Are you a passionate angler in search of the ultimate fishing experience? Look no further than the UK, a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of hidden fishing gems. From serene lakes nestled within picturesque valleys, to rugged coastlines teeming with a wide variety of fish, the UK offers something for every angler. In this article, we will explore some of the best fishing spots that this beautiful country has to offer, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next unforgettable fishing adventure. So grab your fishing gear, pack your bags, and get ready to reel in some unforgettable memories in the best fishing spots in the UK.
1. River Tweed
Overview
The River Tweed is a renowned fishing destination located in the Scottish Borders. Known for its stunning landscapes and pristine waters, the Tweed offers an unforgettable fishing experience. Flowing through picturesque countryside, the river stretches approximately 156 kilometers from its source in the Scottish Highlands to its mouth at Berwick-upon-Tweed on the east coast of Scotland.
Key Features
One of the key features of the River Tweed is its varied topography, consisting of fast-flowing stretches, deep pools, and gravelly shallows. The river’s diverse habitats provide excellent opportunities for both fly fishing and spin fishing. Alongside its stunning surroundings, the Tweed is also famous for its clean and clear waters, which contribute to the health and abundance of the fish population.
Fish Species
The River Tweed is home to a rich variety of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers. The most notable species found in the Tweed include Atlantic salmon, brown trout, grayling, and sea trout. The river’s salmon population is particularly esteemed, with thousands of fish migrating upstream each year, offering an incredible challenge for anglers seeking a trophy catch.
Best Time to Fish
The best time to fish on the River Tweed largely depends on the target species. For salmon fishing, the prime time is typically between February and November, with the peak season being from August to October. Brown trout and grayling fishing are most productive during the warmer months, typically from April to September.
Access and Facilities
Access to the River Tweed is relatively easy, with several fishing beats and ghillies (guides) available for hire. Many of the beats offer amenities such as parking, restrooms, and fishing huts. Additionally, there are fishing lodges and hotels in the surrounding area that cater to anglers, providing comfortable accommodation and convenient access to the river.
2. Loch Lomond
Overview
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond is one of the most captivating fishing spots in the UK. With its stunning beauty and diverse fishing opportunities, this freshwater loch attracts anglers from all over the world.
Key Features
The key features of Loch Lomond include its vast size, stretching around 24 miles long and 5 miles wide, making it the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain. The loch’s varied shoreline offers an array of fishing locations, from rocky outcrops to sheltered bays. Its deep, clear waters host a wide range of fish species, making it an excellent destination for both bank and boat fishing.
Fish Species
Loch Lomond is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, with both brown and rainbow trout populating its waters. Anglers can also find perch, pike, and salmon in the loch, providing an exciting variety of fishing opportunities. The Loch Lomond trout are highly prized for their size and fighting spirit, making for an exhilarating angling experience.
Best Time to Fish
The trout fishing season on Loch Lomond typically runs from March to October. During the spring months, trout can be found nearer to the surface, while they tend to go deeper as the summer progresses. Fishing during early mornings or evenings can often yield the best results, as trout are more active during these cooler periods. It is advisable to check local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits before fishing on Loch Lomond.
Access and Facilities
Loch Lomond offers excellent accessibility, with various access points around its shoreline. Anglers can choose to fish from the banks or hire boats from several boat rental facilities. The area surrounding the loch is also well-served with accommodation options, ranging from campsites and B&Bs to luxury hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for visiting anglers.
3. River Tay
Overview
The River Tay, the longest river in Scotland, is another premier fishing destination in the UK. With its breathtaking landscapes and exceptional fishing conditions, the Tay attracts anglers of all skill levels, offering the opportunity to catch some of the largest and finest salmon in the country.
Key Features
One of the notable features of the River Tay is its impressive size, spanning approximately 188 kilometers from its source in the Scottish Highlands to the North Sea. As it meanders through picturesque glens, the river offers a mix of challenging rapids, deep pools, and serene stretches. The stunning backdrop of rolling hills and mountains adds to the allure of fishing on the Tay.
Fish Species
The River Tay is primarily famous for its salmon fishing. It is regarded as one of Scotland’s top salmon rivers, with notable runs of Atlantic salmon throughout the season. The river also supports good populations of sea trout, brown trout, pike, and grayling, providing anglers with diverse fishing opportunities.
Best Time to Fish
Salmon fishing on the River Tay is traditionally at its peak between Spring and Autumn. The prime months for catching salmon are usually from June to October, with the Autumn season known for its larger fish. The river’s sea trout, brown trout, and pike fishing are most productive during the warmer months, offering exciting angling experiences.
Access and Facilities
The River Tay offers numerous access points for fishing, with several beats available for day or weekly permits. Anglers can choose to fish from the banks, hire a boat, or opt for guided trips with experienced ghillies. The surrounding towns and villages provide ample accommodation options, ranging from charming B&Bs to luxurious hotels, ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors.
