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6.0 Options for Future Management and
Development of the Resource
6.1 CESSATION OF PIKE
REMOVAL
The pike angling organisations do not agree with the scientific
advice associated with pike removal and which also to a high degree
is directly responsible for pike culling.
The current management practices carried out by a small number of
fishery boards regarding stock control, have negatively impacted
upon public perception of those boards. These practices have mainly
placed pike as the cause of falling wild brown trout stocks and have
created the misguided train of thought that removing pike will solve
the problems brought on by pollution. To use one of these waters
only, as an example; Lough Sheelin:
A report published in 1979 by the IFT titled "Nutrification of
Lough Sheelin - a critical stage" said it all in the last sentence
"The indications are that Lough Sheelin will also cease to be a
viable trout fishery within a few years unless positive measures are
introduced to halt the ingress of excessive nutrients into the
lake". In addition the 1998-2000 EPA report, published in
January 2002, as part of the EPA,s ongoing National surveys from
1971 described Lough Sheelin as a lake suffering from "Long term
chronic pollution, which is affected primarily by agricultural
pollution". This lake suffers from the ravages of pollution, yet
in April 2002 photographs were taken of dead Pike, Trout and Rudd
tangled in the "Gillnets" that are used to redress the pollution
problem.
Pike anglers do not wish to see further pike removal
but a commitment from fishery boards to use funding in tackling the
National problem of pollution and thereby returning the wild brown
trout and other waters to the pristine condition of being able to
support all fish life without the need to sacrifice others.
These practices have also adversely affected the market in those
regions, that Pike angling can offer in attracting tourists looking
for top quality pike angling. Particular consideration regarding
tourism revenue to local economies, outside the game angling season
as well as in season is an important aspect of those fisheries
currently undergoing stock control.
Conclusion:
In the interest of attracting pike
anglers back to Ireland by forming a policy, which respects the Pike
Species, we ask the following;
that all inland waters under
ownership or within fishing right control of the Irish State, the
Central and Regional Fishery Boards and the Electricity Supply Board
do not, under any circumstance undergo any Pike control activity,
other than that allowed under the Pike bye-law or to replenish
stocks.
(Note: We do recognise that in some situations, a water
may need its pike stock enhanced due to pollution etc. or an
emergency fish removal process may be required. These are covered
under Section 6.2 "Transfer of Pike")
6.1
6.2 TRANSFER OF
PIKE
It is the wish of Irish Pike anglers that the transfer of Pike
takes place only in exceptional circumstances where stocks have to
be re-established e.g. following a pollution incident. We ask for
this transfer only to be carried out within the bounds of a new
National transfer policy.
National Transfer Policy -
In the event of a pollution
incident or any other adverse incident deemed to require the
re-establishment of a waterway's Pike stock, we ask for the
inclusion of the following guidelines within a National Transfer
Policy. Waters eligible for transfer being those not falling within
the parameters described in Section 6.1.
· A National register, set up by the Central Fisheries Board,
listing the names of all transfer and recipient waters.
·
Proposed recipient waters to be registered with the CFB who will
subsequently assess the Pike stock and circumstances, prior to any
transfer operation.
· Following stock assessment, the nearest
registered transfer water is established and contact made with the
appropriate angling club.
· The angling club operating the
transfer water if agreeable to a partnership arrangement with the
relevant fisheries board, will then on a date suiting both parties
carry out a pike capture process.
· The relevant Fishery Board
through the Central Fishery Board will then undertake to contact the
National Pike angling organisations, to allow a pike angling
representative to attend at the transfer operation.
· The method
to be used in Pike capture is to be by rod and line only, by the
local angling club or by another club under their supervision, with
responsibility for pike safety during the capture process being that
of the local angling club.
· Temporary elongated holding tanks,
on the day, are to be distributed around the lake shore with regular
transfer taking place to aerated fishery board tanks by board staff
and/or delegated angling club members, by the use of boats if
necessary.
· Pike under 75cm only, are to be eligible for
transfer and must be free from open Sores, Fungus, Lesions and any
other health defects, as deemed by attending qualified fishery board
staff, which if transferred, may put recipient waters at risk
·
The relevant fishery board then undertakes to carry out the safe
transfer of all eligible pike to their new registered recipient
water.
· The registered recipient water, following a pike stock
enhancement, receives a total "No Kill Policy" as opposed to normal
bye law regulations and signs are erected at bankside to advertise
and promote this.
· That all pertinent details such as reasons
for transfer, stock assessment details, dates, times, pike no's,
lengths, weights, local club names, etc. are recorded on the
National register and made available to the National Pike
organisations.
· National and mutual co-operation and
consultation regarding the above between the Central Fishery Board
and the National pike organisations.
