Fishing Association Rules
Protecting our fisheries, fish stocks and the enjoyment of every member.
All members are responsible for understanding and complying with the Association’s rules. These requirements help protect our waters, wildlife, landowner relationships and fellow anglers.
Please read the full rules below before fishing. Some breaches carry particularly serious consequences, including permanent exclusion from the Association.
Our Most Important Rules
These rules are fundamental conditions of membership and must be followed at all times.
No Litter — Ever
All litter, including discarded fishing tackle, line, bait packaging and cigarette ends, must be taken home.
Leaving litter results in a lifetime ban.
Always Close All Gates
Every gate must be fully closed and secured behind you when entering or leaving an Association fishery.
Failure to close gates results in a lifetime ban.
Return All Fish Alive
No fish, including pike, may be killed or removed from Association waters.
Illegal removal may be reported to the police.
Respect Fishing Restrictions
Fishing is normally permitted from 5am to 10pm unless you hold the appropriate night permit.
Venue-specific restrictions and exceptions apply.
Rules at a Glance
A quick reminder of the main requirements. The full rules below provide further detail.
Full Association Rules
The following rules apply to members and, where applicable, their authorised guests.
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 from Association waters, including pike. Unlawful removal may constitute an offence under the Theft Act and will be reported to the police.
3. No Litter
All litter, including fishing tackle and discarded line, must be taken home. Leaving litter results in a lifetime ban.
4. Guest Rules
- No guests under 18 years of age.
- 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 Association water. Such movements are unlawful without the appropriate permissions.
6. Rod Limits & Swim Use
- A maximum of three rods may be used.
- Fishing is permitted only from designated swims.
- Rods and hookbaits must never be left unattended.
7. Keepnets & Rigs
- Keepnets are prohibited on still waters except during official matches.
- Multi-hook rigs are permitted only for pike fishing, with a maximum of two hooks.
8. Guns & Dogs
- Guns are not permitted.
- Dogs must be kept on leads.
- All dog faeces must be cleaned up immediately.
- Dogs must not disturb other anglers.
9. Night Fishing Restrictions
Fishing is not permitted between 10pm and 5am unless the angler holds the appropriate night permit.
- Carlton on Trent: Restricted between 10pm and 7am.
- River Rye at Butterwick: Restricted between 9pm and 7am.
Being on site during restricted hours without the appropriate permit may result in membership revocation and possible prosecution.
10. Fires, Swimming, Boating & Environmental Care
- No fires, swimming or boating.
- Do not damage trees, bushes or other vegetation.
- Do not interfere with wildlife.
- Behave responsibly and respect fellow anglers.
11. Parking
Park responsibly and avoid causing problems for other anglers, landowners, farmers or members of the public. Vehicles may be clamped or towed where legally permitted if parked irresponsibly.
12. Under-14 Supervision
Members under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
13. Negotiating for Association Waters
Members must not independently negotiate for, or attempt to secure, fishing rights to Association waters. Breaching this rule results in a lifetime ban.
14. Pike Fishing Season & Equipment
Pike fishing is permitted only during the designated season of 1 October to 31 March.
- Appropriate pike fishing equipment must be used.
- A minimum mainline breaking strain of 15lb applies to pike fishing.
- Any livebaiting must comply with Association rules and applicable legislation.
- Pike runs must be struck immediately.
- Lure and spinner fishing is permitted only during the pike season.
15. Fish Handling & Weighing
- Only proper fish weighing equipment may be used.
- Keepsacks are prohibited.
- A minimum mainline breaking strain of 15lb applies when carp fishing.
- All fish must be handled carefully and returned alive.
16. Bait Boats
Bait boats must be operated responsibly and without interfering with other anglers.
Bait boats are not permitted on Lakewood.
17. Grebe Pond Equipment Requirements
Anglers fishing Grebe Pond must comply with the venue’s specific landing net and unhooking mat requirements.
18. Alcohol & Behaviour
Alcohol-related disorderly, abusive or unacceptable behaviour is prohibited on Association waters.
Respect Our Waters. Protect Your Membership.
Every member has a responsibility to protect the Association’s fisheries, fish stocks, wildlife and relationships with landowners.
Remember: Leaving litter, failing to close gates and negotiating for Association waters carry lifetime bans under these rules.
Please familiarise yourself with all relevant venue restrictions before fishing. Ignorance of the rules is not an excuse for breaching them.
