AS spring approaches, the trout fisherman will relish the days ahead as fly life starts to increase and trout begin to move more freely.

At Blakewell Fishery, several anglers have connected with prime, double-figure rainbows.

Mr Timms of Torquay visited and made a fine catch of three scaling 14lb 9oz, 14lb and 11lb 8oz.

Crediton pair Dave Impey and Gethin Davis took trout of 16lb 5oz and 15lb 6oz respectively.

Trout have been showing on the surface with small buzzer patterns scoring when the sun breaks through. Lures and larger nymphs are also working well.

There are trout scaling between 3lb and 6lb giving excellent sport, especially if the angler uses lightweight tackle that often rewards with more takes and provides an exciting battle.

Just be careful not to point the rod at the fish and tighten into the takes with a degree of delicacy.

Even the largest trout can be quickly subdued using a six-weight rod and 4lb point, although I seldom drop below 6lb b.s for stillwater trout.

A new salmon season starts on Monday, when anglers will be hoping to connect with a bright silver, spring-run salmon.

There are rods available on a prime stretch of salmon and sea trout water on the Taw and Little Dart at Tremayne near Chulmleigh. Anyone interested should contact John Smith on 01363 84804.

In the next few weeks I hope to bring news from the River Taw Fisheries Association and River Torridge Fishery Association, both of which have their annual meetings next month.

Ilfracombe Match Group's latest match saw them visit Lazy Acres Fishery near Stibb Cross and enjoy a spring-like session.

Graham Curnow secured victory with a bag of 15lb 2oz. Matt Cross was runner-up with 8lb 2oz and Kevin Wilton third with 7lb 11oz that also won him the silver-fish bag.

The club's annual Champion of Champions match was also held, with those who had a top-three place throughout the year qualifying.

Graham Curnow was the winner, with Kevin Wilton second and Andy Gray third.

The stars of the angling world have been visiting Angler's Paradise, near Halwill Junction, and enjoying some top-rate sport with golden orfe. Des Taylor and Bob Roberts landed orfe of more than 5lb.

Lee Platts also got in on the act, taking several double-figure carp from the easy access lake and also connecting with a large fish, probably a catfish, that eventually shook the hook free.

The Angling Trust are launching a campaign to raise angling's profile in the run-up to the General Election.

Angling is one of the country's largest participation sports with an estimated three million involved. So it is sad the Trust, which is the sport's official governing body, has a paid-up membership of close to 14,000.

Imagine how much power the organisation would have if just half of all anglers joined. The Trust works hard to promote and protect angling and it needs support. Membership is £20 for an individual, £5 for a junior and club membership starts at £50.

Sea angling news is scarce with fish hard to find.

There should be the chance of an early ray from local beaches.

Ilfracombe Pier could be worth a try for plaice.

The lower estuary could yield bass on fresh peeler crab baits.

Triple Hook Club's annual presentation night saw Steve Luxton take away several trophies to swell his collection.

The club's top junior was Jack Toleman.

Darren Short took the best specimen of the year with a fine rockling of almost 2lb.

Diary dates

Saturday: Wistlandpound Flyfishing Club presentation night.

Saturday & Sunday: Rod 'n' Reelers Rover.

Monday: salmon season opening.

Friday, March 5: Torridge Fishery Association annual meeting, Half Moon Inn, Sheepwash.