Anglers to return to the banks on Wednesday! - Here are the new guidelines

LAST night anglers in England recieved the news we have all be waiting for - we can go fishing again!

Fishing will once again be a permitted outdoor activity in England from Wednesday 13th of May, under new guidelines set out by the UK government.

The new guidelines are in part a result of the hard work of the Angling Trust and their ‘When We Fish Again’ report to government. The report gained substantial support from MPs and anglers, with over 8000 emails sent to parliament.

Here is what we know so far about the new guidelines for anglers in England, based on reports from the Angling Trust…

  • Fishing permitted with members from same household

  • No limits on travel

  • All anglers must carry a valid Environment Agency rod licence

  • No fishing on rivers until June 16th

  • Two metres social distancing rules must be followed at all times, however, Angling Trust encourages fisheries to adopt pegging of at least 15 metres.

  • Angling Trust encourages all clubs, fisheries and anglers to follow their ‘Phase one - When We Fish Again’ proposals

  • Nothing in place that specifically blocks night fishing, however, the Trust is seeking clarification on this.

  • Tackle shops currently not to open to internal customers until June 1st at the earliest, however, the Trust are seeking government permission for shops to open earlier.

  • Shops urged to consider adopting click and collect or delivery systems.

  • Trust seeking guidance from government for onsite retail - currently only outdoor facilities may open.

  • Fisheries advised to follow the Trust’s guidance when providing day tickets and ensure adequate social distancing measures are in place. Consider online booking and avoid cash transactions when possible.

  • Decisions to open a fishery are ultimately down to the owners/fishery managers. Those in charge should not feel pressure to open, if they feel they cannot comply with social distancing rules.

These guidelines could well change within the next 48-hours as the specifics are looked at in more detail.

For more information visit the Angling Trust Support Hub.

Please note - fishing in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is still prohibited.

We can get back on the bank but keep your distance from others

We can get back on the bank but keep your distance from others