Bass Fishing Regulations in the Isle of Man

[sam harris]

While the furore continues in Britain over the ban on anglers taking Bass - this not being allowed until 1st July - there are talks of "Marches", "Ignoring The Ban" etc. Why couldn't the British Government be more like the Isle of Man Government, who are imposing a ban on Commercial Bass Fishing inside the Manx twelve mile limit to protect Bass stocks. A spokesman for the Fisheries Directorate said "Legislation is currently being drafted to put before the Island's Parliament", but was unable to give a date when the proposed Legislation will be considered". As well as the ban on commercial fishing, the Fisheries Directorate is also planning to introduce a minimum landing size of 50 cm, (compared to the 42 cm in the E.U.) and a maximum size of 60 cm to allow mature breeding fish to survive. A catch limit for Recreational Anglers of one fish per angler per day will also be imposed. Pair trawling for Bass is already banned in Manx waters and there is little commercial Bass fishing using other methods. Following a survey carried out by the Manx Department of Economic Development, angling was highlighted as one of the three activities most likely to target new visitors. DEFA Minister, Richard Ronan, said "Sea angling already plays an important part in the Manx economy and increasing protection for Bass would help it's conservation and raise the profile of the Island as a venue for recreational fishing".

I hope this common sense approach to conservation will encourage more anglers to visit the Isle of Man.

[sammy talbot]

I hope this common sense approach to conservation works and the British government use it as a blue print for the sake of our bass stocks,