At Waterbeach Angling Club, we take great pride in offering some of the finest fishing in Cambridge. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to carp fishing in Cambridgeshire, the health of our lakes and fish is of paramount importance. We have recently been alerted by the Environment Agency (EA) that Koi Herpesvirus (KHV) has been detected at several fisheries in our local and surrounding areas, posing a significant risk to fish stocks, especially carp.
We are urging all anglers to strictly adhere to our established biosecurity measures to prevent this deadly virus from spreading to our waters. Please read this notice carefully and understand that failure to comply will lead to immediate consequences, including possible bans from the club.
What is Koi Herpesvirus (KHV) and Why Should Cambridge Anglers Be Concerned?
Koi Herpesvirus (KHV) is a viral disease that particularly affects various carp species, such as
common carp, mirror carp, leather carp, koi carp, and ghost carp. The disease is highly contagious and can cause mass mortalities in infected fisheries. Given the popularity of carp angling in Cambridge, it's crucial that every angler plays their part in preventing the spread of this virus.
Once a fishery is infected with KHV, it can take years to recover, if at all. Since carp fishing is one of the most beloved pastimes at Waterbeach Fisheries, we must all work together to safeguard our waters and keep our fish healthy.
For more information check out: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/outbreaks-of-koi-herpesvirus-khv-disease-in-2023
Biosecurity Rules to Protect Waterbeach Angling Club’s Fisheries
We have practiced strict biosecurity processes for years, and they are more vital now than ever. As part of our commitment to preserving the quality of fishing in Waterbeach, we enforce a zero-tolerance policy on the following rules:
Use Designated Landing Nets and Mats:
Each of our lakes has its own set of landing nets and mats, which are provided for your use. These are exclusive to the specific water you are fishing on, and under no circumstances should they be moved between lakes. This measure is essential to prevent the potential spread of diseases like KHV between different waters. Violations will result in immediate removal from the club, and you may face a ban after the matter is reviewed by the committee.
Stay on the Water You Chose:
Whether you’ve purchased a day ticket or are a club cardholder, you must remain on the water you initially chose or paid for. Moving between waters increases the risk of cross-contamination and jeopardizes the biosecurity of the entire fishery. This simple rule helps protect our fish from deadly infections.
Ensure Your Tackle is Dry Before Fishing:
Damp or wet tackle can carry viral particles and other contaminants that can infect our waters. We ask all anglers to ensure their fishing equipment is thoroughly dry before starting a session. This precaution is key to maintaining the health of our fisheries in Cambridgeshire.
No Premixed Baits:
For further protection, we do not allow any premixed baits such as ground baits or pastes that have been prepared off-site. All baits must be mixed on-site to reduce any risk of introducing harmful substances or pathogens to the water.
Why These Rules Matter for Anglers in Cambridge
By following these rules, you contribute to the protection of our precious fish stock. Waterbeach Angling Club has worked hard to create an environment where anglers can enjoy their sport safely, and with your help, we can continue to offer some of the best carp fishing in Cambridge.
KHV can have a devastating impact on our fisheries. Carp are particularly vulnerable to this virus, and once it takes hold, entire populations can be wiped out. The health of our fish is directly tied to the quality of fishing at Waterbeach, and without strong biosecurity measures, we risk losing the waters we cherish.
For those unfamiliar with the details of KHV, here’s what you need to know:
How Does KHV Affect Carp?
Koi Herpesvirus causes severe damage to the gills, skin, and other organs of carp, leading to a slow and painful death for many fish. The disease spreads quickly in carp-dominated fisheries, causing large-scale mortalities that can decimate fish populations in weeks. Once an outbreak occurs, the damage is often irreversible, and the fishery may take years to recover, affecting fishing in Cambridgeshire and beyond.
A Final Word from Waterbeach Angling Club
The threat of KHV is real, and it’s essential that we all take this seriously. Waterbeach Fisheries are known for their vibrant carp populations and the fantastic angling opportunities they provide. By following these simple but crucial rules, you are not only protecting our fish but also ensuring that fishing in Waterbeach continues to thrive for future generations.
We thank you for your cooperation and for doing your part to keep our waters safe. Should you have any questions about these biosecurity measures, or if you need further clarification on how KHV can impact our fisheries, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the committee.
Stay safe, and happy fishing!
Waterbeach Angling Club Committee
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