Clampdown on illegal fishing in Derbyshire
166 spot checks were carried out while, in addition, five people were also reported for lighting a large barbecue.
Officers conducting spot checks
- Environment Agency leads in multi-agency operation
- 14 notices handed out after 166 spot checks
- Police officers from across East Midlands help out
The Environment Agency issued 14 notices for illegal angling during a multi-agency operation in Derbyshire. An illegal trap and three illegal nets were also seized in the operation on Sunday 27 June at locations across the county.
The Environment Agency’s East Midlands Area enforcement team worked in conjunction with the Midlands Wildlife Crime Group, including officers from the Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire police forces.
Volunteer bailiffs from the Angling Trust also supported the operation.
In all, some 166 spot checks were carried out while, in addition, five people were also reported for lighting a large barbecue.
Lee Watts, Fisheries Enforcement Officer for the Environment Agency’s East Midlands Area, said:
We take illegal fishing seriously. Anyone committing offences can expect to be prosecuted and face a substantial fine.
It’s through partnership working like this that we can send a clear message to those who break the law.
Not only does illegal fishing damage the sport it also poses a serious risk of spreading fish diseases and invasive species.
The irresponsible and illegal actions of a few can have widespread consequences for fisheries.
Kevin Pearson, Angling Trust Fisheries Enforcement Support Service Regional Enforcement Manager, said:
This was a perfect example of partnership working in action – and what can be achieved by everyone working together.
As always, we are most grateful to our volunteers for so public-spiritedly giving up their time to help protect fish and fisheries. We look forward to more of these operations.
Further Information
If you suspect illegal fishing to be taking place please report the matter to our hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Anyone fishing illegally can expect to be prosecuted and to face a fine of up to £2,500. Anyone who uses illegal methods faces a prison sentence of potentially two years and a fine of up to £50,000 for byelaw offences.
Money raised from rod licence sales is reinvested in the environment, including a whole range of projects to improve facilities for anglers, protect stocks, plus fish restocking, invasive species eradication. The money is also used to work with partners to encourage people to take-up fishing.