Newbie

[Mick Preston UK]

Hello all... I took the advice of the admin message and posted firstly in the 'New Members Introduction' section, but as with many forums I don't think the new members section gets the same hits as the detailed bits (understandably!)

I'm a new member to the forum, and pretty much brand new to fishing... Went years ago with my mates for a few hours, but didn't really have time so it just stopped...

Not really thought about it much since, but went for a Holiday to the Mull of Kintyre a few weeks ago and did a spot of mackerel fishing (followed by a good BBQ) and must admit I quite enjoyed it. We tried to catch other things but to be honest we didn't know what we were doing and it was totally unsuccessful!

I am here to pick your brains if possible - I have done searches on Google but found lots of contradicting information, and lots of information on past years and seasons and as I don't know any better I don't know what to believe.

Basically I only want to fish for things I can eat - but don't know what types of fish I can eat, or where it is safe to eat from (read up about pollution causing issues with what you can and can't eat)...

I would absolutely love to catch a Salmon, as it is one of my favourite foods anyway, but I know there are certain restrictions so would like some clear guidance if possible.


Whilst on Holiday I bought a rod and reel (the rod was pretty huge - a beachcaster I think it's called - it was an ex-rental and the shop did it for £25 including the reel, line and a bit of kit - it seemed a bit of a bargain but hopefully I'm not being naive)

The only 'kit' I have were mainly for the mackerel, so feathers, weights, and a few spinners (12g & 18g). All seem to have barbed hooks (which again I'd like some advice on)

I know in England you need a rod licence to fish - and I wanted to know if it's worth getting the £72 quid one (obviously if I am going to catch Salmon I need to - but is it realistic at this time of year around Preston?)

Sorry - there are a lot of questions, but I like to know whats what rather than just setting off blind and doing something wrong (or potentially dangerous)

In short:

What can I and can't I eat
Where can I and can't I eat from (i.e. any waters to avoid)
What are restictions on local waters to Preston
What restrictions are there for kit (i.e. barbed hooks?)
What kit would you recommend getting for what I want to do.
I don't really have an idea when to use spinners, rigs (feathers), or when I would want to use a float set up...

I am really new - so sorry that my questions are bound to be dumb! lol

I am from just outside Preston, Lancashire, and would really appreciate any advice. Thank you

Mick