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Fishing in the Lake District & Cumbria

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Fishing in the Lake District & Cumbria

Fishing in Cumbria and the Lake District means fishing in one of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes. From spectacular lakeshores and mountain scenery to peaceful rivers and the Cumbrian coastline, the area offers opportunities for experienced anglers, complete beginners and families looking to make fishing part of their holiday.

The Lake District offers an outstanding choice of fishing, including Windermere, Ullswater and Coniston Water. These magnificent waters provide opportunities to enjoy fishing without paying for a fishing ticket, subject to permitted access, local restrictions and rod-licence requirements.

Depending on the location, anglers can target pike, perch, brown trout and coarse fish such as roach, bream, carp and tench. Cumbria’s waters also support Arctic char, salmon and sea trout, while the coastline adds another completely different range of sea-fishing opportunities.

There are also some fantastic angling clubs, managed fisheries and commercial fishing waters offering day, weekly or seasonal permits.

Plus, there are some fantastic businesses offering boat hire, tuition and angling experiences across the area to help you make the most of fishing in the Lake District & Cumbria. There’s something for all levels, so everyone can give it a go.

Whether you are planning a dedicated fishing break, arranging a guided fishing experience or simply packing a rod for a family holiday, this is a fantastic place to enjoy it all.

Did you know? The Lake District & Cumbria offers more ‘Free Fishing’ than any other UK location.

Free fishing means there is no fishing-ticket charge - it does not mean every bank is open or that fishing rules do not apply. You still need the appropriate Environment Agency rod licence where required, permission to fish and lawful access. Always check current byelaws, close seasons, access arrangements and local restrictions before setting up. Read our Cumbria Fishing & Conduct Code here.

Thank you to Rigged & Ready for supporting with content for this page.

Hemmingways Angling Adventures

Join Eric Hope, renowned Cumbrian angler and environmentalist, for unique guided fishing trips and casting tuition for individuals and groups.
1. 15 Feb 202615 Nov 2026
Rigged and Ready

Rigged and Ready Travel Fishing is a family-run local business, who design compact, versatile and dependable travel fishing rods for the freedom to Go Anywhere & Fish Everywhere.
1. 1 Jan 202631 Dec 2026
West Pennine Angling Solutions

West Pennine Angling Solutions operates as a fully qualified Angling Trust Level 2 Event Lead Coach, fully Licensed, complete with a full DBS check and insurance. If you are a complete novice or a seasoned angler looking for a days fishing in Lakeland, we can deliver.
1. 1 Jan 202631 Dec 2026
Cumbria Fishing & Conduct Code
To help you fish responsibly, Rigged & Ready have put together a helpful code of conduct to note alongside all legal requirements and any additional fishery rules.