NorthWest Fisheries Volunteer Network

16/06/2026

Lancaster Canal at Preston, Bridge 15 Bexhill Rd.

Sadly the canal is suffering from an oxygen crash again in the same place as last year, although its been noticed a month earlier than previous. The canal is completely covered in duck week which will be blocking out the sun for getting to the plants below. There are no dead fish to report at this time, I feel the fish stocks never recovered after last year so its unlikely we will see any dead fish. We havent yet seen the annual bloom of the Azola Fern which normally blanckets this stretch of the canal, that will only make things worse once it arrives.

Both the Environment Agency and Canal & Rivers Trust have been informed of the water quality readings (a healthy oxygen level should be above 5.0mg/l

Please if you do see any fish in distress or dead fish then contact the CRT and the EA.

CRT 03030404040 / or 24 hour emergency 08004799947
EA 0800807060

Environment Agency Canal & River Trust lancaster canal fishing Cllr Ben Ward - Ingol and Cottam

15/06/2026

Just been for a walk along the Ribble free stretch and already there are 5 anglers set up ready to fish at midnight tonight when the coarse fishing season on river resumes, the river is looking in a good condition for the start of the season.

With no anglers on the banks for the last 3 months there is NO litter about, please let’s see if we can keep it that way, take your rubbish home with you.

Don’t forget there is limited parking at the Shaws Arms this year as the space by the football ground is now fenced off.

Please check and be aware of the regional and national fishing bylaws and make sure you are fishing legally https://www.gov.uk/guidance/regional-rod-fishing-byelaws-north-west-region if you suspect anyone of fishing outside the law or without a rod licence then please report this to the EA on 0800807060 or online https://www.gov.uk/report-illegal-fishing-in-england

Take away nothing but memories and leave nothing but footprints.

Good luck and tight lines 🎣

11/06/2026

Yesterday, our Fisheries Enforcement Officers encountered an angler fishing on the River Dee during the coarse fish close season.

The close season runs from 15th March to 15th June inclusive on rivers, streams and drains, helping to protect fish while they spawn and recover.

Most anglers respect the regulations and play their part in protecting our fisheries. However, enforcement patrols continue throughout the close season to ensure those who choose not to comply are dealt with appropriately.

If you suspect someone is fishing illegally, or wish to report any other fisheries related incident, please contact our 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

09/06/2026

09/06/2026

https://cumbriacrack.com/2026/06/03/dozens-of-fish-found-dead-at-cumbrian-beauty-spot/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASUwTlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe21vwj8qyE6boe6RniGbdJf3hsY7YjJd58-xrx-LRgezWskNWzR47g4p80Gs_aem_BwdZ5jIQXn0ta84xkrPxbw

Talkin Tarn, near Brampton, has experienced an algal bloom, which has led to a large number of fish deaths – thought to be around 30 – in the area.

08/06/2026

🌿 Invasive Species Week returns from 22–28 June 🌿

This annual campaign brings together organisations, communities and individuals across the UK to raise awareness of invasive non-native species and the simple actions we can all take to help stop their spread.

Led by the GB Non-native Species Secretariat (NNSS) and supported by partners including the Angling Trust and Environment Agency, the campaign highlights the impact invasive species can have on our waterways, native wildlife, environment and economy.

💧 How can you help?

✔️ Check, Clean, Dry your equipment
✔️ Be Plant Wise
✔️ Report sightings of invasive species

In 2025, 174 organisations took part and 78 events were held across the UK and Crown Dependencies. Together, we can continue to make a difference and help protect our waters for future generations.

📖 Find out more and get involved: https://www.nonnativespecies.org/what-can-i-do/invasive-species-week

07/06/2026

A day spent with the Ribble Rivers Trust on the Upper Hodder assessing habitat and water quality as part of the Orri Award for wild salmon conservation; supporting a community-led river restoration project that will both protect an endangered British species and help reduce local flood risk.

Well I can see the community part but the big question remains is where were the anglers and the angling clubs in supporting this project? Really disappointing to see only 1 angler present on the day. Anglers are quick enough to complain about the lack of fish and the quality of the water, but actually getting stuck in to make a difference they are no where to be seen and leave it for everyone else to sort out. Come on folks, play your part, or stop complaining !!

Ribble Rivers Trust

05/06/2026

31/05/2026

A number of reports received this weekend of Coarse anglers on the River Ribble Free Stretch. All incidents have been passed through to the EA for their attention.

The coarse closed season runs came into effect on Sunday 15th March and runs until 15th June inclusive. The annual close season prevents fishing for coarse fish in rivers and streams across England, helping to protect fish when they are spawning and supporting vulnerable stocks.

You may still fish for Brown Trout, Sea Trout & Salmon using the appropriate methods & tackle with the required fishing licence.