22/04/2026
Now that's what I call a result 👌
Over £1,500 Worth of Stolen Fishing Equipment Returned!
PCSO Hawksworth from the South Neighbourhood Team has successfully helped reunite a victim with over £1,500 worth of stolen fishing equipment, nine months after it was taken.
Working alongside colleagues from the North Neighbourhood Team, officers seized suspected stolen fishing equipment and began enquiries to identify the rightful owner. As a keen angler and an active member of a local fishing club, PCSO Hawksworth was determined to ensure the property was returned.
PCSO Hawksworth used his links within the local fishing community and released an appeal via social media, asking the owner of the seized equipment to contact their local fishing club. Within a few hours, a member from another club got in touch, stating they believed the equipment matched items stolen from an angler the previous year.
The following day, the suspected owner’s details were passed to PCSO Hawksworth for further enquiries. After speaking with the individual, it was confirmed that they had been the victim of a theft in summer 2025, during which their vehicle was stolen containing all of their fishing equipment.
The victim was shocked to receive the call and had believed they would never see their equipment again.
PCSO Hawksworth said:
“After talking to the victim, he couldn't believe that I was contacting him about his stolen fishing equipment nine months after it had been taken.
Being passionate about fishing myself and involved in the fishing community, I understand just how expensive this equipment is and how much gear anglers accumulate over the years. I’m really pleased that on this occasion we’ve been able to locate the rightful owner and return their property.”
🐠 Advice: Protecting Your Fishing Equipment
Fishing equipment can be expensive and is a common target for theft, particularly from vehicles, sheds, and waterside locations. To reduce the risk:
• Mark your property – Use a UV pen or forensic marking product to mark rods, reels, and tackle boxes with your postcode and house number. This helps deter theft and aids recovery.
• Secure storage – Store equipment out of sight in a locked shed or garage. Use good quality padlocks and consider a shed alarm.
• Vehicle security – Never leave fishing gear visible in your vehicle, even for a short time. If you must leave it, lock it in the boot before arriving at your destination.
• Record details – Keep a record of serial numbers, makes, models, receipts, and photographs of your equipment.
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the chances of your fishing equipment being stolen.
We are still continuing with our investigation.
