Don’t be an April fool. Remember that April 1 is the start of the new rod licence year and you will need to get out and renew your Environment Agency rod fishing licence if you want to fish. All current full and concessionary rod licences expire on March 31 March, so if you’re planning to fish in England or Wales over the coming season, now is the time to buy a new one. This is true for anglers holding coarse fish licences, even though the close season ends on June 15.
Anyone aged 12 years or over who fishes for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels in England and Wales must have an Environment Agency rod licence. Buying a licence couldn’t be easier – there are around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets which sell them direct; and for a small additional charge they can be purchased over the phone (0870 1662662) or from the Environment Agency web site – www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Fishing without a rod licence is not only illegal, but also deprives other anglers of valuable revenue to help protect and improve fish stocks and river habitats. As such, licence evasion is taken very seriously and can result in fines of up to £2,500 and a ban from fishing. The Environment Agency carries out routine patrols, as well national and regional blitzes, to deter people from fishing without a licence.
The close season for angling on rivers and streams for coarse fish started on March 15 and runs until June 15. During the close season, Environment Agency 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 angling have a valid rod licence. Anyone angling without a rod licence will have their details recorded and may be prosecuted.
