Despite many warnings, in this column and elsewhere, it appears that the angling close season message is still not being fully understood.

I recently clarified the situation with the law relating to pike fishing, but I saw two boats trolling lures down the middle of the Ouse in York city centre this week.

While the anglers may well argue they were fishing for trout, only the most misguided optimist could believe any brownie would tackle a plug that must have been nearly a foot long.

My trip into town also revealed five anglers fishing in the Foss basin. I know that the close season does not apply on stillwaters, but I am afraid that the Foss basin does not fall into this category.

Linking the rivers Ouse and Foss it is very much part of the river system, despite appearances.

Four of the anglers present were youngsters who could have been forgiven for not knowing any better, but the surly father should certainly have known the rules.

I'm sure that a hefty fine from the Environment Agency would have done little to improve his demeanour.

Further alleged offences were reported to me from the York stretch of the Derwent at Kirkham Abbey, where three anglers were said to have been seen fishing last Sunday.

Be warned, fisheries patrols will be out and about during the next few weeks. Stay off the rivers until June 16.

Tollerton Ponds will be holding a special Charity Open match on Saturday, May 1, to aid Leeds toddler Amy Lewis.

Amy's parents hope the event will help towards raising the £70,000 needed to fund life-saving heart surgery.

All three lakes at the Tollerton complex will be used, giving a maximum of 58 places. Pools will be £5 with all of the £5 day-ticket money going to Amy's cause.

To reserve a peg please call Chris Jewitt on 01347 838115. Chris advises that Coot and Heron ponds are both in good form at present, with tench beginning to show and the recent introduction of small carp and ide are also boosting catches.

Another local fishery worth a visit is the Wilows, where Cath Gallagher reckons that Goldrush is a sure -fire bet for a bite a chuck.

Most baits will score with caster or maggot are best for mixed nets of ide, orfe, chub and small carp. For the better carp try pellet or paste fished close to the snags.

Stillwater fishery owners can contact me to pass on details for inclusion in this column on 01904 785592 or at darren.starkey@ntlworld.com

Updated: 11:06 Friday, March 26, 2004