Rod fishing byelaws are statutory rules put in place by the Environment Agency. They protect migratory and freshwater fish stocks from damaging fishing practices.

Rod fishing byelaws set out when, where and how you can fish and what fish you can take

Some fishing rules are local, covering specific waters; others apply to the whole of South West Region; and some national rules cover the whole of England and Wales.

Angling clubs and private fisheries often have their own rules which you must respect.