Environment Agency Officer checking licences on Bungay Cherry Tree waters don't go fishing with out your licence and club card it could be you we stop next time!

It is clear from reports from the EA and the Press that illegal fishing is a big problem and that those who do it are often deliberately flouting the law it is also clear that many are simply unaware of the rules that govern fishing in this country. The Environment Agency are there to insure that "everyone" regardless of wither you are a visitor, a newcomer to the sport or unaware of the laws governing fishing must carry a valid fishing licence to fish in the UK. Eastern Europeans and other ethnic groups have had a particularly tough time in this debate often being singled out for media attention however, the truth is that we have caught many people fishing without rod licences who are local and have no excuses at all. So lets make it crystal clear, no one is exempt, if the law states that you must have a rod licence then get one!

EA Bailiffs Rupert Pyett and Neil George met up with club secretary Mark Casto early this week to help combat the growing problem of fish theft and illegal fishing. The  EA  bailiffs are working closely with the club in order to stamp out illegal fishing along our river stretches and in particular to drive home the message to those doing it that this will not be tolerated. The club is keen to encourage everyone to go fishing so we were pleased to find two young men from Eastern Europe fishing our waters one of whom  is a fully paid up member and the other who was issued a day ticket, both had got there EA licences and were enjoying a bit of pike fishing on this lovely stretch of the Southern Broads between Geldeston and Beccles. This is good news as it means the message is getting across, but it was not so good further down river were we picked up a large bag full of litter left down there by some thought less people.

Here are some pictures to show you what was going on.

Bailiffs checking licences, the rubbish found at the end pegs, the bailiffs check out the car lic plate and the beautiful river at Dunburgh. Shame on those that left  rubbish down there if we catch you doing it be assured you wont get off the hook!

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