The River’s Rest: Reflections on the Close Season and the Anticipation of a New Beginning

Last Friday, March 14th, marked the end of another river fishing season for anglers across England and Wales. For many, this date is steeped in nostalgia—a time-honoured transition from one angling year to the next. Until three decades ago, March 14th was the last day coarse fishing was allowed anywhere in England and Wales. Those eager to keep fishing had to switch their focus to trout or venture to sea. Some even travelled to Scotland or Ireland, where the laws remain different to this day.

For dedicated anglers, the final cast before the close season is a moment of reflection. Many make a point of fishing both the first and last days of the season, revisiting familiar swims, recalling past catches, and savouring those final hours by the water. It’s a farewell—for now—to the rivers that have been a source of solace throughout the colder months.

In recent years, my last day of the season has been spent fishing with my father on the tidal Broads rivers—waters that hold a deep personal significance, as they were where my journey as an angler began over 40 years ago. Places like Potter Heigham and Beccles were where I first cast a swimfeeder and maggot hookbait in pursuit of roach, perch, and bream.

Swimfeeder filled with groundbait and maggot/caster is a great method for tidal Broads rivers

The tackle and tactics may have improved, but unfortunately the fishing itself isn’t what it once was. Nevertheless, last Friday, despite a biting northerly wind, we set up at Worlingham on the River Waveney, side by side, putting the world to rights as we watched our quivertips, silhouetted against the vast Broads landscape. We caught all three of our target species—not as many or as large as we might have wished, but enough to bid the river farewell for the next three months.

Small bream, roach and perch kept the rod tips knocking throughout the day

The very next day, I turned my attention to trout, casting my flies in the hope of an early-season success. I was rewarded handsomely with four beautifully conditioned rainbows from my new lake, one of which made for a fine dinner, its belly stuffed with herbs and served alongside hand-cut chips and roasted tomatoes.

Early success on a new lake resulted in fresh trout for Sunday lunch.

Of course, my fishing calendar remains full in the coming weeks, with courses to teach, newcomers to introduce to the sport, and seasoned anglers looking to refine their skills. These sessions will take place on still waters and along the coast, while river-specific training is set to resume in July.

And then, there’s June 16th—the date river anglers eagerly await. More than just a mark on the calendar, it’s a tradition. Many will wake before dawn, rods prepared, hearts pounding with anticipation. The first cast into a reopened river carries with it a sense of renewal—an excitement that never diminishes, no matter how many years have passed. This season, I plan to begin by tench fishing at sunrise, although not on the rivers, I will be embracing the classic approach: fishing close in with a float, waiting for the tell-tale lift of the rod as a tench makes its bid for the sanctuary of the weeds.

Why Do We Have a Close Season?

Between March and June, most coarse fish are engaged in their most critical task—spawning. The process is physically taxing and easily disrupted. Unlike humans, fish don’t get a second chance later in the year; if their spawning is interrupted, an entire year’s generation can be lost, impacting fish stocks for seasons to come.

To give them the best possible chance, the close season was introduced, banning fishing in rivers, streams, and specific drains from March 15th to June 15th. It’s a crucial period for fish populations to repopulate and recover, free from the stress of angling pressure. Spring breathes new life into the waterways. Pike are the first to spawn, heading to the shallows once the water reaches around 9°C. Perch, dace, and grayling follow suit, using gravel beds and tree roots as nurseries. Later, as the temperature rises, barbel and bream take their turn, relying on undisturbed waters to safeguard their offspring.

River like the here on the tidal Waveney are closed for fishing 15th March to 15th June

During this time, riverbanks undergo a transformation. With fewer anglers treading the paths, vegetation flourishes, providing vital shelter for insects, birds, and fry—tiny newborn fish venturing out for the first time. Less human activity means reduced silt disturbance, clearer water, and more stable oxygen levels, creating optimal conditions for young fish to grow strong.

A Tradition Rooted in History

The close season is far from a modern concept. It dates back to the Mundella Act of 1878, named after A.J. Mundella, a politician who championed its introduction. However, its origins were contentious. Anglers and lawmakers debated fiercely over when the restrictions should fall, with some advocating for a species-specific approach. After much deliberation in fishing clubs and grand London halls, a compromise was reached: March 15th to June 15th would be the designated closed period.

Interestingly, the act was not initially intended to protect spawning coarse fish. At the time, salmon and trout were seen as the true sporting quarry, while species like roach and bream were often dismissed as ‘vermin.’ Yet, by restricting fishing during this period, the legislation inadvertently provided coarse fish populations with much-needed relief from relentless angling, poaching, and netting.

In 1994, the laws governing the close season were reviewed. With the rise of private fisheries—where fish stocks were carefully managed—the need for a blanket ban was questioned. It was argued that lake owners were better positioned to decide when their fish needed protection. As a result, in 1995, the close season was abolished for private, landlocked fisheries in England and Wales, except those designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

Where Can You Fish During the Close Season?

While rivers, and certain protected waters are off-limits, anglers still have plenty of opportunities. Many still waters and canals remain open, provided the fishery owner allows it. Some commercial fisheries operate year-round, offering a way to stay connected with the sport while the rivers rest. However, it’s always wise to check local regulations, as pubic waters and some in SSSIs still fall under close season restrictions.

For those who favor River fishing, the break offers a chance to explore new methods. Fly fishing for trout and salmon is permitted on many rivers, provided you have the correct license and adhere to local bylaws. It’s an excellent way to expand your skill set and appreciate another facet of the angling world.

As we count down the days to June 16th, there’s time to reflect on the importance of the close season—not just as a legal restriction, but as a vital period for the health of our fisheries. While we may miss the rivers during these months, the break ensures that when we return, the waters are full of life, ready to welcome us back for another season of adventure. In the meantime countless fishing adventures await in the coming weeks—perfect opportunities to refine your skills and explore new waters.

Duncan Holmes March 16th 2025