When you think of the UK, what first comes to mind? Maybe scoffing down tea and scones in England? Perhaps it’s downing pints of Guinness in Northern Ireland? Maybe it’s visiting Scotland’s historic cities soundtracked by bagpipes, or catching a game of rugby in Wales. But there’s more to Blighty than that – including an unmissable fishing scene that spans the entire country.
Fishing in the UK is as diverse as the countries themselves, and knowing where – and when – to go can make your head spin. That’s where we come in. We’ve explored the UK’s fishing seasons to let you know the hows, wheres, and whens of casting a line. Ready to see what makes Britain such a fantastic place to fish? Let’s dive in…
When are the best UK fishing seasons?
The simple answer is: it depends on what you’re after. The UK offers year-round fishing, but different species peak at different times – and in different places. Coarse fishing has a closed season on rivers from 15 March to 15 June, while many stillwaters and canals remain open. Sea fishing, on the other hand, never really stops, although some months bring bigger opportunities than others.
As a rule of thumb:
- Spring and summer see coarse fishing favourites like Carp, Tench, and Bream at their best. Just remember to cross mid-March to mid-June off your list if you plan on fishing rivers.
- Autumn is prime time for predators such as Pike and Perch, with lakes such as Scottish lochs and the Fens in Cambridgeshire producing excellent results.
- Winter may be chilly (we are in the UK, after all!), but it’s ideal for Cod along the Dorset and Northumberland coasts. It’s also a great time for chasing big Grayling on rivers like the Hampshire Avon or the Welsh Dee.
In short, there isn’t a single “best” season – just the right time for the fish you’re targeting! But let’s take a look at some more UK fishing-specific seasons..
UK Coarse Fishing Season
Coarse fishing is the backbone of UK angling. While rivers take a break during the closed season from 15 March to 15 June to protect spawning fish, canals and stillwaters keep the action going year-round. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to hook Carp, Tench, Bream, and other popular species in a variety of scenic settings across the region. Even in the quieter winter months, hardy anglers can still enjoy thrilling battles with Pike and Perch, making coarse fishing a real all-season pursuit.
For a true coarse adventure, the Norfolk Broads are hard to beat, offering a mix of species in a stunning setting, especially in summer and early autumn when Roach and Bream are most active. At this time of year, the Lake District promises monster Carp and Pike against a breathtaking backdrop, while Carp fishing also peaks in the warmer months.
The mighty River Trent is famed for its powerful Barbel, with the best action typically running from late June through September. And if you’re after hard-fighters, the Fens in Cambridgeshire are legendary once the colder weather rolls in, as Pike and Zander fire up in late autumn and throughout the winter.
UK River Fishing Season
While coarse fishing might be its backbone, river fishing sits at the heart of the UK’s traditional angling scene. Although rivers close between March and June, timing your trip right can lead to some of the country’s most exciting catches. Summer is perfect for Barbel and Chub along the Trent and Severn, while autumn and winter bring out trophy Pike and Perch.
Additionally, game fishing enthusiasts are in for a treat. The River Tweed and River Tay in Scotland are world-famous for Atlantic Salmon, attracting anglers from across the globe during almost the entire year. The Salmon season runs between mid-January and mid-October in the Tay and from February through November on the Tweed.
In England, the Wye and Test are must-visits for anyone chasing wild Trout or Salmon. On the Test, Trout season takes place from April through October, whereas Salmon are fair game from 17 January to 1 October. Visiting the Wye? Its celebrated Salmon and Trout seasons run from 3 March to 17 and 30 October, respectively. However, rules may vary depending on the section of river you’re fishing.
And if you’re visiting the capital, you don’t need to travel far to wet a line. London’s stretch of the River Thames offers excellent sport fishing throughout much of the year. Warm summer months bring Roach, Dace, and even the occasional Sea Bass into play along tidal sections, while autumn sees Perch and Pike become more active as the waters cool. Finally, winter fishing can also be rewarding for those targeting specimen predators in quieter stretches near Richmond, Kingston, and Hampton Court.
UK Lake Fishing Season
If you’re looking for plenty of peace, stunning scenery, and big catches, lake fishing in the UK should be top of your bucket list. Spring and summer are ideal for Carp, Tench, and Bream, while autumn brings predatory Pike and Perch into focus, adding a thrilling edge to every trip. Even in winter, some waters hold surprises for those willing to brave the cold.
