Fishing

The place for all avid anglers, GO Outdoors has thousands of fishing gear, tackle and accessories to help you get the most out of your fishing experience. Whether you’re an avid carp, coarse or sea angler, this huge collection of fishing tackle has something for all angling disciplines for all experience and skill levels, so no matter if you’re a veteran of thousands of fishing trips or an angling newbie, we’re sure to have the perfect pick. Reels, rods, bait – we have it all, with a plethora of the best fishing brands such as Westlake, Sonik, Trakker and more, so get ready to break your PB the next time you visit the bankside!

How much is a fishing license, and are they required?

Yes! A fishing license is a required document for any freshwater fishing (rivers, canals, ponds and lakes) in England and Wales. The only exception is for sea fishing.

License prices depend on your age bracket. For adults, prices start from £36.80 for 12 months, while junior licenses for children aged 13 to 16 are free. Disabled licenses are also available for those who meet the following requirements, starting at £24.50 for 12 months -

- you have a Blue Badge

- you get Personal Independence Payment (any rate)

- you get Disability Living Allowance

Money raised from license fees is spent on initiatives such as stocking fish into waters, increasing biodiversity and creating healthier water environments.

How do I release the fish safely?

You've caught your fish - well done! But how do you release it safely? Firstly, let's talk about preparation. Avoid using harsh hooks, barbless hooks are a popular and suitable choice as they are easy to remove and do less damage to the fish.

Once you feel a bite, try to bring the fish in smoothly, safely and quickly to avoid exhausting it. Always handle the fish with wet hands, avoid wrapping in towels or cloths, as that could lead to the fish getting an infection. When handling, keep a firm grip but don't squeeze it too hard. Ensure the fish hasn't been out of the water too long; a submerged landing net is also a viable option.

Make sure you kneel before releasing, don't stand - the fish has less distance to fall if you do lose grip. Keep the fish close to the waterside. Once you are ready to release the fish, never throw; always release gently.

How do I take a photo of my catch?

You've just caught your PB, now it's time for a snap! Here are a few tips on how to get the best photo with your latest catch.

Try and make the most of naturalistic lighting! Fishing lakes can be serene and beautiful locations, so get your bivvy and accessories out of the shot. Pose facing the sun to avoid glare.

Centre yourself and the fish; don't go too low or too high. Hold the fish level with your body to avoid becoming a blur in the background. If you want the perfect shot, maybe consider a tripod, which you can pick up for a very reasonable price. For night pictures, ensure some greenery is in the background, allowing your phone flash to have something to bounce back from, highlighting details of the fish.