Fishing is a popular pastime in the United Kingdom, enjoyed by anglers of all ages and skill levels. However, before you can cast your line and reel in your catch, you need to obtain a valid fishing license. The cost of a UK fishing license varies depending on the type of license you need and your age or disability status. In this article, we’ll break down the different types of licenses and their associated costs for England and Wales in 2024.
Types of Fishing Licenses in the UK
There are two main types of fishing licenses in the UK: the trout and coarse fish license, and the salmon and sea trout license. The trout and coarse fish license allows you to fish for non-migratory trout and other freshwater fish, while the salmon and sea trout license enables you to fish for salmon, sea trout, non-migratory trout, and all freshwater fish.
Trout and Coarse Fish License Prices
The cost of a trout and coarse fish license in England and Wales for 2024 is as follows:
Licence type Trout and coarse up to 2-rod
1-day £6.60
8-day £13.20
12-month £33
12-month – (66 or over or disabled) £22
12-month – junior (13 to 16 years old) Free
As you can see, a 1-day license costs £6.60, an 8-day license is £13.20, and a 12-month license is £33. If you’re 66 or over or have a disability, you can get a discounted 12-month license for £22. Junior anglers aged 13 to 16 can fish for free with a junior license.
Salmon and Sea Trout License Prices
The cost of a salmon and sea trout license in England and Wales for 2024 is as follows:
Licence type Salmon and sea trout
1-day £12.60
8-day £28.30
12-month £86.10
12-month – (66 or over or disabled) £57.40
12-month – junior (13 to 16 years old) Free
A 1-day salmon and sea trout license costs £12.60, an 8-day license is £28.30, and a 12-month license is £86.10. Anglers 66 and over or with a disability can get a discounted 12-month license for £57.40. Junior anglers aged 13 to 16 can fish for salmon and sea trout for free with a junior license.
Where to Buy a Fishing License
You can purchase a fishing license in England and Wales through the following methods:
Online – Visit the gov.uk website to purchase a license online. You’ll receive an email confirmation and your license will be delivered in the post within 10 days.
Phone – Call the Environment Agency at 0344 800 5386 to purchase a license over the phone. This service is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, and Saturdays, 8am to 1pm (from 1 March to 31 May).
It’s important to note that you can no longer purchase fishing licenses from the Post Office, as this service ended on January 15, 2023.
Fishing License Requirements
Anyone aged 12 and over must have a valid fishing license to fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt, or eel with a rod and line in England (except the River Tweed), Wales, and the Border Esk region (including parts of the river in Scotland). Children under 13 do not need a license, while those aged 13 to 16 can fish for free but must still register for a junior license.
In addition to a fishing license, you may also need permission from the landowner to fish on private land and an additional license 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.
Failure to have a valid fishing license can result in a fine of up to £2,500. Environment Agency inspectors regularly visit fisheries and check licenses on the bank, so it’s crucial to ensure you have the proper documentation before going fishing.
In conclusion, the cost of a UK fishing license in 2024 varies depending on the type of license, your age, and disability status. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, it’s essential to obtain a valid license to fish legally and avoid hefty fines. By understanding the different license types and their associated costs, you can choose the option that best suits your fishing needs and enjoy a day on the water in the UK.