Anglers have welcomed the news that Tynwald has approved the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry’s plans to increase opportunities for reservoir fishing during this coming winter.

Last year, winter fishing was trialled on four reservoirs and was such a success that this year, with the kind permission of the Isle of Man Water Authority, six reservoirs will be open to winter anglers: Clypse and Kerrowdhoo, Sulby, West Baldwin, Ballure and Cringle. 

The winter season runs from 1st November 2009 through to 31st January 2010 and a licence can be purchased for ?30 from the Department’s offices at Rose House in Douglas from 23rd October 2009.

Dudley Butt MLC, Member for Fisheries, is delighted to offer anglers the choice to fish over the winter period: "The Department received tremendous positive feedback from anglers last year, and I am delighted to announce the opening of Cringle and Ballure as additional venues this winter. 

"The licence fee of ?30 represents excellent value for money to fish the additional 3 months, and we are hoping for another record breaking fish capture over this winter season."

Anglers are reminded that the winter regulations allow them a bag limit of two fish per day, and only barbless or crimped hooks may be used. 

Children under the age of 14 years will be issued a licence free of duty.

For more information and a copy of the Regulations, anglers can contact the Department on 685857.

Pictured: Injebreck Reservoir, West Baldwin.