Note: In the event of an unscheduled emergency
transfer operation taking place, using methods deemed necessary for
expedient removal, for example such as that required in August 2002
on Lough Ballyturley, Co. Roscommon, we ask that all details in
relation to such incidents are also recorded on the National
register.
6.2
6.3 NEW PIKE
BYE-LAW
The current bye-law presents difficulties in both the ability
and level of enforcement and also in actually obtaining successful
prosecutions. We propose a new bye-law, which is more user-friendly
and also reflects the need to protect Irish pike stocks which are
generally viewed to be in decline. This is especially so with
specimen pike, although some Irish venues still have the inherent
ability to produce specimens.
Irish pike anglers ask that the current conservation bye-law
no. 677, 1990 be amended to include the following provisions:
· A prohibition on the taking and killing of more than one pike
on any one day.
· A prohibition on any person taking or killing
any pike of more than 75cm, measured from tip of snout to fork of
tail.
· A prohibition on any person having a pike in any form
other than whole and ungutted.
· Registration of all premises or
other storage used by persons acting as holders of pike.
· A
prohibition on the pooling of pike by a number of anglers or other
persons.
· Unequivocal protection of all specimen pike as defined
by the Irish specimen fish committee.
· Complete protection to be
given to all waters, which have had pike stock enhancement. Details
of these waters can be acquired from the Central fishery board.
Note: In addition to the above amendment, pike anglers
also ask that considering the current status of pike stocks, a
conservation measure be considered such that all pike are afforded a
catch and release period of two years to allow stocks to
recover.
Additional note on large pike:
Almost all pike
anglers support the proposal that large pike be returned alive.
Stocks of large pike are very low. The chance of catching a specimen
pike attracts many thousands of pike angling tourists to our lakes
and rivers every year. If specimen sized pike are allowed to be
killed our stocks of large pike will dwindle even further. Mr Paddy
Fitzmaurice Chief Scientific Officer of the CFB, has written in his
resume of pike research on Irish waters and scientific data related
to pike angling that " It is very easy to reduce the stocks of
large pike on any fishery and once reduced they are extremely
difficult to replenish".
6.3
6.4
BETTER ENFORCEMENT OF NEW PIKE BYE-LAWS
All the pike Bye Laws at the present are being too easily abused
and totally ignored by:
a) Some visiting foreign anglers.
b) Organised gangs of poachers from home and abroad.
It would
be unfair to suggest that all visiting anglers are coming here to
catch and kill as many Pike as possible and return home with their
haul. Many do operate on a catch and release basis.
However, too
many visiting anglers come here and pay no regard to the law's laid
down to protect Pike stocks. Irish pike anglers, to ensure the
sustainability of the pike resource, suggest the following to help
stamp out these practices.
1) Advertising angling in Ireland
abroad by Bord Failte, to include information that the pike are
protected and any advertising should also outline penalties for
those who break the Law during their visit.
2) Boating and
cruising companies to provide leaflets outlining Pike Bye Laws and
consequences to offenders ( in various languages, ie:- French,
German, Italian etc..)
*Copies also to be displayed inside craft
*
3) Stiffer penalties for offenders. These must include tackle
confiscation (compulsory) and a minimum E100.00 fine, increasing
with severity of offence.
4) Increase in number of Bailiffs and
water keepers to police lakes and rivers. These officials should
have the full backing of the Gardai and Fishery Boards when
required. (A protocol should be prepared as part of this new pike
policy, outlining the role of all concerned, to ensure effective
apprehension of offenders).
5) Bailiffs and Waters Keepers must
have the power to issue fines and their full powers should be
advertised highlighting they have the complete support of the
relevant authorities.
6) 24 hour, 7 days, 52 weeks a year,
emergency hot line number, so fisheries staff can act and deal with
all eventualities when contacted by members of the public.
7)
Fisheries staff to monitor ports and to exercise spot checks on
foreign vehicles so as to intercept and stop illegal exports of Pike
and Coarse fish.
8) Persons found laying nets and long lines or
both without the proper permits or for whatever reason being unable
to display the proper permit when requested, should have all their
equipment immediately confiscated and subsequently destroyed, and
should be fined a minimum of E1000.00.
