What to do if you see poaching or people fishing without permits
There is a “Protection Order” Strathclyde Protection Order 1988 on the Rivers Irvine & Garnock including all their tributaries.
The Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act, 2003.
The Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act, 2003, makes it an offence to fish for freshwater fish without legal right or written permission in any area covered by a Protection Order made under the Act. (Section 48).
For trout, it is a criminal offence to fish without permission where there is a Protection order in place, or where a loch is in single ownership. In all other cases, it is still a civil offence
(The owner can prosecute you).
What to do if you see an incident taking place or someone fishing illegally
i.e. Fishing without a current permit (Any angler with a current permit can ask to see another’s anglers permit).
If you see someone poaching with, Nets, foul hooking fish or any other illegal method you should note the following things then phone the police.
- A description of the said persons, registration of vehicles and a clear accurate description of the exact location.
- What type of illegal poaching is taking place?
PHONE 101
Further to this you should email Kilmarnock Angling Club
All information will be in confidence and will be forwarded on to the police and the bailiffs (tel: 07563654481)