Warning to anglers fishing without a licence

A warning was today issued to anyone planning to fish without a licence,

Illegal fishing can carry hefty penalties; fishing without a rod licence can lead to a court appearance and fine of up to £2,500 and contravening a local or national Byelaw can land offenders with a fine of up to £50,000.

The vast majority of anglers fish legally and abide by the rules, which are designed to protect the environment as well as providing a sustainable and fair future of the sport.

Calum Underhill, Fisheries Enforcement Officer at the Environment Agency, said: "We take illegal fishing and illegal fish movements very seriously. Anyone fishing illegally can expect to be prosecuted and face a substantial fine.

"Many people enjoy angling and we would encourage anyone to give it a try, as there are many great places to fish in the local area.

"Information on getting into angling is freely available on the internet and information about rod licences and byelaws can be found on the Environment Agency website. Anyone who witnesses or has information regarding illegal fishing is encouraged to report it through the Environment Agency’s Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60."

Last year, the Environment Agency checked over 62,000 rod licences and prosecuted more than 1,900 anglers for rod and line offences resulting in fines and costs in excess of £500,000.

Fishing is great value for money at just £27 for an annual licence, and concessions available. Buying a rod licence is quick and easy - you can buy them online at the Post Office, at your local Post Office branch or by phoning 0344 800 5386.