The Scheme

A fishery can achieve Eel Friendly Status following a succesfull application. The fishery would have agreed to adopt the code of practice and where practical enhanced the habitat for the benefit of the Eel. Data from the fishery Eel logs will be collated annually by an NAC member and shared with other scheme participants. The National Anguilla Club can advise the fishery on small  improvements that could make a big difference.

Code of Practice for anglers using the fishery

• All Eels must be returned to the water alive as per the new byelaws.
• If deeply hooked the line should be cut as near to the hook as possible
• Handle Eels with care a 4lb Eel could be over 40 years old.
• Eels must not be used for bait including frozen deadbaits
• Eel captures should be recorded in fisheries eel log
• Treat sores and abrasions with antiseptic treatment as with Carp
• Do not hold Eels with a dry cloth, newspaper or dry net
• Do not stand on or pin the Eel down with excessive pressure.

Code of Practice for Owners / Managers

• Commercial Eel Netting /Trapping at the fishery should not be permitted
• If the lake is to be drained the silt should be checked for buried Eels where possibe
• Eels captured during netting / desilting should be recorded in the Eel log
• Barriers to Eel migration should be identified and where practical improvements made.
• A program of habitat enhancement / improvement should be identified and where possible implemented.
• Eels thrive on neglect if space allows a small set aside area of the fishery would provide the perfect environment.