The Exeter Canal is a 7.8km urban waterway running through Devon's historic city center, offering convenient coarse fishing with good access points along its towpath. The canal provides a calm, sheltered fishing environment ideal for beginners and those seeking relaxed angling within an urban setting. Water quality issues from urban runoff can occasionally affect conditions, but the canal remains a popular local fishing destination.
Exeter Canal holds roach, rudd, perch, pike, tench, bream, carp. Carp are particularly popular with specimen anglers — handle all fish with care and return them promptly.
An Environment Agency rod licence is required alongside a Canal & River Trust day or annual fishing licence. Both available online.
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To fish Exeter Canal, you need a valid Environment Agency rod licence, available from gov.uk, plus a Canal & River Trust fishing licence or day permit. Both can be purchased online before your visit. Day tickets, weekly and annual CRT licences are all available.
The towpath alongside Exeter Canal provides bank access for most of its length. Some stretches may be managed by local angling clubs — check for club-only water before setting up. Always leave gates as you find them and take all litter home.
