This is Lincolnshire --Lincolnshire fishermen claim that pike stocks are being "decimated" by people from Eastern Europe who are catching and eating the fish.
Anglers say that long lines with "barbaric hooks" are being used on waterways across the county as well as in the Sincil Drain and in the River Witham near Stamp End in Lincoln.
The Environment Agency has a team of dedicated officials committed to tackling the problem of fish poachers.
It says it is aware of the allegations and would urge anyone who spots someone catching and killing pike illegally to report it. Lesley Robertson, an Environment Agency crime team leader, said: "We urge anybody who sees anything suspicious to contact us.
"The Environment Agency works closely with police and angling clubs and maintains a strong presence patrolling all rivers in Lincolnshire."
David McLachlan, who has fished waters in Lincolnshire for 25 years, says it is of great concern.
He said: "It is something to worry about as it is causing an ecosystem imbalance.
"They are decimating the fish stocks and people are stopping fishing there.
"I have found dead fish in car parks which have been beheaded before being eaten.
"I would even say that the reckless fishing is putting the sport of angling at risk. Pike fishing in Lincolnshire has deteriorated without doubt.
"From an anglers' point of view, if there is only one 20 pound fish in a two-mile stretch it takes away a lot of the enjoyment."
The problem has also been noticed by the Lincoln and District Angling Association who believe the culprits are mainly from Eastern Europe and fish to a very poor standard.
A spokesman for the association said: "Pike are their main target because they are bigger and easier to catch.
"They are irresponsible and leave litter all over the place and light fires on the bank.
"They go out in big groups and they plead ignorance to the rules when challenged. I would suggest that the vast majority are fishing without a licence.
"Bailiffs often find long lines which they fasten to the bank and put a barbaric hook on the end and leave it. They then come back the next day to see what they have caught and cook them on the bank."
Report illegal fishing to the Environment Agency on 0800 807060 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Reported by This is 18 hours ago.