ANGLERS are being reminded that they can no longer continue with catching coarse fish in rivers until mid June.

The Environment Agency said that from March 15, anglers cannot fish for coarse fish, such as barbel and chub, for three months to give the fish a chance to breed.

The close season applies to all rivers, streams and drains in England but does not apply to most still-waters and canals.

During the close season Environment Agency enforcement offices along with support from the Angling Trusts Voluntary Water Bailiffs will be out on rivers and streams making sure people are observing the close season.

They will also be checking lakes and ponds to make sure people who are fishing have a valid rod licence.

Anyone fishing without a fishing licence can expected to be prosecuted.

Last year, the Environment Agency Enforcement Officers ran 670 close season patrols and in that time they reported122 anglers for illegally fishing during the close season.