Fishing along the Lancaster Canal

Fishing is a popular pastime for users of the Lancaster Canal and it's not difficult to see why. The scenery surrounding our 55 mile stretch provides a perfect backdrop for those in search of a little time out, and yet underneath the waters a variety of fish, both large and small await your line.

The Lancaster Canal is an important match fishery, but there is plenty of room for pleasure anglers too. Most fishing takes place between Preston and Carnforth with roach, bream, tench, perch and gudgeon being the main species. Chub, normally a river fish, have become well established at Forton and these provide good sport. There is a good number of tench and carp in places, particularly in the Northern Reaches. Pike are also widespread and reach 20lb in their preferred areas. Anglers are welcomed all year round, but do remember the canals are used by many different groups of people, so the Waterways Code must be adhered to.

If you find walking difficult, or require a wheelchair, you will find many accessible urban locations with nearby parking. Some pegs have been specially constructed for disabled anglers.

A permit is required to fish on the canal, in addition to the standard Environment Agency rod licence. There are two types of permits you can purchase for the Lancaster Canal, depending on how much fishing you plan to do.

Waterway Wanderers Permit

For the fishing enthusiast, this permit will allow you to fish on many of the North West Region canals. These areas include the 43 mile stretch of Shropshire Union Canal, 40 miles of the Llangollen Canal, 45 miles of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and 55 miles of the Lancaster Canal.

For 12 months, this costs £15.00 for adults, or £7.50 for juniors, OAP & Disabled. Monthly & day permits are also available but should be obtained in advance. One day is £2.00 adults, £1.50 concessions. One month is £10.00 adults, £5.00 concessions.

Waterway Anglers Together

Another option available to those who would prefer to be involved in a club, or beginners and casual anglers on a day ticket is the Anglers Together Scheme.

Each participating angling club pays an Annual Registration fee of £365. Participating clubs then obtain permits valid for a whole year for each and every member of the club for 99p per member.

Clubs and contact numbers along the Lancaster Canal are:

• Kendal & District Angling Club Phone: (01539) 442051
• Lancaster Anglers Centre Phone: (01524) 733820
• Preston Federated Anglers Phone: (01772) 613606
• Northern Anglers Association Phone: (01257) 249 372
• Alkali Angling Club Phone: (01253) 865584
• Lansil Sports & Social Club Phone: (01524) 425000

British Waterways is also opening an new fishing lake at Borwick. For details, call 01606 723852.