The latest figures have shown a huge surge in angling participation during the lockdown. Rod licence sales are up by a whopping 230% on the same period last year. This upsurge is a combination of returning anglers as well as newcomers to the sport. The rod licence is paid to the Environment Agency by all eligible UK anglers. The latest figures show 21 million pounds generated anually from rod licences.
The money raised from Rod Licences is re-invested in conservation and habitat improvement on our waterways. In Derbyshire, this money has been put to good use on the river Derwent by helping fund fish passes which have seen the return of Atlantic Salmon to the river as well as helping other migratory species such as eels and lamprey. Fishing is by its very nature is socially distant and provides import exposure to nature, helping people unwind and de-stress. It’s also wonderfully exciting!