MONSTER fish are forcing anglers to dash out and buy new weighing scales.

Huge fish being caught in the Leeds and Liverpool canal are setting new records and the old spring scales have been groaning under the weight. Now Keighley Angling Club is planning to buy hi-tech electronic scales to keep up with the blossoming fish population.

"Anglers have been reporting 40lb carp in the canal and some weighing 35lb have been landed recently. The new digital scales will give an accurate read out at all weights," said club president Lawrence Brocklesby.

The sport is also booming among women and the club has organised a special match for ladies and disabled people. The 'Open' match will can be fished by any women, or disabled people, who want to try their hand at the sport and is not restricted to club members.

Entry to the competition will be free with an optional draw. It is to be held on September 26, with a 9am draw at the White Lion pub, Kildwick, followed by fishing from 10am to 3pm, Bloodworm is not allowed as bait.

Anyone interested should contact L Brocklesby on 01535-216321 or J Myers on 01274-788536.

The club is also to hold open matches on September 27 and October 25 to book phone Nigel Bowers on 01535-646025.

There will be a visiting party holding a match on the canal at Silsden on September 20 and members are asked not to use Pegs 163 to 203 from the Hen Pens to the start of the Gas Works length. There will also be an away match on October 11 from Pegs 163 to 235.

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