Fishing

Humans have been using fish as a source of food since our cave dwelling days, but for some, catching fish is much more than a means to obtaining food and is a pleasurable way to pass the time. Recreational fishing typically involves using a rod with a reel, line, hook and bait. 

In the Lake District, the rivers and lakes are brimming with trout, salmon, and pike amongst other species, however, these days, fishing in the Lake District is catch and release to improve native fish population by allowing more fish to remain and reproduce in the ecosystem.

What Fishing Involves

Fishing typically involves sitting quietly for long periods of time whilst you wait for fish to take on your bait. For this reason, you will probably need to allow yourself a few hours to ensure you have time to catch something. If you're a first timer and have never been fishing before, we recommend using one of the wonderful guided tours listed below.

What to Wear & Bring

You don’t need any special clothes to go fishing, however, waterproofs are essential in wet weather as you may be sitting outside for a long period of time. During the summer, you will need sun cream and a sun hat to prevent sunburn. Wearing layers will allow you to add and take away as required.

If you are an expert fisher, then chances are you already know what to bring. For the fishing novices out there, the amount of equipment can be daunting, which is why we highly recommend you sign up to a guided fishing tour or attend a fishing course in order to prepare yourself with what exactly is involved. Typically, you will need a rod with a reel, line, hook, and bait, as well as a net to catch the fish and a disgorger, which is a tool that removes the fish from the hook. You will also need something to sit on, such as a foldaway stool, and if you're planning to be out all day, you'll need plenty of food and water.

In the England and Wales, it is a legal requirement to hold a rod licence to fish with a rod and line for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt, and eel. Children under 12 do not need a licence but an accompanying adult who assists the child will need one. You can buy licences at your local post office. Failure to obtain a licence can result in a very large fine.

Where to Go Fishing in the Lake District

In the Lake District, you can bring your own tackle and fish in one of the three lakes open to public fishing: Windermere, Ullswater, and Coniston Water. Alternatively, you can get a permit for fishing in a specific area through a local angling club. The Angling Trust has a searchable directory of local angling clubs. You must ensure that you adhere to all Environment Agency byelaws when fishing, and you must not use live bait. If you do not own your own tackle and would simply like to do a fishing taster session, then there are a few organisations that offer this.