Smart Alert: Illegal Fishing & Fish Poaching – What You Need to Know

Dear Resident,

We are fortunate to have access to rivers, lakes, and waterways that support a rich variety of fish and wildlife. Unfortunately, illegal fishing — often referred to as fish poaching — continues to cause harm to our environment, local fisheries, and responsible anglers.

Fish poaching is a criminal offence in England and Wales, and there are several laws in place to protect fish stocks and ensure our waterways remain safe and sustainable.

Below is key information to help you understand the law and how to report concerns.

What Is Fish Poaching?

Fish poaching includes:

These offences fall under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975 (SAFFA), which outlines illegal methods, possession offences, and protections for fish, spawn, and spawning habitats. [gov.uk]

Key Offences Under UK Law

1. Using Illegal Tools or Methods

It is an offence to use prohibited instruments to take or kill fish. This includes explosives, poisons, and electrical devices. [gov.uk]

2. Possessing Fish or Fish Roe Illegally

Possessing, buying, selling, or using fish roe without lawful authority is an offence. [gov.uk]

3. Taking Immature or Unclean Fish

Knowingly taking or possessing immature or unclean salmon, trout, lamprey, smelt, shad, or other freshwater species is illegal. This covers both taking the fish and selling or attempting to sell them. [gov.uk]

4. Disturbing Fish or Spawning Grounds

It is illegal to wilfully disturb spawning fish or damage spawning areas. Civil sanctions can include restoration notices and financial penalties. [gov.uk]

Why Poaching Matters

Poaching threatens local wildlife, damages fish populations, and undermines the work of legitimate anglers, landowners, and conservation groups. The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) notes that fish poaching is often linked to other rural crimes and that swift reporting helps police build intelligence and take action. [basc.org.uk]

What Penalties Can Offenders Face?

Depending on the offence, penalties can include:

Fish-related offences can escalate if linked with wider poaching behaviours, trespass, or other wildlife crimes. [gov.uk]

How You Can Help

If you witness illegal fishing or suspicious behaviour, please report it. Useful details include:

Report incidents to:
📞 101 – Police non‑emergency line
📞 0800 80 70 60 – Environment Agency incident hotline
Or use 999 if a crime is in progress.