A decision on a proposed safe haven for canal zander is finally expected this year.
A ‘Midlands canal zander zone’, which would allow the non-native species to be fished for without threat of removal or being culled, was first proposed by the Canal & River Trust (CRT) in 2015.
Under current legislation it’s technically illegal to stock zander or return them live to the water.
The Environment Agency rejected the initial application, but a fresh plan was submitted by the CRT in May 2019.
A decision had been expected by the end of that year, but an EA spokesman told us:
“We’re considering Canal & River Trust proposals on zander management as part of a full review of all of the permits that allow the introduction and keeping of non-native fish in England. Any decisions on permits will be made once the review is completed later this year.”