The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Just had a decent roach from the Trent and Mersey canal the other day...about 1.5lbs in weight. Curious thing was it had a rosy, orangey patch on each cheek. Anyone seen this before?

I've seen this myself and I think I am right in saying that the Wensum roach on the front of Mark Wintle's 'Big Roach 2' suffers from that affliction. There will be an answer in Mark Everard's book I am sure and I will have a look when I get home this evening.

I've seen it before and put it down to the fish being embarrassed at being stupid enough to let me dupe it

Yes, I have caught two or three so far this season