MONDAY marks the opening of the new coarse fishing season on rivers and drains.

Although canals, lakes and ponds are open all year, there are still many anglers who observe a close season on all waters and they will be looking forward with relish to getting to the waterside once again.

Rivers look in good shape and should provide good sport in the coming weeks.

To all those who have not been out since March 14 last, may I remind them to ensure to buy their new rod licences before setting out, for EA bailiffs will be very active in the early days of the new season and fines can be very heavy indeed. Tights lines to all.

Carp yet again fed well in the Viaduct Fishery midweek Open event on Wednesday.

Frampton BL matchman Clive Davis carried off top prize with an all carp catch weighing 96lb 8oz taken on pole fished sweetcorn on a 14 hook.

Dynamite Frys matchman Dave Malin took second spot with another carp catch weighing 87lb also taken on pole fished sweetcorn on a 14 hook.

In form Avon Angling matchman Tony Rixon clinched third prize with a carp catch weighing 68lb 11oz taken on pole fished pellets on a 14 hook.

Sunday's Wilts Angling Open match was fished at Viaduct Fisheries where carp fed ravenously.

Thatchers 2000 matchman Gary O'Shea hit the magic ton figure with a carp catch weighing 105lb 4oz taken on pole fished pellets on a 14 hook.

Runner up prize went to Bradford matchman Ian Willetts with another carp catch weighing 82 lb 8 oz taken on pole fished sweetcorn on a 14 hook.

Trowbridge matchman Nicky Johns took third prize with another carp catch weighing 82lb 4oz taken on pole fished sweetcorn on a 14 hook.

The Sedges produced some fair weights in the Carps AC Open match last weekend. Avon Angling star Tony Rixon again shone to take top prize with a carp catch weighing 57 lb 11oz taken on pole fished pellets on a 14 hook. Runner up prize went to Carps AC matchman Mike Alexander with a carp catch weighing 27lb 6oz taken on pole fished sweetcorn on a 14 hook.

Bathampton matchman Dave Micklewright clinched third prize with a carp and skimmer catch weighing 21lb 4oz.

Future events: Saturday June 14, Bradford Open match K & A Canal Kings Arms; Sunday June 15, Bathampton Old 'Uns & Young 'Uns pairs match Hunstrete Lakes; Monday June 16, Chippenham Evening match at Chippenham; Tuesday June 17, Calne Evening match at Hazeland; Wednesday June 18, Bradford Evening match Staverton; Friday June 20, Bathampton Over 60s and Disabled match at Bridge Pool; Airsprung match K and A Canal Moulton Drive.