Apply Now: Fisheries Improvement Programme 2026 – Phase 2 (UK)

The Fisheries Improvement Programme Phase 2 is inviting applications for projects that improve fisheries, expand angling opportunities, and create benefits for anglers across England. The programme supports sustainable fisheries management, habitat improvements, fish passage, climate resilience, accessible angling facilities, and community fisheries projects that can be completed before March 2027.

About the Fisheries Improvement Programme Phase 2

The Fisheries Improvement Programme Phase 2 provides funding for projects that enhance freshwater fisheries and improve opportunities for anglers across England.

The programme is funded through income generated from coarse, trout, and eel fishing licences. It aims to ensure that licence income is reinvested into projects that directly benefit anglers and improve the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of fisheries.

Since its launch, the Fisheries Improvement Programme has supported more than 200 projects delivered by angling clubs, fisheries, and partner organizations.

The second phase provides further funding support for projects that can be completed by March 2027.

Objectives of the Fisheries Improvement Programme

The programme aims to:

Improve the sustainability and resilience of fisheries.
Increase access to safe and inclusive angling opportunities.
Protect and improve fish habitats.
Support climate adaptation and water management.
Develop community and urban fisheries.
Enhance facilities and infrastructure for anglers.

Projects must demonstrate clear benefits for anglers and take place on waters where angling activities are currently available.

Key Areas Supported Through the Programme

Sustainable and Resilient Fisheries

Funding can support projects that improve fisheries management and address environmental pressures.

Eligible activities may include:

Improving coarse, trout, and eel habitats.
Supporting fish passage improvements.
Restoring aquatic environments.
Managing impacts of prolonged dry weather.
Monitoring water quality.
Reducing risks from pollution or environmental incidents.
Improving long-term fisheries resilience against climate change.

These projects aim to protect fish populations while ensuring sustainable angling opportunities for future generations.

Accessible Angling Improvements

The programme supports projects that make fishing locations safer and more accessible for all anglers.

Supported improvements may include:

New or improved fishing platforms.
Upgraded fishing pegs.
Accessible pathways.
Toilet facilities.
Storage facilities.
Improved signage.
Security improvements.
Facilities designed for anglers with reduced mobility.

Projects should consider inclusion, accessibility, and the health and wellbeing benefits associated with angling.

Community and Urban Fisheries

Funding is also available for community-based and urban fisheries projects where there is a demonstrated need and local interest.

Projects may include:

Habitat improvement work.
Development of local fishing opportunities.
Improving access to urban fisheries.
Creating community engagement opportunities through angling.

These projects help increase participation in fishing and strengthen connections between communities and local waterways.

Who Is Eligible?

Applications are open to organizations involved in angling and fisheries management, including:

Angling clubs.
Fisheries.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Local authorities.
Community organizations.
Other groups involved in managing or supporting fisheries.

Eligible projects must:

Be located in England.
Take place on waters where angling activities occur.
Support activities covered by an Environment Agency non-migratory trout and coarse fishing licence.
Provide direct benefits to anglers.

Priority may be given to:

Angling clubs with open membership.
Fisheries that sell day tickets.
Volunteer-run clubs.
Small angling organizations with limited financial resources.

Projects That Are Not Eligible

The programme does not support:

Projects benefiting only salmon or sea trout.
Sea angling projects.
Activities unrelated to licensed freshwater angling.

Applicants who do not own or manage the fishing venue must obtain permission from the organization responsible for the site before submitting an application.

Funding Priorities

Applications will be assessed based on the ability of projects to provide meaningful benefits to anglers.

Priority areas include:

Increasing the number of anglers who benefit from funding.
Supporting accessible fishing opportunities.
Improving fisheries affected by environmental challenges.
Strengthening small and volunteer-led angling clubs.
Delivering practical improvements that can be completed before March 2027.

How to Apply

Applicants should prepare a project proposal that explains:

Project Details
- Description of the proposed improvement.
- Location of the fishery or angling site.
- Current challenges and identified needs.
Angling Benefits
- How the project will improve experiences for anglers.
- Number of anglers expected to benefit.
- Accessibility improvements or participation benefits.
Environmental Impact
- How the project supports sustainable fisheries.
- Benefits for fish habitats and ecosystems.
Delivery Plan
- Timeline for completing activities.
- Required permissions.
- Project partners involved.
Financial Information
- Project costs.
- Funding requirements.
- Contribution from applicants or partners.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

Clearly explain how the project benefits anglers.
Demonstrate community need and demand.
Include measurable outcomes.
Highlight environmental and sustainability benefits.
Provide evidence of permissions for fishing locations.
Explain how the project can be completed before March 2027.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Submitting projects that do not directly benefit anglers.
Applying for activities outside England.
Proposing projects focused only on salmon, sea trout, or sea angling.
Failing to obtain permission from the water owner or manager.
Providing unclear project costs.
Not explaining how the project improves accessibility or sustainability.
Missing the completion deadline of March 2027.

Why This Programme Matters

Healthy fisheries are essential for sustainable angling, biodiversity protection, and community wellbeing.

The Fisheries Improvement Programme helps ensure that fishing licence income supports practical improvements that benefit anglers while protecting aquatic environments.

By supporting habitat restoration, climate resilience, accessible facilities, and community fisheries, the programme contributes to stronger and more inclusive angling opportunities across England.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Fisheries Improvement Programme Phase 2?
The Fisheries Improvement Programme Phase 2 provides funding for projects that improve fisheries, increase angling opportunities, and deliver benefits to anglers across England.

Who can apply for funding?
Angling clubs, fisheries, NGOs, local authorities, and community organizations involved in angling can apply.

What types of projects are supported?
The programme supports sustainable fisheries, habitat improvements, fish passage, climate resilience, accessible facilities, and community fisheries projects.

Where must projects take place?
Projects must be located in England and carried out on waters where licensed angling activities take place.

Are sea angling projects eligible?
No. Sea angling projects and projects benefiting only salmon or sea trout are not eligible.

Can small volunteer-run angling clubs apply?
Yes. The programme particularly encourages applications from small clubs with limited finances and volunteer-led organizations.

When must funded projects be completed?
Projects supported through this funding opportunity must be completed before March 2027.

Conclusion

The Fisheries Improvement Programme Phase 2 offers an important opportunity for angling organizations and community groups to improve fisheries, expand access to fishing, and strengthen environmental sustainability across England.

By supporting practical projects such as habitat restoration, accessible facilities, climate resilience measures, and community fisheries development, the programme helps create better experiences for anglers while protecting valuable aquatic ecosystems.