Coarse Fishing

Coarse fishing is one of the most popular leisure sport in the UK. 'Coarse fishing' means fishing for any freshwater fish, other than salmon or trout, which are considered game fish. Perch,  carp, roach, tench, bream, rudd, pike and chub are just some of the fish that fall into this catagory.

The point about coarse fishing is that after the fish have been caught they are thrown back into the water alive, and unharmed.

Getting Started

The basic kit for coarse fishing includes the following items:

 A good all round fishing rod. As a beginner a cheap rod that will handle everything is all you need.

 A robust fixed-spool reel

100-200 metres of line (about 4-5lb breaking strain). Attach a snap swivel to the end of your line. It will allow you to change hooks for the size of the fish you think you are going to catch.

A selection of hooks, sizes 18-12
A few different types of float

A tackle box to keep the different hook sizes apart and to keep the hooks dry thereby avoiding rust.

A split-shot dispenser
A pair of rod rests
Something comfortable to sit on
A selection of baits
A landing net
A valid fishing licence. Remember the revenue generated by this annual licence goes towards the upkeep of Britain's waterways, and a check on pollution.

Bait for coarse fishing

The most common bait to use is the humble maggot, hence the fisherman's nick name 'maggot drowner'. These can be purchased from any tackle shop at a very reasonable price. About half a pint is enough for a good day's fishing and will produce good results on most waters.

Worms are another favourite and can be obtained online from this site or if you have the time and energy by digging in the garden or in a compost heap. These are a particularly effective bait for tench, perch, and chub.

To prevent the worms from floating along on top of the water add add some weight (sinkers) to the line.

Bread can be used either as a piece of flake just torn from the loaf and squeezed onto the hook, or mixed with a little water and kneaded into a paste. Bread paste can also be flavoured with any strong flavourings to enhance its attraction.

Sweetcorn can be used straight from the tin as-is, or can also be flavoured and/or coloured. This bait is particularly effective during the summer months.

Luncheon meat, cut into cubes and used plain or once again flavoured is a very good carp bait.

These baits will get you started catching fish. Once experience has been gained, you may wish to experiment with more exotic and specialised baits.

 Where to Fish

to find somewhere to fish take a look around you and see where other people are fishing. If your spot yields nothing after an hour then think about  moving. Perhaps you could move closer to where someone is actually catching fish. Or, if you have your polarized sunglasses, maybe you could try to spot the fish in the water. Just remember that the amount of equipment you have with you will make moving to another location all the more difficult.

Your responsibility as an angler.

Try to avoid doing anything that is dangerous for the local wildlife, or could be used as an argument against anglers. Do not therefore leave any litter, discarded line, hooks, or split shot behind when you leave the water.

Avoid damage to the property you are fishing on and remember to close all gates after use.

Fishing is seen as a blood sport by and therefore cruel by some people who would like to see it banned. Anglers therefore have a responsibility to the fish, and the environment.

With this in mind use barbless hooks. Try not to injure the fish and return them to the water immediately after removing the hook, so that they do not become too distressed.

back to articles home page