Society president Steve Samuels said local anglers had assumed responsibility for the Crown reserve adjacent to Paddy’s Corner, guaranteeing access into the future. ‘‘Our success shows that anglers, working with Government, can protect their valuable fishing spots and provide an enduring asset for the fishing public,’’ Mr Samuels said. The move was celebrated by the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW, concerned about steadily losing access to fishing spots on river, creeks and lakes. Alliance chairman Malcolm Poole said obtaining control of Crown land and reserves was one of meeting the alliance’s key aim of maintaining, retaining, and improving angling access. ‘‘

By obtaining control in this way along various rivers, creeks and steams, the recreational fishing fraternity can guarantee access into the future,’’ he said. The alliance was also talking to farmers and other landholders about ensuring access to streams and rivers. Mr Poole said recreational fishers were concerned about environmental sustainability. ‘‘

For more, pick up a copy of Today's Canberra Times.