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Introduction
We can do no better than to quote Professor David Bellamy, who said about this booklet; "A giant leap in the right direction, a Code of Conduct for the fishers that puts the Environment first. Great news for the fish and for the waters of Britain." David Bellamy.
We hope we can live up to this! The Code was originally designed to guide specialist coarse anglers through the pitfalls of suitable conduct and the methods employed in our sport, and was published through the old SACG. Now angling has again taken a new leap forward with the formation of the NAA (National Angling Alliance, see members below), and the Code has been widened to include all aspects of coarse angling.
The Code is a detailed document intended to offer guidance to individuals and groups, and also as a basis in whole or part for club rule-books. We do recognise however that it covers a lot of detail, too much in fact for newcomers to fishing! So, for a "quick guide" to the basics we have also reproduced the Environment Agency leaflet "Angling & Wildlife Golden Rules", to which we contributed and which we endorsed, plus some additions of our own. If you need a simplified version please simply turn to the "Newcomers Guide-Starting Angling" section at the back of this booklet.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Environment Agency, both for the considerable help we have received in compiling this Code, and for their huge financial backing which has allowed us once again to achieve widespread distribution of this document. To quote the EA;
This code is designed to complement the existing legislative framework and provides a commonsense guide to values and behaviour to which anglers should aspire. The Environment Agency supports angling and fully endorses this Code of Conduct.
Above all though, remember that this Code is designed to allow us to interact sympathetically with the environment and with the other conservationists who share our waters, and to protect our quarry. Rules are best kept to a minimum, but are necessary to ensure we adhere to the highest standards. Above all, enjoy the sport, look after the fish and respect other wildlife along with the environment as a whole!
Specialist Anglers' Alliance
© Copyright SAA/NAA January 2002
Available for free publication with due acknowledgement to the copyright owners SAA, with written permission
Produced by the Specialist Anglers Alliance in conjunction with the National Angling Alliance (NAA)
Angling Trade Association National Association of Fisheries & Angling Consultatives National Federation of Anglers National Federation of Sea Anglers Salmon & Trout Association Specialist Anglers Alliance
Printed by ACT Print Management (Wolverhampton) Illustrations by Pete Curtis
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CONTENTS
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SAA Group Members Other Organisations Who Support This Code
We would also like to thank our partners at the National Angling Alliance For the tremendous help and support in preparing this Code. NAA members are the Angling Trades Association, National Association of Fisheries & Angling Consultatives, National Federation of Anglers, National Federation of Sea Anglers, Salmon & Trout Association, Specialist Anglers Alliance
4 The Way Forward for Angling-from the Environment Agency
The Government's response to the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Review in early 2001 restated the Government's support for angling.
Good fisheries management brings much wider benefits to the water environment and anglers are a powerful voice in the drive for improving fisheries and their associated habitats. Angling also brings important benefits to the economy, particularly in rural areas, and to people's quality of life. Angling should be accessible to all, including the young, the old and the disabled. It provides a unique opportunity for people to enjoy the natural environment in a quiet and unobtrusive way; in turn bringing tremendous social benefits in terms of people's sense of well being.
For these benefits to be realised it is important that angling is carried out in a way that is sustainable in terms of fish stocks and the wider environment. The Agency regulates angling through legislation and byelaws to ensure that fishing is carried out in ways that are sustainable and to protect our fish stocks for future generations of anglers. However, there are many other aspects of angling that are best improved through encouragement and education.
The Agency is keen to work in partnership with others to promote angling and therefore welcomes the opportunity to join with the Specialist Anglers' Alliance (SAA) in the production of this revised Code of Conduct. It is through partnerships such as this project that we will be able to offer better value for money for the income we raise.
All anglers should read the information on their rod licences and should be aware of the laws and byelaws that apply to them when fishing. This code is designed to complement the existing legislative framework and provides a commonsense guide to values and behaviour to which anglers should aspire.
The Environment Agency categorically supports the sport of angling, and through co-operation and collaboration with other interested parties is wholly committed to provide the nation with better fish stocks, better fisheries and better angling.
Dr David Clarke, Head of Fisheries, Environment Agency
5 SECTION 1 CARE OF THE ENVIRONMENT Litter/Nylon Line
Litter is anti-social and unsightly, and the anti-litter laws have been further strengthened through the Environmental Protection Act of 1990. Never drop litter or discard tackle and remember that discarded nylon line is particularly hazardous to wildlife. Carry rubbish bags in order to always pick up any discarded litter or line you find, and take them home.
