The Council issues permits to fish the River Thames at Abingdon-on-Thames during the fishing season from 16 June to 14 March each year.
New permits for 2025-26 are available from 19 May 2025
Fishing permits are free for Abingdon’s permanent residents who must carry their permit at all times when fishing. The easiest way to obtain a permit is to visit our information centre on Bridge Street (OX14 3HU) but you can also email enquiries@abingdon.gov.uk.
You will need to provide proof of permanent residence in Abingdon (driving licence, council tax).
If you are not eligible for a free local fishing permit, we are still pleased to offer you a day visitor or season ticket which you are able to pay for by bank transfer, or in our Visitor Centre by cash or card payment. The rates are below.
Charges
Our charges for 2025/26
Day permits
Visitors – £12.00
Visitor Concessions* day permit: £6.50
Family Visitor Day Permit – (up to 2 adults and 2 children) – £23.00
Season permits
Visitor Season Permit – £29.00
Visitor Concessions* Season Permit: £17.50
* Concessions include:
- Senior – aged 60 years and over;
- Child 5-16 years of age. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied at all times by an adult who has a valid permit and rod licence.
If you visit our information centre to pay for your permit, we can accept cash or card payments.
Matches
A fee of £55 plus £6.50 per peg is payable.
Matches must be booked with the Council and no more than 30 pegs are allowed without prior agreement. Each competitor must also have one of the permits listed above valid on the day of the match i.e. a resident or a visitor’s permit. Competitors must also hold the Environment Agency rod licence (see below).
Rod licence
All anglers should also have an Environment Agency valid rod licence which can be obtained online at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence or at any Post Office in England and Wales or call 0844 800 5386.
You should always carry your Abingdon permit/visitor/season ticket as well as your rod licence and proof of home address when you are fishing the Abingdon Fisheries as our Water Keeper may ask you to produce this documentation.
Further information
Legal information about the extent and use of Abingdon Fisheries can be viewed here.
Further information can be obtained from enquiries@abingdon.gov.uk or call 01235 522642.
