Updated: May 2025
Thinking of trying fishing in the UK for the first time? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re heading to a quiet canal, a stocked lake, or a flowing river, this 2025 beginner’s guide will give you everything you need to get started — legally, affordably, and successfully.
From licences to bait, and from gear to fish species, here’s what every beginner should know before casting a line in UK waters.
1. Do I Need a Licence to Fish in the UK?
Yes – if you’re fishing freshwater.
You must have an Environment Agency rod fishing licence if you’re fishing in England or Wales and are 13 years or older.
- ✅ Price: £6 for 1 day, £12 for 8 days, or £33 for a full year (1 rod)
- ✅ Buy online: gov.uk/fishing-licence
- ❌ No licence is required for sea fishing from the shore
🎯 Tip: Always carry proof of licence while fishing – checks happen more than you think.
🐟 2. What Can You Catch in the UK?
In the UK, you can target a wide range of species depending on the venue and time of year. Here are the most common fish beginners catch:
| Fish Species | Where to Catch | Best Baits |
|---|---|---|
| Carp | Stillwaters, ponds | Corn, pellets |
| Perch | Canals, rivers, lakes | Worms, small lures |
| Roach | Everywhere | Maggots, bread |
| Bream | Lakes, slow rivers | Groundbait + worm |
| Trout | Stocked fisheries, streams | Flies, spinners |
🎣 3. Where Can I Fish as a Beginner?
🏞️ Free options:
- Public stretches of the River Thames, River Ouse, and canals
- Many urban ponds and park lakes
(still check signage or local council rules)
💳 Day-ticket fisheries (easiest for beginners):
- Paid lakes where you pay £5–£10 per day
- Stocked with fish and beginner-friendly
- Pegs, parking, and toilets available
📍 Look for terms like “day ticket carp fishery near me” or use apps like Fishery.co.uk
🧰 4. What Tackle Do I Need to Start?
No need to spend a fortune. Here’s a basic beginner setup:
- 🐟 Float rod (10–12ft)
- 🎣 Reel with 4–6lb line
- 🪱 Hooks to nylon (size 14–18)
- 📦 Float, shot, disgorger, landing net
- 🧲 Baits: maggots, sweetcorn, bread
💡 Pro tip: Some tackle shops offer beginner bundles for ~£30–£50.
📅 5. When Is the Best Time to Go Fishing?
- ✅ May to September – warm water = active fish
- 🕓 Early morning (6–9 AM) or evening (6–9 PM) are prime bite times
- 🌦️ Slightly cloudy or drizzly days are better than blazing sun
❗ Rivers in England/Wales are closed for coarse fishing from March 15 to June 15 each year (close season)
🧠 Bonus Tips for First-Time Anglers
- ✅ Be quiet: Fish can be spooked by heavy movement or noise
- ✅ Keep it simple: Use float tackle and fish near margins
- ✅ Bring a chair, towel, and something to eat – patience is part of the game
- ✅ Take your litter home – and be respectful to other anglers
📍 Suggested Beginner-Friendly Spots in the UK
- Clapham Common Ponds (London) – free, urban, full of roach & small carp
- River Lea (Tottenham Marshes) – great canal-style river stretch
- Raker Lakes (York) – day ticket, easy access
- Grand Union Canal (Milton Keynes) – consistent perch and roach
- Loch Earn (Scotland) – wild trout fishing from the bank (no permit)
📌 Final Thoughts
Fishing in the UK is more accessible than most people think. With a simple setup, a rod licence, and a quiet stretch of water, you could be catching your first fish this weekend.
It’s a relaxing, rewarding hobby that connects you to nature, teaches patience, and delivers excitement — all at your own pace.
🎣 Ready to cast? Get your licence, grab your gear, and join the UK’s angling community today.
