20/03/2006
- The Environment Agency was out in force last month
making sure that Sussex anglers have valid rod licences.
Officers checked over 400 anglers
who were fishing in February. They reported over
15 who failed to produce a licence.
Fishing without a licence is an
offence under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries
Act 1975. Those people caught fishing illegally
could face tough penalties, including fines of up
to £2,500 and a ban from fishing.
Michael Turner, Environment Agency
Fisheries, Recreation and Biodiversity Team Leader
in Sussex, said:
"People who fish without
a licence are cheating the system and their fellow
anglers. All rod licence money gets ploughed back
into our fisheries work and this benefits anglers,
fish stocks and the environment as a whole.
"Anglers should take note
that we are out checking their licences and are
better equipped than ever to find those who are
fishing illegally. With access to databases at the
switch of a mobile phone, we can verify address
and licence details so catching licence evaders
is an easier process than ever before. It’s just
not worth taking a chance."
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/fish.
Members of the public who see
illegal fishing should immediately contact the Environment
Agency 24 hour hotline, free on 0800 80 70 60.
