Angling competency tests will leave fishermen fuming

New fishing regulations set to be implemented this week are bound to leave anglers fuming as the authorities make a desperate bid to save stock which they say is being over-fished – a trend exacerbated by the current drought.
Fishermen – and only those who have undergone stringent new competency tests – will have to pay R200 per rod to fish in a bid to cut down on the number of anglers who have the habit of taking a collection of rods to the dams and rivers.
Only men, over the age of 18, will, by law, be permitted to fish. Rod licences will only be issued once the aspirant angler has undergone a competency test – much like firearm owners are now subjected to.
Fishing trainers have been identified in areas around the Province who will ascertain if an angler is competent enough to earn a licence.

“Certificates will only be issued once we are happy that the guy can fish, swim and is not a danger to himself or to any other people using water resources in the area. The use of alcohol while fishing is of course now taboo. We cannot allow drunken anglers to cast while under the influence – you never know what they may hook,” said Department of Environmental Affairs spokesman, Bill Baite.

 
Certificates, once issued, will cost R500 and the anglers will have to undergo annual competency tests. Women have been banned completely as the men often complain that their ladies catch more fish than the menfolk, added Mr Baite.
No children will be allowed to fish as the hooks can be dangerous. Mr Baite says his Department does expect a backlash but believes like all fishing tales, rumours of the backlash will be exaggerated.