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Anglers across the South East can rejoice! The region’s watery environments are undergoing a super-sized, scale-y transformation this winter, thanks to a truly massive stocking initiative. Forget traditional holiday treats; the focus is on an impressive 53,150 juvenile fish being introduced into rivers, stillwaters, and local clubs.
The Environment Agency has confirmed the release of a diverse and robust collection of aquatic juveniles. This includes plentiful numbers of chub, dace, barbel, roach, tench, bream, rudd, and native crucian carp. The reason for this spectacular aquatic injection is to ensure the local ecosystems are healthy, robust, and well-balanced for both dedicated anglers and local wildlife. By carrying out the restocking now, during the cooler winter period, the stress on the fish is minimised. This timing provides the fish with the best possible survival rates and allows them sufficient time to acclimatise before the crucial spring spawning season begins.
Ian Hirst, Fisheries team leader at the Environment Agency said:
“Releasing over 53,000 fish across our South East rivers and still waters provides an amazing opportunity to help boost our local fish numbers. Through our breeding program we are enhancing fishing by boosting stocks and providing more opportunities for anglers.
“We work closely with our partners to protect and enhance our fish populations by responding to pollution incidents, improving habitats, water quality and removing barriers to fish migration. Without fishing licences this vital work would not be possible.”
As water temperatures drop and the winter fishing season enters full swing, the Environment Agency is issuing a polite reminder to all participants: A valid fishing licence is essential! so whether an individual is purchasing a licence for their own enjoyment or seeking the ideal present for the fishing enthusiast in their life, a fishing licence is being highlighted as a thoughtful and valuable Christmas gift. With prices starting from just £7.30 for a day licence, it represents an affordable way to enjoy the tranquillity of local waters while simultaneously becoming a critical supporter of fisheries conservation.
The income generated from fishing licences directly funds the Environment Agency’s vital work. This includes financing the comprehensive habitat improvements, protecting local water bodies, and supporting the massive ‘Merry FISHmas’ restocking program. These high-quality, pure-bred, disease-free fish are all expertly bred and raised by specialist staff at the renowned Calverton Fish Farm near Nottingham—a facility crucial to the national effort to improve fisheries. In summary, the gift of angling this Christmas is promoted as an excellent choice, benefiting personal wellbeing, fostering a connection with nature, and securing the future of the sport for generations to come.
Individuals can find more information and purchase a fishing licence here: www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence