A Guide to Disabled-Friendly Fisheries in the UK

What Makes a Good Disabled Fishing Peg?

Not all “disabled-friendly” pegs are the same. Disabilities vary widely, so what works well for one angler may not suit another. That said, there are some key features that consistently make fishing safer, easier and more enjoyable.

A good disabled fishing peg starts with easy, level access. The route from the car park to the peg should be flat, firm, and free from steps, steep slopes, or loose ground, and it should remain usable even in wet weather.

Alvechurch Fishery, West Midlands

Parking close to the peg is one of the most important considerations. Ideally, anglers should be able to park next to, or very close to, the peg, with enough space to fully open car doors or deploy wheelchair ramps without obstruction.

A well-designed disabled peg will usually include a stable, purpose-built platform. This should be solid, non-slip, and large enough to comfortably accommodate a wheelchair, seat box, or other mobility aids, while allowing the angler to reposition safely.

Dave’s pool at Temple Farm, Leicestershire

The water’s edge should be safe and predictable, with no sudden drop-offs, undercut banks, or uneven margins. A flush or gently raised edge helps reduce risk and makes it easier to land fish safely. Good platforms often have raised lip around the side and waterside edge to prevent items rolling off / falling off the edge of the platform.

Good peg design also improves overall fishing comfort. There should be enough space for rods, nets, bait tables, and, where necessary, an assistant, without forcing awkward casting angles or requiring anglers to work around trees, posts, or other obstructions.

What to Look for: Accessible Fishing Pegs and Facilities

Before booking, disabled anglers are strongly advised to contact the fishery directly. Asking whether the peg is fully wheelchair accessible from the car park, whether the paths remain usable in wet conditions, and whether close parking is permitted can prevent disappointment on the day.

It is also worth checking whether accessible toilets are available on site and whether staff or bailiffs are able to offer assistance if needed. Fisheries that are genuinely accessible are usually happy to discuss individual requirements.

Top Wheelchair Friendly Fishing Lakes

• Stones Fishery, Derbyshire
• Willow Farm Fishery, Derbyshire
• Kingfisher Trout Lake, Herefordshire
• Temple Farm Fishery, Leicestershire
• Broad Acres Fishery, Nottinghamshire
• Birch House Lakes, Staffordshire
• Hamstall Pleasure Fishery, Staffordshire
• Hillview Lakes Fishery, Staffordshire
• Pool House Farm Fishery, Staffordshire
• Woodlands Fishery, Staffordshire
• Coppice Lane Pools, West Midlands
• Trinity Waters Fishery, West Midlands
• Alvechurch Fisheries, Worcestershire

Tips for Disabled Anglers (Before You Book)

We’ve pulled this information together based on what we know about these fisheries, but things do change, so to ensure your specific needs are accommodated, we recommend that you call the fishery directly before planning your trip.

• Call ahead: Always check availability and discuss any special requirements with the fishery.
• Accessible parking: Many fisheries have car parks close to pegs; verify this before visiting.
• Booking assistance: Some fisheries offer help with carrying tackle or providing a buddy system.
• Weather considerations: Some banks are flat but may be muddy or slippery in wet conditions.

Kingfisher Trout Lake, Herefordshire

A Note for Fishery Owners

Making a fishery more accessible does not always require major investment. Often, one well-designed peg, improved parking access, and clear communication on your website are enough to make a meaningful difference.

Genuinely accessible facilities help open angling to more people, including disabled anglers, carers, families, and community groups, strengthening the sport for everyone.

By working together – anglers, fisheries, and clubs – we can help ensure that everyone who wants to go fishing knows where they can go, what to expect, and that they will be welcomed.

Written by Aman Sangha