Successful multi-agency clampdown on illegal fishing

Nottinghamshire Police rural officers patrolled on land and water during a joint operation to crack down on illegal fishing.

Officers worked alongside the Environment Agency’s fisheries enforcement team to detect illegal angling on the banks of the River Trent between Nottingham and Lincoln. 

Over two days patrolling the river, officers carried out spot checks targeting illegal fishing and fish theft, while Environment Agency colleagues were on hand to deal with any licence offences and enforcement for breaches. 

The latest activity, which took place over the May bank holiday weekend using a boat and a 4x4, included checks carried out in the Newark area. 

It’s part of a wider ongoing joint operation to clamp down on unlawful fishing nationwide between 15 March and 15 June.

Nottinghamshire Police wildlife and rural crime sergeant Christian Hurley said: “We have received some really positive feedback from our partners for the help and support we’ve given during these proactive joint patrols to help put a stop to illegal fishing and tackle fish theft.

“It is vital that we continue to work alongside partner agencies, such as the Environment Agency and the Angling Trust, to tackle these issues and send a warning that breaking the law will not be tolerated.”

Sian Tyson, Fisheries Enforcement Officer East Midlands for the Environment Agency, said: “This joint operation is vital in protecting spawning fish and future generations of fish stock.

"We are thankful for the help and support that Nottinghamshire Police have provided and look forward to continuing our successful partnership work in the future.”

During the two days patrolling the River Trent over the bank holiday period, there were five detected and reported offences and over 250 rod licences checked.