Our checklist
Check the following to find out what you need, and when and where you can go fishing.
Where to fish
Did you know that we look after 2,000 miles of canals and rivers, plus eight commercial fisheries?
Do you have your rod licence?
Find out more about buying a rod licence and why this is separate to a fishing permit
Do you have a permit to fish?
You'll either need a Waterway Wanderers permit, or a permit from the local angling club
Do you know if you can fish for free?
Here are the rules regarding where you can fish for free
Do you know where you'd like to fish?
Find your nearest place to fish on our waterways
Further reading
Renting our waters
A step-by-step guide for angling clubs who wish to lease our waters
Coarse fishing close season
Find out what you need to know about fishing during the traditional coarse fishing close season
Our commercial fisheries
Find out more about each of our venues, and how to book a match or buy a season permit
Last Edited: 29 August 2025
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