POLICE patrols around the River Test have located a man and boy fishing without a rod licence.

Police had been patrolling near to the River Test in Stockbridge at around 3pm on Saturday, June 8, when a man and young boy were found fishing on the river, but with no rod licence.

The man, a 20-year-old, was dealt with at the scene by means of a Community Resolution.

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A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "Theft of fishing rights, known commonly as fish poaching, sees offenders fishing without permission where a private right of fishery exists, and is a criminal offence under the Theft Act 1968.

"Law-abiding fishermen provide lucrative business for landowners, but poachers have a significant financial impact, and many engage in violence, anti-social behaviour threats, and intimidation when challenged by local riverkeepers.

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"Under Operation Traverse, the Country Watch team work hard to tackle criminals using the river network to minimise their impact on fisheries, fishermen and the local community.

"We encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity on Hampshire rivers, or anyone engaging in anti-social behaviour or criminality on the river network to report this to police on 101, or via hampshire.police.uk

"Dial 999 if a crime is in progress."