Bailiffing for Free Fishing

Fisheries across the land were hit by a rise in poaching incidents during lockdown, but now an initiative aimed at combating this increased threat to valuable fish stocks has been created.

Named Local Anglers Against Poaching, the scheme is the brainchild of electrician Greg McNally, who hopes it will support the work the Environment Agency and the police are doing in tackling fish theft.

“The idea is to get anglers to do a short patrol at their local fishery, in exchange for a few hours’ free fishing,” Greg tells us. 

“Having people on the bank would no doubt help to deter any offenders, and if we encountered any, we could report them to the police and the EA.”

Greg has now set up a Facebook page where anglers who want to volunteer can meet fishery owners looking for help. Visit the Local Anglers Against Poaching page on Facebook to register your interest.

Would you patrol your fishery for free fishing?