9) Signs should be
produced in different languages and erected at waters most used by
visiting anglers and also made available for purchase by Clubs etc.
for erection at local waters (Consideration also to be given to
languages of countries currently awaiting admission to the EU, to
ensure all are treated equally)
THERE MUST BE A SUITABLE DETERRENT
6.4
6.5 SECTION 294 WATERKEEPERS
Overview of Acts -
· The appointment of water
keepers takes place under the 1959 Fisheries (Consolidated) Act
Section 294
· The powers of water keepers are listed under the 1959 Fisheries
(Consolidated) Act Section 296
· The powers of water keepers in the apprehension of offenders
are listed under the 1959 Fisheries (Consolidated) Act Section
299
· The powers of water keepers in seizing any boat or vehicle
being used as an aid to the commission of an offence is made
possible under the Fisheries (Consolidated) Act 1959 as amended by
Section 34 of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1962
Water Keepers Duties -
In essence, it is necessary for
a water keeper to familiarise himself with the appropriate bye-laws
applicable to the fish species being afforded protection. The
various Acts, which give powers to perform those protection duties
offer considerable scope. Some of the powers for example, within his
authorised area/locale allow the water keeper to:
· Enter any boat engaged or about to engage in fishing
·
Examine all standing, floating or other nets whatsoever
· Seize
any unlawful fishing engine (anything used to catch or trap fish
i.e. rods, nets etc.) which is being unlawfully used
· Apprehend
an offender with or without the help of any other persons acting
under the waterkeeper's directions
Water keepers can make an important contribution to the
protection of pike. They are voluntary, requiring no payment for
duties carried out and posses the knowledge to recognise when an
offence is being committed. The federation has encouraged club
members to become water keepers since its formation in 1988. It is
intended that club water keepers be the eyes and ears of the local
Fishery Board protection staff and only actually take action in an
emergency or when Fishery Board protection staff are unavailable. It
is for this reason we believe an element of teamwork can and should
exist between water keepers and fishery boards. It is unfortunate
though, that at present Water keepers do not feel they are properly
recognised or respected by those they are trying to support.
Conclusion -
We ask that fishery boards form a
closer, more mutually beneficial working relationship with water
keepers in their region. In this regard we recommend that boards
have briefing meetings with club water keepers at least once a year.
We also ask that under the new pike policy, a protocol is
established whereby fishery boards, water keepers and the Garda
Siochana understand, support and respect each others role in
fisheries protection. We also ask that the Central Fishery Board
maintain a register of reports from water keepers containing such
information as dates/times of incidents, details of any
investigations and prosecutions etc. and that this register be made
available to the National pike organisations.
6.5
6.6 BETTER PIKE ANGLER
REPRESENTATION ON FISHERY BOARDS
The current category of coarse angling, which at present includes
pike, does not from a pike anglers perspective, allow for the proper
representation of pike angling at fishery board level.
There is a
need to formally liberate pike angling from the coarse fish category
and to provide proper representation for the sport of pike fishing.
This is only possible with a designated seat on all fishery boards.
A number of reasons for requiring a designated seat are noted
below:
· Pike angling and coarse angling are two entirely different
pursuits.
· The sport of pike angling uses specialised tackle and
tactics aimed solely at catching pike.
· The Irish National
coarse angling body does not regard the pike species as a coarse
fish.
· There are conflicting interests within pike and coarse
angling bodies, i.e. pike anglers using
coarse fish as bait.
·
Pike angling attracts overseas anglers who wish to fish specifically
for pike.
Presently, coarse angling is provided with a board seat through
the purchase of share certificates, within the term prior to
election. We would like to point out, that following fishery board
elections in 2000, both the coarse and pike angling bodies
independently expressed concern to the Department of Marine
regarding this process and also some of the resulting elected
representatives. This concern has not been addressed to date.
We
wish to ensure a fair and meaningful working relationship between
pike angling interests and the fishery boards. It is for this reason
we ask that the new designated seats are filled by representatives,
nominated by the National pike angling bodies.
6.6
6.7 MORE PIKE ANGLER CONSULTATION WITH FISHERY
BOARDS
Proper communication can often successfully address problems
that may arise. The 1999 Fisheries Development Act establishes a
duty for fisheries boards to consult with local angling clubs and
National angling organisations. In some regions this only happens
when problems arise.
Contact should and must be ongoing on a planned regular
basis.
6.7
6.8 BETTER WATER QUALITY
Declining water quality has probably had the single most
devastating impact on fish life in general. Poor water quality
affects all living organisms in a body of water from invertebrates
such as snails, insects and shrimps, to all the salmonid and
cyprinid fish species, which feed on them. The pike, being at the
top of the food chain suffers as a consequence of any change in the
presence of other fish species including the direct implication on
itself. This results in major ecological imbalances.
Water
quality is therefore an issue, which affects all angling category's
and requires a policy which tackles a National problem.
Some of
the factors, which may see improvements in water quality are noted
below:
· A reduction in the use of artificial fertiliser.
·
Participation in REPS (Including adequate funding).
·
Improvements in slurry storage and management including
enforcement.
· Stricter development control.
· Improved
industrial and urban discharges including ongoing monitoring.
·
Increased awareness.
We ask that the new pike policy determines the impact of poor
water quality on all fish stocks and subsequently provides for an
action plan to redress the poor stock levels currently being
experienced by Irish and tourist anglers. As Local Authorities and
the EPA have greater powers in dealing with water quality issues,
the fishery boards should impress upon them the consequences of poor
water quality and form a closer relationship on this issue to solve
this National problem.
