Environment Agency announces new rod licence prices as fisheries investment hits new high

3rd March 2008

Although no-one likes to pay more for something, most anglers should be happy with the news that although the price of some rod licences is increasing the Environment Agency intends to spend more this year on fisheries work for the benefit of all anglers than ever before.

About £34m will be spent on a wide variety of projects, including work to improve habitats for fish on both rivers and stillwaters, improved access to fisheries with the provision of car parking, pathways and the provision of angling platforms, support for angling participation schemes to promote the development and participation in fishing, especially for disabled anglers.

Money is also spent on monitoring, habitat improvements, rescuing fish, regulating and enforcing fisheries legislation, promoting fisheries and fishing, cracking down on illegal fishing and fish movements, pollution prevention, control and clean ups, and fish disease research. There will also be work to improve salmon and eel stocks.
Many of the projects, particularly coarse and trout projects, involves working with other organisations which doubles or trebles the total investment in fisheries improvements. In addition, regions carry out localised improvements within their revenue budgets and work with colleagues in flood risk management and water resources to incorporate fisheries improvements as part of their schemes.
"With current full licences set to expire on March 31, it is very important at this time of year for all anglers to ensure they have a valid licence before heading out to fish," explained Environment Agency Head of Fisheries Dafydd Evans.
"As you can see, rod licence fees are essential in improving and maintaining our fisheries. This year we expect to invest nearly £34m in fishing across England and Wales, with £23.4m of this coming directly from anglers, and another £9.4m coming from DEFRA and the Welsh Assembly Government."

Environment Agency: www.environment-agency.gov.uk