THE Environment Agency have already completed their survey of fish stocks on the River Aire, much to the annoyance of the Skipton Angling Association, who would have liked to have witnessed the proceedings, (writes John Preston).

The survey was carried out approximately 400 metres either side of the Carleton Stone Bridge and the results were better than expected, although still a poor showing on what they would have been 25 years ago.

Grayling proved to be the most numerous species, with 30 fish turning up in the electro fishing apparatus. These varied in size from about four to 10 inches in length, which proved that the fish were from two or more recruitment years.

The next most numerous species was the dace, which was fairly predictable since 2,000 fish were put into the river at that point last December. However, the survey fish were all smaller than the stock fish, so it appears that dace are spawning in the river, but are somewhat elusive as none have been caught for years.

A few brown trout were caught, but this is rather worrying as 500 fish were only introduced entirely on the survey length as late as the beginning of May and over 1,000 smaller fish last October. Very few anglers have been seen fishing this stretch so far more trout should have been caught in the survey.

Other species caught included a handful of pike up to about five pounds in weight and a single chub, plus minnows and bullheads too numerous to count.

Species missing that would have certainly turned up 25 years ago include roach, perch, gudgeon and possibly bream.

The full length from the Stone Bridge to Inghey Bridge has also been examined to try and ascertain why the fish stocks are low. Some stretches have been identified as having little fish cover and a plan is being drawn up to try and address this problem.

Pollution is not thought to be a major factor, although it is recognised that leachate is still entering the river from the former Ings Lane refuse tip.

Sewage pollution has been almost eliminated following treatment works improvements, but in some angling circles, it is felt a little sewage in the water is beneficial for the survival and good growth rate of coarse fish.