STEVE Bewes knows every inch of his favourite River Wyre at Churchtown and it showed during his session last week despite low water and gin clear conditions.

He chose a typical Mr Crabtree classic swim with an overhanging willow trailing in the river flow.

After introducing a few offerings his free-lined break was snapped up confidently by a chub of 4lbs. Five more fish of the same stamp followed.

As sport slowed, a change of hook bait to cube-flavoured meat saw a total of 14 chub slide over the rim of his landing net.

He reckons that sport is definitely improving and, along with the fish size, is the best for a number of years.

Steve also had his rod fishing licence checked by an Environment Agency bailiff, proving that no matter how remote the spot defaulters stand a real chance of being caught, followed hopefully by a hefty fine.

Aside from being the law of the land, it is also enshrined in Warrington Anglers' Association's rules that members must have a valid EA licence.

Our licence money is used to protect, improve and develop our nation's fisheries.

Steve Brooks reports a good net of roach from Rixton Claypits on waggler and maggot. He had fish to 1lb along with a bonus 4lb tench.

Similarly, Grey Mist Mere is providing excellent sport with the same species. I think those fish benefit from the leftovers of high protein baits aimed at keeping the resident carp healthy.

Another species that definitely thrives on those protein rich baits are the tench, who get their share of the artificial larder even on such highly stocked fishieries.

Grey Mist shows just how reliant carp are on anglers' bait. Last year it was closed as a precaution due to the threat of a mystery carp virus.

Two fish that weighed more than 30lbs each lost at least 4lbs in weight.

Tench to 6lbs, crucians and bream are providing good sport on Cicily Mill Pool.

The rule on all of our waters is 'no paid-up licence, no fishing' - it's as simple as that.

Warrington Anglers' Association is a member's club, run by the members for the members and it is unacceptable to expect the members that have paid to financially support those that cannot be bothered to meet their own liabilities.

Bailiffs will not accept any excuses and cards will be withdrawn.

Let me have your catch reports on 01928 716238, fax on 01928 7138989 or email frank@warrington-anglers.org.uk. HQ Parker Street will be open as usual tomorrow, Friday, between 7pm and 9.30pm for subscriptions and new members.

Frank Lythgoe

Results: Junior match series: 1, Jamie Hirst 4-10-0; 2, Mike Chung 2-8-0; 3, Jake Fowles 2-0-15. Woodshaw Junior Series: 1, John Andrews 13-10-0; 2, Mike Chung 5-8-8; 3, Jake Fowles 5-7-4; 4, Brad Davies 4-3-8. Mersey Series: 1, Gary Mannion 8-10-0; 2, Ian Roberts 6-3-0; 3, Lee Clarke 5-3-0; Roy Everson 4-6-0.

Forthcoming events: Today, Thursday: Minnows, draw 6pm on bank opposite Euclid Avenue; Junior/Intermediate, draw 6pm at Grappenhall Bridge (pegs 595-621). Saturday: Ladies Centenary Trophy, draw noon on grass path by the bank at Grappenhall (pegs 60-621). Sunday: Second Association match (rod only), draw 9am at Weir Lane. Monday: Disabled and Over 60s, draw 10am at Star Inn; Junior Series (5.30pm at Woodshaw Reservoir) draw on bank. Tuesday: Senior Series, draw 5.30pm on car park at Pickering's Bridge.