Although the coarse fishing on rivers closed season started on March 15, there are still plenty of canals, stillwaters and fisheries where anglers can try their luck. But one place not to try your luck is the local magistrates court, just because you forgot to buy a new rod licence. The Environment Agency is reminding anglers licences expire on March 31.

The reminder comes as more than 600 anglers appeared in front of judges across England and Wales in February for fishing without a valid rod licence. They paid nearly £ 84,000 in fines and costs. In addition two anglers received cautions from the courts.

In 2007 more than 4,300 anglers paid nearly £ 610,000 in fines and costs for fishing without a valid rod licence. In addition 35 anglers received cautions from the courts, a man from Hastings was banned from fishing for one year and a man from Staines was banned for two and a half years.

“With current full licences set to expire on March 31, it is very important at this time of year for all anglers to ensure they have a valid licence before heading out to fish,” explained Environment Agency Head of Fisheries Dafydd Evans.

Anyone 12 years old or over who wants to fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish and eels in England and Wales and the Border Esk in Scotland requires a licence from the Environment Agency. Failure to have a licence is an offence. Those caught fishing illegally face tough penalties, including fines of up to £ 2,500 and a ban from fishing.

Rod licences expire on March 31, 2008. Buying a new licence couldn’t be easier – around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets sell them; a direct debit can be set up, and they can be purchased over the phone (0870 1662662) or on-line at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence any time, day or night.

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