Fishing Overview for United Kingdom

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• England

  In England, fishing ranges from productive sea fishing from the shore or by boat to rewarding coarse fishing and game fishing on rivers and lakes. Key saltwater species include cod, mackerel, pollack, bass, plaice and skate, while freshwater anglers commonly target brown trout, rainbow trout, pike, perch, carp, roach, chub and barbel. Estuaries and tidal creeks are good for mixed sea catches and bass, while rivers and lakes offer fly and match opportunities for trout and coarse species.

• Northern Ireland

  Northern Ireland offers varied recreational fishing across rivers, loughs and the coastline, with classic fly fishing for Atlantic salmon, brown trout and sea trout on rivers like the Bann and Foyle. Big pike and mixed coarse species such as perch, roach, bream and occasional carp are common in loughs and reservoirs, while Lough Neagh is noted for its native pollan. Along the coast you can expect productive sea angling for bass, pollack, cod, mackerel and various flatfish, with popular boat and shore options throughout the region.

• Scotland

  Scotland offers outstanding recreational fishing across rivers, lochs and the coast, with world‑class river beats and wild highland waters. You can target Atlantic salmon, sea trout and brown trout on rivers such as the Spey, Tay and Tweed, and catch Arctic char and loch trout in many lochs; freshwater predators like pike and perch are also common. Around the coast and islands, boat and shore anglers pursue cod, pollock, mackerel, haddock and bass, and popular methods include fly fishing, spinning, sea angling and light tackle boat fishing.

• Wales

  Wales in the United Kingdom offers diverse recreational fishing across rugged coastline, sheltered estuaries, upland rivers and reservoirs, making it excellent for sea fishing, game fishing and coarse fishing. Anglers chase wild Atlantic salmon, sea trout and brown trout on famous runs like the Usk and Teifi, while upland lakes and reservoirs produce stocked rainbow trout and fit brown trout. Along the coast expect summer shoals of mackerel and sport for bass, pollack, wrasse and winter cod, plus flatfish such as plaice and turbot from piers and shorelines. Inland waters also offer coarse species like carp and pike, giving anglers year-round variety and scenic settings for both shore and boat trips.