Police crackdown on illegal angling and fish theft

People who fish without a valid licence could face fines of up to £2,500

People who fish without a rod licence and those who steal from private lakes are being targeted in a new campaign.

Northamptonshire Police said its rural team was stepping up efforts to combat the "growing issue affecting our waterways".

It is working with the Environment Agency and volunteer bailiffs from the Angling Trust, conducting patrols on rivers, lakes and private fisheries throughout the county.

People fishing without a rod licence face potential fines of up to £2,500.

The force said illegal fishing undermined the efforts of those anglers who pay for valid rod licences and contribute to syndicates and clubs that manage and protect private waters.

Police said fish theft damaged aquatic ecosystems and was also responsible for driving up the costs for legitimate anglers and those who invest in maintaining healthy fish stocks.

It said the crimes were often linked to other rural offences, including criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

A one-day fishing rod licence costs £7.30 while a 12-month licence for an adult is from £36.80 and is valid for a year from when it is purchased.

It is a legal requirement in the UK for anyone aged 13 and above who wants to fish freshwater, with a rod and line, whether commercial, private or club venues.

'Generations to come'

"Fishing without permission and the theft of fish are criminal offences and it is vital that we continue to work alongside the Environment Agency and the Angling Trust to tackle these issues and send a warning that breaking the law will not be tolerated," PC Robert Bloxham said.

"We would encourage everyone to help us protect our waterways by supporting responsible angling, which will in turn keep Northamptonshire's countryside safe and sustainable for all."

Matt Breathwick, the EA's fisheries enforcement officer for the county, said: "Illegal fishing and rod licence evasion undermine the integrity of our enforcement efforts and divert vital resources away from habitat protection and fishery improvements.

"Together, we can safeguard our fisheries, support sustainable angling, and ensure our waters remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come."