Fishing with nets and traps
Net and trap fisheries
There are a variety of net and trap fisheries around Wales. Salmon, sea trout and eel are targeted in estuaries and coastal waters.
Natural Resources Wales regulates net and trap fishing for migratory and freshwater fish using a combination of fishing licences, Net Limitation Orders, authorisations and byelaws
Eel and elver fishing
We are responsible for authorising fishing for eel and elvers (juvenile eel) in Wales using powers under Section 27A of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act.
We no longer issue authorisations to commercially fish for eel and elver anywhere in Wales. We will keep this position under review.
We may issue authorisations to use nets and traps to catch eel and elver for appropriate purposes such as research or obtaining elvers for approved stocking projects. Before applying for authorisation please discuss your proposals with one of our local Fishery Officers.
Salmon and sea trout net licences
Salmon and sea trout are caught using a range of nets and traps. These include compass nets, draft nets, hand nets, wade nets (including lave nets) and coracle nets.
We regulate these fisheries using a combination of fishing licences, Net Limitation Orders and fisheries byelaws.
Removal of non-native and native crayfish
We are responsible for authorising the removal of non-native crayfish and licensing the removal of native crayfish in Wales. The native white-clawed crayfish is a protected species.
We do not authorise fishing for non-native crayfish, but occasionally we authorise trapping for research purposes. We recommend you discuss your proposals with us before applying for authorisation by completing an application form.
Signal crayfish
Signal crayfish are listed as a species of concern under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019.
Any activities associated with the management of species of concern, require a licence from us.
Read more about the licensing requirements when dealing with signal crayfish.
Or contact us to discuss your proposals.
Further information
For further information please contact us on 0300 065 3000 or email enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk