THE Environment Agency is reminding all Midlands coarse fish anglers that the 2008 close season starts tomorrow and, by the time it ends in June, they will need to have bought a new rod licence.

All current full and con-cessionary rod licences expire on March 31 so, if you are planning to fish in England or Wales over the coming season, now is the time to buy a new one.

The close season lasts from March 15 to June 15 inclusive each year. It's purpose is to protect fish during the breeding season. It applies to all rivers, streams and drains in Eng-land and Wales, but does not apply to most stillwaters and canals.

There are exceptions to this rule, for example The Bro-ads Authority. They can be found in local angling byelaws which can be obta-ined by calling 08708 506 506.

During the close season Environment Agency water bailiffs will be out on rivers and streams making sure people are observing the close season.

If anglers plan to fish through the close season on still-waters and canals they will need to purchase a new licence on April 1 as their old one expires on March 31.

From Saturday, June 16, anglers will be able to fish for coarse fish again in rivers and other waters where the close season applies, but they still need to have a valid rod licence and the permission of the landowner.

Anyone 12 years old or over who wants to fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish and eels in England and Wales and the Border Esk in Scotland requires a licence from the Environment Age-ncy. Failure to have a lic-ence is an offence.

Buying a new licence couldn't be easier - around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets sell them; a direct debit can be set up, and they can be purchased over the phone by ringing 0870 1662662 or on-line at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence any time, day or night.