Thomas Ross, of Forest Terrace in Chigwell, was caught fishing without a licence last New Year's Eve at Heybridge Basin in Maldon.
The case was heard at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court where Ross pleaded guilty. The court fined the 39-year-old £360 and imposed a £36 victim surcharge. At a total of £396, this is almost 10 times more than the current price of a £45 fishing licence*.
Lesley Robertson, Enforcement Team Leader for the Environment Agency in East Anglia, said:
This case shows we pursue offenders through the courts and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where anglers flout the rules. Anyone found fishing illegally may face prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500.
All anglers need a valid Environment Agency rod licence. The money raised through the sales of rod licences is re-invested and enables us to improve all fisheries, including rivers, for anglers.
Our Fisheries Enforcement Officers routinely undertake licence checks and we urge anyone with information about illegal fishing to contact us on 0800 807060.
Licences now run 365 days from the day of purchase offering 12 full months of fishing.
Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence. A 1 day licence costs from just £6, and an annual licence costs from just £30. Concessions are available. Junior licences are free for 13- to 16-year-olds.
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