49 rod licence cheats have been reeled in by the Environment Agency during a licence blitz across the Midlands throughout July. With a massive surge in anglers taking to the waters over the course of the school holidays, the Environment Agency is urging everyone to ensure their licences are up to date. Those who try to avoid purchasing a rod licence face the summer blues with a hefty fine of up to £2,500 and a criminal record.
With the arrival of the summer holidays and National Fishing Week, now is the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely day out with the family, enjoying the surrounding wildlife while your little nippers try and catch their first fish. However, before you start packing your tackle and your picnic, you must ensure that everyone over 12 has a valid licence. The money that comes from rod licences is vital to maintaining the lifeblood of Midland fisheries and shows your support for this popular sport.
Martin Cooper, for the Environment Agency says: “It’s fantastic to see so many people purchasing their licences and ensuring the whole family can have a great day out fishing. Unfortunately there are still those who try to break the law and cheat their fellow anglers by refusing to buy a licence.”
To coincide with the summer break, Environment Agency Bailiffs will be carrying out further licence blitzes across the Midlands fisheries to hook any rod licence cheats.
Mr Cooper continued: “So far our officers have visited numerous sites across the region, checking over 1,300 anglers. Thanks to their rigorous checks we can put a stop to those that are trying to damage this sport. The message is clear, buy a licence or pay the penalties”
With the option to pay via direct debit, you can now cut out the need to worry about renewing your licence. Alternatively, you can hook yourself a rod licence from the Environment Agency website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk, by giving our sales team a ring on 0870 1662 662 or by popping down to your local Post Office.
This summer don’t let your rod licence be the one that got away.
