at Witherington Farm Fishery.

Dandy’s K2 have taken over top spot from newcomers Whitemoor Lake, clocking up 38 points. They now lead with 169 points with Eastleigh Red in second spot with 164.5 points. Individual winners on the day were Malc Pepperill with 89lb 4oz and second place Mick Aldiss with 74lb 10oz, both fishing the Inner Snake Lake.

There are two more matches to go. All the lakes fished well as they have been for pleasure anglers with carp now being caught regularly from Barnmoor Lake, many well into double figures.