Copied from the EA website - 23 June 2013
Catching Crayfish
Anyone who wishes to fish for crayfish by any means (including hand-picking) needs a permission from us. We have strict rules in place to protect our native (white-clawed) crayfish,as well as controlling the spread of invasive non-native crayfish. It is important to make sure that the methods and equipment used are safe for other aquatic animals, like otters and water voles.
If you want to catch non-native crayfish it is vital that you follow the rules below to avoid breaking the law.
Rules to follow when catching crayfish
Native (white-clawed) crayfish are a protected species. We provide authorisations for people who catch them to monitor their populations. You must not trap them to eat or sell. Be aware it is illegal to handle them without a licence from Natural England/Countryside Council for Wales
Catching non-native crayfish is only allowed in certain areas of the country, due to the risks to native crayfish. Speak to your local fisheries officer if you are not sure which species is in your area
You can fish for non-native crayfish, but only if you have written authorisation from us and you attach the identity tags that we send you to your trap(s) or fishing instrument
Additional to our consent, you must also get permission from the landowner who owns the fishing rights for the pond or river.