A drink on the riverside might be the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon – but what about the rest of the day?

Summer’s eventual arrival is the ideal opportunity to while away a relaxing morning or evening fishing on the banks of the Thames.

It is fertile water, perfect for those inclined to piscine pursuits, with several species swimming in abundance.

Andy Mackie, owner of Surbiton Angling Centre in Hinchley Wood, says the Thames is a boon to local anglers.

He says: “There is a lot of fishing around here – anything from Hampton Court down. Pretty much everything gets to pretty serious specimen size.”

Carp, barbel, bream, and perch are all hiding below the surface, Mr Mackie says.

He adds: “It’s a good place to be if you’re a fisherman, there’s a little bit of everything. People will drive a long way to fish our stretch of river.

“If you just wanted a day fishing there are plenty of tackle shops around.”

But it would not be fishing without a little adversity.

Mr Mackie says: “We’re having a fairly wretched start to the year as regards the weather. But it won’t last forever – it’s fishing, it’s not always easy.

“If the weather is hot we would want to be going out in the evening, really.”

David Harvey, chairman of the Thames Anglers’ Conservancy, says: “Fishing on the Thames and in this area is hugely popular because you do have the Thames as a resource and it is free.

“For kids it’s pretty cheap and of course gets them outside, away from the Xbox and enjoying nature.”

All you need is a licence, he says, which is issued by the Environment Agency.

A licence can be obtained online or in a post office.

A visit to their website and to a local tackle shop should be a budding angler’s first moves, he says.

He adds: “For people starting out the best place to go is a tackle shop, because they can tell you what you need. It’s good for youngsters.

“Being able to physically go to talk to someone is quite important.”

Rod and tackle box in hand, what else is there to consider?

Mr Harvey adds: “Fish welfare is obviously massively important so if you do catch something you can land it safely, net it safely, and release it safely.

“You don’t want to damage the fish.”

As well as the fish, he says to look out for boaters and rowers. He adds: “It is being respectful of other river users.

“Try and avoid conflict and enjoy what you’re doing – we all share the river.”

Good spots to visit, with easy access and parking, include Hurst Park in East Molesey, Walton Bridge, Chertsey Bridge, Canbury Gardens, and Rivermead Island in Sunbury.

In addition, National Fishing Month begins on July 19 and runs until August 26. It is a chance for novices of all ages to try out the sport, with angling coaches on hand to provide tips and tricks.

To search for nearby events, visit nationalfishingmonth.com.