Merry Fishmas: 53,000 young fish released into South East waterways this winter

More than 53,000 young fish have been introduced into South East waterways this year, keeping the waterways thriving and healthy.

The 53,150 juvenile fish include chub, dace, barbel, roach, tench, bream, rudd and native crucian carp. There were 31,900 fish restocked in the Thames.

They have been introduced into stillwaters (lakes, ponds, reservoirs etc) and local clubs, funded by fishing licence income.

Reintroducing fish supports the creation of healthy, balanced ecosystems that benefit both anglers and local wildlife.

Restocking in winter minimises stress on fish, giving them the best survival rates and allowing them to acclimatise before spring spawning.  

These fish are all bred and raised at the Environment Agency’s Calverton Fish Farm near Nottingham.

The fish farm is a ‘crucial part’ of the Environment Agency’s toolkit for improving fisheries around the country.

Specialist fisheries experts spend the year breeding and growing quality, purebred, disease-free fish which are used to stock our rivers in the run up to Christmas. 

Ian Hirst, fisheries team leader at the Environment Agency said: 

“Releasing over 53,000 fish across our South East rivers and still waters provides an amazing opportunity to help boost our local fish numbers.

“Through our breeding program we are enhancing fishing by boosting stocks and providing more opportunities for anglers.”

As temperatures drop and winter fishing gets into full swing, the Environment Agency is also reminding anglers to ensure they have a valid fishing licence before heading to their favourite waterside spots this festive season.

Income from fishing licences funds the Environment Agency’s vital work to protect and enhance river and stillwater habitats across the region.

Last year, £316,000 of fishing licence income was invested into 90 local angling projects across the South-East, including 20 projects in the Thames amounting to £97,000.

Mr Hirst continued: “We work closely with our partners to protect and enhance our fish populations by responding to pollution incidents, improving habitats, water quality and removing barriers to fish migration.

“Without fishing licences this vital work would not be possible.”

For more information, visit gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence

If members of the public see fish in distress or other environmental concerns, they should report it to the Environment Agency's 24-hour incident hotline: 0800 80 70 60

More about fishing licences

Fishing licences are required for anyone aged 13 or over, fishing for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt or eel in England and Wales.  

Children aged between 13 and 16 need a junior licence. Junior licences are free. Children under 13 do not need a licence. 

Fishing without a valid licence can result in a fine of up to £2,500.  

All fishing licence income is reinvested to protect and improve fish stocks and fisheries. 

Whilst many stillwaters and canals remain open for coarse fishing all year round, always check local byelaws and obtain permission from the fishery owner before fishing.