Fishing is a very popular hobby but there are national and local rules (byelaws) governing freshwater fishing with a rod and line. These rules are aimed at protecting fish stocks and making fisheries sustainable.

You must have a rod licence to fish in England and Wales if you’re aged 13 or older.

The Environment agency carries out regular spot checks, at Hartleton Lakes recently several anglers were fined for fishing without a licence. A rod licence can be purchased from Post Offices, the Environment Agency’s website, or by calling 0844 800 5386.

Anyone who suspects illegal fishing to be taking place should report the matter to the Environment Agency’s incident hotline, on 0800 807060.