Illegal Exe anglers targeted

Police send up drone in 'Operation Clampdown'

People fishing illegally along the River Exe have been targeted by Devon & Cornwall Police, working with the Angling Trust and the Environment Agency in 'Operation Clampdown 9.' 

The close season operation on Thursday 25 March involved a stretch of the Exe running through Exeter city centre, which comprises a mixed fishery with coarse and game fish. They wanted to remind anglers that the river is protected.

Members of the Angling Trust’s Voluntary Bailiff Service (VBS) say they take a ‘good citizen’ approach, reporting suspected illegal activity they come across during their patrols. They address anti-social behaviour in areas close to the water too.

Operation Clampdown 9 involved VBS members and the Environment Agency’s Fisheries enforcement officers patrolling the Exe alongside police officers. An Environment Agency officer joined the police drone operator to offer advice on the best place to search overhead.

Nevin Hunter, the Angling Trust regional enforcement manager for South West England, said: Today represents part of our ongoing commitment to our partners and we will continue this through the close season and beyond so that anglers and other members of the public can maximise their enjoyment of the wonderful public space provided on and around the River Exe.”

PC Martin Beck, rural affairs officer for Devon and Cornwall Police, said: “Operation Clampdown 9 is about our ongoing commitment to working with partners to ensure that illegal fishing is addressed and that the public know we are working together to maximise the safety and enjoyment of the area for all."

Fisheries Enforcement Officer, Nick Maye, added: “Working with the police today has enabled us to broaden police officer understanding of our role, the support provided by the VBS and how our local knowledge can massively benefit them in their work. Everyone benefits from this approach.”