Develop your angling acumen, the sense of pride from reeling in a big catch to the enjoyment from being outside and close to the water’s edge. This badge is endorsed by The Angling Trust.
How to earn your badge:
Learn the water safety rules and the proper precautions to take when fishing from the bank, shore line, or from a boat.
Understand how the Countryside code should be followed by anglers, and where and how to fish legally.
Explain how different species of fish have different habitats.
Learn about invasive species and make sure to check, clean, and dry your equipment to stop them spreading.
Learn the basic hygiene precautions to take when fishing.
Go fishing at least four times in two different places.
Make a note of:
- the number of fish you caught
- species and size of your fish
- your method, tackle and bait used
- the weather and water conditions.
Choose the correct equipment and method for where you plan to fish.
You should be able to:
- Assemble a rod, reel or pole.
- Choose the right form of bait, lure or fly for your planned fishing activity.
- Tie at least three different knots for your chosen method of fishing.
Show you can cast correctly and accurately into a target area a suitable distance away, depending on the equipment you are using.
Show how to correctly handle a fish, unhook it and return it into the water.
Tips
The requirements for this badge have recently been updated, and these requirements should be used from now on. However, if you're already working towards the badge or have activities already planned, you can continue using the old requirements until April 2025.
You will need to purchase an Environment Agency Rod Licence if you are 13 years or older when fishing in freshwater in England and Wales. This is a legal requirement. Find out more at https://www.gov.uk/fishing-licences
Fish Welfare is paramount. When photographing the fish you have caught:
- Have all your equipment ready and to hand
- Ensure the fish has had time to recover fully in the net before photographing
- The fish is held at no more than knee height over an unhooking mat or carp cradle to prevent injury
- Return the fish as soon as possible to the water
The Angling Trust is the national governing body for angling. Visit www.anglingtrust.net for more information about how to progress on your angling journey through the Get Fishing programme, the environment and invasive species.
June 2026.
Requirements can be adapted to suit each young persons abilities. See our guidance on flexibility.