After spending some time on the Thames around Oxford since Christmas, the crayfish problem was a real eye-opener.

I really struggled to catch on all the areas I targeted around the channel area, and although I did catch the odd chub, it was not as enjoyable as it used to be.

People should be aware that is not just the red signal crayfish that inhabit our rivers. Two other types were introduced into this country back in the 70s and early 80s and were farmed. Some escaped and found their way into our river systems.

The Government introduced legislation to try and control the movement of these alien crayfish. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 it is an offence to move these crayfish unless licensed to do so.

But anglers are now finding it almost impossible to fish a static bait in an affected area.

And there's more to it than just nicking our bait. They transmit crayfish plague, a disease caused by a fungus which affects our native white clawed crayfish, which is protected under both UK and European law, and is classed as globally threatened.

The signal crayfish are having a major effect on the aquatic life in our rivers, and something needs to be done

With the return of the milder weather, Linch Hill and Linear Fisheries at Stanton Harcourt should be worth a visit.

Certainly the roach over at Linch Hill should be putting in an appearance. Telephone 01865 882215 or 07885 327708 for details.

If you prefer the rivers, why not try Medley or Godstow? There is the chance of some really decent chub and you should not get bothered with crayfish.

Bread has been producing a few good fish either fishing flake or crust. I would also advise taking cheese in some shape or form.

On the trout front, Lechlade and Bushleaze Fisheries enjoyed a good December.

At Masterline Lechlade, 284 anglers caught 887 fish with an average weight of 11.3.0. The largest fish went to Eric Whale of Coventry, who had a fish weighing 20.10.0.

Alex Hunt, from Stockbridge, had the largest four-fish and two-fish limit at 53lb and 33lb respectively. Best flies were damsels, fritz, montanas and muddlers.

Over on Bushyleaze, 248 anglers caught 765 fish with an average weight of 3.6.0. Graham Wootton, from Leominster, had the largest fish at 16lb, and the biggest six-fish limit went to Ted Durvey, of Swindon, at 33lb.