🪪 Before you go1 / 12
13 or over? You need a rod licence.
Under 13 — fish for free, no licence needed.
13 to 16 — the junior licence is free. Grab it online in 2 mins.
Applies in England & Wales.
Swipe up for the next tip
Mike's quick fishing tips
Do I need a licence?
🐛 Bait2 / 12
Maggots are basically fish sweets.
Gross? A bit. Effective? Massively.
Almost every coarse fish will have a go at a couple of maggots on a small hook.
🎯 Technique3 / 12
Float goes under → lift, don't yank.
Watch the tip of your float.
When it dips or slides away, lift the rod up smoothly to set the hook.
💧 Fish care4 / 12
Wet hands before you touch a fish.
Fish wear a slime coat that keeps them healthy.
Dry hands rub it off. Wet hands, quick photo, back it goes.
🌿 Where to cast5 / 12
Fish like hiding spots. Same.
Cast near lily pads, reeds or overhanging trees.
That's where fish feel safe — and where they feed.
🤫 Stealth mode6 / 12
Stomping = no fish.
Fish feel vibrations through the bank.
Walk softly, keep low and don't let your shadow fall on the water.
🐯 Species7 / 12
Perch are tiny tigers with spikes.
That stripy fin on their back is sharp.
Smooth it down from front to back before you hold one.
⚡ Stay safe8 / 12
Look up before you cast.
Fishing rods conduct electricity.
Never fish under or near overhead power lines. Ever.
🥄 Bait9 / 12
Feed little and often.
A few maggots every couple of minutes keeps fish interested.
Dump the whole tub in and they'll fill up and leave.
🦆 Respect the bank10 / 12
Leave nothing but footprints.
Old line and hooks hurt birds and wildlife.
Take every bit home — bonus points for picking up someone else's.
📅 Know the rules11 / 12
Rivers take a break in spring.
In England, coarse fishing on rivers is closed 15 March – 15 June so fish can breed.
Most lakes and ponds stay open — check the venue's rules.
🤝 Stay safe12 / 12
Fish with a mate.
It's more fun, and it's safer near water.
Always tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.
You're all caught up 🎣
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