Environment Agency figures released earlier this week show a sharp rise in fishing licence sales after the government lifted COVID19 restrictions on outdoor activities. Between the 13th May when the restrictions were lifted and the 9th June over 335,000 licences were sold. When compared to the 142,000 licences sold in the first three months of the year this represents a rise of over 230% in less than two months. This also represents a rise of over 200,000 when compared with the same period last year.
Dr Graeme Storey, Environment Agency Acting Deputy Director for Fisheries and the Natural Environment, said:
“Since the lifting of restrictions on recreational angling it has been encouraging to see not only anglers returning to the sport, but also people trying fishing for the first time. Responsible fishing is an excellent way to engage with nature and enjoy being outdoors, which in turn can provide positive health and welfare benefits. As a consequence of the revenue generated through the sale of rod licences, anglers are at the heart of protecting and improving the very things they care about.
Fishing really is an activity that most people, of any age, can participate in and enjoy. Whether looking for a moment of solitude or a family day out, I would encourage anyone thinking about it to give it a go. It is important to remember that if you decide to return to fishing or take it up for the first time, you must have a valid fishing licence and adhere to current government guidelines on social distancing.”
Jamie Cook, Angling Trust CEO, said
“The Angling Trust is delighted that ministers embraced the recommendations in our When We Fish Again report and authorised an early resumption of angling in England to COVID compliant guidelines. We are also delighted to be witnessing something of a renaissance in angling with former anglers returning to the sport and newcomers trying fishing for the first time. In these difficult times we believe that our sport has much to offer in terms social, health and economic well-being.”
Fishing is a good form of exercise benefiting physical and mental health that can be practised locally and meet the social distancing guidelines. The Environment Agency and the Angling Trust believe the rise is due to existing anglers taking the opportunity to start fishing again along with those taking up the sport for the first time or perhaps returning to the sport. Lets hope we can retain the new and revitalised members to address the declines in participation that have been observed over recent years.
Tight Lines
Greg