If you’re looking to take up fishing in the UK, there’s a lot you’ll need to know before you get started—from obtaining the right license to knowing the legal fishing seasons. For beginners, the process can seem daunting, but it’s quite straightforward and rewarding once you get the hang of it.
Firstly, before you cast your line, it’s essential to get a license. This is a mandatory step, but it’s neither complicated nor expensive. Licenses are readily available online and offer various options to suit your needs: a 1-day license for £6, an 8-day license for £12, or an annual license (up to two rods) for £30.
As part of the community-funded Get Fishing Program, beginners can enjoy free or reduced-price sessions, ensuring a high-quality experience with top-notch equipment and bait, despite the lower cost.
Keep in mind that there are closed seasons for different types of fish. It’s illegal to fish for coarse fish on any river in England and Wales during their breeding season. However, for trout and salmon, which breed in winter, you’re generally allowed to fish from March 16th to September 30th.
When you’re ready to fish, the River Thames offers great spots, such as the area into Teddington weir stream from the island between the two footbridges. Remember to contact the local lock keeper for more information and be mindful of car parking restrictions in the nearby areas.
For those interested in feeder fishing, there are several tips to improve your success. Choosing the right feeder and bait for the targeted species and conditions is crucial. Accurate and consistent casting will build up a baited area that attracts fish. And, patience is key—resist the temptation to reel in your feeder too soon.
For all your fishing tackle and gear, GO Outdoors provides a vast selection, and you can enjoy free delivery on orders over £80.
Unhooking and handling fish safely is an important skill for any angler. Wetting your hands before handling fish is vital to protect their scales and maintain hydration. Additionally, keeping a bucket of water from the lake or river nearby can help keep the fish calm when on an unhooking mat or cradle.
When it comes to using a pole and needing to plumb up properly, a large 30g plummet is recommended for a better feel of the lakebed, allowing you to determine if the bottom is silty or gravelly.
By following these guidelines and respecting the fishing laws and seasons, beginners can enjoy the wonderful sport of fishing in the UK.