6.8
6.9(A) CLOSED
SEASON
Due to the decline of visiting Pike anglers to Ireland, and the
immediate effect this is having on relevant businesses, the proposal
of installing a Closed Season would, at present spell disaster and
increase unnecessary pressure on these businesses.
However, there
are factors that suggest a Closed Season, if observed and respected
would have a positive effect on Pike stocks.
A general opinion
that the months of July and August would be most suited to a closed
season are set out below:-
1) These are generally the months
that water temperature peaks and pike are spread out throughout
their habitat. Location becomes more difficult and fishing is less
productive.
2) Larger fish, when hooked, tend to fight much
harder at this time of year and if played incorrectly, will exhaust
themselves. A fish in this condition takes longer to recover, some
never recover.
3) General tourism increases during the peak
summer months. B&B owners who cater for anglers could be
encouraged to look at this alternative tourist for business until
the Closed Season ends.
4) The idea of having a Closed Season is
to protect the Pike stocks. If a Closed Season were implemented and
the Pike Bye Laws were stringently enforced, Pike stocks will
recover significantly over a period of time. Also, if other issues
which enrage Pike Anglers (Gill Nets) are acted upon as we propose
then Pike anglers will return to Ireland in greater numbers in the
open season making up for lost business to guest house owners, boat
hire and tackle shops etc during July and August.
In
conclusion, we suggest that if a Closed Season was being considered,
it would be pertinent to bring to the table persons who represent
businesses attached to Pike angling to involve them and discuss
problems which a Closed Season would bring about at this present
time.
Note:
The policy of the IPS and IFPAC maintains that
no close season could be properly defined as to provide an overall
improvement in pike stock numbers or condition and this will only be
achieved through National education in handling etc. coupled with a
complete respect for pike by all who fish for them.
6.9(A)
6.9(B) HOOKS AND
UNHOOKING
HOOKS
Sizes:
Many different hook sizes are required in pike fishing. The size
and type is mostly dictated by the particular method used. These can
be categorised as one of a number of specialised methods outlined
below:
· Bait fishing (i.e. Sea or freshwater deadbaits)
· Lure
fishing (i.e. Spoons, spinners, jerkbaits, crankbaits, jigs, soft
plastic lures etc.)
· Fly fishing (Artificial flies)
The varying parameters within the above specialised methods such
as the size, shape and type of presented bait, lures or flies is so
vast that the same applies to hooks.
Barbed or Barbless:
Differing views exist on whether hooks should be barbless or not.
Ease of hook removal and possibly angler safety would support
barbless, while the likelihood of the hook tearing areas by moving
from its original set point would not support their use. The
possible loss of fish through using barbless hooks would be another
area where views would differ.
In considering the differing
views, the actual process of unhooking plays an important part in
ensuring the safety of the fish and is an issue that needs to be
addressed by all anglers fishing for pike.
UNHOOKING
Of all the fish that swim in inland waters in Ireland, the
pike provides the greatest challenge and difficulty in the unhooking
process. Unfortunately those who are not diligent in the process
either through lack of experience, equipment or because of youth are
very likely to cause injury to the pike and indeed themselves.
The various unhooking situations and how to deal with them would
require more explanation than can be afforded here. However,
unhooking involves a greater number of considerations other than the
act and some are outlined below:
· Procedures for landing pike (netting etc.)
· Use of padded
unhooking mats
· Correct procedure for holding pike while
unhooking
· Correct use of forceps and their different
applications
· Pre-capture preparations regarding
photography
· Methods of resuscitating pike prior to release
· Safe release procedure
We have proposed a code of practice further on in the submission,
which is aimed at giving guidance in the possession of the correct
equipment. We ask that in the new pike policy, adequate funding is
made available to produce of a "Code of Conduct" for Irish pike
fishing and that it receives National promotion and distribution.
The Irish pike angling bodies are happy to provide the necessary
expertise in its preparation.
6.9(B)
6.9(C) CODE OF
CONDUCT
A "Code of Conduct" is considered by the pike angling bodies to
have an important role to play in educating anglers and indeed
anyone wishing to take up pike angling. It would be intended to
cover every conceivable aspect of pike angling and in doing so
highlight and hopefully put to rest some of the bad practices seen
so often being carried out by anglers who know no better.
We ask that the Central Fishery Board provide the adequate
funding necessary in its production. The National pike angling
organisations would be pleased to help out in providing the
necessary expertise required.
Note:
The National Angling Alliance in England
recently released an updated version of the original SACG Code of
Conduct for Specialist Coarse Anglers. The revised Code covers all
branches of coarse fishing and includes a section for beginners as
well as covering care of the environment, anglers' behaviour and
safe angling practices and rigs. The Code was prepared by the
Specialist Anglers' Alliance on behalf of the NAA with PAC of Great
Britain providing input on pike related matters. It is obvious that
anglers in Great Britain recognise the importance of education and
we look forward to working with the Central Fishery Board on a
similar project for Irish anglers.
