What Does “Licensed Angling Coach” Mean at Teach Me To Fish?
If you’ve ever watched a football coach running drills, a tennis instructor teaching a serve, or someone helping a beginner catch their very first fish, you may have heard the phrase licensed coach.
But what does that actually mean — and why does it matter?
At Teach Me To Fish, being a licensed angling coach isn’t just a label. It’s a commitment to safety, professionalism, and high-quality coaching, especially when working with children, beginners, and people who may be new to the outdoors.
Let’s break it down.
1. Who Licenses Angling Coaches in the UK?
Every recognised sport in the UK is governed by a National Governing Body (NGB). These organisations set coaching standards, run qualifications, and ensure coaches meet national safeguarding and safety requirements.
For angling, that body is the Angling Trust.
The Angling Trust:
- Designs and delivers angling coaching qualifications
- Licenses coaches who meet all required standards
- Sets codes of conduct and safeguarding policies
This is no different from:
- Football coaches qualifying through The FA
- Athletics coaches qualifying through UK Athletics
- Tennis coaches qualifying through The LTA
Most sports follow a similar pathway:
- Level 1 – Assistant / beginner coach
- Level 2 – Independent coach running sessions
- Level 3 – Advanced or specialist coaching
At Teach Me To Fish, coaching is delivered by Angling Trust–qualified and licensed coaches, not hobbyists or unassessed helpers.
2. It’s Not Just About Catching Fish
Being able to fish well does not automatically mean someone is safe or suitable to coach others.
Licensed angling coaches must complete essential training that goes far beyond tackle and technique, including:
- Safeguarding Training
Understanding how to protect children and vulnerable adults - First Aid Training
Knowing what to do if something goes wrong outdoors - DBS Checks
Criminal background checks required for anyone working in a position of trust
This is especially important in angling, where:
- Sessions often involve children and young people
- Activities take place near water
- Group events require careful supervision and planning
At Teach Me To Fish, safeguarding isn’t an afterthought — it’s a foundation.
3. Ongoing Learning and Experience (CPD)
Licensed coaches don’t qualify once and stop learning.
They’re expected to complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to keep their knowledge current and their coaching effective.
This can include:
- New coaching methods
- Updated safety guidance
- Inclusive coaching techniques
- Working with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, or physical disabilities
- Improving group management and event delivery
Good coaches also build experience by:
- Assisting other qualified coaches
- Working at clubs, schools, and community events
- Learning through real-world coaching, not just theory
At Teach Me To Fish, learning never stops — because better coaches mean better, safer experiences for participants.
4. What Else Makes a Licensed Coach Different?
A licensed angling coach will also have:
Insurance
Professional and public liability insurance that protects both coach and participant.
People Skills
The ability to explain clearly, build confidence, and adapt to different learning styles.
Professional Standards
All licensed coaches must follow a formal code of conduct and act ethically at all times.
A coach’s role is not just to teach fishing — it’s to protect, support, and guide people safely.
5. Why Are Some Coaches Not Licensed?
This is a question worth asking — especially when you realise that an Angling Trust licence costs less than £1 per week.
So if it’s not about money, why avoid it?
Avoiding Assessment
Licensed coaches must be trained and assessed. This confirms they:
- Coach safely
- Use best practice
- Understand safeguarding responsibilities
Some people avoid licensing because they don’t want their methods reviewed or challenged.
Being good at fishing does not mean being good at teaching.
Avoiding DBS Checks
DBS checks exist for a reason: to protect children and vulnerable adults.
Anyone who actively avoids background checks should raise concerns. Coaching is a position of trust — and trust must be earned.
Avoiding Responsibility
Being licensed means:
- Staying up to date with training
- Being accountable
- Following rules and standards
Unlicensed coaching leaves everyone exposed — including the participant.
6. What Can You Expect from Teach Me To Fish?
When you choose Teach Me To Fish, you’re choosing coaching that is:
✔ Angling Trust Licensed
✔ Fully DBS Checked
✔ Safeguarding Trained
✔ First Aid Qualified
✔ Fully Insured
You can also expect:
- Clear communication
- Punctual, professional sessions
- Respect for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds
- Coaching that puts safety and enjoyment first
Licensed angling coaches can be checked using the Angling Trust’s official register:
www.anglingtrust.net/check-a-coach/
Why It Matters
Fishing should be:
- Enjoyable
- Safe
- Inclusive
- Confidence-building
A licensed angling coach ensures that happens.
If someone isn’t licensed, it’s worth asking why.
It’s rarely about cost — and it’s never a detail that should be ignored.
At Teach Me To Fish, we believe everyone deserves to learn angling the right way:
safely, professionally, and with care. 🎣
