Our Island Plan

Freshwater fishing

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All anglers fishing on the Island's inland waters must hold a valid licence issued by DEFA, purchased before you fish.

Licences can be purchased online via Government Online Services, at DEFA headquarters in St Johns, or at the Welcome Centre, Douglas.

Licence fees are updated annually. The current licence duties can be found on the Fishing licence duties page, as well as in the ‘Downloadable Documents’ section of this page.

Full details of licence types, seasons, and permitted fishing locations are available on the Freshwater Fishing Information page.

A Code of Conduct leaflet is available for anglers, giving advice and guidance on the regulations. Copies are available at DEFA headquarters in St Johns, or in the ‘Downloadable Documents’ section of this page.

The Inland Fisheries Regulations 2017 set out the full rules and regulations for freshwater angling. Anglers are encouraged to read and understand these regulations before going fishing.

To report suspicious incidents relating to fisheries matters, contact the Fisheries Division or contact the police if outside of office hours.

Fisheries Division, DEFA
Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St John's, IM4 3AS

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays).

Telephone: +44 1624 685857

Email: fisheries@gov.im

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