6.9(C)
6.9(D) PIKE ANGLING CODE OF
PRACTICE
The following recommendations are to act as a guide only for
any angler wishing to fish for Pike. Current angling practices
regarding adequate tackle are considered important in order to
ensure sustainability of the pike resource.
A) Bank fishing
B) Boat fishing
C) Lure fishing (bank or
boat)
A) Bank fishing -
The following tackle is
recommended for static dead bait, bank fishing:
1) Max. 2no. rods as per current legislation, min 2.25lb test
curve of 11ft or 12ft long
2) Bank sticks or rod pod complete
with audible alarms and drop back indicators
3) Strong reels
loaded with min. 12lb breaking strain line
4) Large landing net,
e.g. 42inch triangular
5) Large padded unhooking mat
6) Weigh
sling (some unhooking mats also double up as slings)
7) Min. 20lb
breaking strain trace wire of min. length 18 inches, 28lb b.s
preferable
8) Max. size six hooks, semi-barbless preferable
9)
2no. pairs of unhooking forceps (min. 8 inch straight plus min. 10
inch curved)
10) Unhooking glove
11) Pike/carp sack for
holding fish in water prior to photograph or for revival
B) Boat fishing -
The following tackle is recommended
for boat fishing:
1) Adequate life jacket or buoyancy aid (Important prior to any
boat fishing)
N.B The tackle listed above with the exception of
item 2) are recommended for boat angling with the utmost importance
placed on an unhooking mat for pike safety in the boat.
C) Lure fishing -
This branch of pike angling has
become very popular in recent times
Angler Choice:
1) 10ft spinning rod complete with fixed
spool reel loaded with 12-15lb monofilament line or 20-30lb braided
line
2) 6ft-7ft trigger grip rods of rating 1-5oz and between,
complete with multiplier reels loaded with 50lb-80lb braided line
(Important - braid strength is only required for casting large
lures, not for playing pike)
3) Min. 28lb seven strand trace wire
for spoons and small plugs used with spinning rod
4) Min. 36lb
seven strand trace wire for large spoons and plugs used with trigger
grip rods
5) Single strand stiff wire min. 100lb trace for all
jerkbaits used with trigger grip rods
Angler
Requirement:
6) 8 inch and 12inch long nosed pliers
7)
Min. 8inch mini bolt cutters (for stubborn hooks)
8) Replacement
lure hooks
9) Unhooking glove
10) Large mesh landing
net
11) Large unhooking mat
The safety of both angler and pike is directly related to the
preparation, possession and correct use of tackle in pike angling.
Anything less than adequate tackle leads to fish fatalities. Simple
checks while fishing are described below:
1) Always pull test
knots (Don't wait for the pike to test them)
2) After landing a
pike the trace should be checked and if kinked, then replaced
immediately (Pike don't bite through wire)
3) Always check the
line above the trace after each pike caught and cut off and re-tie
if frayed
Note: Never weigh a pike under the gill cover and never
throw a pike back into the water. Always support the fish on
release, until it is ready to swim away.
6.9(D)
6.10 SECTION 14
EXEMPTIONS TO BE ABOLISHED
Section 14 Exemptions -
The granting of these
exemptions allows for the legal killing of Pike. This practice would
not concur with an Irish Pike Policy, which in any way aims to
promote conservation, protection and development of the Pike
resource. We ask for an end to Section 14 exemptions.
6.10
6.11 PROPER RECOGNITION
OF PIKE AS A FIRST RATE SPORT FISH
Pike- the world's most sought after sport
fish
Sixty million years ago a cold and murderous predator patrolled
the dark, inhospitable depths of innumerable lakes and rivers that
had carved their profiles into the evolving landscape of planet
earth. Sculpted by nature, this primrose dappled, lance-like killer,
with its great under-slung jaw of slashing teeth, reigned supreme.
But unlike the extinguishing fate awaiting the dinosaurs of this
period, this prehistoric killer survived countless catastrophic
events. Very little changed from her Jurassic ancestor Esox tiemani,
Esox lucius is better known to us as the Northern Pike.
The northern pike is the only species of the five-member Esox
family to have a broad geographical and environmental range. Pike
are found on all the continents fringing the North Pole, making it a
circumpolar species. Such diverse cultures as Lapps, Mongols, Inuit,
Plains Indians and Europeans have all recorded encounters with pike.
The other members of the pike family, the Redfin and Chain
Pickerels, as well as the Musky and Amur pike have very limited
ranges. The Pickerels and Musky are confined to specific areas of
North America, while the Amur is restricted to a narrow strip of
Asia. This specialised make-up of the pike's cousins within the
Ecocide family limits them to certain waters having specific
favourable environmental factors.
