During the first week of the new coarse fish season, theEnvironment Agency carried out a series of enforcement visits toalmost 100 waters across its North East region.
A total of 1,524 anglers were checked and asked to produce theirlicence and only 39 failed to do so. This gives a compliance rate of97.4% compared to last year, when almost five per cent of peoplefailed to produce a licence.
In the Northumbria area of the region, stretching from Durham tothe Scottish border, 488 anglers were checked and 17 failed toproduce a licence – 3.4%.
In the Dales area, covering North Yorkshire and Teesside, 422anglers were checked and six failed to produce a licence – 1.4%.
In the Ridings area, covering West, South and East Yorkshire, 614anglers were checked and 16 failed to produce a licence – 2.6%
Steve Chambers, regional fisheries officer, said it was good newsto see the results of enforcement blitzes gradually moving in theright direction.
He said the Agency’s fisheries officers had also noted theconsideration given by most anglers to the environment. The vastmajority were careful about removing litter and safely retainingbroken tackle.
“We are very pleased with the results of the enforcement. Lots ofanglers were seen to be enjoying their fishing despite the recentFoot and Mouth crisis and it is clear that most anglers understandthe need to care for the environment and protect other wildlife andplants.
“The message just needs to be brought home to the few who,possibly through ignorance, spoil the reputation of the many. Peoplealso need to remember to carry their rod licences because if they arecaught fishing without them they are liable to prosecution.”
Fines for fishing without a licence can be up to £2,500.
