Environment Agency calls on North East anglers to log their catch

The Environment Agency in Northumbria has launched a coarse angler's logbook for the upcoming season to aid its research into fish stocks in the area and angling participation.

Anglers in the North East are being called on to keep a log of their fishing during the season to help the Environment Agency understand more about the extent of fishing in the area and the size and diversity of fish populations.

In the past, traditional survey techniques such as electric fishing and netting have given only limited information on fish stocks because these methods are less effective in fast flowing rivers like the Tyne and Wear and larger stillwaters.

Fisheries technical specialist, Phil Rippon at the Environment Agency said:
"Angler's catches provide a wealth of information that can be missed using traditional methods. Using this data we will be able to assess fish populations much more accurately."

The information from the logbooks will help to identify priorities for fish conservation and help toward improving access and restocking programmes. It will also contribute to the Environment Agency's continuing campaign to promote angling as a healthy and active pastime.

Anglers who complete and return a logbook will be entered into a prize draw to win fishing tackle worth up to £1,000. Copies of the results will also be sent to those who take part in the scheme.

The North East Anglers coarse log book can be obtained at local fishing tackle shops, or by contacting the Environment Agency on 0191 2034149.