Two Evesham Men Caught Fishing Without Licences
Two men from Evesham, Worcestershire, have been nailed for illegal fishing after being caught at Manor Farm Fishery. The Environment Agency brought the cases before Northampton Magistrates Court on Monday 23 October, where both pleaded guilty to fishing without a licence.
Fines and Penalties Hit Hard
John Barnett, 51, of Orchard Place, was caught on 22 June 2023. He was slapped with a total penalty of £247, including an £80 fine, £135 costs, and a £32 victim surcharge. For reference, an annual fishing licence costs from just £33.
Darius Dee, 21, of Ellison Close, faced tougher charges for the same offence on the same date. He was hit with a £339 penalty: £146 fine, £135 costs, and a £58 victim surcharge.
Environment Agency Cracks Down on Illegal Fishing
“This case shows how seriously the courts take these offences and both men have been rightly punished for fishing without a licence,” said Nichola Tomlinson, Fisheries Enforcement Team Leader for the Environment Agency. “We hope the cases act as a reminder to anglers of the importance of having a rod licence before they go fishing and deter them from fishing illegally.”
“All money raised from rod licences goes towards protecting fish stocks and improving fisheries for everyone. Cheaters will always be prosecuted.”
Fishing Licence Facts You Can’t Ignore
- Any angler aged 13 or over fishing in rivers, canals, or still waters must have a licence.
- A one-day licence starts at just £6.60; annual licences from £33 (concessions available).
- Junior licences (age 13-16) are free.
- Skip the fine – fishing illegally can cost you up to £2,500.
Get your licence quickly and easily at gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or call the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 (Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm).
Help Stop Illegal Fishing
The Environment Agency works year-round to crack down on illegal fishing. They collaborate with the police and the Angling Trust, targeting hotspots with intelligence-led enforcement.
If you spot illegal fishing, report it to the Environment Agency’s 24/7 incident hotline on 0800 807060 or anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
