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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