LONDON — British Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently found himself hooked in controversy after a fishing trip with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. While hosting Vance and his family at his country estate south of London on Aug. 8, Lammy joined his guest for a lighthearted day by the water. But the only thing he reeled in was a warning from the Environment Agency for fishing without a license.

Officials confirmed Friday that Lammy was issued a written warning, which could have escalated to a fine of up to £2,500 ($3,380). His spokesperson described the matter as an “administrative oversight,” noting that Lammy quickly purchased a license and even reported himself to the authorities afterward.

Despite the legal snag, the day was filled with smiles. Vance shared what Lammy jokingly called “Kentucky-style fishing tips,” though they didn’t help the top diplomat land a single catch. Vance later quipped, “The one strain on the special relationship is that all of my kids caught fish, but the foreign secretary did not.”

The Environment Agency declined to confirm whether Vance himself held a license, citing data protection rules. The U.S. vice president’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

According to the agency, anyone over the age of 13 needs a permit to fish in freshwater in England and Wales. First-time offenders often escape with just a warning, a stroke of “beginner’s luck” that Lammy may well appreciate as he sidesteps a steeper penalty.