Warning issued after rise in unlicensed fishing pots

Government has issued a warning after an increase in unlicensed fishing pots being seized.

According to officials, ten have been retrieved by fisheries enforcement officers from areas including Douglas Harbour, Langness and Pooil Vaash.

The laws say any hobby pots must be attached to a float or marker and labelled with the owner's licence number.

Environment, Food & Agriculture Minister, Geoffrey Boot MHK, says the sea fisheries unit monitors this situation closely and that anyone caught without a licence could face a hefty fine of up to £2,000.

So far this year the Isle of Man Government has processed 185 recreational potting licences - but this is under review as part of the ongoing consultation around the industry.

The license, which costs £30 per year, allows the use of up to five pots by an individual - for non-commercial fishing in Manx territorial waters.

The license allows an individual to land five crabs and two lobsters a day - with a maximum of seven lobsters a week.