County Down angler found guilty of fishing without licence.
A County Down angler was today found guilty at Banbridge Magistrates’’ Court (residing at Newry Courthouse) of fishing without the proper licence required.
Mr Desmond Maxwell, (24) of Willow Park, Ballynahinch, received a conditional discharge for a breach of the Fisheries Act (Northern Ireland) 1966.
On the 21 March 2020 DAERA Inland Fisheries Protection Officers were on routine patrol at Loughgall Country Park when they observed Mr. Maxwell angling with three fishing rods.
When asked to provide evidence that he had the correct fishing rod license, Mr. Maxwell provided details of an Environment Agency fishing rod Licence which is only valid in Great Britain. This was his second detection in two years for the same offence.
DAERA Inland Fisheries enforcement is committed to pursue those who have a detrimental effect on fish stocks and ensure the correct license is in place allowing you to fish legally.
If you are aware or suspect illegal fishing, you should contact DAERA Inland Fisheries on 0300 200 7860 or outside office hours contact 0800 807 060.
