Angling is the most commonly practised field sport and has deep historical roots. In Britain the most important impact by far during the last half century has been the progressive environmental clean-up of rivers and lakes under the pressure of the EU Water Directives. Although comprehensive techniques for measuring changes in fish abundance over time are fairly recent, there is clear evidence from electric and acoustic surveys, as well as from limited long-term catch data, that coarse fish stocks are doing well in all regions and that any problems are site specific. Among game fish, wild Brown Trout are well distributed in faster-flowing rivers, but most fish caught are from stocking, while the Grayling is a popular alternative. Salmon and Sea Trout, the most sought after and economically valuable game fish, present the most complex picture. While rod-and-line catches by sport fishers have generally held up, there has been a massive long-term decline in commercial net and similar catches, indicating major problems for these intensively monitored migratory species in the marine environment. A case study reveals the apparently conflicting objectives of anglers and the Wildlife Trust on the River Itchen. The increasing concern of anglers over the impact of Cormorants on fish stocks is discussed. Freshwater angling is a valued recreation for up to 3.5 million people in England and Wales and contributes at least £2.5 billion to the economy annually. […]