With Oxfordshire in the grip of one of the coldest winters for the last 30 years, it was no surprise that all of last Sunday’s matches were cancelled.

However, one angler who wasn’t fazed by the icy blast was Toby Pope, from Abingdon.

Tony, 29, fished Iffley Lock, near Oxford, with his dad Steve, and hooked a superb 5.8.0 chub on bread.

It only goes to show that you don’t catch fish sat at home in your armchair, and if you can get out, it sometimes pays off.

Hopefully, we will be able to get back on the rivers tomorrow as it is has started to warm up a little.

The downside of having a thaw will be the amount of snow and salt entering our rivers and streams, which really does have a negative effect on the fish.

Also, there is the chance of flooding.

The important thing to remember though, is to keep safe at all times.

l If you have any news, views or photos, you can contact me on 01865 725606 or email agw@awebber20.orangehome.co.uk