When does the Fishing Season Start and Finish?
When does the fishing season start and finish in the UK? It’s the moment that signals the shift from winter prep to long-awaited days back on the bank. As daylight stretches and rivers settle, attention turns to opening days, close seasons, and plans for the months ahead.
There’s no single start date across the UK. In England, the coarse river season follows a set statutory pattern, trout often begin earlier in spring, salmon dates vary by river, and sea angling runs year-round with species-specific rules.
Knowing when your local fishing season begins helps you plan properly, stay legal, and make the most of every opportunity on the water.
1) Coarse Fishing: The Classic UK Start Date
One of the most recognised benchmarks in the British fishing season calendar is the coarse fishing. In England, there is a statutory fishing close season for coarse fish on rivers, streams and certain protected stillwaters:
- Closed: 15 March to 15 June inclusive
- Open: 16 June to 14 March
This structure underpins the UK river fishing season and is designed to protect fish during spawning. For many anglers, 16 June marks the start of the river fishing season. Often referred to as the Glorious 16th, it signals the reopening of rivers for species such as barbel, chub, roach, and bream.
However, the UK fishing season is broader than rivers alone. Many canals, commercial fisheries, lakes, and reservoirs remain open throughout the year unless local byelaws state otherwise. Always check site specific rules before fishing.
2) Trout Fishing Season: Spring Beginnings
The trout fishing season often begins earlier in the year than the coarse river fishing season, though dates vary depending on the river authority or fishery.
On many rivers in England:
•Brown trout season opens between mid-March and early April
•The season commonly runs until late September or early October
•This means the trout fishing season overlaps with the coarse fishing close season on rivers.
In areas such as the Lake District, spring signals the return of river trout fishing. Anglers planning fly fishing Lake District trips often look forward to the first hatches of the year and improving water clarity.
Reliable fly fishing gear is central during the trout fishing season. Breathable fishing waders help manage comfort in changeable conditions, while secure wading boots provide grip on rocky riverbeds. Quality wading gear supports safe movement in higher spring flows.
3) Salmon Fishing Season: Region Specific Dates
The salmon fishing season is one of the most variable elements of the UK fishing season.
In parts of England, salmon fishing may open in January or February on certain rivers, while other catchments begin later in spring. Closing dates differ as well, with some seasons extending into autumn.
In Scotland, each river district sets its own opening and closing dates. Some rivers open in mid-January, forming part of the early British fishing season, while others start later in the year.
Conservation measures play a significant role too. Catch and release requirements are common on many rivers during parts of the season. If you are searching when does fishing season start and finish for salmon, always consult the relevant river board or fishery guidance.
4) Sea Fishing: Open All Year
Sea angling operates differently from freshwater disciplines. There is no national fishing close season for sea fishing in the UK. In general, sea angling is available throughout the year, making it a consistent part of the overall fishing season UK calendar.
However, species specific regulations apply. For example:
•European bass may have seasonal catch and release periods
•Minimum size limits apply to many species
•Regional restrictions can be introduced
Effectively the sea angling fishing season runs year-round, though conservation rules must always be followed.
Scotland and Northern Ireland: Different Frameworks
The fishing season in England does not automatically apply across the rest of the UK.
Scotland
• No statutory coarse fishing close season on most water
• Trout seasons commonly run from mid-March to September
• Salmon seasons vary by district
Northern Ireland
• Game fishing season generally runs from 1 March to 31 October
• Individual waters may apply different dates
These regional differences shape the broader British fishing season and reinforce the importance of checking local regulations.
Rod Licence Requirements
If you’re fishing inland waters in England or Wales and you’re aged 13 or over, you must hold a valid rod licence. These are issued by the Environment Agency and are a legal requirement, not an optional extra.
A licence is needed throughout the fishing season whenever you’re targeting freshwater species, from the opening day buzz on the rivers to late-autumn sessions on stillwaters. Make sure it’s valid, up to date and with you on the bank, as checks do happen.
It’s a small step that protects fish stocks, supports conservation work, and ensures everyone can enjoy the sport responsibly.
Planning Around the Fishing Season UK
Understanding when does fishing season start and finish allows you to plan your year effectively.
• Early spring often signals the start of the trout fishing season
• Mid-June marks the reopening of the river fishing season for coarse anglers in England
• Salmon seasons vary by catchment
• Sea fishing remains available throughout the year
Water temperature, river levels, and fish behaviour all play a huge role in success throughout the fishing season in England and beyond. Conditions can change quickly, and adapting your approach is often the difference between a quiet day and a memorable one. Having the right fishing gear is just as important. Breathable fishing waders make river sessions far more comfortable, sturdy wading boots provide confidence on slippery, uneven ground, and well-balanced fly fishing tackle comes into its own when presentation matters most.
For anglers heading to Cumbria, our experienced team is always happy to help. Whether you’re planning to fish a freestone river or a larger water, we offer practical, local advice tailored to fly fishing in the Lake District and the conditions you’re likely to face.
So, when does the fishing season start and finish in the UK? There is no single national date that defines the entire fishing season UK wide. The coarse fishing season on rivers in England follows a clear statutory pattern, forming the backbone of the UK river fishing season. The trout fishing season and salmon fishing season vary by river and region, while sea angling operates throughout the year with conservation measures in place.
By understanding the fishing close season, checking local byelaws, and preparing with the right fishing gear, you can make the most of every stage of the British fishing season. Whether you choose to visit us in-store or shop online, John Norris is here to support you at every point in the season.
