Fishing - Fenland drains and Rivers
For centuries 'fen slodgers' made their living catching 'fish and fowl' on the wetlands of the fens in order to eat and also to trade with the people of the mainland. Today of course the traditional fen has been drained allowing the fertile land to be farmed and harvested in order to provide further trade and prosperity to the fenland area. However, despite the advances in modern agriculture the numerous drainage channels and ditches still provide excellent angling opportunities for the fen's modern day angling enthusiasts. Boston and the surrounding lowland areas are home to numerous river and drainage channels, many of which were created during the draining of the fen. These drainage channels, including the Maud Foster, South Forty Foot and Hobhole Drains together with the famous River Witham, provide some of the best angling opportunities in the country and are well stocked with freshwater fish including pike, roach, bream and tench. Since the bygone age of the fen slodger angling has increased in popularity, though now generally practiced for quiet recreation rather than a means of providing a source of food. With around 4 million people enjoying this exciting and challenging sport angling has remained the nation's most popular sporting pastime for many years. The Environment Agency regulates angling through the sale of National Rod Fishing Licences and believes the sport can benefit people and the environment, and that is why we take a lead role in developing and promoting the sport very seriously. Angling is a regulated sport, making it illegal to fish for freshwater fish, salmon, trout and eels with anything other than a licensed rod and line. Indeed the fen sloggers of yesteryear used makeshift traps, spears and barbaric setlines to catch their quarry, all of which have now been banned, in order to safeguard fish stocks and to promote fish welfare and responsible angling methods. It is also a legal requirement for anyone aged 12 and over who fishes for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels to hold a valid national rod licence.
For more detailed information see the VisitLincolnshire.com web site
