Specialist sporting auctioneers Mullock Madeley will launch the 2002 auction calendar with a fishing sale on Saturday, March 23, at the nationally renowned Shrewsbury School, itself located with outlooks to the sporting waters of the River Severn.

"We have a superb catalogue incorporating some fine reels, rods and cased fish, plus Part Three of the famous Leigh Moffatt Library Collection," says auctioneer John Mullock.

The sale is attracting international interest and it is expected that collectors from Europe, Japan, Canada and America will successfully bid on a number of key items.

A very rare Coxon three-inch, four spoke, reel with ebonite drum circa 1910 is predicted to realise in excess of £1,500. The auctioneer enthuses: "This is a superb reel incorporating twin tapered dark horn handles and a walnut back-plate. It is not just a good investment but a beautiful example of early 20th century British craftsmanship."

A cased fish caught exactly 90 years ago to the month is also expected to attract a four-figure price. The fine Brown Trout is by the famous taxidermist, F. W. Anstiss. "We have a tremendous selection of some 15 cased fish, ranging from Golden Tench to Pike and several specimen Brown trout."

Mr Mullock continues: "We have a broad variety of items of interest to all manner of fishing enthusiasts, from the amateur fisherman to the serious collector. This includes a great selection of elite new carbon and graphite rods at a fraction of the American retail value.

More information and catalogues available from Mullock Madeley 01694 771771 or visit the website www.mullockmadeley.co.uk