Removing live fish from inland waters

You must get the written consent of the Environment Agency before using fishing instruments (other than a rod and line) and/or removing fish from inland waters.

The written consent is usually issued for a specific date, site and particular species. It is often referred to as "Byelaw Consent".

To obtain Byelaw Consent, you must complete the FR2 form. This will be assessed by your local Environment Agency Fisheries Officer to check that the removal is appropriate and that it will not damage the environment.

Does Fishery Registration apply to removing fish or using instruments?

If fish are being removed from your fishery, to be stocked elsewhere, then your fishery needs to be registered. If, for example, a fish population survey was being undertaken and no fish were being removed, then you are not required to register your fishery.

However, if you have a fishery then we would strongly advise you to register with Cefas, which can be done by using the RW1 form.

If your water is used to supply fish but is not a fishery then you will need to register as a cropping water using the RW2 form. Further information and application forms can be found in the Fishery Registration section or by contacting the Fish Health Inspectorate at Cefas on 01305 206673.

How to apply for Removal/Instrument consent?

It is easy to apply, simply complete the application form (FR2). You can print off a FR2 form or you can apply online using ‘E-consenting’. Any problems just contact the Fisheries Permitting Team on 01480 483968.

On the FR2 form you are asked to provide information such as where the fish are being removed from and how. This allows the Environment Agency to assess the removal and establish if there are any risks to the fishery or wider environment.

Completed applications are sent to the Environment Agency’s Fisheries Permitting Team - the address is on the application form. Please allow at least 10 working days for the application to be processed. However, more than 10 working days may be needed if the removal water has a conservation status and the Environment Agency has to consult with an external organisation, such as Natural England or the Countryside Council for Wales.

Who to contact to discuss removal issues?

If you have any problems please contact your local Environment Agency Fisheries Consenting Officer by calling the National Customer Contact Centre on 08708 506 506. Your local Environment Agency Fisheries Team will be happy to advise you on stocking and any other fisheries management queries you may have.