THE cost of fishing permits and boat hire at six of the region’s reservoirs are to be reduced for the new season.

Northumbrian Water has announced the move ahead of opening day on March 16 to help anglers carry on with their pastime during the economic downturn.

The company has also committed to introducing 135,000 trout to its stocks at Derwent in County Durham; Fontburn and Kielder in Northumberland; Grassholme and fly-only Hury-in-Teesdale and Scaling, on the edge of the North York Moors.

Don Coe, operations manager waterside parks and fisheries, said: “We have had a close look at our budgets and believe that by reducing charges, anglers will find it that bit easier to enjoy their pastime and so will also be able to support our fisheries with their visits.”

Day permit prices will go down by £1 per visit, while full day boat hire charges for Kielder Water will go down by £5 a day. Season permits will drop by £37.

The cost of a three hour ‘try it’ session for under 18s has also been reduced from £20 to £15.

For more information visit nwl.co.uk/gofishing