Environment Agency News Release

North West coarse fish anglers are being urged to mark the end of the annual closed season on Sunday 15 June by ensuring they own a valid rod licence to certify that they are legally entitled to fish.

Issued by the Environment Agency, a rod licence is necessary for all anglers aged 12 years or over who fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels in rivers, streams and drains in the North West and throughout the whole of England, Wales and the Border Esk in Scotland.

Andy Brown, Environment Agency Fisheries Specialist, said: “Many anglers will be keen to return to the banks after the annual closed season, however returning without a licence will see them running the risk of being fined for the experience.

“In 2007, nearly 700 anglers were prosecuted for fishing without a licence in the North West, with fines and costs totalling £93,000.”

The closed season runs from 15 March to 15 June and aims to protect fisheries from the impacts of angling during the breeding season.

The closed season does not apply to most still waters and canals. Anyone fishing these waters should already possess a valid rod licence, because all Environment Agency rod licences expire on 31st March each year and must be renewed to allow fishing from 1st April onwards.

For more information about rod licences and angling byelaws call 08708 506506 or log on to www.environment-agency.gov.uk

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