HAHAS and the City of London Corporation go fishing

Two days into the new season, HAHAS hosted some City of London Corporation (CoLC) staff members for a fishing session and a discussion of the rules and allowed fishing methods.

The idea was to promote understanding and cooperation between anglers and CoLC, so we can work even more effectively together in future.

Most of the CoLC staffers had not been fishing before. A definite buzz developed amongst them when they started catching roach and perch.

During the afternoon, representatives from the Constabulary, Park Rangers, East Heath Team, Parliament Hill Office and Ecology all stopped by.

We discussed the Hampstead Heath fishing rules, which are there to protect fish, wildlife, and the environment. HAHAS members demonstrated fishing tackle and methods which are not allowed, such as barbed hooks, tether rigs and braided line.

There is a float fishing only rule for the north bank of the men’s pond, to prevent lines and hooks going anywhere near the swimmers (float fishing is a short-range method only). We explained about this and showed CoLC a rod and reel set up for this method, so that they would know what to look for.

Nathan Adjei (Sergeant, Hampstead Heath Constabulary) had this to say:

“I was very impressed with your training; it was informative, in depth and adds a lot of value to my role as a Heath Constable.  I enjoyed the course. I would recommend this training for all Officers in the Hampstead Heath Constabulary.  I loved it so much that I am currently planning on taking up fishing as a hobby. Thank you.”

HAHAS would like to thank CoLC for turning out in good numbers. We will carry on working with them in future to promote good angling practice on the Heath