What's with all the Licenses

So, what's the deal with fishing rod licenses ? Well ... I've not fished in nearly 20 years ... All the organising use to be done by my father ... and so i've lived in the assumption that you only need a rod licence for fishing on a public water way - How wrong I was ...

After an interesting conversation with the local fishery owner (Note: asking a stressed fishery owner about rod licenses is a bad idea ) - It would seem that the law insists that if your gonna whip your rod out in anything more than a stagnant puddle, then you need to have a license - no exceptions ! and if you can't present a valid license, you will be prosecuted and fined up to £2,500 - eek !

Where do I Get a Fishing Rod License?

You can either pop down you local Post Office, if you can find one that is still open, or you can get it from the Environment Agency through their website (http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk) or over the phone.

How Much Does it Cost?

For Non-migratory trout/course fish, a full season license won't leave much change from £30. For the cheap 1 day or 8 day options your looking at between £4 and £10.

Is There an Expiry Date?

All rod licenses expire in March every year, regardless of whether they are the full or concessionary type - so don't buy a full one in February !

Can I Fish Straight Away?

As long as the start date and time entered on the application form is prior to the date and time that you will be going fishing, you can start fishing straight away. If you choose to go fishing before your license arrives in the post, you'll need to have noted your license number, and have some proof of identity on you - yes the embarrassing photo ID driving license or passport will be required.

Well I hope this proves usefull to anyone starting fishing again, or starting out for the first time...

Catch ya laters

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