I have fished several British lakes and rivers in recent years. The English are obviously very regimented about their sport. Until a few years ago, it was either against the rules or the accepted practice on many still waters to release a caught trout  (the belief was once hooked, a fish would not be likely to take a fly again). It is still a "pay for play" sport in almost every situation- very few, if any waters, have free access or public ownership. Most fish are not "wild", because they may have been raised by the local Lord of the Manor in his private hatchery/nursery. You pay by the day or half day on rivers or by the fish kept  on still waters->$100 is the usual cost, no guide included. Its considered bad taste to search with a dry fly on streams/rivers-you cast to observed rising trout only. Most limit or ban nymph fishing on rivers (too easy). You can leave your waders at home; wading is usually not allowed because of the fragility of the stream bottoms. Of course, you may experience >25 fish days with the fish averaging 18" because only 4 fishermen are allowed per 2 mile beat per day. So, its not surprising that the blob is so controversial if it is a quick and easy way to success for a sport that is supposed to require skill and patience.