The Environment Agency and Durham Constabulary have joined forces in a rural crime crackdown in Weardale
Following reports of illegal fishing activity and anti-social behaviour on the banks of the River Wear extra patrols were carried out in key areas last weekend by police and Fisheries Enforcement Officers.
They targeted locations around Witton Park, Willington and Witton le Wear, where anglers were checked and suspicious activity investigated. Patrols will continue as part of the crackdown.
David Shears, Fisheries Enforcement Officer for the Environment Agency in the North East, said:
Risk of Prosecution
The Environment Agency has seized a series of illegal gill nets over recent months, including from the River Wear, and are carrying out investigations. Unlicensed nets are capable of taking significant numbers of fish and can have a damaging impact on future fish stocks.
Fisheries is very carefully managed to protect the future of the industry and ensure fish can get to their breeding grounds to spawn.
Those who operate unlicensed nets or fish illegally risk prosecution, with unlimited fines and possible prison sentences available to the courts, and Environment Agency officers can seize equipment and vehicles.
Information about illegal fishing can be reported to the Environment Agency’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.
You can buy a fishing licence online
Environment Agency officers out on patrol are wearing the appropriate protective equipment and adhering to social distancing measures.