Britain's official guide to canals, rivers and lakes

Saturday 20th March 2010

Essentials to get you started

Now you've read how to get started, all you need to know is what equipment you will need:

Before you can start it is important to have the correct tackle – you will need:

  • Float rod or small fishing pole;
  • Small fixed reel if using a rod;
  • 3lb breaking strain line;
  • Small selection of waggler floats or ready tied pole rigs;
  • Box of mixed lead free split shot;
  • Hooks ready tied to nylon (size 16 or 18);
  • A plummet;
  • Small bait catapult;
  • Rod rest;
  • Bait containers;
  • Bait;
  • Landing net and pole;
  • Disgorger.

All of the above are available from your local tackle shop.

Anyone over the age of 12 will also need to purchase an Environment Agency rod licence. Find out more from the Environment Agency website.