RURAL crime officers in Wiltshire are joining forces with the Angling Trust and Environment Agency to tackle fishing offences.

Operation Clampdown 5 is running across England to target illegal close season fishing.

The close season, between March 15 and June 15, is when coarse angling is suspended on rivers, streams and some specified canals and still waters to protect spawning fish.

During Operation Clampdown 5, Angling Trust volunteer bailiffs will be reporting any suspicious activity to the Environment Agency – and to the police if illegal fishing on private waters is spotted.

And rural crime officers will be gathering intelligence and highlighting the importance of reporting people to ensure those who continue to fish illegally do not slip through the net.

The operation will target offences, including fishing during the close season, attempting to take or destroy fish, fishing without permission and fish poaching.

Rural crime officer PC Marc Jackson said: “Fishing offences can be committed by a variety of people and in numerous ways, from those working alone to organised criminal gangs who will steal to order on a larger scale.

“This has a negative impact on the surrounding communities and a financial impact on the fishing clubs.

“We would encourage local fishermen or clubs to get involved in the Angling Trust Volunteer Bailiff scheme via their website, and work with us to combat this type of criminality.

“Anyone with any information which may assist in the disruption of such activity, can contact any of the agencies involved in Operation Clampdown. ”

Nevin Hunter, The Angling Trust Regional Enforcement Manager and a former Head of the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit said: “It is wonderful that we can work with Wiltshire Police and partners embracing action against fishing related crime and in the wider fight against rural crime making our communities safer for all.”

The Angling Trust’s Voluntary Bailiff Service is recruiting more volunteers. If you are interested email karen.sarkar@anglingtrust.net for more information.