Illegal nets seized in estuary

It is illegal to use unattended nets in the Fal Estuary

An illegal attempt to catch fish in a Cornish estuary has been foiled by officials from the Environment Agency.

A net near Restronguet Creek was seized in a joint operation with Truro harbour staff.

The net was spotted by a member of the public who reported it to the Harbour Office in Truro.

The latest incident comes after a series of reports of illegal fishing in the Fal Estuary area in recent weeks.

The outcome is a great result for fish stocks in the area Captain Andy Brigden, Truro Harbour

The illegal net was located on the edge of the bass nursery area at the mouth of Restronguet Creek.

Last month, in St Austell Bay, seven similar nets were found in a patrol mounted by the Environment Agency.

The agency said: "It is illegal to set unattended or 'fixed engine' nets anywhere within the estuary.

"This is very damaging because bass nursery areas are designated zones for the protection of immature fish. Bass in the nursery areas have not had a chance to spawn and exploitation of these young fish threatens future stocks."

Truro Harbour Master Captain Andy Brigden said: "I am delighted that we have been able to help the agency on this operation.

"The outcome is a great result for fish stocks in the area and shows the advantages of the close co-operation between our two organizations."

The nets found near the creek will be destroyed next month if no-one comes forward to claim them.