Updated: June 2025
Thinking about trying fishing for the first time this summer? You’re not alone — thousands of beginners pick up a rod in the UK each year, especially during the warmer months when the water is alive and the days are long.
This guide walks you through everything you need to start fishing in the UK this summer, from legal basics and gear to beginner-friendly methods and the best fish to target.
Do You Need a Licence to Fish?
Yes — if you’re fishing in freshwater (rivers, lakes, canals) in England or Wales, you’ll need a rod fishing licence from the Environment Agency.
- 🎟️ Buy online: gov.uk/fishing-licence
- 💷 Prices (as of 2025):
- £6 – 1-day licence
- £12 – 8-day licence
- £33 – Annual (1 rod)
- £49 – Annual (2 rods)
✅ No licence needed for sea fishing from the shore or piers.
🧰 Essential Gear for First-Time Anglers
You don’t need to spend hundreds — here’s a simple, affordable starter kit:
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Rod & Reel | 10ft float or feeder combo rod |
| Line | 6–8lb monofilament |
| Hooks | Size 12–16 barbless |
| Float or Feeder | Wagglers or method feeders |
| Bait Box | Sweetcorn, maggots, pellets |
| Unhooking Mat | Required at many venues (carp-friendly) |
| Landing Net | Minimum 36″ for carp, 18″ for silvers |
💡 Tip: Ask local tackle shops for “starter kits” — many are under £50.
🎯 Best Beginner Fishing Methods
🟢 Float Fishing
- Ideal for lakes, canals, and slow rivers
- Great for catching roach, perch, bream, and small carp
- Easy to learn and very visual
🟠 Feeder Fishing
- Better for deeper waters or bream/carp
- Use method or cage feeder with pellets or groundbait
- Cast, wait, and watch the tip!
🔵 Surface Fishing
- Fun in hot weather!
- Target carp with floating dog biscuits or bread
- Use a controller float or freelined bait
🐟 Easy Fish to Catch in Summer
| Species | Where to Find Them | Best Baits |
|---|---|---|
| Roach | Lakes, canals, slow rivers | Maggots, bread, casters |
| Perch | Under trees, margins | Worms, small lures |
| Bream | Stillwaters, deep sections | Sweetcorn, pellets |
| Carp | Lakes, commercials | Corn, pellets, boilies |
| Rudd | Top layers on warm days | Bread, maggots |
✅ Roach, bream and perch are perfect for quick success.
📍 Where to Fish as a Beginner (UK Examples)
- Free Options:
- Public canals (e.g. Grand Union Canal, Regent’s Canal)
- River stretches with free fishing rights (check councils or Angling Trust)
- Beginner-Friendly Fisheries:
- Thorpe Lea (Surrey) – easy-access carp fishing
- Billing Aquadrome (Northamptonshire) – varied species
- Drayton Reservoir (Daventry) – action-packed for carp
Use apps like Fishery Guide or What3Words to locate nearby spots.
🌞 Summer Fishing Tips for Beginners
- 🎯 Go early or late – fish feed better in cooler hours
- 🌿 Fish the margins – in warm water, fish stay close
- 🧃 Stay hydrated – bring water, sunscreen & snacks
- ✅ Ask local anglers – most are friendly and helpful
- 🔇 Keep quiet near water – fish spook easily, especially in summer
📌 Final Thoughts
Fishing your first summer in the UK can be relaxing, exciting, and incredibly rewarding. You don’t need fancy gear or deep knowledge — just a licence, a bit of patience, and the right bait.
This is the perfect season to get hooked — literally.
🎣 Good luck, and tight lines this summer!
