Bait 'exports' in jeopardy after Brexit

ANGLERS planning a fishing trip to a European country may be prohibited from taking their own bait under new EU-UK trade agreement guidelines.

Under the legislation, which came into force at the start of last month, popular baits derived from animal products, such as boilies, pellets and groundbaits, will require a European Health Certificate (EHC) before they can be moved between EU states.

At present, the EHC for exporting fishing bait falls into the same category as animal feed, which requires expensive testing and certification from a vet to attain. In response to the legislation, the Angling Trust has joined forces with manufacturers Dynamite Baits and Mainline to quiz the European Commission for clarification.

Mark Owen, the Trust’s Head of Freshwater, said:

“The current position will undoubtedly impact anglers purchasing bait in England to go fishing in Europe once Covid travel restrictions are lifted, as they would need to produce an EHC if challenged.

“We have retained active engagement with the EU Commission through our membership of the European Anglers Alliance and are pressing them to facilitate a change of EHC classification.”

Boilies will be one of the baits impacted under the restrictions