Half the battle of a good day’s fishing is turning up prepared. There is nothing worse than reaching the bank and realising you have forgotten your landing net or run out of hooks. Use this checklist before every trip to The Sedges and you will always be ready to fish.

The essential tackle

  • Rod and reel — a float or feeder rod covers most coarse fishing.
  • Made-up rigs — floats, feeders, shot and spare hooklengths.
  • Hooks in a range of sizes (barbless or micro-barbed only).
  • Line — main line and a lighter hooklength.
  • Plummet for finding the depth.

Fish-care gear (not optional)

Looking after the fish is part of every angler’s responsibility, and it is written into our fishery rules. Always pack:

  • A landing net — never lift a fish out by the line.
  • An unhooking mat to rest fish on.
  • A disgorger or forceps for removing hooks.
  • Barbless hooks, which are kinder to the fish and easier to remove.

Bait to bring

You do not need a fridge full of bait. Three staples will cover almost every situation on our lakes:

  • Maggots — the ultimate all-rounder for silverfish and more.
  • Sweetcorn — cheap, visible and loved by carp, tench and bream.
  • Pellet — ideal for the feeder and for carp.

Take a couple of options so you can switch if the fish are being fussy. For what works for each species, see our guides on carp and tench and bream.

Comfort and safety

  • Your Environment Agency rod licence (13 and over).
  • Weatherproof clothing — the Levels can be breezy.
  • Food and a flask — a warm drink makes any session better.
  • A seat or box and something to keep your gear dry.

The little extras that save the day

It is the small things that make a difference: a spare bait band, a pair of scissors or nail clippers for trimming line, a towel for your hands, some spare shot, and a bank stick or two. Keep a small box of these odds and ends in your bag and you will rarely be caught out.

Ready to go

With your kit sorted, all that is left is to pick your peg. Take a look at our three lakes, check the day-ticket prices, and come and enjoy a well-prepared day on the bank. New to it all? Start with our beginner’s guide to coarse fishing.