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Fishing by Bassenthwaite Lake copyright Michael Turner

Fishing

What's available?

There are endless opportunities to enjoy fishing in the Lake District. Many of our rivers hold good stocks of brown trout, salmon and sea trout. Several of the larger lakes are particularly good for their pike and coarse fishing.

Much of the fishing within the National Park is controlled by local Angling Associations. These welcome visitors and offer a range of day or weekly permits. Visitors can also enjoy fishing for free on Windermere, Ullswater and Coniston Water.

Wheelchair anglers

An electric wheelchair accessible boat is available at Coniston Boating Centre (opens in new window). It is specifically adapted with moveable ramp to accommodate up to six wheelchair users. Top speed of six mph. Perfect for wheelchair anglers.

Code of conduct

Anglers must:

  • as of April 2017, the Environment Agency “Rod Licences” are now only available online or from a post office
  • follow Environmental Agency Byelaws including those about the use of keep nets, lead weights and barbless hooks for pike fishing
  • follow good angling practice so that the next generation can continue to enjoy fishing
  • follow any local and/or seasonal restrictions to allow a disturbance-free period to vegetation, fish, birds and other wildlife
  • not use live bait - this is banned by the Environment Agency as it increases the risk of introduction of disease and pest species

Useful links

All links below open in a new window unless otherwise stated:

Help native wildlife

Invasive non-native species of wildlife can hitchhike on equipment, footwear, clothing and boats. You may inadvertently spread the aliens even if you just go for a paddle! Every time you leave any water such as a river, tarn or lake:

Check - Clean - Dry

Stop the spread of invasive aquatic species logo

  • Check your equipment and clothing for living organisms. Pay particular attention to damp or hard to inspect areas.
  • Clean and wash all equipment, footwear and clothes thoroughly. If you do come across any organisms, leave them at the water body where you found them or on a hard surface to die out.
  • Dry all equipment and clothing. Some species can live for many days in damp conditions.

Find out more at Biosecurity - South Cumbria Rivers Trust

Need holiday accommodation?

Cottage near Coniston - copyright Charlie Hedley

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We've cosy holiday cottages, quirky boutique hotels, friendly bed and breakfasts and luxury hotels.

Our commission helps keep the National Park special: Browse and book Lake District accommodation online