Proceeds from the sale of freshwater fishing licences are used to ensure the Island offers excellent opportunities for anglers.

Tynwald is to be asked to approve a modest increase in the cost of licences for reservoir fishing – the first price rise since 2013 – when it sits this month.

Subject to Tynwald’s approval, there will be a 1% increase in the price of a licence to fish reservoirs for a season, taking the price to ?208 for adults, ?146.50 for those entitled to concessions and ?78.80 for students.

The price of day and week licences would rise 2%, making adult licences ?16.30 a day/?74.50 a week and student licences ?9.20 a day/?32.60 a week.

The price rise would come into effect at the start of the 2016 reservoir fishing season, which begins on 10th March.

Children require a licence to fish at reservoirs but these are issued free of charge.

Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said a recent survey conducted on behalf of the Department of Economic Development showed angling was among the top three activities that could attract new visitors to the Island, boosting the economy.

He said: ‘This modest increase will allow us to continue to invest in improving facilities, maintaining habitats and taking steps to deter poaching, so both visiting and local anglers have an enjoyable and successful visit to our reservoirs.’

Further information on fishing opportunities, licence prices and where licences can be purchased can be found by visiting www.gov.im and clicking on Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and then Fisheries Directorate.