Although most of the country will probably be in the grip of World Cup fever during June and stuck in front of the television, some people will still be out fishing illegally. However, they face a possible fine of £ 2,500 and a ban as the Environment Agency prepares to crack down on people fishing without a valid rod licence across England and Wales from June 16 to 25.

“Anglers must ensure they have a valid licence before they start fishing, or face the prospect of prosecution,” explained Environment Agency Head of Fisheries Dafydd Evans .

“Our fisheries officers have access to databases at the touch of a mobile phone button and can verify address and licence details on the riverbank. Anglers who evade the licence fee are not only breaking the law but also cheating their fellow anglers and we will leave no stone unturned in tracking them down.

“Most anglers understand that rod licence fees are necessary and know the revenue goes towards maintaining and enhancing fisheries and fish stocks. The work includes disease detection, fish rescues, monitoring fish stocks and developing angling opportunities.

“Nearly 700 people were caught fishing without a rod licence over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend. Some anglers believe a licence is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. This is not the case. All rod licences expire on March 31.”

Buying a licence couldn’t be easier – there are around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets which sell them direct; and for a small additional charge they can be purchased over the phone (0870 1662662) or from our web site – www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence any time, day or night.

More than 100,000 anglers now net their rod licence on line.

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