Size does matter

When it comes to Bassenthwaite’s fish, size matters and lake anglers are being asked to pass on vital statistics from their catch.

LDNP

Anglers have reported changes in fish populations so the Lake DistrictNational Park Authority is asking them to share detailed records of whatthey have hooked and where.

Fishermen and women are catching good numbers of pike, but say they nowrarely get large ones weighing over twelve pounds.

“Some of the most significant differences seem to have been among pikestocks,” explained Lake District National Park Authority ranger manager andBassenthwaite Lake Restoration Programme member Shirley Muir.

“As pike are top of the fish food chain, they are a good indicator of thehealth of the lake and, if changes are taking place, it is essential wefind out more.”

Shirley said the Lancaster-based Centre of Ecology and Hydrology hadalready done a lot of research into Bassenthwaite and was keen toinvestigate further.

“The centre wants to compare fish caught in 2007 with previous hauls to seeif there are any significant changes in fish populations.

“We want to know what’s happening to our freshwater species and why. Weare asking anglers to send us catch returns throughout 2007 and we are verykeen to contact people who have kept their previous years’ records.”

Letters have gone out to the all the lake’s angling season permit holdersappealing for help.

“We want to work closely with our fishing fraternity and now have twoangling representatives on the Bassenthwaite Forum, which brings togetherconservation and recreation groups to advise on the lake’s management,”added Shirley.

For more information and online survey forms go to Bassenthwaite fishing survey.

Information on Bassenthwaite Lake Restoration Programme

Bassenthwaite Lake Restoration Programme, part of the Still WatersPartnership, is made up of the Environment Agency, Lake District NationalPark Authority, National Trust, Natural England, United Utilities, ForestryCommission, Cumbria Tourism, Cumbria County Council.

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