Anglers can now enjoy the sport during the third national lockdown after a government U-turn.

Fishing was initially banned when England went into lockdown on Wednesday morning - but the Angling Trust have managed to get that decision overturned.

However, there are now strict rules that need to be adhered to with the DCMS saying "fishing is allowed as exercise so long as participants adhere to the rules on staying local, gathering limits, social distancing and limiting the time spent outdoors".

The Angling Trust are keen to point out that this means angling is only allowed on a local basis and not as it was when fishing was permitted in May during the first national lockdown last year.

Angling Trust chief executive Jamie Cook said: "We have worked extremely hard to reach this position and we as anglers have a duty to abide by the strict conditions under which fishing is once again permitted.

"With infection rates and death tolls rising we must stick to the Government’s rules and ensure that angling remains part of the solution and does not cause problems."

He added: "The government has recognised that fishing can be seen as exercise, which is expressly permitted under the lockdown rules, although outdoor recreation is not.

"Organised sporting gatherings are prohibited so no match fishing. The exercise is limited to once a day so no overnight fishing whatsoever.

"To remain within the law you should follow the government’s guidance, and only fish locally within the district where you live. If you have no local fishing available then you will have to take your daily exercise in other ways.

"We are once again able to enjoy the sport we love at a time when many others cannot and we must ensure that every angler adheres to the rules.

"I would ask all anglers who are not members to join the Angling Trust and give us your support. We have worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome and that is only possible thanks to the support of our new and existing members.

"I would ask all anglers who value their ability to go fishing to make the same commitment as your fellow anglers have and join the Angling Trust. We are stronger together!"

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