Keighley Angling Club’s opening match of 2015 turned into a real icebreaker in more ways than one as anglers braved sub-zero temperatures on the canal at Silsden.
The freeze proved too much for some competitors who headed home after finding a veneer of ice on the surface.
Ten anglers remained and Nigel Bower was first to make the breakthrough as he quickly adapted to the conditions. Although the fish remained elusive beneath the ice, Bower bagged 2lb 4oz of roach and perch to take the first prize. Tim Bolland also found himself skating on thin ice but persevered to take the runner up slot.
Although the river is swollen and unpredictable, grayling remain ever-present and eager to take red and white maggot. The chilly conditions are also proving a real challenge for pike fishing and those who specialise are seeking out double figure specimens in the frozen River Aire’s notorious piking hotspots.
The club plans to run a match on the river on Sunday 18th January. Please contact match secretary Darren on 07795 243332 for details.
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