BACK TO FISHING CHECKLIST
If you’re heading out for your first long-awaited post-lockdown fishing session, it’s vital that you stick to the Government’s guidelines for Stage 1 of angling’s return. Here’s everything you need to know...
Get ready for angling’s return to the banks post-lockdown
GO FISHING ANYWHERE IN ENGLAND
There are no restrictions on the distance you can travel from home to your chosen venue. In Wales, anglers can visit only local venues, while at the time of going to press angling was still banned in Northern Ireland and Scotland.
TRAVEL TOGETHER
Even if you don’t plan to fish with members of your own household, you may travel to the venue with them. You may NOT, however, travel to the venue with anybody outside your household.
TAKE A FRIEND OR PARTNER
You may fish with members of your own household or ONE member of a different household, but you must adhere to social distancing protocols at all times.
KEEP SANITISING
It’s good practice to use hand sanitiser before and after touching locks and gates at any fishery. Wearing disposable gloves is recommended.
KEEP TO DISTANCING GUIDELINES
Anglers must adhere to social distancing. The Angling Trust recommends anglers fish at least 15m apart. Government socialdistancing measures (keep 2m apart) still apply at all other times. KEEP 2M APART
CHECK AHEAD
Many clubs and fisheries are using booking systems. Check that you are permitted to fish before travelling to the venue. Fishing without permission is illegal. When you arrive, pay careful attention to club and fishery notices – if you are unsure, speak to a venue for guidance.
FISHING MATCHES
Taking part in fishing matches is still banned under Stage 1 of angling’s return. This issue is likely to be addressed at the next stage of the process.
USING KEEPNETS
At the time of writing, the Angling Trust guidance does not allow the use of keepnets. This is another area that will be looked at further down the line.
SHARING OF TACKLE
Under no circumstances must you share tackle with your fellow anglers. That also means no helping friends to land fish, or taking a picture of their catches.
NIGHT FISHING
Again, at the time of going to press, night fishing remains prohibited. The Angling Trust is busy trying to get clarification on when this restriction might be lifted.