Anglers can now fish year-round in reservoirs

The Water Supplies Department has announced that anglers will be allowed to fish in reservoirs from April to August this year - as well as during the regular fishing season.

The department said the decision was made in view of the recent upsurge of public interest in outdoor activities since the outbreak of atypical pneumonia. It reminded anglers to keep reservoir areas clean and litter-free, both on the ground and in the water.

Previously, anglers holding fishing licences issued by the department were allowed to fish in local reservoirs during the fishing season only - from September 1 to March 31 the following year.

This one-time relaxation of the fishing period in reservoirs is to provide the public with additional outdoor activities.

During the public holidays over the past two weeks, reservoirs received many visitors and the department found that littering had adversely affected the surrounding environment. Anglers and other visitors are reminded to keep reservoirs clean to safeguard public health. Polluting of the water is subject to a maximum penalty of $20,000 and two years' jail.

Anglers also must observe the rules under their fishing licences. Each licence is good for the use of one rod and line only. The use of nets or other fishing appliances is not allowed. Boats, dinghies and rafts are not permitted in the reservoirs, and deployment of explosive or toxic substances is strictly prohibited.

Fishing licences will be issued to residents aged 13 and above at a fee of $24. Applications for such licences, which are valid for three years, can be made at the department's customer enquiry centres during office hours at the following addresses:

* 1/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong; and

* G/F, 128 Sai Yee Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon.

Alternatively, applications can be made by post to the department's headquarters, 47/F, Immigration Tower, with the applicant's name, address, a photocopy of his identity card and a crossed cheque for $24 payable to "The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region".

End/Tuesday, April 29, 2003

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