Angling legend John Wilson MBE honoured with new rod licence images

Angling legend John Wilson MBE honoured with new rod licence images

Written by Defra Press Office

Today, the Environment Agency unveiled the brand new fishing licence images. One of the pictures shows the Wensum River roach, a favourite fish of the angling legend John Wilson MBE.

As in previous years, the impressive artwork has been created by the famous fish and wildlife painter David Miller.

John Wilson inspired countless anglers to take up the sport with his famous TV series . He was recognised by the Angling Times in 2004 as the Greatest Angler of all Time and dedicated his life to the love of his sport. He was awarded an MBE in 2009 in recognition of his outstanding services to angling.

Also unveiled today are the new images of the minnow, a small fish commonly found across the country in flowing waters, and of the Atlantic salmon in one of its juvenile forms, the parr.

Kevin Austin, Deputy Director Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment at the Environment Agency said:

We are incredibly excited to launch the new set of the rod licence images. Every year, they are hotly anticipated by all anglers and this year they are even more special. It is a privilege to commemorate the legendary figure of John Wilson and to promote his legacy to all anglers.

We encourage you to join over half a million anglers in getting your hands on this year’s fabulous new licences. The funding from licence sales enables us to carry out vital projects supporting anglers and fisheries across England, such as stock surveys, improving fish stocks and waterways and promoting the sport to a wider range of people.

Fishing licence income is used to fund work to maintain, improve and develop fisheries, fish habitats and angling. This includes river habitat improvements and construction of methods to improve fish passage, amongst other crucial projects.

Buying a fishing licence is quick and easy. Licences are available from only £30 for a whole year and are available from www.gov.uk/fishing-licences/buy-a-fishing-licence .

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