To enhance fishing in communities across England and promote sustainable and resilient fisheries, the Environment Agency has allocated £730,000 in funding through its Fisheries Improvement Programme (FIP). The initiative, now entering its 10th year, aims to support local projects that contribute to the improvement of fishing conditions and practices.
The recent decision by the Environment Agency to trim printing costs by eliminating illustrations from rod licences has resulted in an additional £230,000 being added to the 2024 Fisheries Improvement Programme. This brings the total budget to £730,000, providing a significant financial boost for projects dedicated to fish stock and habitat preservation, improved angler facilities, and expanding fishing opportunities.
Heidi Stone, Environment Agency Fisheries Partnership Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the Fisheries Improvement Programme, highlighting its positive impact on both angling and environmental enhancement. Stone urged interested parties to apply, emphasizing the program’s role in making lasting improvements to fisheries throughout England.
The Environment Agency collaborates closely with various partners, including the Wild Trout Trust, the Canal and River Trust, commercial fisheries, and angling clubs. In the previous fiscal year (2022/23), nearly 200 projects were completed, resulting in improvements along 72km of rivers and 237 hectares of stillwaters.
Noteworthy accomplishments from the previous year’s program include the refurbishment of 20 fishing platforms along the River Severn, habitat workshops benefiting brown trout populations in Northumbria, the provision of safe angling platforms in the North West, and the establishment of a new angling coach lake for juniors and disabled anglers in Bedfordshire.
Shaun Leonard, Director of the Wild Trout Trust, highlighted the positive outcomes from last year’s funding, emphasizing the significance of habitat preservation and the value of large woody material to rivers.
For the current year, the Environment Agency is actively seeking innovative ideas to further enhance local fisheries. All organizations involved in managing fisheries in England, particularly angling clubs, commercial fisheries, and environmental non-governmental organizations, are encouraged to apply for funding to contribute to the ongoing success of the Fisheries Improvement Programme.
