Deep Sea Fishing in the UK: Where to Go and What to Catch
The UK’s coastline runs for thousands of miles, taking in rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and winding island channels. With so much variety, anglers have endless choices for deep sea fishing. From Cornwall’s busy harbours to Scotland’s wild waters, every spot offers something different. Ready to set off? This guide covers the best destinations, the right times to head offshore, the species you’ll most likely see, and a few tips to help you get ready.
Top Deep Sea Fishing Destinations in 2025
Looking to plan a trip for 2025? Here are the five best deep sea fishing spots across the UK that every angler should have on their radar.
1. Cornwall
Cornwall is often seen as the home of UK deep sea fishing, and for good reason. Charters run daily from Newquay, Falmouth, and St Ives, with skippers who know the reefs and wrecks like old friends.
The Gulf Stream keeps these waters rich with bass, pollack, ling, and mackerel. Venture further offshore, and there’s the chance of meeting porbeagle or blue sharks for an extra adrenaline rush.
What makes Cornwall truly special is the atmosphere on land as well as at sea. Fishing villages buzz with life, seafood stalls line the harbours, and many charters provide all the deep sea fishing gear you’ll need, making it just as welcoming for beginners as for seasoned anglers.
2. Scotland (Aberdeen & Isle of Skye)
For raw, untamed beauty, Scotland delivers. The waters off Aberdeen, Inverness, and the Isle of Skye are some of the richest deep ocean fishing grounds in Europe. Depending on the season, you might reel in cod, haddock, ling, or even Atlantic salmon. And while you’re waiting on a bite, don’t be surprised if dolphins, seals, or seabirds put on a show around the boat.
Aberdeen trips often focus on wreck fishing in the North Sea, while Skye offers a blend of angling and sightseeing. Many tours here double as wildlife excursions, with the chance to spot white-tailed eagles or even whales on the way to the grounds.
3. Northumberland
Northumberland doesn’t always make the headlines, but it’s one of the UK’s most underrated fishing deep sea fishing areas. Its quieter coastline means fewer crowds and plenty of space to fish in peace. Offshore wrecks here are home to cod, ling, and coalfish, and the local skippers know the hidden marks that produce the best results.
The scenery is part of the appeal too. Wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a sense of solitude make every trip memorable. And if you bring along one of the best solar generators for fishing, you can extend your trip comfortably, whether it’s charging your camera gear, boiling water for tea, or even cooking your freshly caught cod right on the shore.
4. Wales (Cardigan Bay & Anglesey)
Wales offers variety in spades. Around Cardigan Bay and Anglesey, you’ll find a mix of inshore and offshore opportunities. Bass, pollack, and mackerel are regular catches, but porbeagle sharks and rays sometimes make an appearance further out.
What sets Wales apart is its family-friendly feel. Many charters combine fishing with dolphin watching, and pods are often seen close to the coast. Shorter trips are perfect for introducing children to sea angling, while longer offshore runs give experienced anglers a chance to test themselves.
5. Isle of Wight
Just across the Solent, the Isle of Wight is a gem for anyone wanting a mix of convenience and variety. It’s easy to reach by ferry, and short charters make it perfect for weekend getaways. Plaice, black bream, and conger eel are among the common catches, with plenty of action for anglers of all levels.
The island itself adds to the charm. Between fishing trips you can explore sandy beaches, cosy pubs, and famous landmarks like The Needles. With friendly skippers and accessible waters, it’s a south-coast favourite for good reason.
What Is the Best Time to Go Deep Sea Fishing
The UK offers good deep sea fishing almost year-round, but certain times of year give better results depending on species, weather and how far offshore you’re going.
Spring (March to May): As water temperatures begin to rise, many fish become more active. Spring is great for species like cod, haddock and pollack moving into feeding zones. It’s a quieter time for tourism too, so fewer crowded charters.
Summer (June to August): Arguably the most popular time. Warm seas attract shoals of mackerel, bass move nearer to the surface, and wrecks and reefs become busy with fish. Early mornings or evenings are often best to avoid both the heat and the crowds.
Autumn (September to November): This is a sweet spot. Summer species may still be around, and as waters cool, more cold-water species begin to appear. Cod starts to become more common, and many anglers find autumn gives a good mix of catches.
Winter (December to February): Fishing in winter is tougher due to weather and shorter daylight, but it can be highly rewarding. Cold-water species such as cod and pollack are often more concentrated. Deep water trips tend to yield more consistent results than shallow. Be ready for rougher seas and check safety and charter availability.
What You’ll Catch: Common and Exciting Species
Part of the fun of deep sea fishing is not knowing exactly what will take your bait. Some species are regulars, while others feel like winning the lottery when they show up.
Common Catches
These are the bread-and-butter of most UK trips:
Cod: A favourite year-round, especially in colder months. Bigger ones often come off wrecks and reefs.
Pollack: Hard fighters that love hanging around rocky ground. Best in spring and summer.
Bass: Popular from late spring into autumn. They’re a thrill to catch on lighter tackle.
Mackerel: Summer wouldn’t be summer without shoals of mackerel. Easy to catch, great fun for beginners.
Flatfish (plaice, flounder, etc.): Common over sandy bottoms. They’re often in best condition later in the year.
Exciting Species
Not as common, but they’ll get your heart racing:
Ling: Found in deeper water and around wrecks. Strong, rewarding fish to hook.
Halibut: Rare in UK waters, but highly prized when caught. Usually from deeper marks.
Conger eel: Often caught on wrecks, sometimes huge. Known for putting up a serious fight.
Tuna: Bluefin sightings have increased in recent years, especially late summer. A true bucket-list catch.
Rays and sharks: Thornback rays, smooth-hound, and occasionally porbeagle or blue sharks if you head far enough offshore.
