Conduct At The Waterside
Always park your vehicle considerately and safely, especially on farmland.
Show consideration to other anglers and water users. It is good angling practice to minimise bankside noise and movement, and to avoid fishing in a way which interferes with other water users.
Always consider the peace and quiet enjoyed by residents on or close to fisheries at all times, but especially at night.
Banksticks, umbrella poles and other accessories should not be knocked in with a hammer or other implement. If the ground is very hard, use threaded poles, banksticks, pegs etc.
Do not use bright lights at night; use a shaded torch only.
Before joining other anglers for a social chat, consider that this is not always welcome. If you do so, remove your bait from the water. Also, do not use any equipment such as mobile phones, radios or TVs which are audible to others. Do not shout or use bad language.
Avoid casting into other anglers' swims, or distance casting that stops other anglers from fishing areas of a water normally accessible from their swim. If using two or more rods (subject to Agency byelaws and local club rules), remember that rod butts must not be further apart than a maximum spread of three metres.
Be aware of any specific rules relating to the fishery - and observe them.
Environment Agency Licences/Water Permits
Always purchase and carry current Agency rod licence(s) appropriate to the number of rods used (this applies to England & Wales only). This helps the Agency to secure the funds necessary to protect and improve our fishing.
We strongly recommend that day-tickets and season-tickets should be issued by clubs and fisheries only on production of a current Agency licence.
Always obtain a current fishing permit and abide by its regulations.
Always be polite and helpful to Agency staff - they are there to help you and to protect your interests.
Be sure to read and understand the current Agency byelaws in the region you are fishing, there are sometimes significant differences in what is allowed between regions. It is your responsibility to be aware of these restrictions.
A statutory coarse fish close season (March 15 Ð June 15 inclusive) applies to all rivers, streams and drains in England & Wales. It also applies to a few stillwaters and canals designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs); if in doubt contact the local Environment Agency office for advice.
Be aware that whilst there is no legal requirement for most stillwaters to close, some fishery owners impose non-statutory close seasons on their waters.
General Safety
When long casting, watch out for people on the far bank in case the line breaks. Always use an adequate breaking-strain line when using heavy weights. Shock leaders are recommended for heavyweight distance casting. Always ensure that they are securely attached to the main line and that they are safe, so that any knot will pass through the rig should a breakage occur.
Be aware of the dangers of wading and never wade where you are not sure it is safe to do so. The use of a wading-staff or landing-net pole will provide warning of sudden depth changes or a soft river bed. On flooded rivers, beware of undercut banks and rising water levels.
Overhead power cables - Look Out - Look Up!
- Never fish within 30 metres of any electric power lines.
- Never forget you can be electrocuted even if your rod or pole does not actually touch a power line-watch out!
- Look out for warning signs
Always notify someone of where you intend to fish and what time you are expected to return.
In pulling for a break to free a snagged line, be aware leads/tackle, (even a float) can fly back and cause serious injury. Apply leverage sideways away from you, or at least turn away from the direction of pull to safeguard your eyes; thick clothing may also help avoid injury.
Always wear a life-jacket or other buoyancy aid when fishing from a boat, even though you may be a competent swimmer. (See Appendix M for full details on boats.)
When fishing from very steep, slippery river-banks it is sensible to use a length of rope tied to a tree or post for assistance. You may also wish to consider wearing a lightweight buoyancy aid.
Never walk out onto frozen waters. The ice is usually too thin to support a person's weight. Falling in can lead to lives being lost, both yours and those of any rescuers.
Take care when moving about at night. We suggest carrying a whistle in order to attract attention in an emergency.
Anglers should be aware of the dangers of Weil's Disease, which is transmitted through rats' urine on the bankside and at the water's edge. Cover any open cuts, however small, with waterproof dressings. Food must not be put on the ground and hands must be as clean as possible when eating and preparing food. Never put wet line in your mouth or trim knots with your teeth. Most cases start with an influenza-like illness, which resolves in two to three weeks. Common features are sudden onset of fever, intense headache, severe pains in calf and back muscles, red eyes and prostration. Some cases develop abdominal pains with diarrhoea and vomiting or meningitis. If these symptoms occur, consult a doctor immediately.
In the case of severe rat infestation, it should be reported to the water owner. If waters are publicly owned, report to the Pest Control Services division of the Environmental Health Services at your local borough or district council.
Match Fishing Code
All competitors must be in possession of a current Environment Agency rod licence.
All matches should be run in accordance with laid down rules; ideally these should be the Governing Body rules, (NFA Model Match Rules) and all competitors should be aware of these rules at the outset. These rules must include compliance with local byelaws.
Every care must be taken to ensure no inconvenience is caused to others unless by previous agreement; this includes the parking of vehicles.
Competitors should only fish swims which have been drawn/allocated.
Every care must be taken to safeguard fish and other wildlife.
At the weigh-in, fish must be moved to the mouth of the keep-net whilst it is still in the water, large fish should be placed on the scales individually.
All competitors must ensure that their swims are clear of litter. Failure to do so for instance under NFA Model Match Rules will mean automatic disqualification.
Remember that in a match irresponsible behaviour by one competitor often leads to action being taken against all.
"Implementing Child Protection in Angling"
The Joint Angling Governing Bodies have put together an easy to use "Implementing Child Protection" Pack, which includes Template Forms, an Action Plan and contacts for advice. Sport England have in fact recommended the Pack to 200 Governing bodies of other sports as a model of good practice! For copies or guidance please speak to the NFA
|
