A one per cent increase for reservoir fishing licences will be put forward to Tynwald next month.
Tynwald is to be asked to approve a rise in the cost of reservoir licences taking the price for a season to £208 for adults, £146.50 for those entitled to concessions and £78.80 for students.
The price of day and week licences would increase by two per cent making adult licences £16.30 a day or £74.50 a week, and student licences £9.20 a day or £32.60 a week. Children require a licence to fish at reservoirs but these are issued free of charge.
The rise would be the first increase in price since 2013 and would come into effect at the start of the 2016 fishing season, which begins on March 10.
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 the proceeds from the sale of freshwater licences will ensure the island offers excellent opportunities for anglers.
‘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.