4. Lake Windermere
Overview
Nestled in the stunning Lake District National Park, Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England. Surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque villages, this iconic lake offers anglers a unique fishing experience amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Key Features
Lake Windermere’s key features include its vast expanse, stretching approximately 10.5 miles long and 1 mile wide. The lake’s diverse shoreline offers countless fishing spots, including shallow areas, deep channels, and submerged features. Its tranquil waters provide an idyllic setting for both bank and boat fishing.
Fish Species
Lake Windermere is home to a variety of fish species, with perch, pike, trout, and char being among the most notable. The pike fishing on Windermere is particularly renowned, with some specimens reaching impressive sizes. The lake’s brown trout, stocked rainbow trout, and char also provide ample opportunities for anglers seeking a memorable catch.
Best Time to Fish
The fishing season on Lake Windermere runs throughout the year, with different species and techniques being more productive during specific periods. Pike fishing tends to be at its best during the cooler months, particularly from October to March. Trout fishing can be fruitful throughout the year, with the warmer months of spring and summer offering more consistent action.
Access and Facilities
Lake Windermere offers excellent access for anglers, with numerous public fishing jetties dotted around the lake. Additionally, boat hire facilities are available for those wishing to explore the lake’s waters more extensively. The surrounding towns and villages offer a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites, catering to the needs of visiting anglers.
5. River Wye
Overview
The River Wye, flowing through Wales and England, is widely regarded as one of the most scenic rivers in the United Kingdom. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and excellent fishing opportunities, the Wye attracts anglers from near and far.
Key Features
One of the key features of the River Wye is its outstanding natural beauty, with its course passing through picturesque valleys, rolling hills, and woodland areas. The river offers diverse fishing conditions, ranging from fast-flowing riffles to deep pools, creating a dynamic environment for anglers. The tranquil surroundings make fishing on the Wye a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.
Fish Species
The River Wye boasts a rich variety of fish species, making it a haven for anglers. The most sought-after species include salmon, trout, grayling, and barbel. The Wye’s salmon fishing is particularly renowned, with the river hosting one of the largest populations of wild salmon in England and Wales.
Best Time to Fish
The prime time for salmon fishing on the River Wye is usually from September to mid-November when the salmon runs are at their peak. Trout and grayling fishing are more productive during the warmer months, typically from April to September, while barbel fishing tends to be best during the summer months.
Access and Facilities
The River Wye offers good access for anglers, with numerous public fishing spots and private beats available. Additionally, local angling associations and clubs offer permits and access to stretches of the river. The surrounding towns and villages provide accommodation options ranging from cozy cottages to riverside hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for visiting anglers.
6. Loch Ness
Overview
Loch Ness, located in the Scottish Highlands, is famous worldwide for its mythical monster. However, beyond the legends, Loch Ness offers anglers a fantastic fishing experience with its scenic beauty and diverse fish population.
Key Features
One of the key features of Loch Ness is its impressive size, extending approximately 23 miles in length and over 750 feet in depth. The loch’s deep, mysterious waters are surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, making fishing on Loch Ness a visually stunning experience. The diverse shoreline of the loch provides an array of angling locations.
Fish Species
Loch Ness is home to various fish species, including brown trout, sea trout, salmon, pike, and perch. Brown trout fishing is particularly popular on the loch, with the opportunity to catch sizable fish. Pike fishing on Loch Ness is also highly regarded, with the chance to target large specimens in the deep waters.
Best Time to Fish
The fishing season on Loch Ness typically runs from March to October, although the exact dates may vary. Brown trout fishing is popular throughout the season, with the trout becoming more active as the water warms up. Salmon fishing is more productive during the summer months, with sea trout fishing peaking from June to August. Pike fishing can be pursued year-round, with autumn and winter being particularly productive.
Access and Facilities
Loch Ness offers good accessibility for anglers, with public access points and several boat hire facilities available. Anglers can fish from the banks or hire boats to explore the vast expanse of the loch. Surrounding towns and villages offer a range of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels, ensuring a pleasant stay for visiting anglers.
7. River Severn
Overview
The River Severn, the longest river in the UK, offers anglers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. Flowing through Wales and England, the Severn passes through stunning landscapes, historic towns, and peaceful countryside, creating an enchanting setting for fishing.
Key Features
The River Severn’s key features include its impressive length, stretching approximately 352 kilometers from its source in Wales to its mouth at the Bristol Channel. The river provides diverse fishing conditions, ranging from deep pools and gentle glides to challenging rapids. The outstanding natural beauty surrounding the river adds to the allure of fishing on the Severn.
Fish Species
The River Severn is home to a wide range of fish species, making it a favorite among anglers. The most notable species found in the Severn include barbel, chub, roach, dace, pike, zander, and salmon. The Severn’s barbel fishing is particularly renowned, with the river holding some of the largest specimens in the country.
