Teams crack down on illegalfishing

Environment Agency enforcement teams have continued their clampdown on illegal fishing, carrying out more than 30 patrols across Cumbria and Lancashire and two rod license ‘blitzes’ .

By The Newsroom

Published 19th Jun 2015, 14:00 BST

Photo Neil Cross
Environment Agency fish bailiffs checking fishermen along the River Ribble in Preston — Photo Neil Cross Environment Agency fish bailiffs checking fishermen along the River Ribble in Preston

Coarse angling is suspended between March 15 and June 15 on rivers, streams, and specified canals and stillwaters to protect spawning fish.

Sarah Chare, Environment Agency head of fisheries, said: “Our enforcement teams have been in out in force – particularly over the last couple of bank holidays – and will continue to be over the coming months.

“The number of anglers caught red-handed is testament to how seriously we take illegal fishing but worryingly it shows a blatant disregard for the law and the health of fisheries.

“People who don’t buy a licence are not only cheating other anglers and the future of the sport but running the risk of criminal conviction and a fine.”