Four men from the Midlands have been handed substantial fines after admitting to fishing without a licence, highlighting the Environment Agency’s continued efforts to enforce fishing regulations across England. The offenders, three from Leicestershire and one from Nottingham faced justice at Northampton Magistrates Court on Monday, 4 April 2024, receiving combined penalties totalling £1,342.
Kingsley Vickers, 29, from Leicester, was fined after being caught at Bluebell Lakes in Oundle, Northamptonshire on 2 November 2023. Vickers’s penalty amounted to £373, including costs and a victim surcharge. Similarly, Lee Hanson, 34, from Burbage, Leicestershire, faced a penalty of £375 for the same offence at the same location.
In a separate incident, Paul Remer, 62, from Narborough, Leicestershire, was fined £403 for unlicensed fishing at Peatling Parva Pools on 25 October 2023. The fourth angler, Darius Hodgson, 43, from Arnold, Nottingham, was penalized £191 for fishing at Butterley Reservoir, Ripley, on 18 November 2023.
The cost of a day’s fishing licence, which would have legally covered their activities, stands at only £7.10—a stark contrast to the fines imposed.
A spokesperson from the Environment Agency commented on the verdicts, emphasizing the importance of adhering to fishing laws: “We hope the penalties that these illegal anglers have received will act as a deterrent to anyone thinking of breaking the laws and byelaws in place across England. Illegal fishing not only incurs hefty fines but can also lead to seizure of fishing equipment.”
The spokesperson added, “Money raised from fishing licence sales is used to protect and improve fish stocks and fisheries, benefiting lawful anglers. Our enforcement officers work tirelessly, checking licences 24/7, to ensure compliance and sustainability in our fisheries.
Anglers over the age of 13 require a licence to fish in rivers, canals, or stillwaters. Licences are readily available online or by phone, with annual options starting at £35.80. Junior licences (ages 13-16) are free, promoting responsible and legal angling among younger enthusiasts.
The Environment Agency urges anyone with information about illegal fishing activities to report them, ensuring the protection of fisheries and adherence to regulations. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to regulating and preserving angling environments throughout the country.
