THOUSANDS of new fish have been introduced into Arrow Valley Lake following the successful completion of a year long project to deter cormorants from eating the stock.
Fish refuges have been repaired and new ones built and a more effective laser device installed to deter the predators.
“These actions we hope will help to restore the quality of fishing on the lake to something like it was about three to four years ago following a decline, mainly caused by cormorant predation,” said John Bushell, secretary of the RFA.
“The new fish, mainly roach and bream will augment the existing stocks of larger bream and carp and hopefully restore the lake to its former status as one of the best ‘natural’ fishing venues in the Midlands area.”
The Borough Council’s portfolio holder for leisure and cultural services, Councillor Mike Rouse, said: “We are proud to offer a first-class angling experience here in Redditch, drawing people from all over the country.
“This means we need to maintain our high standards and invest in the lake so it can be enjoyed by everyone for years to come.
“For a relatively small cost – shared by the Council and the Angling Trust – we are providing a lot of benefit.”
Cormorants can be easily spotted at Arrow Valley Lake.
Dark in colour and with a long neck, the RSPB describes them as ‘supreme fishers’ flying close to the water’s surface before diving for their catch.
The lake is also a nationally recognised refuge for herons.
