‘NETS IN THE SUN’ IS A HUGE SUCCESS
Anglers heed pleas to do their bit to keep KHV off our lakes
FISHERIES nationwide have thrown their support behind an Angling Times campaign to help protect commercial fish stocks.
Angling Times joined many UK waters in the fight to raise awareness about preventing the spread of the deadly Koi Herpes Virus (KHV), following recent outbreaks of the disease at several popular fisheries.
Research has suggested that it can be transferred on keepnets and landing nets that haven’t been exposed to sunlight and properly dried out before use.
This saw the launch of the Angling Times ‘Nets In The Sun’ campaign, and bosses at several top commercials have now introduced new rules to help eradicate the virus.
Devon’s Stafford Moor hasn’t experienced KHV and owner Joanne Coombes is determined to keep it that way. She said: “Anglers must now dip all nets and stink bags and once they get to their peg, lay them out to dry. These are proven methods of killing diseases that could otherwise wreak havoc.
“We have invested thousands of pounds into the venue and we aren’t prepared to take any risks with our fish stocks. Everybody understands the need to put these measures in place, and anyone caught on CCTV flouting the rules will be asked to leave.”
Anglers are also being asked to dry their nets at home, and Packington Somers chief John Burchell believes the message has got through loud and clear. He said: “We are stressing the need to arrive here with dry nets, and so far everybody has done so, which is great to see. We are considering a stink bag ban as well.”