Fishing Association Rules

Summary of the Rules

• Always close all gates.
• All fish must be returned alive.
• No litter of any kind.
• No under‑18 guests; adult guests need a free permit.
• No moving fish between waters.
• Maximum 3 rods; use designated swims; no unattended rods.
• No keepnets (except matches) and limited multi‑hook rigs.
• No guns; dogs on leads and cleaned up after.
• No fishing during restricted hours without a night permit.
• No fires, swimming, boating, or damaging wildlife.
• Park responsibly.
• Under‑14s must be accompanied by an adult.
• Negotiating for Association waters = lifetime ban.
• Pike season(1st October-31st March) and equipment rules apply.
• Proper weighing equipment only; no keepsacks.
• 15lb Minimum line strengths for carp and pike.
• Livebait rules apply.
• Strike pike runs immediately.
• Lure/spinner fishing only in pike season(1st October-31st March)
• Bait boats must be used responsibly(no bait boats on Lakewood)
• Grebe Pond requires specific nets and mats.
• Alcohol‑related bad behaviour is banned.

1. Close All Gates

All gates must be fully closed behind you. Failure to do so results in a lifetime ban.

2. Return All Fish Alive

No fish may be killed or removed, including pike. Doing so is a criminal offence under the Theft Act and will be reported to the police.

3. No Litter

All litter, including tackle, must be taken home. Leaving litter results in a lifetime ban.

4. Guest Rules

• No guests under 18.
• Adult guests must obtain a free Guest Permit from the Fisheries Officer.
• Gate codes must not be shared with non‑members.

5. No Transferring Fish

Fish must not be moved to or from any water. This is illegal without proper permissions.

6. Rod Limits and Swim Use

• Maximum of three rods.
• Fish only from designated swims.
• Rods and hookbaits must never be left unattended.

7. Keepnets and Rigs

• Keepnets are banned on still waters except during official matches.
• Multi‑hook rigs are only allowed for pike (two hooks maximum).

8. Guns and Dogs

• No guns allowed.
• Dogs must be kept on leads.
• All dog faeces must be cleaned up immediately.
• Dogs must not disturb other anglers.

9. Night Fishing Restrictions

No fishing between 10pm and 5am unless you have a night permit.

Exceptions:

• Carlton on Trent: 10pm–7am
• River Rye at Butterwick: 9pm–7am

Being on site during restricted hours without a permit can result in membership revocation and possible prosecution.

10. Fires, Swimming, Boating, and Environmental Care

• No fires, swimming, or boating.
• Do not damage trees, bushes, or interfere with wildlife.
• Behave responsibly and respect other anglers.

11. Parking

Park responsibly and avoid causing problems to other anglers, landowners, farmers, or the public. Vehicles may be clamped or towed if parked irresponsibly.

12. Under‑14 Supervision

Members under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.