Most of you will be aware of the problems faced by fisheries from otter predation, particularly for still-water carp fisheries where specimen carp to over 30lb have been taken. The otter is a protected species of course, and anglers welcome its re-introduction. Nevertheless, it is imperative that we identify and secure the funding for adequate fisheries protection measures where they are required. In asking Government to help fund these measures, we are delighted to draw on the support of English Nature, The Wildlife Trusts, and the Environment Agency who have supported our approach at the highest level. We would now like to update you on the progress we have made against our long-term objectives to contain the escalating problems we face.
Firstly note that SAA are now acting on behalf of the National Angling Alliance (NAA) on all otter predation issues, so we have secured the full backing of the UK’s official angling body. This means that we have the full support of the angling bodies from all branches of our sport whether game, sea or coarse, not just specialist angling, which again demonstrates how effectively Unity within angling is now working!
SAA have now met with the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), English Nature, Environment Agency, Wildlife Trusts and were encouraged at the level of support we received. Our approach to Government centres on three key areas:
We are seeking to change the law so that any future releases of captive bred otters, or indeed any other captive bred mammal, can only take place under licence.
Last December we were delighted to report that the main-stream organisations represented by The Otter Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Steering Group (which includes the Wildlife Trusts), and the Otter Trust, are all in agreement that there will be no further introductions of captive-bred otters in the UK. However, some smaller bodies are still considering releases and we are looking to introduce proper controls as captive bred otters have been responsible for some well publicised incidents of predation of large carp, and of trout, possibly exacerbated by the these particular otters lack of natural fear of man.
It should be noted however by anglers and water controllers that wild otters (even in low numbers) still hold a significant threat to large carp, particularly in winter, and measures should be considered to protect stocks which may be at risk. The results of the Otter Survey of England, currently being undertaken by the Otter BAP Group, will assist in identifying areas particularly at risk in advance, and advice on protective measures such as fencing is available from trained personnel.
We need financial backing to fund research which will accurately determine the most cost effective fencing methods, which will not necessarily be electrifiedWe need a project to determine the best options on fencing for fisheries protection for the huge range of waters that will want to install protective measures. The varying terrain those waters are located in could also mean a wide range of options need to be established. Then that data needs to be made readily available to everyone as part of the invaluable advice already available from the Wildlife Trust Otter Officers and the Environment Agency.
(For full details see the Environment Agency explanatory leaflet “Otter Predation-Is My Fishery At Risk?” from your local EA office or by writing to their Fisheries Department at EA, Rio House, Waterside Drive, Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol BS12 4UD).
We are looking for substantial funding from Government for fisheries protection, which is likely to primarily apply to non-commercial still-water carp fisheries with valuable stock.Otter predation can cause serious problems so it is imperative we secure funding, as without it prime fisheries will suffer fish kills which they will be unable to counter. Otters have been responsible for killing numbers of valuable carp and causing major financial loss to the owners of the fisheries, which could provoke conflict between anglers and the conservation movement. This is something we are committed to avoid.
I add that David Arnold-Forster, Chief Executive, English Nature; Dr David Clarke, Head of Fisheries, Environment Agency; Dr Simon Lyster, Director General, The Wildlife Trusts, and Professor David Bellamy, President of The Wildlife Trusts, all support the need for effective control of introductions of mammals including otters, and for financial support for fisheries owners affected by the return of otters.
The NAA now believe that otter predation is getting out of hand, and as the main instigators of moves to address the problem are urgently seeking funding for fisheries protection.
Whilst there is unlikely to be an immediate resolution to these issues we have received a sympathetic hearing from an influential group of Government representatives and we anticipate moving forward from here to the next stage quite soon.
For further information contact Chris Burt at SAA via our e-mail address saa@go-fishing.co.uk
SAA – Specialist Anglers Alliance
Chris Burt
3 Great Cob, Springfield
Chelmsford, Essex CM1 6LA
Tel: 01245 262835 or Mobile 07802 328842
Fax: 01245 608452
