Riverkeepers in Hampshire have faced threats, vandalism, and even attacks in recent years, as police warn of a seasonal rise in crime along the county’s waterways.
Officers say problems typically increase during the summer months, with regular reports of illegal fishing and anti-social behaviour (ASB) on the rise.
Some incidents have escalated to violence, including the use of ball bearings, vehicle damage, intimidation, and the killing of wild animals as a form of threat.
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Police are responding under Operation Traverse, a targeted effort to patrol Hampshire’s river networks throughout the summer.
A police spokesperson said: "Criminals have shot riverkeepers with ball bearings, vandalised their cars and home addresses, and killed wild animals as a means to intimidate.
"Under Operation Traverse, we have been actively patrolling the river networks, and will continue to do so throughout summer in order to deal with anyone involved in ASB, illegal fishing, or any other identified offences."
Fish poaching, or the theft of fishing rights, is a criminal offence under the Theft Act 1968.
Officers say the crime affects local fisheries financially.
The spokesperson said: "The aggressive and anti-social behaviour displayed by some poachers risks driving away legitimate customers, which in turn will have an impact on the local economy."
Recent patrols have led to police speaking with three teenagers found fishing at a private fishery near Whitchurch.
They were given advice and moved on without further action.
In a separate incident, a 15-year-old boy was given a community resolution for fish poaching near Romsey.
Last weekend, neighbourhood officers joined forces with the Rural Crime Task Force, the Environment Agency, and the Angling Trust to patrol the River Test through Stockbridge, Longparish, Whitchurch, Wherwell, Chilbolton, Mottisfont, and Romsey.
They also carried out patrols along the River Itchen.
Officers are encouraging anyone with information about crime or anti-social behaviour along the rivers to call 101 or report online via the Hampshire Police website, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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