Have you always wanted to try coarse fishing but didn't know where to start? This handy guide will give you a push in the right direction.

Coarse fishing is advanced freshwater fishing, catching fish such as bream, roach, carp and tench. Coarse anglers can be found on canal and river banks and at public and private lakes with stocks of fish like these. Whilst a lot of the tackle and angling jargon can be quite daunting, it's worth persevering and talking to seasoned anglers to find out what the attractions are and to get some useful hints and tips.

1. The tackle shop

The best place to start is your local tackle shop. The staff there will have a really useful knowledge of all the equipment that a new coarse fisher may need, and they'll also be able to point you in the right direction of clubs or lakes that welcome beginners, or who may even hold beginners' sessions to help get you started.

2. The internet

The internet is a fantastic source of information, and you can find out pretty much everything you need to know about coarse fishing by spending a bit of time browsing websites. Whether you're looking at a dedicated coarse fishing site, you're reading information on lake, river or canal fishing, or following a blog that's posted by a keen angler, you'll be able to find the answer to pretty much any question you have. Use the web to gather information so that you're well prepared when you go to the tackle shop or book a day at a coarse fishing lake.

3. Magazines

There are plenty of magazines dedicated to coarse fishing and they are a great place to find out what's happening around the country. From tackle reviews to hints and tips for catching your dream fish, magazines are a great way of keeping in touch with the coarse fishing community.

Learn as much as you can about coarse fishing before you start, make sure you get the right equipment and ask for advice along the way, and you're bound to be hooked in no time!