FRESHWATER and sea anglers in the Island have been asked to volunteer to represent angling interests on the Manx Recreational Anglers Forum.

The Fisheries Directorate, of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, first established the forum in 2009 following the outcomes of the 2007 angler customer survey which highlighted the need for improved communications between anglers and the department.

The main aim of the forum is for the Fisheries Directorate and local anglers to work closely together for the overall improvement and development of recreational angling opportunities and to actively promote the sport in the Isle of Man.

Key objectives of the forum include raising and discussing issues to seek consensus, acting as an intermediary for all relevant consultation processes and to develop a strategy for the active promotion and enhancement of recreational angling opportunities in the Isle of Man.

So far the forum has achieved the erection of interpretation boards at various harbours and pier locations around the Island which clarify the statutory minimum landing sizes of commonly caught fish.

The forum has also recently improved legislation to increase the minimum landing size of ballan wrasse to 34cm and is in negotiations for improved angler access to the Douglas piers. Forum members were also consulted directly on the content of the Fisheries Bill in its early stages of preparation. 

Juan Turner MLC, chair of the forum, said: "The forum is now well established as the formal consultative body for all decisions affecting recreational angling and it is essential that anglers continue to support this important group to make sure their views are taken into account by the department."

The current forum members represent charter boat, shore, river, reservoir and coarse angling and include representatives of the Isle of Man Fly Fishers, Douglas Angling Club and the Manx Game Fishing Club along with individual anglers.

The department would like to invite applications from all anglers who have a genuine interest in improving and developing recreational angling opportunities.

Anyone interested is asked to write to the Fisheries Directorate at DEFA, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St Johns, IM4 3AS or e-mail fisheries@gov.im with a brief summary of their angling interests they would like to represent.

Written applications must be received by February 7.