Learn to fish with Fishing with Nick
Individual and group private fishing tuition for beginners – no experience necessary
Never fished? No problem
Learn the fundamentals of coarse or carp fishing from a qualified coach
Build your fishing knowledge and confidence
Spend time outdoors having fun!
"My son absolutely loved it and caught some really big fish... would happily go again and again!"
Richard Jackson
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4-hour session, set up for you
Sessions typically last four hours for coarse fishing and six hours for carp fishing and are designed to maximise your time actually fishing. You arrive with everything already set up and ready to go.
All ages and abilities
Whether you've never fished, you're just starting out, or you're returning to fishing after twenty years, Fishing with Nick is for you. You don't need to know a float from a feeder, own a rod, have held a rod, or have ever set foot near a lake. Sessions are tailored to you and everything is explained as you go.
All tackle, equipment and bait provided
All fishing gear you need can be provided for you: chair, rod, reel, bait – the lot. I’ll explain each piece of equipment, what you actually need, and how to set it up properly. You’re welcome to bring your own kit if you prefer. Bait is included in the price of the session.
Angling Trust Level 2 Qualified Coach
I'm a qualified fishing coach with Enhanced DBS, safeguarding training, and emergency first aid training. Sessions are structured, safe and supportive, with care and attention given to you, the fish, and the environment.
Based out of Salisbury, UK
Sessions take place at private coarse fisheries across the Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset and Somerset region, with permission from the owners. I'll send you clear directions and everything you need to know about the location before you arrive.
Fishing with Nick is ideal for you if you're:
Completely new to fishing and you want to learn how to fish properly
A parent wanting to take your child fishing but you don’t know where to start
Someone who used to fish and you want to refresh your memory and get your confidence back
Struggling with your mental health and you want to benefit from being outside and quieting your mind, away from life’s usual distractions
"I spent the morning on a total beginner's course with Nick. He's an excellent teacher – very calm and patient and he explains everything very clearly. The lake was great, all the kit was provided and even as a total novice I caught some good fish and had a thoroughly enjoyable time."
Charlie Hutcheson
"We booked a 1:1 session for my son's 10th birthday and it was his best present! He loved every second, learned loads and Nick is just brilliant! Nick is super knowledgeable, patient and helpful. Would recommend a session to anyone; we will definitely be back for more!"
Jessica White
"I can't say enough great things about our experience with Nick as he taught our son, Jake, how to fish for the very first time... Jake not only learned the basics but also caught his first fish, something he'll never forget! We couldn't have asked for a better introduction to fishing, and I highly recommend Nick for anyone looking for a professional and enjoyable experience."
Mark Gosling
What you'll experience
My goal is to get you bites and teach you how to fish – and make it a fun and memorable experience.In our session, you'll be the one fishing, not me (although I will have a rod out in 1:1 sessions to maximise opportunities for you).My role is to guide you, explain everything, and answer any questions, so you go through the whole process, grow in confidence and gain the ability to fish by yourself.Everything you learn, you learn while it's happening – spotting signs of fish and bites, striking, playing the fish, getting it in the net. And we'll repeat each process so it sticks.But it’s not just about catching fish. It’s about being by the water, surrounded by nature, with nothing to distract you.Fishing is good for your mind. It’s time outdoors, in fresh air and a calm environment, completely immersed in what you’re doing. It helps your focus and attention, improves your patience and resilience, reduces your stress and anxiety, and boosts your mood.Things happen around you when you’re sitting still by the water.I’ve had kingfishers and robins land on my rod, grass snakes swim past me, kites fly above me, deer and hares stroll past behind me. I’ve even had two moles come up from underground and have a fight in front of me. Where else could you get experiences like that?And while I can’t guarantee we’ll catch, every single one of my clients to date has caught with me. I’m confident you will too.
"Had an absolutely cracking session out on the lake with Nick – it was a great intro for our son. From the get-go, everything was spot on... You can tell a lot of care goes into the teaching and the experience. All in all, an amazing session with great company, great guidance and great fish. Already looking forward to the next one."
Adrian Durbin
"I booked a 1:1 fishing tuition for my son's birthday who has never been fishing before. I can honestly say it was an unforgettable experience! My son had the most amazing day and has come away excited to have more sessions with Nick and had learnt so much. Thank you so much Nick."
Maxine Jackson
"Nick is incredibly knowledgeable and really easy to chat with, which made the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable. He provided all the equipment and bait, so it was completely hassle-free and perfect for learning. I'd highly recommend Fishing with Nick for anyone looking to start fishing or give it a try. A great day out and I'll definitely be booking again."