Discarded line should be burnt or cut into short lengths before disposal to avoid entangling wildlife at waste tips.
Crack-offs on the cast, and snagged rigs in either bankside or underwater environments, should be removed immediately where practicable or reported to club bailiffs for removal.
Choose your own swim with care to reduce the risk of snagging on trees or bankside vegetation.
Temporary floats such as balloons, which are jerked free from the line when the bait reaches the required area, constitute litter, and must always be recovered.
Wildlife And The Bankside
Respect the environment and minimise disruption to waterside wildlife. Do not light fires, and avoid damage to fences or crops. Do not break down bankside vegetation, although the judicious trimming of plants is acceptable to re-establish existing angling 'pegs' or 'swims'. This should be done carefully and sympathetically, taking out only what is necessary in order to fish the area properly and leaving the surroundings in a tidy condition. In all cases, check that club rules allow pruning by individuals.
New swims should only be cut with the permission of the fishery owner or tenant, taking due consideration for the environment and to anglers in existing swims.
Some birds nest on shingle islands at gravel pits, or in the bankside, not just in trees, bushes and reedbeds as we commonly think. April to June are the most sensitive months, when species such as common terns, kingfishers and little ringed plovers are sensitive to disturbance (this can include simply remaining close to a nest for a long period). Disturbing some protected birds is illegal. Note that, on occasion, fishery owners and managers may designate swims temporarily out of bounds because they are adjacent to nesting birds. Always treat this with the utmost respect and comply.
Never leave rods on the bank with hooks still baited, as these food items could be picked up by birds or animals.
Beware of birds swimming into your line or picking up surface baits, as major entanglements can follow. Remember too, that swans can easily reach food a metre below the surface. To avoid unnecessary problems, try not to fish where people habitually feed water-fowl.
Never attempt to restrain an injured swan (or other large bird or animal), by holding onto line it may be caught in or hooked to. Severe injury and heightened trauma often follow. For swans and geese, cut the line and report to the rescue organisations shown below. Smaller birds can often be best dealt with by unhooking or freeing at the time of the incident, or being held comfortably in a small box or other dark space if treatment is required.
(These are recommended guidelines from the bird rescue organisations.) National Swan Sanctuary Hotline 07000 SWAN UK Or 01784 431667
Or RSPCA 0870 55 55999
Or Wildlife Hospital Trust 01844 292292 Always carry these contact telephone numbers, and report sick or injured animals to them. The problem may not be angling-related and may give warning of a serious problem at the water. Either way, report the incident for the sake of the wildlife living by the water. 6 Working parties and other bankside management should be undertaken in a sympathetic manner, to manage and improve the habitat for all wildlife, creating a total environment into which the angler will fit, but does not dominate. For further information on this and vegetation management such as coppicing, hedging and planting, suggested reference books are included in Appendix A
On Sites designated for their nature conservation value such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), it is a legal requirement to consult English Nature (in England), the Countryside Council for Wales (In Wales), or Scottish Natural Heritage (in Scotland), on any proposed developments or changes in management of the site.
Hygiene
On waters where toilets are not provided, anglers should carry and always use a trowel or suitable trenching tool.
Pollution
The Environment Agency runs a total service to fight pollution and improve water quality on our behalf. If serious pollution is reported, Agency staff will come to the site within two hours (4 hours outside office hours). Environment Agency Hotline (24 hours) 0800 807060. This number (which is printed on your rod licence) can also be used to report illegal fish movements, fish-stealing or introduction.
NFA (NEMESIS Scheme) and ACA membership is highly recommended. These voluntary bodies works unceasingly on our behalf and also fights for compensation through the civil courts when pollution does take place.
For details of the ACA, phone 01568 620447. or visit http://www.a-c-a.org
For details of the NFA, see details on page 37.
7 SECTION 2 GENERAL BEHAVIOUR 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 Đ 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!
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 (contact details are given under "Contacts; including Angling Governing Bodies" on page 37.)
9 SECTION 3 TACKLE, RIGS AND BAITS Tackle (a) General
Always use balanced tackle that is in good condition and suitable for the species and fishery situation. If in doubt, seek advice.
Be aware that 'line class' records can give rise to fishing with tackle that is far too light for the intended quarry. This is actively discouraged.
