Rod fishing licence

These Rod Licence Terms and Conditions contain important information which you should read carefully. You can also download a copy of the Terms and Condition (PDF 52kb).

The licence you buy authorises the angler named on the licence, and no other, to fish with single rod and line for non-migratory trout (brown and rainbow) and char, or with up to two rods and line (where byelaws and rules permit) for freshwater fish and eels during the period covered by the licence in all waters within the area of the Environment Agency, subject to the close seasons, the Environment Agency fisheries byelaws and the permission of the fishery owners.

In addition, salmon and sea trout licence holders are permitted to fish with single rod and line for salmon and migratory (sea trout) subject to the conditions above.

Full and concessionary licences expire on 31 March.

The licence gives you the right to use a fishing rod and line but does not give you a right to fish. You must have the permission of the owner or tenant of the fishing rights before starting to fish.

Always carry your rod licence with you when you're fishing. If an Environment Agency bailiff with a warrant, or a police officer asks to see your licence, it is an offence if you don't have it with you and you could be prosecuted.

Remember, if you're coarse fishing with 3 or 4 rods, you need 2 licences.

A national coarse fish close season is in place on rivers, streams, drains and on some Stillwater and canal SSSIs (Site of Special Scientific Interest) from 15 March to 15 June inclusive. There is a compulsory catch and release in place for salmon before 16 June. Other byelaws also apply. Please check which byelaws apply where you're fishing. Visit the Environment Agency website at or call 08708 506506.