Stuart Siviter
What you'll learn
All sessions take place on still waters – lakes, not rivers or the sea – and cover coarse or carp fishing.For coarse fishing we tend to use short pole and feeder methods. We can cover float fishing too if you'd like.For carp fishing we cover basic hair rigs, solid bags and Ronnie rigs (other rigs can be covered if you prefer).If none of that means anything to you, don't worry. Whatever your level, we'll start with what you already know (or don't know) and tailor it to what you want to get most from the experience.Four hours sounds like a long time, but it goes quickly, so we'll cover the basics properly rather than rushing through everything.Each session is slightly different but here are some of the things we’ll cover:
Where to fish and why – how to read a lake and work out where the fish are likely to be, instead of chasing where you’ve seen them
Short pole and feeder fishing – how each works, and the pros and cons
Rod and reel – setting up, casting, and putting your bait where you want it
Knots – the three I use for almost everything, and how to tie them so they hold
Bait – what to use, how much, and how often for different types of fishing, different species and different seasons
Spotting bites and signs of fish – knowing what they look like and when to strike
Playing and landing a fish – keeping the right tension so you don't lose or injure the fish
Handling fish properly – unhooking, holding, weighing and returning them safely; fish care is mandatory in my sessions
What kit you actually need – maggot feeders, open-end feeders, cage feeders, feeder hooks, specimen hooks, carp hooks, pole hooks… the list is endless. I can tell you what to buy and what not to buy, please just ask
Staying safe by the water – every session starts with a lap of the lake while I run through the health and safety essentials
Care for the environment – we’ll pick up any litter and discarded fishing line so we protect the natural habitat and leave it nicer for everyone
Fish photography – how to set up the shot and hold the fish so you get that all-important snap
"Freddie had such a great time fishing with Nick! He loved it! It's the happiest I've seen him for awhile and he cannot wait to go again! ...Nick was brilliant with Freddie... giving him guidance, helping him but also letting him be independent and learn. With an added token of gentle banter! Thank you so much for giving Freddie such a great fishing experience."
Stacey Trollope
"Had a great day fishing with Nick, booked as my 6 year old son really wanted to get into fishing and I had no clue where to start or what to do. Nick was really friendly and patient and a great teacher. He supplied us with everything we needed and most of all we caught plenty of fish. I would highly recommend booking a session."
Carole Finn-Jones
"My mum had been longing to go fishing for the last few years, so it was wonderful to finally make it happen. What an unforgettable day it turned out to be! ...Nick was amazing from start to finish. He was incredibly patient, calm, and encouraging, especially when talking her through landing the carp... She can't wait to book another session, and neither can I... Thank you for giving my mum such a special day and memories she'll treasure forever."
KC Marie
What's included
Everything you need is provided and set up before you arrive in line with the fishery’s rules, which vary from lake to lake:
Rod and reel, ready to fish – mid-range gear from top-end brands, set up and rigged for the day
Proper rod rests – so you're not holding it for four hours
A proper fishing chair – plus a second one if someone's coming to watch
All the bait – every angler has their preference; I’ll tell you mine
Landing net, unhooking mat, weigh net and scales – these are essential for proper fish care
Hand gel and wet wipes – fishing is a messy business
Lake fee – no separate ticket to buy on the day
One thing you'll need to sort yourself: an Environment Agency rod fishing licence if you're 13 or over. If you’re aged between 13 and 16 you’ll need a junior rod licence, which is free. Over 16s can get a 1-day licence.It’s quick and easy to do online and I’ll ask to see your licence before we start. Please ask me any questions if you’re unsure.
Prices
All prices include private coaching, bait and lake fees, as well as borrowing of equipment and tackle as required for the session.
4-hour Coarse Fishing Tuition for Beginners
1 person – £75 (coach also fishes but all bites go to client)
2 people – £120
3 people – £160
4 people – £190 (2 people fishing at a time)
6 people – £210 (2 people fishing at a time)
6-hour Carp Fishing Tuition for Beginners
1 person – £100 (coach also fishes but all bites go to client)
2 people – £160
Prices are subject to change. Payment must be made in full 3 days before the session. Full terms and conditions are sent when you confirm your booking.