Top destinations include the Lake District, where anglers can hook everything from giant Carp to feisty Pike. Carp fishing is at its best through the warmer months, while Pike become the stars of the show in autumn and winter. Rutland Water is famous for its massive Carp and trophy-sized Bream, with summer and early autumn providing the most consistent action. For hardcore reel-spinning, Grafham Water and Cardington Lakes in the East Midlands offer adrenaline-filled battles with Pike and Perch, particularly as the temperatures cool in autumn.
Saltwater Fishing Seasons in the UK
As the UK’s coastline stretches for thousands of miles, saltwater anglers have year-round opportunities to catch everything from fast-fighting Mackerel to giant Cod and even Sharks. While some species are seasonal, there’s almost always something to target along rocky shores, sandy beaches, or further out at sea. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
Spring
After the long winter, spring breathes new life into the UK’s waters. As temperatures begin to rise, bait fish move inshore, and with them come the predators. For many anglers, this is the season of anticipation, when the coastline slowly comes alive and the first real opportunities of the year arrive.
Mackerel begin to school in warming waters, creating fast-paced action for all anglers, while Plaice appear along sandy beaches. Bass also start making their way into estuaries and sheltered bays, offering up exciting early battles.
Whether you’re on the Cornish coast, casting from Norfolk‘s beaches, or exploring Brighton’s piers or Scottish east coast estuaries, spring offers a fresh start to the season. Pair your trip with local highlights like the Cornwall Spring Flower Show or the Craster Kipper Festival in Northumberland, where fishing heritage meets local food to make the most of it!
Summer
By summer, the saltwater fishing season is in full swing. Long days, calmer seas, and warmer weather make this the most popular time to get out, whether you’re planning a family trip, a full-day boat charter, or relaxed evenings on the shore. The variety of species available is unmatched, and anglers can try a bit of everything.
Mackerel stay at their peak, swarming coastlines and making for a perfect introduction to sea fishing. Bass and Pollock are plentiful around reefs and rocky areas, while Flatfish such as Plaice and Flounder thrive inshore. Shark species, including Tope and Blue Shark, also start showing up, adding a real adrenaline rush.
Cornwall, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight offer some of the best summer action, but Wales, Scotland’s west coast, and the northeast shoreline from Yorkshire to Northumberland are just as lively. You can even time your visit with events like the Whitby Fish & Ships Festival in Yorkshire or the Brixham Pirate Festival in Devon for a mix of fishing and local tradition!
Autumn
As the days shorten and the seas cool, many anglers see autumn as the most rewarding season of all. The summer crowds thin, but the fishing only gets better. This is when predators move closer to the shore in search of food, setting the stage for some of the year’s best sport.
Pollock, Bass, and Cod all become prime targets, while Rays and Dogfish grow increasingly active. Surfcasting during autumn can lead to trophy-sized catches, and the mix of species on offer means there’s never a dull moment.
Head to the Scottish east coast, the rugged Cornish coves, or the Norfolk coastline for classic autumn angling action. If you want more than just fishing, autumn also brings food-focused festivals like the Newlyn Fish Festival in Cornwall or the Loch Fyne Oyster Festival in Scotland, perfect for celebrating the season’s fresh seafood.
Winter
Winter fishing in the UK isn’t for everyone, but those willing to brave the cold are often rewarded in kind. With quieter beaches, piers, and estuaries, anglers can enjoy a peaceful experience against dramatic coastal backdrops. It’s a season of solitude, focus, and, if luck is on your side, some truly unforgettable fish.
This is peak time for Cod, especially along the North Sea coast, where double-figure specimens are caught each year. Whiting provide steady action, while larger Rays also make an appearance in the colder waters.
While you’ll need to wrap up, Northumberland, Dorset, and the Scottish west coast are all excellent winter destinations, while Brighton remains famous for producing some of the biggest Cod of the year. Winter also coincides with events like the European Open Beach Championship in Yorkshire or the Hastings Herring Fair in East Sussex, adding an extra reason to brave the cold and hit the coast!.
UK Fishing Seasons FAQs
UK Fishing Seasons: Get Hooked Year-Round
From tranquil lakes and meandering rivers to inner-city action and rugged coastlines teeming with life, the UK offers anglers a year-round playground. Each season brings its own thrills and trophy catches, whether you’re chasing Carp in summer, Pike in autumn, or Cod along the winter coast. Grab your rods, pack your tackle, and discover why fishing in the UK is a real year-round adventure. Just don’t forget your raincoat!
And now it’s over to you! What’s your favourite fishing season in the UK? Any top spots to share? Let us know in the comments below. We love hearing from you!
