HOW TO... become a fisherman

The Angling Trust recommends the best type of fishing to start with is whip fishing, which includes a telescopic rod that can easily fit in your car boot. That means you can avoid using a reel, which adds expense and complication...

What else do you need?

In England and Wales (not Scotland), you’ll need a fishing licence. You can get one at www.gov.uk/ fishing-licences

Until October 4, 2020 existing fishing licence-holding anglers can apply for a free one-day licence to introduce a friend, family member or colleague to the past-time through the Angling Trust. Visit takeafriendfishing.co.uk

If you want to fish on a stretch of water that is leased by the Canal and River Trust to an angling club, you will need a permit directly from

BIG DAY Making an early start can be hugely rewarding for anglers

the club. For unleased areas, you will need a Waterway Wanderers permit. Visit canalrivertrust.org.uk for more information

The Angling Trust has partnered with Angling Direct to offer a £14.99 beginner’s pack for whip fishing.

It includes a telescopic fishing whip, bait boxes, a plummet (to help establish water depth), pole fishing rigs (ready-made sets of line, float, weights and hooks) plus an unhooking disgorger to help remove the fish hook. You can get one from anglingdirect.co.uk

The Canal and River Trust recommends starting with canals and ponds to catch species such as roach, rudd, gudgeon, perch and bream

See the Angling Trust’s Get Fishing map with hundreds of prime spots at www.getfishing.org.uk/ location as well as fishing coaches and beginner events. You’ll also find over 70 sites listed on the page which are beginner friendly.

Beginners in Scotland should contact the Scottish Anglers National Association at www.sana.org.uk