The EA advise:
The annual coarse fish close season begins today (Friday 15 March) across rivers, streams and drains to protect fish during their breeding season, helping to increase fish stocks and secure angling for the future.
No coarse fishing is permitted on rivers, streams and drains between 15 March to 15 June inclusive, and anyone found fishing illegally faces prosecution and a hefty fine.
Lawrence Talks, the Environment Agency’s South East Strategic Fisheries Specialist, said:
“Starting from today, this year’s close season means that for a few weeks anglers will not be able to go coarse fishing in rivers, streams and drains. This necessary break will safeguard fish during their breeding season, resulting in increased fish stocks and better angling opportunities.
However there are plenty of other places to try coarse fishing such as the many lakes, ponds and stillwaters across the South East of England. If anglers want to try something new, many of our rivers are open for trout fishing.”
To find out where you can fish near to where you live, please visit the Environment Agency’s website. Please also ensure that you have a valid rod licence which can be readily purchased via the post office, by telephone on 0844 800 5386, by direct debit or online HERE.
To find out where to fish in your area, and to download free fishing guides, click HERE.