Not so the northern pike, a survivor from ancient times that has
been fashioned and fine-tuned over countless millennia to adapt to a
wide range of ecosystems and environmental conditions. The pike's
upper extreme of its range is recorded at 68o N latitude in the
Canadian arctic. At these northern latitudes, the cold, crystal
clear lakes and rivers are mineral deficient and consequently devoid
of aquatic vegetation. The lakes are frozen over on average 46 weeks
of the year. This harsh, bitterly cold climate is not able to
support northern pike. The only fish that thrive here are members of
the Charr family (Salvelinus sp) and whitefish (Coregonids).
Pike are established as far south as the famous marshlands of
north central Spain, located at 42o N latitude. In the Baltic Sea,
pike have physiologically adapted to living what could be described
as a variation of the anadromous lifecycle - a juvenile freshwater
phase followed by an offshore marine (brackish) adult phase where
pike feed and grow fat on shoals of herring and cod, living
seasonally among reefs, sunken islands and extensive kelp beds. Each
year during late spring, Baltic pike head into freshwater bays fed
by rivers and streams to perform the spawning act. Later they will
engage in an annual post-spawn feeding binge where other freshwater
species such as bream, roach, rudd, ide, perch, gathering as
pre-spawn shoals, will be heavily preyed-upon. Pike are indeed a
most versatile and adaptable top-of-the-line predatory fish.
To further highlight the pike's circumpolar distribution and
popularity, they are known the world over by a veritable catalogue
of names - "pike" (Britain, Ireland, US & Canada); "northern"
(US); "waterwolf" (US and Canada); "snake" (US); "ol' tooth mouth"
(US); "jack" (Britain, Ireland, US & Canada); " slough-shark"
(Midwest US); "jackfish" (Canada); "pickerel" (English-speaking
Canada); "grand brochet" (French Canada); "hauki" (Finland);
"wasserwolf" and "hecht" (Germany); "lance" and "brochet" (France);
"snoek" (Netherlands and Belgium); "luce" (Italy); "shukka" (Russia)
and "luce" (Ireland).
Researchers in the US have recorded that pike provide more sport
for the average sport fisherman, worldwide, than any other gamefish.
Pike's popularity as the world's number one sport fish is due in
part to its wide geographical distribution but also due to the many
fishing methods that the pike enthusiast can employ in pursuit of
this top predatory game fish.
6.11.1
One can troll lures or
deadbaits behind a slowly propelled boat. The pike angler can fish
deadbait - either static, drifted, wobbled or 'sink & draw'
style. For those energetic anglers, the increasingly popular method
of fly fishing for pike using sturdy 9 or 10 AFTM rated rods using
large gaudy-coloured streamer flies and bugs is a most exciting way
to fish pike.
Then again, one can take up lure fishing with its mind-blowing
array of lure types, not to mention colours, patterns and sizes now
readily available in most tackle shops. There are crankbaits,
minnowbaits, bucktails, spinnerbaits - both inline and tandem,
surface poppers, buzzers, topwater, spoons, spinners, jerkbaits,
rubber lures, jigs, stickbaits, propbaits, chuggers, diving plugs
and vibrating plugs! In northern latitudes where winters are cold,
resulting in thick layers of ice forming on lakes and ponds, many
anglers engage in what is regarded as a very sociable and seasonal
tradition - ice fishing for pike. Holes are drilled using either
hand operated or petrol powered ice augers, deadbaits are lowered
onto the lakebed and the mini ice-fishing rod (not longer than 30
inches) is clipped to a device called a tip-up which is a sensitive
bite indicator. People in Scandinavia, Russia, Mongolia, northern
United States and Canada participate in their hundreds of thousands
each weekend across the world's ice fishing zone. I have witnessed
and indeed joined in with whole families and villages as they
converged on a favourite fishing hole on a large frozen lake,
weighed down with all manner of cooking gear, including gas
barbeques, gas meat broilers, portable fishing shacks on sleds, camp
chairs and other paraphernalia necessary for the making of a party
atmosphere. All this activity at temperatures down around -20o
C!
Yes indeed, pike are the world's most sought after sport fish and
we in Ireland play our part as committed pike anglers in the great
worldwide tradition that is Pike Angling.
AFB JAN "03
6.11.2
6.12 EDUCATION OF JUNIOR
ANGLERS
The numbers of young people participating in the sport is
declining year by year. Traditionally, the knowledge and skills were
passed on from parent to child. In some cases this still remains the
situation, however time and work constraints mean that this happens
less and less. Angling clubs are increasingly being pressurised to
impart the knowledge to young anglers, which in most cases is left
to individual members of the clubs to do on a voluntary
basis.
