RECREATIONAL fisheries across Britain’s rivers, canals, lakes and ponds pump a massive £1.7 billion into the economy per year, says a new report by The Rivers Trust.
The document, entitled Freshwater Natural Capital, was produced by Dr Dan Marsh and takes into account income from many sources, ranging from the amount we spend on equipment and travel through to accommodation and guiding services.
Among many notable statistics, the report reveals that anglers fork out a staggering £412 million each year on tackle, £225 million on bait and £172 million on day-tickets. It also states that one million anglers enjoy our waterways on a total of 17 million angling days each year, but at the same time warns that only 15 per cent of our water bodies are in what’s considered to be ‘good ecological health’.
It’s hoped that the report will help drive Government action to give our precious waters the protection they deserve, as Angling Trust CEO, Jamie Cook, explained.
“Having creditable evidence and data is important when attempting to elicit change, as it helps to frame the scale of the problem and the impact of doing nothing,” he said.
“These figures give us that, but they alone won’t convince government to make a move. It’s down to the Angling Trust and Fish Legal to continue to beat the drum and use this report to achieve change.”
Jamie’s views are mirrored by Stuart Singleton-White, the Trust’s Head of Campaigns.
“The crisis our waterways face is still not being taken seriously enough by the Government,” he said.
“This report will add to the evidence base on why action is needed by highlighting the social and economic contribution freshwater fisheries make. By investing more and cleaning them up to a healthy condition you are improving these assets and therefore adding value.”
### ANGLING SPEND IN NUMBERS
**_£412m_** Tackle and equipment sold
**_£44m_** Match fees
**_£225m_** Bait
**_£176m_** Specialist clothing
**_£174m_** Petrol, parking and tolls
**_£172m_** Day tickets
**_£86 million_** Accommodation
**_£119 million_** Angling permits