Do not take dogs
Following the latest advice from MAFF vets, the Environment Agency and National Angling Alliance are releasing updated guidelines to anglers to prevent the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease. Current restrictions on access to the countryside for angling are being significantly relaxed following recent changes in the disease situation. The latest advice should enable rapid re-opening of closed fisheries and access to them, except those fisheries within or crossing the 3km Protection Zones around infected premises. In many parts of the country, including some areas which had the disease but where controls have now been lifted, Foot and Mouth is either absent or at a very low level. Virus survival times are also much shorter because of the warmer weather. The National Angling Alliance and the Environment Agency urge all anglers to act responsibly and follow the latest advice that is published on the Agency’s website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk:
If you have handled cattle, sheep, goats or pigs in the last 7 days please do not go fishing
Check with your fishing club or the fishery owner that the water is open prior to going fishing
Respect footpaths or rights of way still closed and the 3km exclusion zones around infected premises
Do not go near, and never touch, handle or feed livestock. If you come across them unexpectedly, move away slowly; if necessary re-trace your route
Do not take dogs
Do not leave any waste food or litter
Stay on the path or at the water’s edge
Leave all gates as you find them
Use disinfectant where provided
Start your fishing trip with clean equipment, footwear and clothingFisheries owners and angling clubs should consult the Agency website for maps indicating the 3km Protection Zones around infected premises, or call 0845 9333111 for further advice.As the new coarse fishing season approaches, the Environment Agency is also issuing a reminder to anglers that they are obliged by law to possess an Environment Agency rod licence. The Agency is conducting extensive checks and unlicensed anglers will be prosecuted.There are over 17,000 post offices plus other outlets selling licences. Also for a small additional charge instant licences are now available over the telephone by ringing 0870 1662662 and from our web site – www.environment-agency.gov.uk/fish .So the message is clear: follow the guidelines, get a licence – then go fishing!For further information:Environment Agency 01454 624400National Angling Alliance 020 7283 5838MAFF Helpline 0845 0504141