Locations
Bulford Lake
Ratfyn Farm, Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7EB
Whinwhistle Fishery
Whinwhistle Road, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6BE
Todber Manor Fisheries
Manor Farm, Todber, Dorset, DT10 1JB
Rode Hill Fishery
Rode Hill, Frome, Somerset, BA11 6QH
About Nick
I got my first fishing rod when I was seven – and I’ve been hooked ever since.What my parents thought might be a casual hobby turned into a full-time obsession that’s lasted over 38 years and is still going strong.Christmas and birthday wishlists always included the newest kit. On weekends, when I wasn’t fishing, I’d set up my equipment in the garden and practice tying knots. A friend’s mum started a local angling club (Harnham Kingfishers) where I got my first taste of match fishing, entering and winning lots of junior competitions.As an adult, I’ve been lucky enough to fish all over the world – USA, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Zanzibar, Denmark, Cyprus, Spain. I even managed to fit in a 12-hour fishing session prior to proposing to my wife (she fished alongside me)!I’ve had some truly remarkable fishing experiences, catching a mix of freshwater and saltwater species: white sturgeon in Fraser River in Canada; sailfish in the waters off Costa Rica; Mekong giant catfish in Thailand; and sturgeon in Denmark.
Still on my target list is catching a 200+ lbs shark, bluefin tuna, marlin, and a 40+ lbs carp, to name only a few.But it all started with learning how to fish in local rivers and lakes: from minnows to mirror carp, I’ve caught thousands of fish, lost a fair few, and of course had a few blanks. Along the way, I’ve learned from more experienced anglers and mastered a few tips and tricks myself – and I’m still learning!Now, I’m privileged to share my passion and pass on my knowledge to my two young sons and the many happy clients I’ve been fortunate to help. I’ve taught beginners from as young as six to a young-at-heart 80-year-old grandmother.
I really believe that fishing is for everyone and offers people many benefits. As someone who has experienced mental health issues my whole life, being on the bank is where I feel my best. It’s a big part of why I do this, and it’s also why I’ve done autism and ADHD awareness training and become an Angling Trust Get Fishing for Wellbeing approved partner.I love to fish and I love helping people. Fishing With Nick allows me to do both those things at once. It thrills me when my clients tell me how much they’ve loved their experience – please take a look at my Facebook and Google reviews to see for yourself.Whether you want your first taste of fishing, to improve your fishing craft, or to escape the daily stresses of life for a few hours, Fishing with Nick is for you. I’d love for you to join me for a session.
"I took my son for his first session with Nick today. Nick was so patient and friendly, we managed an incredible 5 fish even though it was very cold and high water levels. We will definitely be booking another session in."
Nicky Dawson
"George had his first session with Nick at the weekend and he absolutely loved it!! We managed to catch a few different carp including mirror and ghosts! When we arrived everything was set up and ready to go with all the equipment, which for us made the whole thing so easy. Nick was patient, informative and fun. George took a lot away with him and we can't wait to book our next session!"
Simon Xowalewski
"Fantastic day fishing with Nick who certainly knows his stuff. Nick really cares for the welfare of the fish. He was very informative and great fun! I would highly recommend his lessons and I'm aiming to go back for more lessons in the new year."
Kristen Frysol
How to book
Book private fishing tuition for you or someone you know, from £75 for a single coarse fishing session and from £100 for a single carp fishing session.Just fill in the form or message me directly on Facebook or WhatsApp, tell me what you’re after and ask any questions you have, and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
FAQs
What are your age limits?I don't have strict age limits — my youngest client so far was 6 and my oldest 80. If you're unsure whether it's right for someone, please just ask.
Can my child come on their own?Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Can someone come along to watch?Of course. I always bring a spare chair, so they can settle in and enjoy it too.
Do you deliver group sessions?Yes. As well as 1:1, I teach small groups, families, and parents and children together. For groups, the maximum is 6 people, fishing in pairs with 3 fishing at a time.
What should I bring or wear?Always dress for the weather and wear something you don’t mind getting wet and muddy. Please bring any medication and notify me of any phobias or allergies.
Are there toilets at the lake?There are toilets at Rode Hill, Todber Manor and Whinwhistle. Bulford lake has a portaloo – outside of the summer season this is sited a short drive from the lake.
What happens if the weather’s bad?I fish these lakes all year round and catch in the cold, and I bring a large brolly for shelter from rain or sun. If it’s unsafe to fish due to the weather (e.g. because of a storm) or not possible due to lakes being frozen over, then I’ll be in touch to reschedule.
What happens if we don’t catch any fish?Every serious angler will tell you that blanking is just part of fishing. But while I can’t guarantee we’ll catch, I can increase our chances. There’s a very strong chance of catching with pole fishing, and every single client to date has caught. Either way, you’ll go home having learnt plenty.
What if I need to cancel my session?This will depend on circumstances. I am always sympathetic and will strive to resolve a cancellation request satisfactorily. Full terms and conditions will be sent to you when booking.
