Fishing restricted as ‘close season’ begins

FISHING fans are being reminded that the ‘close season’ is now in action.

The close season dictates a period of time - From March 15 until June 15 - when anglers are not permitted to fish for ‘course fish’ like barbel and chub.

The three month restriction is applied to give th fish chance to breed.

The close season applies to all rivers, streams and drains in England but does not apply to most still-waters and canals.

During the close season Environment Agency enforcement offices along with support from the Angling Trusts Voluntary Water Bailiffs will be out on rivers and streams making sure people are observing the close season.

They will also be checking lakes and ponds to make sure people who are fishing have a valid rod licence.

Anyone fishing without a fishing licence can expected to be prosecuted.

Holly Male, Fisheries team leader for the Environment Agency, said: “Our job is to protect fish stocks and improve fisheries, which includes rescuing fish in distress, improving habitat and restocking rivers.

“The majority of anglers, who fish legally, rightly demand that we take action to catch offenders.

“Our enforcement officers, supported by Angling Trust voluntary bailiffs, will be targeting illegal fishing during close season.

“We urge anyone to report illegal fishing as quickly as possible by calling our incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.”