Young people usually start fishing trying to catch the
easier species such as perch or roach. They then progress to trying
for pike or trout. To a young person a pike can have the appearance
of being fearsome and hardy predator and are often miss-handled for
this reason.
We submit that:
· A National campaign led by the Central Fisheries Board is
initiated to attract Juniors to angling.
· The campaign
emphasises the importance of Juniors becoming members of their local
angling club.
· A partnership between angling clubs/organisations
and State organisations be put in place to promote angling and the
importance of Junior participation.
· A training course for
trainers in all disciplines.
· A Code of Practice aimed
specifically at Juniors be put in place to promote catch and release
and the safe handling of fish.
· Special concessions be given to
clubs/organisations in making Fishery Board waters available as
training/education venues in a partnership programme.
6.12
6.13 BETTER
CONTROL OF CORMORANTS
Both the IFPAC and IPS would see the Cormorant as significantly
contributing to the decline of fish stocks in Ireland.
We would submit that:
· An official census of the population be carried out here.
·
Any EU Directive to reduce the population be enforced
6.13
6.14 BETTER FUNDING FOR RESEARCH
INTO PIKE DISEASES
The Irish Pike Society (IPS) met with Prof. Mulcahy and Dr.
Callanan in January 2002 to discuss ways to complete their work and
look at the other diseases affecting Pike. Two potential projects
were identified and it was planned that the IPS would submit these
research projects for funding under the National Development Plan
(NDP) 2000-2006.
1. A survey of the diseases, parasites, and pathology of coarse
fish, and the implications for the management of the coarse fish
stocks.
Causes: Bacterial, viral, parasite, environmental and
other
Species: pike, bream, perch, eel, other Where:
a) At
sites used as sampling sites for environmental analysis by the EPA,
for which a history of water quality data is available, and ongoing;
b) At sites where fish-ins will be held by coarse angling clubs
when sampling at least on a seasonable basis.
2. Lymphoma in pike: the nature and role of the endogenous virus
in pike. This would be continuation of present work, by Sean
Callanan, Vet College, Maire Mulcahy, UCC, and researchers in the
Vet College in Glasgow, and would involve a postdoctoral researcher
for 2 years. It would require fish-ins to obtain a relatively small
number of live tumour-bearing pike, as well a relatively small
number of live healthy pike on an occasional basis from IPS
fish-ins.
We ask that considering the results of the consultation document
and the subsequent need to begin serious research into Pike disease,
that initially adequate funding be made available for these two
vital projects.
6.14
6.15 PROMOTE FLY FISHING FOR
PIKE
Different methods of catching pike are evolving continuously.
Fishing, using natural baits is likely the most popular and within
it lie numerous tactical choices. The early 90's saw the
introduction of lure fishing such as jerk baiting, lure fishing in
general being a method of strong growth. Fly fishing for pike,
though the method is already practiced in Ireland is growing in
popularity as the correct tackle becomes available and its
effectiveness proven. Anglers are becoming more aware of the
attraction of Fly fishing for pike through television programmes
such as:
· "Hooked on Fishing" on the discovery channel featuring Paul
Young fishing with Dr. Ken Whelan of the Marine Institute on a lake
in Co. Mayo.
· "Hooked on fishing" on the discovery channel
featuring Paul Young and Alan Hanna on Irish lakes.
· "Fishing on
the Edge" on the discovery channel featuring Henry Gilbey, catching
pike on the fly on Chew reservoir in England (a trout fishery with
massive pike potential)
Numerous videos have also been made on the subject such as:
· "Fly fishing for Pike" by In-fisherman, an example of it's
popularity in North America and Canada.
· "Fly fishing for Big
Pike" by Alan Hanna, filmed in Ireland.
Also, John Rooney, a regular angling writer on pike topics for
the magazine "Angling Ireland" recently covered the subject of Fly
fishing for pike. As a result, John received numerous requests from
overseas and Irish anglers on the subject. The article is included
in the appendix.
One of the most well known events connected to the Irish Pike Fly
fishing scene is the "International Pike-Fly Competition" held
annually on Lough Derg. Anglers travel from countries such as
Switzerland, Germany, Poland, the UK and Holland among others
proving the attractiveness of this method. Roughly 100 anglers took
part in this event with many others being turned away such that now
the organisers are considering expanding the competition.
Conclusion:
Fly fishing for Pike we believe has the
potential for growth, both from an Irish perspective and in
interesting overseas anglers to Ireland. It is likely it's appeal
would extend not only to pike anglers, but anglers with a game
angling background interested in sport fishing, thereby drawing from
a wider angling circle and creating it's own niche within Irish pike
tourism.
