April 2026 Close Season Checklist
Close season checklist for April 2026
Dates, licences and legal essentials
The statutory coarse close season runs from 15 March to 15 June on most English and Welsh rivers; coarse angling generally resumes from 16 June. Stillwaters and many canals remain open year-round but anglers must check site rules. Game fishing dates vary by river—many trout and salmon fisheries open in early March; consult the Environment Agency for river-specific dates. Purchase the 2026/27 rod licence when available in April; options include one-day (£1.85), eight-day, and annual licences (£36 adult; £12 concession; £6 junior). Fines for fishing closed waters can reach £2,500—always confirm local bylaws and permits.
Legal alternatives to keep fishing rights active
Options during the close season include stillwater trout fisheries such as Coombe Abbey Lake (day tickets ~£5–£10), urban canals like Coventry Canal Basin and Foleshill Road Canal, and sea angling from shore or boat. Club and syndicate waters may offer winter access for members (permits £20–£50/yr). Coundon Wedge Lakes and other permit waters require advance booking; night fishing is often restricted. Maintain catch records and valid permits to preserve rights.
Post-close tactics: late-spring trout and grayling
In late spring target rising trout and grayling where water temperatures reach 8–12°C. Fish tailouts, glides and riffles at depths of 0.5–3m. Use long leaders (12–15ft) with small nymphs or emerger patterns, flies size 14–18; pair light tippets (4X–6X for trout, 6X–8X for grayling). Tactics: fish downstream on a long line, cast upstream for a drag-free drift, employ a subtle buzzer or pheasant tail under an indicator, and probe deeper runs with weighted nymphs. For stillwaters, change depth profiles to locate holding fish and try slow retrieved wet flies or small lures on a light spin outfit. Gear notes: a stable landing net and reliable waders aid safe handling and bank access.
Recommended: breathable chest waders