YOUNGSTERS have been catching plenty of fish this summer, including some whoppers.

Angling was one of the first sports to return from the UK lockdown that was forced by the coronavirus pandemic and it encouraged many to hit the banks for fresh air and to try their luck – some for the very first time.

It is a sport for all ages, as Zosia Cook revealed her daughter, Orla, five, from Winnington has been enjoying catching, including on a recent trip to the canal near Barnton with her dad.

Northwich Guardian:

Charlie Mitchell, 10, is among the newcomers to have tackled waters on the card of Winsford & District Angling Association, whose rights include Wyvern House Pool, Ocean Pool, Newbridge Pool, Top Flash and the Trent & Mersey Canal, while others have visited the day-ticket Holmston Hall lakes in Tarporley.

Northwich Guardian:

Charlie Mitchell with some of his recent catches

Northwich Guardian:

“Charlie has only began fishing regularly since the lockdown began,” said his mum, Kelly.

“He’s fished at the Wyvern lake several times, the Ocean down at Knights Grange and the Top Flash with his dad and his school friend Bailey.”

Both Charlie and Bailey Saunders, also 10, have landed some big carp recently.

Northwich Guardian:

Charlie Mitchell, left, and Bailey Saunders on a night session at Top Flash

Steve, Bailey’s dad, said: “He got his personal best on Saturday at 16lbs.”

Northwich Guardian:

Bailey pictured with some of the carp he has landed

Northwich Guardian:

Both of Becky Weir’s children are loving their time on the banks.

Winsford Academy student Jimmy, who celebrates his 12th birthday on Thursday, and his sister Josie, seven, who attends Wharton Primary School, have been catching regularly.

“They both love to go fishing with their dad Michael on his days off from work,” said Becky.

Northwich Guardian:

Northwich Guardian:

Northwich Guardian:

Northwich Guardian:

“They fish the Winsford District angling waters and their favourite place to fish is Newbridge Pool.

“They also love exploring and looking for different wildlife while fishing.”

Winsford Grange 13-year-old Joshua Scally enjoyed a recent trip to Holmston Hall as a way of leaving the confines of home.

His stepdad Stuart Macdonald said: “We decided to take him fishing for his first time during lockdown.

Northwich Guardian:

Joshua's very first catch - a good size for your first one!

“He needed to get out so I decided to get the rods out and take him fishing. He loved it.

“He had a great time and it put a smile back on his face.

“After that day we have bought lots of fishing gear and he is looking forward to fishing around Winsford.”