1. Setting up the rig

Things to remember: your equipment

• You fish on the near side (towpath side) of the canal with a whip (short pole) and on the far side of the canal with a long pole.
• A ready-made rig contains a line, a float, weights and a hook. You attach this to your whip.
• The float is there to tell you when the fish is biting. If you see the float go under the water, it means you have a bite.
• The weights are there to make sure the float sits correctly in the water, with not too much of the tip showing.
• The hook is there to hold the bait.

Choosing a place to fish

Areas to avoid:

• Close to locks or in lock chambers
• Water points
• Swing bridges
• Overhead powerlines
• Directly next to a boat

Things to look out for:

• Cover and habitat which are good fish holding areas
• A flat peg

Setting up your station

• Make sure you have everything within easy reach
• Avoid blocking the towpath
• Look out for pedestrians and cyclists 

Remember: Stay safe. It’s safer to fish as part of a group, and children must always have the permission of a parent or guardian.

Before you go fishing you need a rod licence if you are 12 years of age or older. You also need permission from the fishery owner/angling club.