Camping and fishing are two pastimes that go hand in hand. As you venture into the great outdoors, embracing the untouched beauty of the United Kingdom’s natural landscape, the allure of casting a line into a glistening lake or a bubbling stream proves irresistible for many. But before you grab your fishing rod and bait, you need to be aware of the regulations that govern fishing while camping in the UK. This article will delve into the specifics of these regulations, ensuring you are well-prepared and informed for your next fishing trip.
Understanding the Rod Fishing Licences
Before you can start fishing in the UK, you will need to purchase a Rod Fishing Licence. This licence, issued by the Environment Agency, is mandatory for anyone aged 12 years or above who wishes to fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt or eel in England (excluding the River Tweed), Wales, and the Border Esk and its tributaries in Scotland.
A Rod Fishing Licence is not a permit to fish anywhere; instead, it allows you to use a fishing rod and line. You will still need permission from the landowner or a fishing rights owner to fish on private land, even if the water is accessible from public land. These rights are usually obtained through a separate fishing permit or day ticket provided by the fishery owner.
The licences are available in two types: a 12-month licence and a short-term licence. The 12-month licence runs for twelve months from the chosen start date, while the short-term licence is available in either a one-day or an eight-day format.
Rules for Coarse Fishing and Trout Fishing Season
The UK distinguishes between coarse fishing and trout fishing, each with its own set of rules and fishing seasons. Coarse fishing is the catch of fish other than game fish (trout, salmon and sea trout) and predominantly includes fish like bream, perch, pike, and roach.
In England and Wales, the coarse fishing season on rivers, streams and drains runs from 16 June to 14 March, excluding some locations in the South West and the Isle of Man. However, there is no closed season for coarse fishing on most still waters and canals, although some waters may still have their own rules and restrictions.
Trout fishing, including rainbow trout and brown trout, has an open season that varies according to the region and the type of water body. In general, the trout fishing season runs from 15 March to 30 September for rivers and streams, and there is typically no closed season for trout fishing in still waters and reservoirs.
Respect for the Fishing Environment
When you are in the heart of nature, it’s crucial to respect the environment. Every fisherman should follow the “leave no trace” principle, which means that you should not leave any sign of your fishing or camping activities behind.
In addition, you must also respect the fishing environment by not using any illegal methods to catch fish. These include using a fixed engine, a crossline, a setline, a snare, a trap or a net, other than a landing net. A fishing rod and line must be held in the hand when in use.
It is also prohibited to use any form of fish as live bait. Moreover, bait digging is not allowed in certain areas due to environmental reasons. Make sure you are aware of the specific environmental restrictions in your fishing location.
Taking care of the Fish and Catch Limit
Catch and release is a common practice in the UK, especially for coarse fishing. It is a good practice to handle fish as little as possible and release them as quickly as you can. When handling fish, make sure your hands are wet to avoid damaging the fish’s protective slime coating.
There is also a catch limit in the UK for certain types of fish. For salmon and sea trout, the law requires that you release all fish caught between 1st January and 16th June. For coarse fish, there are no legal size limits but fishery owners may set their own rules.
Fishing Laws in Northern Ireland and Scotland
The fishing rules in Northern Ireland and Scotland differ from those in England and Wales. In Northern Ireland, a rod licence and a permit or day ticket is required for fishing in public waters. Additionally, fishing for freshwater fish in public waters is only allowed from dawn to one hour after sunset.
In Scotland, you do not need a rod licence, but you need a permit to fish for salmon, sea trout and brown trout. Coarse fishing is mostly unrestricted if you have the landowner’s permission, but there are a few exceptions.
Remember, ignorance of the law is no excuse. To fully enjoy the tranquillity of fishing while camping, you need to be informed about and adhere to these regulations. By doing so, you are ensuring the sustainability of this pastime for future generations.
Additional Rules for Sea Fishing
While freshwater fishing has a significant number of rules and regulations, sea fishing in the UK is largely, but not entirely, unrestricted. The open sea and the beach are not private property, which means a fishing permit or ticket is generally not required.
However, it’s essential to note that there are restrictions on the type of sea fish you can catch. For instance, the Bass fishing regulations state that during the months of January, February and December, all Bass caught must be released immediately. From 1 March to 30 November, you are allowed to retain two Bass per day. These restrictions aim to protect the Bass population from overfishing.
Certain fishing methods are also prohibited in sea fishing. For example, it is illegal to use explosives or poisonous substances to catch fish.
Moreover, while not a legal requirement, it’s considered good practice to respect minimum size limits for sea fish species to ensure sustainability. The Marine Conservation Society provides a size guide for common species, highlighting the minimum size at which they should be caught so they’ve had a chance to reproduce at least once.
Use of Fishing Equipment and Baits
The type of fishing equipment you use in the UK is regulated as well. Traditional rod and line fishing is the most commonly permitted method. However, the use of nets, traps, or snares is usually prohibited unless you hold a specific permit.
The use of certain baits is also regulated. Live fish as bait is generally prohibited in England and Wales, while in Scotland, it’s allowed except in some areas where there are local conservation bylaws. In Northern Ireland, the use of live fish as bait is only permitted in certain waters.
Furthermore, it’s important to check the specific rules about the use of lead weights. In general, the use of lead weights – sizes No. 6 (0.06g) to No. 0 (28.35g) – is banned in the UK.
Camping and fishing in the UK offer a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an enjoyable pastime for many. However, the activity is governed by a host of regulations designed to protect the natural environment and ensure the sustainability of fish populations.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and all fishing enthusiasts must familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations before embarking on their fishing trip. This includes acquiring the necessary fishing licences, observing the fishing seasons and catch limits, using only permitted fishing methods and baits, and respecting the fishing environment.
By adhering to these regulations, you not only ensure a trouble-free fishing experience but also contribute to the conservation of the UK’s rich and diverse aquatic life. Therefore, as you plan your next camping and fishing expedition, remember to carry your love for the sport alongside your respect for nature and its rules.