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Prosecutions – the ones that didn’t get away!

We rely on rod licence income to work with partners to protect and improve fisheries. Find out what we do with this money:

The vast majority of anglers are law abiding and own a rod licence. However, a few people cheat their fellow anglers and try to evade the law. Others fish illegally, putting fish stocks at risk. They do not always succeed.

Last year we prosecuted thousands of anglers and poachers; each received a substantial fine. The maximum fine for fishing without a licence is £2,500. The maximum fine for poaching is £50,000.

How to report illegal fishing

Have you seen something that doesn't look right? Help us stop people damaging your sport. If you see anyone fishing illegally, please don't approach them yourself. Call us on 0800 80 70 60 and tell us:

  • exactly where the alleged offence is happening
  • what is happening
  • how may people are involved and a description of them
  • a description and the registration numbers of any vehicles
  • whether it is happening at that moment
  • whether this happens regularly at this location

Please leave a contact number so we can call you back.

The ones that didn't get away

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We also prosecute people who pollute or damage the environment.