In the UK, anglers must have a valid rod fishing licence to fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt or eel with a rod and line in England, Wales, and the Border Esk region. But how long does a rod fishing licence last? In this article, we’ll explore the different types of rod fishing licences available in the UK for 2024 and their durations.
Types of Rod Fishing Licences
The Environment Agency offers three main types of rod fishing licences in the UK for 2024:
1-day licence: Valid for one day of fishing
8-day licence: Valid for eight days of fishing
12-month licence: Valid for 12 months of fishing from the date of purchase
The type of licence you need depends on how often you plan to go fishing. If you only fish occasionally, a 1-day or 8-day licence may be sufficient. However, if you fish regularly, a 12-month licence is likely the most cost-effective option.
Licence Fees
The cost of a rod fishing licence varies depending on the type of licence and the type of fishing you plan to do:
Licence type Trout and coarse up to 2-rod Trout and coarse 3-rod Salmon and sea trout
1-day £7.10 Not available £13.20
8-day £14.30 Not available £29.70
12-month £35.80 £53.70 £90.40
There are also discounted prices for anglers aged 66 or over and those with disabilities.
Extending a Licence
If you have a 1-day or 8-day licence and decide you want to fish for longer, you can extend your licence to a 12-month licence by calling the Environment Agency within 14 days of the licence expiry date. You’ll need to buy a new 12-month licence, but you’ll receive a refund for the original licence you purchased.
Penalties for Fishing Without a Licence
It’s important to note that the penalties for fishing without a valid licence can be severe. You can be fined up to £2,500 if you’re found fishing without a licence or cannot produce one when asked by an authorised person.
Other Permissions and Licences
In addition to a rod fishing licence, you may need other permissions or licences to fish in certain areas:
Permission from the landowner to fish on private land
An additional licence to fish in locks or weirs on the River Thames
You must also follow national and local rules (byelaws) when freshwater fishing with a rod and line in England and Wales.
Buying a Rod Fishing Licence
You can buy a rod fishing licence online, by phone, or from a Post Office branch. When buying a licence, you’ll need to provide:
A debit or credit card
Your Blue Badge or National Insurance number if you have a disability and you’re applying for a 12-month licence
The other person’s details (such as date of birth) if you’re buying for someone else
If you bought your rod fishing licence from the Post Office, it will remain valid until its expiry date, even though the Post Office will no longer sell licences from January 2023 onwards.
Replacing a Licence or Updating Details
If you lose your licence or need to update your details (such as your name or address), you should contact the Environment Agency.
In conclusion, rod fishing licences in the UK for 2024 come in three main types: 1-day, 8-day, and 12-month. The type of licence you need depends on how often you plan to go fishing, and the cost varies depending on the type of fishing you plan to do. Remember to always carry your licence with you when fishing, as the penalties for fishing without a valid licence can be severe.