In the UK, there are close seasons for fishing certain types of fish on certain types of water. There are also special rules in Ireland. Fishing is prohibited when most fish are either preparing, recovering from or actually spawning.

This closing down of angling for coarse fish, alongside any year- round fisheries improvement work, helps protect fish stocks and gives them the best chance to access the right habitat and breed successfully. It is likely that you can’t fish for coarse fish on any river in England and Wales from 15 March to 15 June. However, you can fish for coarse fish, eels, rainbow trout, and brown trout on most enclosed stillwaters and canals all year round. Ireland Inland Fisheries Regulations advise that there is no close season for coarse fishing, however, for wild Brown Trout, Sea Trout and Salmon there are limitations. It is recommended to read the local byelaws for close seasons and check with Clubs on their own regulations on opening and closing dates.