How To Apply For A Fishing License

All Anglers over the age of 12 years need to obtain a valid fishing license from the environment agency, to fish for freshwater fish, trout, salmon, smelt, or eel. This applies to citizens of England, Wales and the border Esk regions of Scotland. Significant fines are imposed for those who do not obtain a license, however, some concessionary rates and short term licenses may also be obtained.

Applying And Different Types Of License

• Any type of fishing license can be obtained from the post office or online from the environment agency. For those who prefer, the fees may also be paid by direct debit. The two main types of license are for those who wish to fish for non-migratory trout, smelt, Char, freshwater fish and eels. However, those anglers who wish to fish for salmon will have to upgrade their licence to a license which permits them to fish for migratory trout and salmon.
• Anglers who hold the former license, may upgrade to the salmon license by taking it to the post office and paying the difference in fees. If however, an angler uses three or four rods (four is the maximum permitted) then they will be required to obtain a second license.

Concessionary Rates

• The environment agency offers concessionary rates on a fishing license for seniors (those over the age of 65 years) and concessions for people with disabilities. However, in order to obtain a disability concession, an individual will need to be in receipt of disability living allowance or a blue badge parking concession holder. There are further concessions for juniors aged 12 to 16 years and there is no charge for children under the age of 12 years.

Short-term licenses

• A one-day license, lasting exactly 24 hours may be obtained, as can an eight day fishing license, lasting exactly 192 consecutive hours. Again, both may be obtained from the post office or, online from the environment agency.