In today’s increasingly regulated and environmentally conscious angling landscape, education and awareness are more important than ever. Recognising this need, the Angling Trust, with funding support from the Environment Agency through rod licence sales, has developed FishNET—a free, innovative online Learning Management System (LMS) designed to support and educate the angling community.
FishNET represents a significant step forward in how knowledge is delivered to volunteers, club bailiffs, and individuals involved in fisheries enforcement. Traditionally, training in these areas could be inconsistent, inaccessible, or reliant on in-person sessions. FishNET changes that dynamic by offering a flexible, user-friendly digital platform that can be accessed anytime, anywhere.
One of the standout features of FishNET is its accessibility. Being completely free to use, it removes financial barriers that might otherwise prevent volunteers and smaller angling clubs from accessing quality training. This inclusivity ensures that a wider range of individuals can benefit, strengthening the collective knowledge and effectiveness of those responsible for protecting fisheries.
The platform hosts a variety of structured learning modules covering essential topics such as fisheries law, enforcement techniques, fish welfare, and environmental protection. It also places a strong emphasis on supporting users with an interest in fisheries enforcement and the management of invasive non-native species (INNS)—a growing challenge for aquatic ecosystems across the UK. These courses are designed to be practical and engaging, often incorporating real-world scenarios that users may encounter in their roles.
Importantly, FishNET is aimed at a broad and diverse audience. It supports anglers of all levels, whether they are members of the Angling Trust or not, as well as angling club bailiffs and committee members who play a key role in maintaining standards on the bank. Fishery owners and employees also benefit from improved knowledge.
Beyond the angling community, the platform is highly relevant to enforcement and regulatory bodies. Police Wildlife Crime Officers and other police staff across England can use FishNET to enhance their understanding of fisheries-related offences. It also supports members of governmental organisations with an interest in freshwater fisheries enforcement, including the Environment Agency, Natural England, Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), and the Marine Management Organisation.
Non-governmental organisations are another key audience. Groups such as the RSPCA, Rivers Trusts, and the Canal & River Trust (CRT), which often work closely with anglers or manage waterways, can use FishNET to strengthen their approach to enforcement and invasive species management. Additionally, water asset owners and managers—including water companies and navigation authorities—can benefit from the platform when overseeing sites where angling activity takes place.
Another key advantage of FishNET is its ability to standardise training. By providing a centralised platform with consistent content, it ensures that all users receive the same high-quality information. This helps create a unified approach to fisheries management and enforcement, reducing confusion and improving collaboration between volunteers, organisations, and authorities.
In conclusion, FishNET is more than just a training platform—it is a powerful tool for empowerment within the angling and fisheries sector. By combining accessibility, quality content, and practical relevance, it equips a wide range of users with the knowledge they need to protect fisheries and aquatic environments effectively. It is helping to build a more informed, responsible, and resilient community committed to the future of angling.
For further information and how to apply for your – https://anglingtrust.net/fishnet-learning-hub/
Or speak to the Angling Trusts NW Regional Enforcement Support Manager Adam.Wall@anglingtrust.net
