WIREDGOV

Anglers are being offered the chance to take a friend or family member fishing for free as part of the Environment Agency’s support for National Fishing Month.

The fishy four weeks, running between 19 July and 26 August, will be launched at this weekend’s Country Land & Business Association (CLA) Game Fair.

Angler’s can download the popular ‘Take a Friend Fishing’ voucher between 20 July to 28 July, offering a licensed angler the chance to take a friend or family member fishing without them having to buy their own rod licence.

To date, over 250 events (running between 19 July and 26 August 2013) have been registered on the official NFM website each detailing when, where and how anyone who wants to learn more about fishing can take part at events in their local area.

• National Fishing Month

The CLA Game Fair, which is the world’s largest event of its type, will see a stately home near Stratford-Upon-Avon transformed into a celebration of rural life.

Representatives from the Environment Agency will be on hand to talk about anything related to fishing, fish health and fishery management.

Neil Lewin, Environment Agency Fisheries Officer, said: “We are excited to attend this year, as the fair has a large angling and environment focus and will give us a great opportunity meet and provide advice to those interested in all things fish.”

"Fishing is a great way to be active"

Richard Benyon, Environment Minister, said: “I am delighted to launch this year’s National Fishing Month.

“Fishing is a great way to be active outdoors, it is important to our economy and it is a part of our national heritage. That is why we must support it, not just this month but all year round.”

The Environment Agency will be joined by representatives from the Angling Trust, Fish Health Inspectorate, CEFAS and the Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS).

The CLA Game Fair will run from Friday 19 July until Sunday 21 July 2013 at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire.

• CLA Game Fair

The Environment Agency has kept the rod licence price the same for the fourth year running - £27 to fish for coarse & trout, £72 for salmon & sea trout. Licences for juniors (aged 12-16) are just £5 and children under 12 fish for free. Other concessions and short term licences are available including a £10 eight day licence.

You can buy a rod licence online, visit any Post Office or call the Environment Agency on 0844 800 5386.

• Buy your rod licence online