Passing through Leominster I observed the following on Bank holiday: -
A young teenager swung the silver dace over the parapet of the bridge, absolutely delighted at his success of catching a fish.
People passing were pleased for him, nice to see a youngster enjoying one of the simple pleasures in life.
But the young angler and the public have no idea of the view the Law has of this event. He could be treated more harshly than a speeding motorist, mugger, vandal, drug addict etc.
The penalty for his action, fishing without a licence: £2,000 fine (it costs a 16 year old £20 to use his rod); fishing a river out of season: £500 fine; fishing without permission: (poaching) £500 fine; obstructing the highway: (fishing from the pavement) £100 fine. Total £3,100 of fines plus confiscation of tackle.
You don't see so many young people fishing, I wonder why?
Clive Young,
Baskerville Court ,Clyro.
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