Closed petition Abolish the Close Coarse Fishing Season

Closed on 21 September 2023

It is the main consensus of anglers in the United Kingdom these days that the Government should Abolish the old out dated 1878 Coarse Fishing Season.

The close season for coarse fishing was introduced in 1878 and is in force from 15 March to 15 June. Its aim was to reduce risks to spawning fish caused by angling. However, I believe that the basis for the close season is misplaced as coarse fish breed at different times of the year, and during March April and May most rivers are either in flood or the temperature is too cold for fish to spawn. Many fishing venues these days are controlled by private owners, therefore it would make sense for the Riparian owner to introduce their own time and rules when and if a close season is applicable. Having an outdated law such as the Close season not only affects the enjoyment of a taxpayer, but also the revenue and livelihood of the Riparian owner.