Where to go fishing in London

If you're looking for a stress-relieving outdoors activity this summer, then why not grab a rod and head to one of one of these fishing lakes or ponds in London?
Keep calm and fish: the Eagle Pond in Clapham Common is a popular spot for anglers
Melisha Kaur12 August 2014

As long as you have a valid fishing rod licence (details of how to get one at the end of this article) then you can take advantage of the rich shoals of fish in London's lakes, ponds and reservoirs.

Clapham Common ponds

These ponds located between Clapham, Battersea and Balham, are pretty popular with anglers, so expect it to be busy here. Fishing is only permitted in Long, Mount and Eagle Pond, so check you're in the right place before pulling your rod out. In addition to a rod licence, you need to apply via Lambeth council for a free permit to fish here. Fishing wardens are usually around on weekends if you need any guidance. Be sure to obey the seasonal signs!

Windmill Drive, SW4 9DE, lambeth.gov.uk

South Norwood Lake

Local anglers have been fishing in this public Croydon Lake for many years, where you can expect to catch some pretty big carp and perch. Season tickets can be purchased from staff at the lake.

Woodvale Avenue, SE25 4AN, croydon.gov.uk

Alexandra Palace Boating Lake

As well as cute rowing boats and the Lakeside Café nearby, the Ally Pally’s boating lake has a tranquil fishing area, which is open to visitors. You can fish here for bream, carp and roach.

Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY, alexandrapalace.com

Epping Forest

Anglers are allowed to use 24 of over 100 lakes and ponds in Epping Forest – except during the closed season; Mar 15-Jun 15 inclusive. As long as you’re following rules and obeying signs you can fish in the peaceful streams (including Connaught Water and Pizzle Pit) and there are also junior angling training events that take place here during the summer.

The Warren, IG10 4RW, cityoflondon.gov.uk

Walthamstow Reservoirs

With nine individual reservoirs, owned and operated by Thames Water, Walthamstow is an ideal spot for catching specimen coarse and game fish. Fly-fishing on reservoirs 4 and 5 is open all year, where you can catch some top quality rainbow trout. A permit is a must for all fisheries – these can be purchased from The Gatehouse or self-service permit office – and, of course, a rod licence. Angling Trust members get a 10 per cent discount on course and fly fishing season tickets while Walthamstow Fly Fisher’s Club members can use the East Warwick reservoir for free. Regulations can be read at thameswater.co.uk.

2 Forest Road, N17 9NH, thameswater.co.uk


A valid fishing rod licence is required for anglers over the age of 12 in England fishing for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels. These can be purchased from the Post Office or Environment agency. Be sure to check the local byelaws for your fishing area. There is a closed season for coarse fishing on Mar 15-Jun 15 inclusive.

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