Fishing is a great past time for people of all ages, either for spending time with their loved ones or heading out for a bit of me-time. As well as being a relaxing day full of fun, the fresh air and beautiful surroundings are great for mental wellbeing, what’s not to love?
Whether you are a keen angler looking to keep costs low or you are thinking of trying out a new hobby for the weekend, we’re here to help you get hold of the essentials without the need to spend a lot of money. Once you start to get more involved in the fishing lifestyle, you will slowly start to build up your kit tailored to your preferred fishing style and favourite brands, picking up extras such as a fishing bed and nomad fishing lures, overnight shelter as you go. In the meantime, ensure you start off with all the low-cost essentials to prepare you for a great day at the bank, without breaking the bank.
Purchase your fishing license
Before heading down for a day at the bank, you will be required to have a suitable fishing license to do so legally. Once you have decided on the location you wish to visit, check the regulations of that specific spot and ensure you are eligible to visit. Fishing licenses can be purchased online for either 1 day, 8 days or 12 months depending on the amount of usage you intend to get from it. As standard, a one day fishing license tends to cost around £6 but better value is available if you are a regular visitor.
Making a basic kit
During the early days, nobody wants to be spending a lot of money to build up a kit before they’re even sure if fishing is the sport for them. It is a common misconception that fishing equipment is expensive but doing it on the cheap is definitely possible.
The rod and reel are the first place to start; making up the basis of your kit. With so many brands and features on the market, choosing the best products for your fishing style early on can feel overwhelming. Plenty of combo deals are available, helping you find a compatible rod and reel that tick off the main parts of equipment without breaking the bank, finding you a great price.
To get your rod ready for the bank, it’s time to find the best bait. This will depend on the type of fishing trip and the conditions of the waters, with products carefully designed to give you the best possible chance of success. When you know where you’re heading, we recommend chatting to your local angling store for some expert advice on the best kind of bait.
When you are planning your trip, the more preparation, the lower the cost. Pack plenty of warm clothing, food, drink and a fishing chair so you are fully set for the day and won’t need to worry about spending more money on items you already have handy.