The new coarse fishing river season is just four days old and I just wonder what lies ahead as far as prospects are concerned, writes ANDY WEBBER.

Over the last few years, much has been said about the state of our rivers.

Many feel they are in decline, with various reasons being put forward like cormorants, crayfish, otters and pollution.

We are all very quick to point the finger at the people in charge of our rivers and streams, but is it really that bad?

It seems to me that quality fish are there if you are prepared to put in the time and effort, but they are not easy.

This season, I’d like you to contact me by either email or telephone and tell me how your day’s fishing has been.

I’d also like to see any photos of your captures.

Maybe then I can compile a general picture of river fishing throughout the county.

You can contact me on 01865 725606 or email agw@awebber20.orangehome.co.uk Stillwaters have, of course, stayed open throughout the year, with the big carp waters producing consistently.

Anglers come from far and wide to fish the Linear Fisheries complex at Stanton Harcourt where a personal best is a real possibility.

Richard Bayes, a 34-year-old joiner, travelled down from from north Yorkshire recently and banked a PB common carp of 39.8.0 from Oxlease Lake.

He also had another common weighing 17.1.0 and a 22.0.0 mirror.