Canal fishing is for everyone, but is it free to fish on the canals? What type of rod or bait do you need? What types of fish can you catch? And where can you go for a good day’s fishing?
If you go fishing only to catch fish, then you're missing the point. It’s also about being outside and close to nature as well as finding space to be calm and quiet. Sometimes you’ll catch a fish and on the best days you might catch several of different species. But if you don't, who cares? You’ve enjoyed quality time by the water and made your life that bit healthier and happier.
No, but it’s cheap and accessible for first-timers. You can get started for around £75 per year, depending on what kind of equipment you buy. You will need:
Go to your local angling tackle shop or outdoor retailer for:
Canals are surprisingly common in our countryside and cities. We have around 2,000 miles of canals and rivers in our network alone. In fact, around 50% of people live just five miles from a canal. And, even though people love regularly exploring them by foot or by bike, would you ever think of fishing on one?
Actually, canals are perfect habitats for fish of all shapes and sizes. Most are relatively shallow, being only about four or five feet in the middle and perhaps 2 foot deep at the edge. There’s plenty of food and lots of shelter from overhanging trees, shrubs and boats. (Experienced anglers say the fish often prefer to live near the boats, as these offer good habitat.)
Our waterways are full of fish, about 30 species, even some rare and protected ones. And we’re not talking about little minnows here, fish like bream, carp and pike can be huge. They’re all part of the natural ecology of the waterways and our team of fisheries experts make sure the fish stay happy and healthy.
If you’re new to fishing you’re most likely to catch:
If you’ve never been fishing before, or you’re looking to start fishing again after a long break, here are some ideas to help you brush up.
What are you waiting for? Get out and have a go this weekend.
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Last date edited: 21 December 2020