ENVIRONMENT Agency bailiffs will be out in force this weekend (June 27 and 28), as part of a regional rod licence blitz to ensure anglers are licensed to fish.

Richard McIlwain, north west regional fisheries specialist, said: “This will be the second licence blitz we’ve carried out so far this year. As ever, we’re on the lookout for those who think they can take a chance and fish without a licence. We won’t let them get away with it.”

Richard continued: “Those who do not buy a licence cheat anglers out of vital investment into their sport. The money generated by rod licences is ploughed directly back into improving fishing for all anglers.”

If you’re caught fishing without a licence your tackle could be seized and you could face a fine of up to £2,500.