Taking boilies to France or taking bait to France is a hot topic amongst carp anglers travelling to France in 2021.
We have put together a few FAQ’s about taking bait to France after Brexit.
- Can I take boilies to France?
- Why can’t I take boilies with me to France?
- Will I ever be able to take my own boilies or bait to France?
- Can I buy boilies in France?
- Can you supply bait for my fishing holiday?
Can I take boilies to France?
No. Currently you are NOT allowed to take Boilies to France. Since leaving the EU you can NOT bring any meat or dairy products into France or other EU countries, from outside the EU. This includes boilies.
Anyone caught taking boilies to France or other EU countries risk having their bait confiscated by Border Forces and potentially at risk of receiving a fine.
Why can’t I take boilies with me to France?
On the January 1st 2021 the UK Officially left the EU. I’m sure practically everyone will have heard of or know all about “Brexit”.
After leaving the EU the UK is now classified as a NON-EU Country, which means a new set of rules must now be adhered to.
One rule that came into effect which has a BIG impact on anglers and lake owners alike is you are not allowed to bring any meat or dairy products with you when you enter an EU country from a non-EU country.
Most boilies contain dairy products (eggs and milk proteins) and many boilies also contain fishmeal’s and potentially meat derivatives.
There are some specific animal by-product exceptions, but put simply, you are NOT allowed to bring boilies into the EU from the UK.
Rules when travelling from a non-EU country
Quote from europa.eu website “If you travel to the EU from a non-EU country, you are not allowed to bring any meat or dairy products with you.”
Will I ever be able to take my own boilies or bait to France?
A carp fisherman taking 20 kilos of 20mm boilies for his fishing holiday once a year, is probably low on the UK and French governments priority list. Following the UK withdrawing from the EU, not to mention the devastating impact of Covid.
However the impact on anglers traveling to France for their fishing holidays, bait companies, and French lake owners, is significant.
We are hopeful that at some, amendments will be made to the laws currently in place.
The wonderful Angling Trust have already made a monumental difference to UK Anglers, especially during the current pandemic. Once again the Angling Trust are already on the case and have teamed up with major bait manufacturers, seeking clarification on this “Brexit bait ruling”.
Angling trust challenge Brexit bait ruling :
Quote from AT website “Since the UK-EU Trade Agreement came into force on January 1st, the export of baits derived from animal produce, such as boilies, requires a European Health Certificate (EHC) to be completed. At present, the EHC for baits of this sort are under the same requirements as exporting animal feed which involves exhaustive and expensive testing, and certification from a vet. The basic changes to the law are anything containing animal by-products such as fish meal, eggs and milk protein will need an Export Health Certificate, certified by a DEFRA vet (after providing documentary proof of clear microbiological tests) and the goods will have to go for inspection at an EU Border Control Post for Sanitary and Phytosanitary checks. You also have to notify the BCP 48hrs in advance of your arrival and be registered in the EU as an authorised exporter of ABP products to the EU.”
Can I buy boilies in France?
Yes. There are a few good local French owned tackle shops within easy driving distance of Firs lake.
Although many of these tackle shops do stock various baits, including shelf life boilies and some frozen boilies. Unfortunately, quantities, stock, and brands are potentially unpredictable and sometimes limited.
Good news! In response to the change in laws regarding taking bait to France. We are fast tracking our plans for Bait Packages, so you don’t have to worry about bait! (see below)
Can you supply bait for my fishing holiday?
YES! We already provide the option for our customer to purchase top quality pellet for their trip.
In fact, we absolutely recommend our customers purchase a bag of house pellet, as it has proven catch results.
Bait packages – New for 2021 we WILL be offering bait packages to supply boilies for ours customers.
We will very shortly be announcing prices and full details of the new bait packages available at Firs Lake France.
Our aim is to provide our customers with:
- A good quality bait
- Containing highly attractive flavours
- Top-quality natural ingredients
- High nutritional value
- Good price ensuring our customers value for money.
