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Fishing Licence Requirements In The UK
Along with activities such as rock climbing, gardening, and golf, fishing is one of the leading pastimes in the UK. People go fishing for all sorts of reasons. Some do it as a keep fit activity, while others go fishing because it is a great way to unplug and relax. Whatever the reason you may want to go fishing, the activity in most parts of the UK requires a licence. The fee obtained from the licence is used in many ways ranging from conservation projects, maintaining population size, and preventing the extinction of certain types of fish.
In this article, we’ll discuss the types and fish licences available in the UK and how to obtain them.
When Is A Fishing Licence Required?
In England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, individuals who are 13 years and older and wish to fish for eel, freshwater fish, smelt, or salmon must obtain a rod fishing licence. However, children under 13 years old are exempt from this requirement. It's important to note that Scotland has its own set of rules regarding fishing licences.
Hefty fines exist for people caught fishing without the proper licence. The fine can be as much as £2500.
In Northern Ireland, the fishing licence can be obtained from specific agencies within the country. To fish on private land, in addition to the licence, one must also seek permission from the landowner. For detailed information about fishing licence requirements in Scotland and Northern Ireland, please refer to the relevant sections later in this article.
Rod Limits And The Types Of Licences
There are different licences in place depending on the types of fish, the rod numbers, and the age of the person seeking the licence. We’ll look at these in more detail below.
Coarse fish, Eel, And Trout Licence
Non-migratory trout and freshwater fish such as eels and coarse fish (for example barbel, carp, catfish, perch, pike, etc.) can be caught with this licence. You are allowed to use the licence in one of these three ways:
- • A single rod to fish non-migratory trout in canals, drains, streams, and rivers.
- • Up to two rods for non-migratory trout in lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.
- • Up to two rods for all fish that fall into the freshwater category.
It is also possible to purchase a 12-month licence that enables a person to use three rods to catch freshwater fish.
Sea Trout, And Salmon Licence
With this licence, a person can fish freshwater fish, non-migratory trout, sea trout, and salmon. The licence can be used in one of the following three ways:
- • One rod for non-migratory trout, sea trout, or salmon in canals, streams, and rivers.
- • Up to two rods for non-migratory trout, sea trout, or salmon in ponds and lakes.
- • Up to three rods for all fish that fall into the freshwater category.
With this type of licence, you must report the number of fish caught annually, even if you did not go fishing.
Marker Rods And Spod Rods
These rods are used to toss bait into the water stream or mark out the lines and assist the fisherman. Any number of these rods can be used unless they have hooks attached to the end.
How To Buy A Fishing Licence
You can buy a fishing licence online, which accepts credit and debit cards.
Buying a fishing licence through the phone is also possible by calling the Environmental Agency. Their telephone number is 0344 800 5386, and the lines are open from 8 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday.
After making a purchase, the fishing licence will be sent through the post. The Environmental Agency runs an "Automated Expiry Notifications" scheme. Before the fishing licence expires, the agency informs the holder enabling them to contact the Environmental Agency to renew their licence.
If you are disabled, you will need to show your National Insurance Number or blue badge number. Anyone who receives Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment are classified as disabled.
Scotland And Northern Ireland
To go fishing in Northern Ireland, you must buy an angling permit and rod licence from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs or the Loughs Agency. In Scotland, there is no need to hold a licence to fish with a rod, except in the Border Esk region. However, the landowner must grant permission when fishing on private lands.
Licence Fees
Licences can be bought for different durations and must be purchased 30 days before going fishing. The table below outlines the price and how much it costs for the different types of licences.
| Type Of Licence | Coarse And Trout For Up To 2 Rods | Coarse And Trout 3 Rods | Sea Trout And Salmon |
|---|---|---|---|
| One Day | £6.60 | N/A | £12.60 |
| Eight Days | £13.20 | N/A | £28.30 |
| Twelve Months | £33.00 | £49.50 | £86.10 |
| Twelve Months (For People Aged Over 65 Or Disabled) | £22.00 | £33.00 | £57.40 |
| Children Up To 16 | Free | Free | Free |
Getting the Right Fishing Licence
Fishing is a wonderful pastime enjoyed by many. A license is required to go fishing in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Different licences are available based on the type of fishing and the age of a person. Before going fishing, be sure to obtain the correct type of licence because fishing without a licence will lead to sizable fines.