The Environment Agency is warning anglers that they face a fine of up to £2500 if they are found using illegal baits when fishing in the upper reaches of the River Severn this autumn.

The byelaws are in place to protect salmon from being caught by rod and line in the areas where they spawn. The baits banned from 8th October to 31st December, 2007, are live or dead fish, worms, prawns, spinners or other artificial lures but does not include artificial flies.

The sections of rivers affected are the Vyrnwy upstream of Meifod Bridge, all tributaries of the Vyrnwy, the River Severn upstream of Penstrowed railway bridge, Nr. Newtown, Powys and all tributaries of the River Severn upstream of Cilcewydd bridge Nr. Welshpool.

Environmental Crime Enforcement Officer, Andy Roberts, says "The Environment Agency is working hard to make sure that wild salmon stocks are protected. This is part of our work to look after our heritage, which anglers help to pay for when they buy rod licences. As part of our policy, we will be carrying out regular patrols and surveillance operations to catch anglers who take salmon illegally. We will not hesitate to prosecute offenders, who could face a fine of up to £2500."

Anglers can check the byelaws on-line at the Environment Agency website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk or by contacting the national customer call centre on 08708 506 506.

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