Prosecutions

One of the principal functions of our organisation, as identified in the Inland Fisheries Act (2010) and previous Fisheries Acts, is the protection of Ireland's inland fisheries resource. We do this by undertaking a variety of different types of protection patrols on different types of water bodies at different times of the year, depending on the particular species being protected.

In some cases, our fisheries patrols are preventative: we ensure there is a visible presence of enforcement officers on the water body to deter illegal activity, in much the same way as Gardai undertake highly visible roads policing. In other cases, typically acting on intelligence or an external tip off, we also undertake covert fisheries protection patrols.

Coarse fishing

Coarse fish is a collective term which encompasses all the fish species which are not pike, trout or eels. Thus, species such as rudd, bream, tench, perch and roach are considered coarse fish.

Angler patrol

We undertake a variety of different types of protection patrols on different types of water bodies at different times of the year, depending on the particular species being protected.

Nets at sea

A key aspect of our statutory remit is the detection and removal of illegal nets set along coastal waters, and out to the 12-mile limit at sea. We recently purchased a new fleet of Delta 7.8mHX purpose designed RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) to enhance our national sea-going capability and range.

Gravel extraction

River gravels form essential habitat at various stages during the life cycle of trout, salmon and many aquatic species which then provide food for both the young and adult fish.