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Get Fishing News

01 April 2025

Get Fishing FAQs: Do I need to have a fishing licence to help my kids learn to fish?

This is about carers and parents or guardians helping others to fish, and helps answer the frequently asked question “Do I need to have a fishing licence to help my kids learn to fish?” which we often get asked at Get Fishing Events

If a licence holder requires assistance casting, retrieving or baiting any equipment and they need a carer or guardian to help them do this, then the carer or guardian does not need to hold a licence.

But note that:

  1. The licence holder must remain in the vicinity of the equipment and must retrieve the lines from the water if they move away from their equipment.
  2. Anglers over 13 must have a fishing licence. If a parent, guardian or carer is using a fishing rod in their own right, they will be classed as fishing independently and need a licence.
  3. Anglers under 13 may be assisted by a carer or guardian to fish. However if that person is actively fishing themselves they will need their own licence.

ALSO: Everyone wishing to fish must have the correct permission to fish from the fishery or landowner.

  1. This will usually be in the form of a day ticket or club membership.
  2. Many fisheries offer free, or reduced fishing charges, for young children
  3. Angling Trust members get reduced price fishing at 100 fisheries nationwide

GET AN ENVIRONMENT AGENCY FISHING LICENCE FOR A PERSON OVER 13

Last Updated: 30/05/2025
Current Version always available via the Environment Agency website

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