Conflict leads to high season restriction for anglers at four 24 hour moorings
Angling has been restricted at four Broads Authority 24 hour moorings during the high boating season to avoid conflict between anglers and boaters.
Problems have arisen at Bramerton and Postwick Wharf on the River Yare and Worlingham and Beccles on the River Waveney where a minority of anglers have continually refused to make way for boats wishing to moor.
Broads Authority Bylaw 66 makes it an offence for any person to “prevent, obstruct, or hinder the lawful mooring of any vessel”.
Angling has always been welcomed on the majority of the 60 free Broads Authority moorings on the understanding that anglers make way for boats wishing to moor, and largely this arrangement has worked well.
The Broads Authority has implemented the restriction at the four moorings from June 16th to October 31st after consulting anglers on the Broads Angling Strategy Group and the Broads Forum which is made up of Broads users.
Angling will be allowed at these moorings from November 1st to March 14th, when the angling season closes, on the same condition that fishermen will make way for boats wishing to moor.
Anglers are still welcome at the majority of Broads Authority moorings provided they give way to boats. However, they are able to fish from their boats at all the moorings.
Broads Authority Director of Waterways, Trudi Wakelin, said: “It is with regret that we have decided to restrict the use of these moorings by anglers. A minority of fishermen have spoiled the use of the moorings both for children and responsible adults. We can’t allow this inconsiderate behaviour to spoil the boating experience for people who are seeking peace and relaxation on the Broads.”
Boat owners and hire boat companies pay for 24 hour moorings through their tolls, but rod licence fees are paid to the Environment Agency.
However, the Authority, with the Environment Agency, is exploring the possibility of providing new or improved angling access close to the moorings where it has proved necessary to restrict angling.
26/06/09
