An 80-foot-long illegal fishing net has been removed from the Coronation Channel of the River Welland at Spalding by Environment Agency enforcement officers.
The gill net stretched across the entire width of the channel – and to set it up, the offenders would have risked their lives to negotiate a dangerous, derelict railway bridge.
Officers were able to remove the net after it was reported by a member of the public.
The Environment Agency’s fisheries enforcement officer said despite the offenders’ determination, no fish had been caught in the net before it was removed.
He added: “People shouldn’t think they can take advantage of current circumstances to get away with fishing illegally. We’re still patrolling to protect fish and the environment, making sure we’re following the government’s coronavirus guidelines.
“While the majority of anglers follow the rules, those who don’t are putting the future of the sport at risk and cheating their fellow participants. Not only that, if we catch you, you could face a fine of up to £2,500 and a criminal record.”
Elsewhere, EA officers responding to reports from the public have removed illegal crayfish traps from a tributary of the River Nene near Northampton, releasing a number of crayfish and two gudgeon.
Enforcement officers working with the police target their response based on intelligence received from local communities. Anyone who suspects illegal fishing or other environmental incidents should report it to the EA’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.
In line with updated government guidance, restrictions on angling were lifted on 13 May, meaning anglers can now fish on their own, with their household, or with one other person, while adhering to social distancing. Further information is available on the Environment Agency’s website.
Anglers must fish legally, adhere by relevant byelaws, and ensure they have a valid fishing licence.
Fishing licences are available from £30 for a year and are free for the under-16s. They’re easy to buy online on gov.uk or from the Post Office.
