Angling Improvement Fund now open for projects to control invasive species and increase biosecurity

The Angling Improvement Fund (AIF) has re-opened with £100,000 available to support angling organisations with projects that tackle the spread of invasive non-native species and increase biosecurity at angling venues.

The AIF is administered by the Angling Trust and is funded by the Environment Agency from income received through the sales of fishing rod licences. The AIF is just one of several ways the EA channels this income to support the delivery of tangible benefits to anglers across England.

Applications for up to £5,000 funding are invited from clubs, fisheries and other angling-related organisations. Joint applications from clubs and fisheries that wish to undertake a project covering larger areas will also be welcomed. The maximum award for these catchment projects is £10,000.

All applicants must have consulted with an Angling Trust Fisheries Support Officer before applying and should do so as soon as possible to gain the best possible chance of receiving advice before the closure of the application process at 5pm on Thursday, 14 November 2024.

To find your local Fisheries Support Officer click here

Applicants should attempt to match any award with a similar amount of funding from their own sources. This may include cash, volunteer time, donations, or a combination of all three. Successful applicants will be encouraged to complete any funded projects by 31 March 2025 although consideration of a final deadline on 30 September 2025 may be considered for broader projects.

Dr Emily Smith, Angling Trust Environment Manager, said:

“Invasive species present a major threat to fish and fishing and the Environment Agency’s decision to support action by anglers to control established invasive species and stop their introduction into new sites is as important as it is pleasing,

“Approved funding will support the purchase of equipment to tackle invasive species and fish disease, pay for training courses, and for the installation of biosecurity facilities such as dip tanks. This round also includes provision for the purchase of angling nets, unhooking mats and slings so it really does present a fantastic opportunity for anglers to receive support in tackling the issues.

“I would encourage any club or fishery to contact one of our Fisheries Support Officers as soon as possible to find out more about applying for assistance.”

Andy Petch, Angling Trust Fund Manager, is responsible for administering the application process on behalf of the Environment Agency and said:

“The Trust and the Environment Agency continue to work closely to raise awareness and provide advice on the damaging impacts of invasive non-native species. This latest round of the AIF is an important part of that process.

“Anglers’ enjoyment of their sport can be seriously affected by these invaders and this re-investment of rod licence income is a significant method for helping clubs and fisheries take action and protect their waters by improving general species management and biosecurity measures.”

Last year, the Angling Improvement Fund allocated almost £65,000 to 18 projects involved in controlling the spread of invasive species and increasing biosecurity at venues. It is hoped that this year’s funding of £100,000 will be fully allocated to similar projects across England that will help to ensure existing and future fishing opportunities are protected.

Click here for more information about the Angling Improvement Fund and the formal application process

Biosecurity wash down equipment