Do I need a fishing licence in the UK?
If you’re planning to go fishing in the UK, one of the first questions you might ask is: “Do I need a fishing licence?” The answer is yes – if you’re fishing in lakes, rivers, canals, or streams. A fishing licence is a legal requirement for freshwater fishing, and without one, you could face a fine of up to £2,500.
This guide explains everything you need to know about fishing licences in the UK – including when you need one, how much it costs, where to get it, and the difference between freshwater and sea fishing
A quick guide for fishing licences
- Freshwater fishing (rivers, lakes, canals, streams): You must have a valid Environment Agency Rod Fishing Licence.
- Sea fishing (from the beach, pier, or boat in the sea): You don’t need a licence. However, you still need to follow local bylaws and size/quantity restrictions for certain species.
- Private fisheries & day-ticket waters: A licence is required plus you may need to buy a day ticket from the fishery owner.
Information from the official government website.
Types of UK fishing licences
- Trout, coarse fish, and eel licence – most common for lakes, rivers, and canals.
- Salmon and sea trout licence – needed if you’re fishing migratory species.
How much does a fishing licence costs (2025)?
- 1-day licence (trout, coarse, eel): £7.30
- 8-day licence: £14.70
- 12-month licence (2 rods, coarse & trout): £36.80
- 12-month licence (3 rods, coarse & trout): £55.30
- 12-month licence (salmon & sea trout): £93.10
- 12-month licence (66 or over or disabled): £24.50
- 12-month licence (ages 13-16): FREE
How to buy fishing licence?
- Online: Buy a fishing licence from Gov.uk
- By phone: Call the Environment Agency
- In person: At the Post Office
What happens if you fish without a licence?
There is a high possibility that an environmental officer will ask you for your licence and if you don’t have one they can fine you up to £2500, confiscate your equipment or ban you from fishing.
Do i need a licence for sea fishing?
Good news: you don’t need a fishing licence for sea fishing in the UK. Whether you’re casting from the beach, pier, or a boat, you can fish without a licence.
However, you must follow:
- Local bylaws (some areas restrict certain methods).
- Minimum size limits (e.g. bass, cod, mackerel).
- Bag limits (how many fish you can keep).
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