Anglers in Gedling borough celebrate Government U-turn over fishing in lockdown

Anglers in Gedling borough can now enjoy fishing again during the third national lockdown after the government made a U-turn.

Fishing was initially banned when England officially went into lockdown on Wednesday morning – but the Angling Trust yesterday revealed they have managed to get that decision overturned.

Angling Trust chief executive Jamie Cook said: “We have worked extremely hard to reach this position and we as anglers have a duty to abide by the strict conditions under which fishing is once again permitted.

“With infection rates and death tolls rising we must stick to the Government’s rules and ensure that angling remains part of the solution and does not cause problems.”

Mark Collins is a keen angler from Carlton and got in touch with Gedling Eye following the U-turn.

“It’s great to hear. I think fishing boosts mental health and I was worried how I’d cope in lockdown without it.

“A big thanks to the Angling Trust for fighting our cause and I’m looking forward to fishing –locally of course.

The Angling Trust have now issued the following guidance to ensure those fishing don’t breach lockdown rules:

• This is a strictly limited resumption of local fishing and very different to how anglers have been allowed to operate since May.
• We are in a National Lockdown and this must be respected. The law requires a ‘reasonable excuse’ to leave your home or penalties will apply.
• The Government has recognised that fishing can be seen as exercise, which is expressly permitted under the lockdown rules, although outdoor recreation is not.
• Organised sporting gatherings are prohibited so no match fishing.
• The exercise is limited to once a day so no overnight fishing whatsoever.