CRACKDOWNS are planned to catch anglers fishing without a rod licence this season.
Fishermen out on their first trip this Easter are reminded to renew the certificates which come into force today.
They are available at any post office and through the Environemnt Agency's new telephone sales service.
Launched this week the service (0870-1662662) will operate seven days a week (8am-8pm) except for April 2, 4 and 5 (8am-6pm).
North west regional fisheries manager Mark Diamond said the improved accessibility of licences means anglers caught fishing without a licence will have even less excuse if they are caught during a series of sudden raids being planned by the agency.
And, for the first time, dates of these blitzes will not be announced.
Mark said: "This can only add to the pressure on anglers who cheat the system and their fellow sportsmen."
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