Anglers urged to protect fish in warm weather
BRITAIN’S anglers are being encouraged to follow Environment Agency guidelines on handling fish in hot weather following an unseasonably warm spring which saw temperatures nudge 30oC.
According to Met Office figures, the UK recorded the sunniest spring since records began in 1929, with over 570 hours of sunshine registered. Clear skies and intense sunshine helped draw thousands of anglers to the banks of fisheries when sport resumed on May 13, but when paired with low rainfall such conditions can prove life-threatening to fish – especially if they don’t receive the correct care and attention.
With the hot weather set to continue into summer, the Angling Trust is backing the EA’s directive and urging all anglers to adopt good fish care practice while on the bank. This includes not fishing for barbel, chub and pike if the water temperature is above 21oC; limiting the amount of groundbait used, as when it decomposes it reduces dissolved oxygen in the water; landing fish as quickly as possible and keeping them in the water while unhooking; and not using keepnets pegged in the margins, where oxygen levels are lower than the main flow.
Always give barbel time to recover before letting them go
Angling Trust Regions Coordinator, John Cheyne, says:
“The guidance is incredibly useful and also advises that unhooking mats and nets remain wet for the entirety of the session, and that photography gear is all set up prior to fishing.
“Anything that will help minimise the amount of time the fish spends on the bank is going to ensure its safety and longevity in such conditions.”
“Barbel, pike and salmon are the species most affected when temperatures are high and they are susceptible now that the river season is approaching,” John explains.
“River levels may be low come June 16, and so will their oxygen levels – so considering whether you should wait for more ideal conditions before fishing for them is also sensible.”
Correct equiptment is essential to keeping the fish wet at all times