Access for disabled anglers

Specially designed wheelchair-accessible platforms are available for anglers at the Cringle and Injebreck (West Baldwin) reservoirs. The platforms, which incorporate recommendations of the British Disabled Angling Association, may be used by all licensed anglers, but priority should be given to those who need them most.

Please be aware there may be temporary accessibility restrictions due to low water levels or maintenance operations by Manx Utilities.

Those wishing to use the wheelchair-accessible platforms can obtain a key from Manx Utilities (telephone +44 1624 687687) in exchange for a small deposit. The key opens both the gate into the disabled users’ car park at Cringle Reservoir and the gate to the Injebreck platform access ramp. A small number of keys, for single day use only, are also available from DEFA headquarters in St John’s.

Cringle Reservoir (4.5 acres)

Cringle reservoir is situated about 5km northwest of Ballasalla, on the B39 Ronague Road. The wheelchair-accessible platform can be accessed via either a low gradient ramp or steps with hand-rails. It is near to the disabled users’ car parking area (key required). The platform lies within an area that is closed, for short periods, following stocking operations; only wheelchair users may fish from the platform during these closed periods. Water levels at Cringle Reservoir usually remain stable year-round.

Injebreck (West Baldwin) Reservoir (41.4 acres)

This reservoir is located about 5km north of Union Mills, in the West Baldwin valley. Parking is available along the roadside on the B22. The wheelchair-accessible platform is located north of the entrance to the public car park, adjacent to the road. The platform is accessed via a stile or a gate for which a key is required. Anglers should be aware that fishing from the platform may not be possible when water levels are very low.

Cost of a licence

Licence fees are updated annually. The current licence duties can be found on the Fishing licence duties page.

A 30% concessionary discount applies to all licences for those of pensionable age or who are disabled (as defined in the Equality Act 2017). No proof of eligibility is required at the point of purchase, but we advise licence holders to carry evidence of eligibility when fishing, along with their licence and ID, as enforcement officers may ask to see them.