Do not fish in areas where lost fish are a virtual certainty (i.e. excessively snaggy swims).
(b) Pole Fishing
When fishing canals do not place your pole across the towpath, restricting the access rights of other users. The same applies to park lakes and other busy places with public access.
Ensure that spare poles and pole sections are positioned parallel to the bank, preferably on a pole rack, to allow unobstructed passage for other bankside users.
When landing fish ensure that your pole can be unshipped without causing similar obstruction.
Always ensure that you remove your pole in good time to allow boats to pass.
Never allow your pole to encroach onto other people's gardens, fences and paths etc without permission.
Do not leave your pole unattended with a baited hook-left in the water; it endangers fish, is particularly vulnerable to tackle loss, and is illegal (Environment Agency Bylaw), and baited hooks left out of the water can be picked up by birds and animals.
Pole fishing leaves you particularly vulnerable to overhead power cables-LOOK OUT-LOOK UP!
Take the weight of long poles across your knees to reduce the risk of back strain.
(c) Rod numbers/night fishing
Never leave baited rods unattended or unsupervised. Agency byelaws require that while fishing, all rods should be under sufficient control of the angler. Current legislation in England and Wales permits an angler to fish for coarse fish with a maximum of four rods at any one time. Each rod licence entitles the angler to use two rods, with two separate licences required if three, or four rods are to be used. Note that although the four rod limit is a National bylaw in England and Wales, fishery owners or managers retain the right to set a lower limit, if they deem it more suitable.
Whilst on waters with low fish densities multiple rods can be used with no detrimental effects, where fish stocks are high multiple rod usage may not be appropriate and a number of points should be taken into consideration when deciding on the number to use;
10 Multiple rod usage can certainly enhance angling productivity, but use only when suitable! We would also add that long stay anglers in particular often fish whilst asleep, which is completely acceptable providing bite alarms are properly used to ensure a bite wakes the angler instantly. Do check buzzers will wake you even when asleep, extension boxes will provide good warning without disturbing other anglers. Also consider speed of access to your rods by putting the bivvy as close as possible, and leaving the door and sleeping bag unzipped whenever practical.
Rigs
(a) General
Your first priority is the safety and well-being of the fish.
Tether-rigs must not be used. If the line breaks, the tackle must be free to slide off the line - a towed lead, feeder or float could snag and trap the fish.
(For examples of these dangerous rigs, and some acceptable alternatives, see Appendices C, D, E, F, G, H, & I.)
Remember that if shock-leaders are used, the leader-knot must always be able to slide through the rig. Also consider the use of barbless or reduced barb hooks as an additional precaution.
While the deliberate foul-hooking of fish is illegal, it is inevitable that this occasionally happens accidentally. Some regional Agency byelaws require that accidentally foul-hooked fish are returned immediately to the water. Other byelaws limit the number and/or size of hooks that may be used in conjunction with a single rod or attached to a lure, in order to reduce the likelihood of foul-hooking fish. Avoid rigs that are likely to result in foulhooking. Similarly, rigs that are likely to result in deep-hooking of fish should be avoided.
Great consideration should be given before using double-hook rigs, where two separately baited hooks are employed on the same rod. Extreme caution should be taken, and they should not be used in heavy weed. They may also be banned in some regions by the local byelaws. To avoid the dangers of leaving a fish tethered to a snag in the event of a break in the main line, both hook links must be free to slide off the line.
Please use barbless or reduced barb hooks wherever possible; the widespread use of these should be actively encouraged, especially barbless in the smaller sizes, 14 downwards. Note however some anglers believe large barbless hooks can be harmful, particularly for perch.
Bent hooks should not be used (The term "bent" hooks refers to certain long shank carp hooks bent at 30° in the middle)
The use of most sizes of lead weights is illegal and non-toxic weights are widely available. Lead weights of 0.06grams (No.8 shot) or less or of more than 28.35 grams (1oz) may be used. While it is legal to use lead "dust" shot in size 8 and smaller, they are toxic if ingested by birds, and should be used with care; always use in spill-proof containers and dispose of used lead safely at home.
Lead core leaders as used for carp fishing can easily tangle on underwater snags due to their tendency to wrap around snags, etc. and tether a fish, should the main-line break. There is a substantial body of opinion against the use of lead-core leaders. If they are to be used we strongly recommend that extreme caution be exercised and the following points be adopted;
11 Rigs |