Best Time to Fish
The prime time for barbel fishing on the River Severn is from late spring to early autumn when the water temperatures are warmer. Chub and pike fishing tend to be more productive during the cooler months, while roach and dace fishing can be enjoyable throughout the year. Salmon fishing on the Severn is traditionally from June to October.
Access and Facilities
The River Severn offers good access for anglers, with public fishing spots and private beats available. Various angling associations and clubs offer permits and access to stretches of the river. The surrounding towns and villages provide accommodation options ranging from charming guesthouses to riverside campsites, catering to the needs of visiting anglers.
8. Norfolk Broads
Overview
The Norfolk Broads, located on the east coast of England, is a unique network of rivers, lakes, and marshes known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Offering excellent fishing opportunities, the Norfolk Broads captivate anglers with their serene surroundings and abundant fish population.
Key Features
The key features of the Norfolk Broads include the intricate network of waterways, which span over 125 miles and are home to hundreds of small lakes and rivers. The Broads’ luscious landscape of reed beds, marshes, and woodlands creates an enchanting backdrop for a fishing adventure. The calm and sheltered waters of the Broads are ideal for both bank and boat fishing.
Fish Species
The Norfolk Broads support a diverse range of fish species, including pike, perch, bream, roach, tench, and carp. Pike fishing is particularly popular in the Broads, with the chance to target large specimens in its plentiful waters. Additionally, the Broads offer excellent coarse fishing for anglers seeking a variety of species and fishing techniques.
Best Time to Fish
The fishing season on the Norfolk Broads runs throughout the year, with various species being more active during different times. Pike fishing tends to be at its best during the cooler months, particularly from October to March. Coarse fishing for species such as bream, tench, and roach is productive from spring to autumn.
Access and Facilities
The Norfolk Broads offer excellent accessibility for anglers, with numerous fishing spots along the waterways and easy access to boat hire. Anglers can choose to fish from the banks or hire a boat to explore the Broads’ vast network. The area surrounding the Broads is well-served by towns and villages that provide accommodation options ranging from cozy B&Bs to well-equipped holiday cottages.
9. Lake District – Derwentwater
Overview
Derwentwater, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Lake District National Park, is a captivating fishing spot for anglers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Surrounded by towering fells and picturesque woodlands, Derwentwater offers a serene setting for a fishing retreat.
Key Features
Derwentwater’s key features include its scenic location and the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains, such as Cat Bells and Skiddaw. The lake stretches approximately 3 miles long and 1 mile wide, providing ample space for both bank and boat fishing. With its calm waters and peaceful ambiance, Derwentwater is a haven for anglers seeking solace in nature.
Fish Species
Derwentwater is known for its excellent trout fishing, with brown trout and stocked rainbow trout populating its depths. The lake’s trout are highly regarded for their size and fighting spirit, offering anglers an exhilarating challenge. In addition to trout, Derwentwater also supports a population of pike, perch, and other coarse fish, providing additional fishing opportunities.
Best Time to Fish
The prime trout fishing season on Derwentwater typically runs from March to October, with the warmer months offering more consistent action. Early mornings and evenings are often productive times for trout fishing, as the fish tend to be more active during cooler periods. Pike and perch fishing can be pursued year-round, with autumn and winter being particularly fruitful.
Access and Facilities
Derwentwater offers good accessibility for anglers, with various access points along its shoreline and boat hire facilities available. Anglers can choose to fish from the banks or hire a boat to explore the lake’s waters more extensively. The nearby town of Keswick provides accommodation options ranging from cozy guesthouses to hotels, catering to the needs of visiting anglers.
10. Loch Tummel
Overview
Located in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, Loch Tummel is a hidden gem among Scotland’s fishing destinations. Surrounded by rugged hills and ancient forests, Loch Tummel offers anglers a peaceful retreat where they can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying excellent fishing opportunities.
Key Features
Loch Tummel’s key features include its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. The loch stretches approximately 7.5 miles in length and offers a tranquil ambiance, away from the hustle and bustle of busier fishing spots. Its calm waters and stunning surroundings provide a captivating backdrop to an angling adventure.
Fish Species
Loch Tummel is known primarily for its trout fishing. Brown trout is the predominant species in the loch, offering anglers the opportunity to catch sizeable fish. The loch also supports a population of pike, providing anglers with an additional fishing option.
Best Time to Fish
The trout fishing season on Loch Tummel typically runs from late March to September. The warmer months of spring and summer offer more consistent action, with trout becoming more active as the water temperatures rise. Early mornings and evenings tend to be the most productive times for trout fishing.
Access and Facilities
Loch Tummel offers good accessibility for anglers, with several access points along its shoreline. Anglers can choose to fish from the banks or hire a boat to explore the loch’s waters. The surrounding area provides accommodation options ranging from cozy guesthouses to campsites, ensuring a comfortable stay for visiting anglers.
