If you are interested in learning more about fishing, the best thing to do is ask an enthusiast. We have asked Richard Simons (a recreational fisherman) to tell us why he enjoys fishing and how best to get started.

Over 2 million people regularly go fishing making it one of the biggest past times in the UK. Fishing is fun! You can spend time in the fresh air, anticipating the excitement of catching a fish, watching the float dipping and not knowing if you’ve got a bite. Fishing is a restful activity away from the rush and bustle of life.

There are two main kinds of fishing. Coarse fishing is the most popular type and anglers fish for fish that breed in the Spring using mainly bait. Fly fishing is for trout and salmon and is less widespread. It is generally more expensive though quite cheaper on man made stillwaters. Fly fishing involves using an artificial bait made of fur, feathers and some man made material to represent an insect or small fish (the “fly”).Trout and salmon are generally eaten by the anglers who catch them. Coarse fish are not.

You can equip yourself quite cheaply for basic coarse fishing. Purchasing second hand tackle will help keep the costs down. You can also buy starter parts by mail order through adverts placed in fishing magazines. Ones to look out for are Angler’s Mail and Angling Times. Check the Yellow Pages to see where your local tackle dealer is.

There are a few things you will need before you set off for the river. Most importantly a licence – everyone over the age of 12 needs a fishing licence to fish in freshwater. These quite cheap and available from Post offices. The money you pay goes to the Environment Agency who maintain rivers and lakes and stock them with fish. They also prosecute polluters.

You will also need some tackle (fishing equipment) – here are some essentials;

* A rod: This should be at least 4 metres long and will costs somewhere between £20-£30, cheaper if you but a second hand one.
* A fixed spool reel to hold the fishing line. This will costs £8-£10.
* Fishing line is sold by the breaking strain weight and costs about £2.
* Floats – you’ll need about 6 floats to get started. If you tell the tackle dealer where you intend to fish, they will tell you which types of floats to get. They costs about £1 each.
* Weights – a selection of various weights (known as shot) will be fine to start you off and will costs about £3-£4.
* Hooks – Always buy barbless hooks, these are kinder to the fish you catch and to you if one gets stuck in your thumb! £2.
* A plummet. This is a heavy weight that will indicate the depth of the water you are fishing in. 50p
* Bait boxes to keep your bait in. Any small plastic container with a lid will do.
* A rod rest – this means you can balance the rod safely while you’re eating your sandwiches! £2
* A landing net – you will need this if you catch a big fish. There are regulations though against keeping fish in landing nets, so look at the Environment Agency website for details. £12.
* A disgorger – an essential piece of kit for removing hooks if the fish have swallowed them – buy 2! £1.
* Bait – maggots are a common fishing bait and are available from tackle shops. You can also experiment using bread, sweetcorn and luncheon meat.
* You will also need a bag or rucksack to keep your tackle in, warm and waterproof clothing and footwear is essential and a hat to keep your head warm in the winter and protected from the sun in the summer!

Where can you fish?

There are thousands of places you can go fishing; rivers, lakes, ponds and streams. A few places are free but most stocked venues will impose a small charge. Always make sure you know how much it is and who to pay your money to. At most venues someone will come by and collect your money, however at venues owned by fishing clubs you must pay first before choosing your spot.

How to treat the fish you catch

Always treat the fish you catch with respect. Unhook them as quickly as possible and return them to the water. Barbless hooks make this easier. Put the fish back into the water gently and don’t throw them. Following these guidelines will ensure no harm comes to them.

Remember that other animals live on or in the water. Do not disturb birds, frogs and other animals you may see there. Never discard your fishing tackle, line or weights as these can seriously harm or even kill animals.

Making fishing fun for everyone

Always treat anglers and other water users with consideration. Do not fish too close to another angler. Keep noise to a minimum, the quiet angler will always catch more than the noisy one! Boats can be a nuisance but they have as much right to be there as you do.

The final piece of advice is to visit your local library and read up on the subject before you start. There are lots of good fishing books that will tell you how to rig up your tackle, how to cast etc. Fishing is a hobby that you never stop learning and there is always something new to try. Fishing tackle shops are friendly places and will always help the beginner. Tight lines and good luck!