6.15
6.16 SEEK SUPPORT FOR MARKETING
FROM PIKE ORGANISATIONS
An opportunity exists for the Central Fishery Board to work in
partnership with the Pike angling organisations in marketing the
Pike product to overseas anglers. Following a new Pike policy, which
fully respects the Pike species, Pike anglers will be pleased to
concentrate efforts in a positive manner in this respect.
6.16
6.17 COARSE FISH
PROTECTION
At present in Ireland, the coarse fish species do not enjoy
any form of protection. This has traditionally led to some
disagreement between the coarse and pike angling bodies but it must
be stressed that other issues also need to be addressed.
A number of different factors impact upon the coarse fish
resource and are listed below:
· Pike anglers using coarse fish for bait
· The alleged use of
coarse fish as a food source by some of an increasing number of
non-nationals
· Increased predation on coarse fish by
Cormorants
· Pollution
Pike Anglers:
It must be said, that pike anglers have
no wish to impact upon the quality of angling available for coarse
anglers but in order to practice our sport, we do need to be able to
use coarse fish from time to time. A view that pike anglers
continually catch coarse fish for bait would be incorrect in so far
as pike anglers practice different methods of catching pike, which
do not require the use of natural bait at all. These methods are
actually gaining in popularity as more Irish pike anglers become
proficient in their use and the specialized tackle required, becomes
more widely available. The methods referred to are Lure and Fly
fishing.
It must be noted that in the use of bait, both coarse
and sea fish are used, which again lessens the pike anglers need for
large amount of coarse fish. We do however believe that on occasion
the impact of taking coarse fish from one source by large numbers of
pike anglers and other anglers can affect the stock available.
However, we do understand the fish hatchery in Roscrea will soon be
rearing roach for sale to the deadbait market thereby alleviating
pressure on coarse fish stocks.
Additionally, the Dublin canals
in the last couple of years were recognised as containing a
depleting coarse fish stock. The IFPAC became involved in trying to
introduce a bye-law to protect these waters. Pike anglers therefore
recognise the need to protect such vulnerable waters, whereby the
taking of any coarse fish would not be permitted.
Non-EU Nationals:
The alleged use of coarse fish
including pike as a food source by some non-EU nationals is quickly
presenting a worrying reality, which needs to be addressed. It is
appreciated that cultures differ and that the eating of coarse fish
may be an acceptable part of a particular culture.
However,
Ireland relies heavily on angling tourism and those anglers visiting
Ireland are expecting to catch quality fish such as Tench, Carp,
Bream and pike. These particular fish can reach an appreciable size
and are most at risk. This issue received National coverage in the
summer of 2002, when a National newspaper printed the real concern
of a prominent midlands coarse angling club. The story revolved
around the taking of coarse fish from a midlands canal.
As
stated earlier, coarse fish do not receive protection. However, pike
are provided with some protection, yet no method is presently
available to educate non-EU nationals to the existence of any
bye-laws or to provide that education in their respective languages.
We ask that this issue be addressed.
Cormorants:
Information on cormorants and their impact
on fisheries is becoming more understood. It is not only an Irish
problem, but European and to such an extent that a European/North
African census to identify the cormorant population is to take place
during January 2003.
Further information on cormorants will be presented on a specific
section in the submission.
Pollution:
Again, another issue that impacts upon
coarse fish and pike stocks with devastating effect.
Further information on pollution is presented on a specific
section in the submission.
6.17
6.18 PUBLIC AWARENESS
An area worthy of mention is that of making the general public
aware of the importance of the pike angling resource and of the new
policy. All too often when a pike angler for instance in
conversation tells a non-angler of a pike capture, the question is
asked; what did you do with it?, I took a photo and put it back is
the reply to which the pike angler is then subjected to the further
question of; what!, you didn't eat it, what's the point in that? -
no thought here of the size of pike, the 1990 conservation bye-law
or that maybe it's just the sport of pike fishing that is the
attraction.
An article during 2002 in a National newspaper showed
a photograph of a 25lb pike caught in a Dublin canal by two young
anglers. On struggling to land the fish, a city council worker
"helped the pair pull in the mammoth fish and carry it home". While
it was fantastic to see the two young anglers catching such a fish,
the photograph in the newspaper did not do it any justice and could
possibly send out the wrong message, one that pike caught are not
returned.
These are only two examples of how public perception
of pike angling is lacking in knowledge.
We ask that the new Irish pike policy allows for a public
awareness campaign (this will also be useful for informing anglers)
and that the campaign uses avenues among others, such as:
· National newspapers
· Provincial newspapers
· Bord Failte
literature
· Central & Regional fishery board websites and
literature
· Television programmes including for example; "Ear to
the ground".
· Radio interviews
· National & international
angling magazines
· Literature for distribution and display at
all angling accommodation & service providers
· Literature
for distribution and display at schools - aimed at junior
education
The importance of public awareness cannot be underestimated in
achieving national implementation of the new pike policy.
6.18
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