If you've just taken up coarse fishing, or you're thinking about it, you might find it helpful to learn a little more about the sport. Coarse fishing is tremendously popular, and with fish ranging from small roach at under 1lb to giant carp, there's something for everyone.

If you're coarse fishing in the UK, the first thing you need to do is get a rod licence. You must have this licence in order to fish in any watereven if you have the owner's permission.

Tackle

The type and quantity of tackle you choose to buy is important. Seasoned coarse anglers have a wide range of equipment, collected over the years and, in some cases, adapted for a particular use. As a novice, you won't need to invest in all this expensive tackle at one go, but there are a few essential items:

? Rodsthere are beginner's rods available, and a good tackle shop will be able to talk you through the advantages and disadvantages of this type of rod. Many coarse anglers think that a beginner's rod is too short, and advise a lightweight 10ft rod instead. The choice is yours, but make sure that you buy the best rod that you can afford, because it will last longer, and be more use to you as you become more proficient.

? Linesas a new angler, you should start with a light line, so that you can get used to handling the rod and catching the smaller fish. Line comes in different materials and weights, so speak to your local tackle shop to see what they stock and what will be best for you.

? Reelsthere are only three types of reel, but each of those types has its own range. A fixed reel is best for beginners, because you don't need the gearing of a multiplier reel and the revolving centre pin reel doesn't give you the flexibility you need. Again, ask for advice when it comes to matching your reel to your rod and line.

? Hooksthe types of hook you can use could be the subject of a separate article. Some of the hooks won't be any use to you until you've mastered the basics of angling, so get a good beginner's selection from your tackle shop, which will be happy to help.

Once you have your basic equipment, including bait, a seat-box and a landing net, then find a local lake where there will be someone on hand to help, and go and see what coarse fishing is all about.