BRITAIN’S beautiful seaside towns have been given a £1m funding boost to improve recreational sea fishing.
Eligible coastal communities, including resorts, will be able to bid for between £10,000 and £100,000.
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The much needed funding can then be used to upgrade recreational fishing facilities, protect the environment and help fishermen become more sustainable.
It’s estimated two million people take to UK waters for fishing fun every year.
The hobby contributes more than £800m to the economy.
And it can greatly boost local trade through activities such as fishing tournaments, boat rentals and tourism.
Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer said: “Recreational sea fishing is a small but mighty part of our fishing industry.
“It contributes to the economic growth of coastal communities and is a much-loved sport that can improve the health and well-being of those who take part.
“This new round of funding will encourage the development and expansion of the sport in coastal areas, promote and support more sustainable fishing practices, and ultimately make recreational fishing bigger and better for anglers across the UK.”
The fresh £1m boost comes as part of a wider £100m UK Seafood Fund scheme.
The money supports projects to enhance piers and harbours, create more accessible paths, floating walkways and pontoon dockings and promote fishing tournaments.
