AMID confusion over whether fishing is an acceptable activity during the UK 'lockdown', the Angling Trust has issued a statement.
Jamie Cook, Angling Trust chief executive, has tried to give anglers advice on the big question of whether it is ok for them to go fishing in the coronavirus crisis.
Posting on the organisation’s Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon, March 24, Jamie said: “In light of the Government’s announcement on 23rd March, the Angling Trust and Fish Legal are asking that all anglers follow the current guidance and stop fishing.
“Whilst we understand the proven benefits on active lifestyles, physical health and mental wellbeing that angling provides, it is not currently classified as one of the safe exercises in which to engage.
“The Angling Trust have sought clarification on this point and we hope to work with Government, the Environment Agency and Sport England as things move forward, to ensure that access to fishing and the benefits it brings are part of the nation’s plan for ensuring our community’s health and wellbeing.
“For now though, we as a community, must take responsible action to protect ourselves, our families and our communities through this period. This is about saving lives and supporting the NHS.
“The Angling Trust have established a support hub for individuals, clubs, fisheries and organisations and a dedicated team of professionals have been put in place to help those impacted within the angling community to access grants and funding applicable to each organisation.”
Sweeping restrictions to stop spreading
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced sweeping new travel, social and shopping restrictions on Monday, March 23.
Fisheries, clubs and tackle shops rapidly made the heart-breaking move to temporarily close.
The Government’s clear, main message to limit the spread of coronavirus is: ‘Stay at home.’
But it also stated reasons why people could leave their home, including:
- Shopping for basic necessities such as food and medicine. Shopping trips should be as infrequent as possible.
- One form of exercise a day such as a run, walk or cycle. This should be done alone or only with people you live with.
- Travelling to and from work, but only where work absolutely cannot be done from home.
- Any medical need, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person. This includes moving children under the age of 18 between their parents’ homes, where applicable. Key workers or those with children identified as vulnerable can continue to take their children to school.
The information was questioned by participants of many largely solitary outdoor pursuits.
Many anglers were hoping to isolate themselves safely, with social distancing, in the great outdoors.
The ‘stay at home’ message during the coronavirus crisis, and the Trust’s interim statement, has drawn a mixed response. Some anglers totally support it, others still want to fish on well away from other people.
Before Boris Johnson’s ‘lockdown’ announcement, the Trust had keen keen for anglers to fish on, provided they did it safely, with social distancing.
Further clarification on this grey area is expected from the Government, or the Environment Agency, soon.
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The Angler’s Mail team hope that you and your family stay safe during this difficult time.
We recommend that you read the official latest UK health advice on coronavirus at www.nhs.uk
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