Fishing

Find out where you can fish on council-managed waters, whether you need a permit, and the rules you must follow.

The council manages stretches of the River Colne and several lakes and ponds across Colchester.

Find out where you can fish, whether you need a permit, and the rules you must follow.

Where you can fish

High Woods Country Park

  • Permit holders can fish during the fishing season from 16 June to 15 March.
  • Access may be difficult for people with reduced mobility as the lake is some distance from surfaced paths.
  • Find out more about High Woods Country Park.

Salary Brook Local Nature Reserve

  • Free fishing (catch and release) during the fishing season from 16 June to 15 March.
  • Fishing is available on two ponds, with designated swims provided.
  • One pond has disabled access.

Bourne Valley Local Wildlife Site

  • Free fishing (catch and release) during the fishing season from 16 June to 15 March.
  • Fishing is available at Blyth Pond only.
  • Access may be difficult for people with reduced mobility as the lake is some distance from surfaced paths.

River Colne (Castle Park and surrounding areas)

Fishing is not permitted on the River Colne between Colne Bank and East Bay.

This includes:

  • Castle Park
  • Kings Meadow
  • Bull Meadow
  • Riverside Open Space

Rod fishing licence

In England, you must have a valid Environment Agency rod fishing licence to fish in freshwater.

Fishing without a licence is illegal and you can be fined up to £2,500.

  • Licences for children aged 13 to 16 are free, but you must still apply.
  • Apply online at GOV.UK or call 0344 800 5386.

Illegal fishing and fish theft

  • Breaking fishing rules may result in prosecution and a fine.
  • You are responsible for knowing the rules where you fish.
  • Fishing without permission is illegal and may be treated as theft of fishing rights or fish.

Report illegal fishing:

  • Environment Agency: 0800 80 70 60
  • Police: 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress

Make a note of your reference number when reporting.

Do not handle any evidence such as fishing equipment or nets.

Fishing FAQs

Do I need a permit?

You need a permit to fish at High Woods Country Park. A season ticket or day ticket is required.

When can I fish?

  • Fishing times are 7:30am to 9pm.
  • High Woods Country Park closed season is 16 March to 15 June inclusive.
  • There is no closed season at Salary Brook or Bourne Valley.

Can I park nearby?

  • Parking is available at High Woods Country Park. Pay using the MiPermit app or at the machines.
  • There is no onsite parking at Salary Brook or Bourne Valley.

Do you have site rules for fishing?

Yes. The following rules apply to all our sites:

  • A maximum of two rods per angler is permitted.
  • Lead weights are not permitted. Non-toxic weights can be used.
  • All anglers must have an unhooking mat and landing net. A fine mesh net with a minimum diameter of 32 inches (80cm) is recommended. Keep nets are not permitted.
  • All fishing equipment, especially nets and unhooking mats, must be clean and dry before and after use to help stop the spread of aquatic diseases and waterborne pests.
  • Use a suitable size hook for your target species, with a maximum size 6 for carp. Only barbless hooks may be used. Trebles are not permitted.
  • A minimum 8lb line strength is recommended when fishing for carp. Braid line must not be used.
  • Tackle must not be left unattended.
  • All fish caught must be returned alive to the water. Catching and using fish as live bait is not permitted.
  • You must not release any fish or other aquatic life from other water bodies.
  • No tents or other structures are permitted other than an umbrella or open fishing bivvy. Fires and stoves are not permitted.
  • No unused bait or discarded tackle must be left behind. All litter must be taken home.
  • Do not damage bank-side vegetation or wildlife.
  • Fishing must take place from designated swims and not from in the water. Fly fishing is not permitted.
  • Your day ticket or season ticket and current Environment Agency rod licence must be produced for inspection if requested by rangers or other council officers.
  • Junior permits are required for children aged 13 to 16. Children under 13 do not need a permit but must be accompanied by a paying adult aged 17 or over, with a maximum of two rods.
  • You must be considerate of other lake and park users and follow all instructions from site staff.

Important information

Environment Agency rod licence regulations apply.

If rangers or council officers believe anglers have failed to comply with these rules, they may be required to leave the country park and have their season ticket or day ticket withdrawn.

Anglers are strongly advised to take appropriate hygiene precautions, particularly before eating.

Toilet facilities are available at the High Woods Country Park Visitor Centre, west of the lake off Turner Road.

Anglers should always check local byelaws and seek landowner permission before fishing.