Anglers rejoice as restrictions ease and they can return to action
THE ANGLING Trust has published guidelines to help the angling community prepare for the return of the sport.
Key changes are the return of both night fishing and match fishing, the ending of any statutory limits on travel (but with the advice to avoid ‘unnecessary travel’), and the opening up of private and charter boat fishing.
There are no time limits on outdoor recreation so you may fish into or through the night. This has been confirmed by the Cabinet Office. Campsites and holiday accommodation cannot open until April 12 but fishing from a bivvy is not prohibited under the regulations.
Match fishing (in sea and freshwater) to Covid guidelines is classified as an organised outdoor sport, and not subject to the gatherings limit, provided the relevant precautions are taken.
Angling Trust CEO Jamie Cook said: “It’s been a long road and has taken a lot of hard work but we are delighted to see the return of all forms of angling from March 29th.
“Once again we must ask people to avoid fishing in crowded places where social distancing could be difficult and might give rise to concerns over public health.
“We must continue to fish responsibly and safely and remember that we have been extremely fortunate to be able to fish throughout this lockdown when other sports have been banned.”
Angling Trust Head of Policy Martin Salter added: “All the recognised national governing bodies for sport are tasked with producing specific guidelines for their areas taking into account the regulations and accompanying Government guidance and advice.
“These latest guidelines have been drawn up following extensive dialogue with relevant Government departments and the Environment Agency to help anglers, fishery owners and managers to better understand what is permissible as the current lockdown regulations are lifted from March 29th.
“They have benefitted from senior legal input and are fully in line with both the latest regulations and FAQs issued by Sport England.“