How to Prepare for Deep Sea Fishing
Conditions offshore are very different from a day by the harbour wall, so a little planning goes a long way. Here are some handy deep sea fishing tips to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Charter
Most anglers in the UK book with a charter boat. Skippers usually supply all the sea fishing tackle you need, from sturdy rods and reels to strong lines and suitable bait, along with the local knowledge that makes the trip worthwhile.
When choosing, look for boats with good safety records, clear pricing, and reviews from past customers. If you’re new, ask whether the crew is happy to help beginners with baiting hooks and handling fish.
Dress for the Conditions
The sea is usually cooler and windier than the shore. Wear layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket, and non-slip footwear. Even in summer, mornings can be chilly, while afternoons can heat up quickly. Sun protection is also essential. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Pack the Basics
Beyond clothing, bring drinking water, snacks, and any personal medication. Seasickness tablets can make a huge difference if you’re not sure how you’ll cope with swell. Many anglers also pack a small dry bag to keep phones, wallets, and cameras safe.
Know the Rules
UK waters have size and bag limits for many species. Charters usually explain these, but it helps to read up beforehand so you know what can be kept and what must be released. Respecting these rules keeps fisheries healthy and sustainable.
Keep Food and Catches Fresh
A long day at sea is always better with cold drinks on hand and a safe place for your catch. The EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer takes the hassle out of coolers and melting ice.
It comes in 35L, 45L, and 55L sizes. The bigger two offer dual zones, so you can run one side as a fridge and the other as a freezer. The 35L keeps things simple with a single compartment that switches between the two modes.
With the 298Wh plug-in battery, the GLACIER can hold a steady 4°C for up to 43 hours (35L) or 39 hours (45L/55L) off the grid. That’s more than enough for most charters or even a weekend away.
The temperature range runs from –20°C to 20°C, and the compressor keeps it accurate within a degree. Features like two-inch insulation, app control, and a dual-sided lid make it practical on a moving deck.
EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer
Mind Safety First
Listen carefully to the safety briefing before departure. Pay attention to where lifejackets and emergency equipment are kept. Out at sea, conditions can change fast, so follow the skipper’s advice and stay alert.
Set Your Expectations
Not every trip produces a trophy fish. Some days are busy with action, others quieter, but every outing offers the chance to learn, relax, and enjoy time on the water. If you prepare well and keep an open mind, you’ll get the best from the experience.
Stay Powered at Sea
If you’re out for a full day, keeping devices charged can be a challenge. A compact portable power station lets you top up phones, cameras, fish finders, and small lights without relying on the boat’s supply. It’s especially useful if you like recording your catches or staying connected at sea.
The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus Portable Power Station makes it easy to keep everything charged. It delivers a 600W output (up to 1200W with X-Boost) and recharges from empty to full in about an hour when plugged into the wall. Out of the box, it holds 286Wh, but you can expand to 858Wh with an Extra Battery if you need more juice.
It’s quiet, light, and built for flexibility. The unit supports up to 220W solar input, so you can pair it with panels to top it up while offshore. A good match is the EcoFlow NextGen 160W Portable Solar Panel.
It uses high-efficiency cells (up to 25% conversion) and has an adjustable stand so you can set the angle between 30° and 60° for the best capture. With an IP68 rating, it shrugs off spray and rain. Together, they give you reliable, renewable power while you’re miles from the harbour.
Conclusion
Deep sea fishing in the UK offers a mix of excitement, challenge, and time spent in stunning coastal settings. From Cornwall’s busy harbours to Scotland’s wild waters, every trip has the potential to bring a new story. With the right timing, preparation, and expectations, you can enjoy both the catch and the journey. Whether you’re planning your first outing or adding a new destination to your list, deep sea fishing promises plenty of reasons to get out on the water.
FAQs
What is deep-sea fishing?
Deep-sea fishing is all about heading out beyond the coast to find larger fish in deeper water. In the UK, that usually means travelling offshore to wrecks, reefs, or banks where species like pollack, ling, and conger eel thrive.
In summer, you might even see shark trips in Cornwall or the South-West, and in recent years bluefin tuna have been carefully caught and released under licence. It’s a step up from pier or beach fishing, with sturdier rods, stronger lines, and the chance to land some truly impressive catches.
How hard is deep-sea fishing?
It’s not as tough as it sounds, and beginners are very welcome on most boats. The tackle is heavier, and the trips can be longer than inshore fishing, but skippers supply everything and happily show you what to do.
The main challenge is often seasickness, something worth preparing for if you’re unsure how you’ll cope offshore. A day out can be tiring, but it’s also exciting and rewarding. The key is to listen to your skipper, bring a positive attitude, and enjoy the adventure out on open water.
Is 4 hours enough for deep-sea fishing?
A 4-hour trip works brilliantly as an introduction. Boats often fish nearby reefs or sheltered waters, and you can still catch rays, pollack, or conger eels. It’s relaxed, good for families or first-timers, and gives you a taste of what offshore angling is like.
If you want to try wreck fishing in the Channel or target sharks in summer, though, you’ll need a full day, usually 8 to 12 hours. Those longer trips give time to travel further out, reach the best spots, and let the fishing really come alive.
Which UK regions are best for deep sea fishing?
Some areas around the UK stand out for offshore fishing. Cornwall and the wider South-West are famous for summer sharking and tuna. Dorset, especially Weymouth, is well known for its wreck trips in the Channel, producing big pollack and cod.
Whitby in North Yorkshire has a long tradition of North Sea wreck fishing, while West Wales offers shark trips and exciting tuna opportunities offshore. Scotland’s west coast, particularly around Oban, is legendary for huge catch-and-release skate. Wherever you go, you’ll find welcoming charter fleets and stunning scenery to match.