Angling club given safety boost

Anglers from Earls Barton Fishing Club, Earls Barton, can now fish from three specially-built fishing platforms downstream of White Mills lock – a popular stretch fished by the angling club.

White Mills Fishery, on the banks of the River Nene is adjacent to a haul road leading to a gravel quarry, and the banks can prove very slippery. The new platforms help to keep anglers safe on steady ground,and away from the road.

Earlier in the year the Environment Agency also provided two floating fish refuges, at the club’s Dam fishery.

The islands provide cover for the fry, which hide in roots hanging down from the planted coir matting on top of the island. A hanging mesh underneath the island offers extra protection from larger fish and diving predators such as cormorants. Experts at the Environment Agency hope that by protecting the fry the Dam fishery will become self-sustaining, and reduce the need for re-stocking.

Gordon Howes, Fisheries Officer with the Environment Agency said: ‘The platforms will make a welcome addition to the club’s facilities, and make it safer for anglers fishing on the slippery banks.

‘They are just one example of how we use rod licence money to improve the conditions and facilities for anglers across the region.’

Ray Bull, from Earls Barton Fishing Club added: ‘These platforms will be great for the older and less able bodied members of our club. They’re not only flat and stable, they’re also very close to the car park, making access really easy.’