Best Places to go Fishing in Dorset
Posted on: 23rd August 2023
Posted on: 23rd August 2023
Dorset is the perfect destination if you’re planning a fishing holiday on the South Coast. This beautiful county has so much to offer, from world-class beach fishing marks to well-stocked coarse venues and highly rated charter boats.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice angler just starting out, you can while away the hours in beautiful scenery, whilst perfecting your cast. Here, we have compiled a list of the best places to go fishing in Dorset. All are within easy reach of our touring, camping and glamping park near Poole.
Poole Harbour is the largest natural harbour in Europe and home to a variety of salt water species. The most popular spot is Holes Bay, especially if you’re targeting flounder and bass with a spinning rod and lures.
Around the quay, there is opportunity for a bit of light rock fishing (LRF). Pack small artificial baits and light line and enjoy hours of fun searching out the smaller species.
Chesil Beach is one of the most popular places to go beach fishing in Dorset. The beach is made up of over 18 miles of shingle bank, which offers plenty of fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels.
Of this stretch, Chesil Cove, Freshwater Bay, West Bexington and Abbotsbury are the most accessible marks. Other spots fish well but require a bit of a walk, which can be tricky due to the pebbles underfoot.
From May to October there’s a good chance of mackerel, especially during changing tides. During the spring you can catch plaice and other flatfish when the water is still and clear. In the winter, many anglers pitch up in hope of catching cod – the perfect time being after a period of high winds when there’s colour in the water. There’s a chance of pouting, eels, dog fish and rays year round.
You’ll need beach casting gear and heavy duty leads when fishing at Chesil Beach.
Worbarrow Bay is a beautiful beach with a tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. Consider spending the day here soaking up the stunning views of the bay. It’s a bit of a walk from the car park, so you’ll need to be fit – especially if you’re carrying your tackle box and a couple of rods. There’s a chance of catching bass, pollock, wrasse, rockling and even a tasty bream later in the year.
It’s important to remember that the car park closes overnight and access can be restricted due to Army training. Always check access before heading out.
Portland Bill is a beautiful location at the southern most tip of the Isle of Portland – it offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the area. It’s best suited to experienced anglers used to fishing from height. You’ll need to set up on one of the ledges, or on of the rocky areas close to the waters edge.
You have a couple of options at Portland Bill, depending on your fishing style. Bring a beach caster and fish the bottom in search of something big or pack your spinning gear and have fun targeting colourful wrasse or bass.
You can enjoy the serene views while casting your line and waiting for a catch.
Sandbanks Beach is an ideal location for fishing, with an abundance of bass, plaice, pout, and other fish to catch when the conditions are right. From the picturesque sandy beach you can enjoy stunning views while catching impressive fish.
If you prefer pier fishing, you could make the short drive to Bournemouth Pier, where there’s a dedicated area for fishing. Here you can catch garfish, codling, smoothounds, gurnards and even squid, depending on the time of year.
A licence is not required to go beach fishing in the UK, but you will need to check that fishing is allowed on your chosen section of beach. Always read signage carefully and familiarise yourself with minimum size requirements if you plan on bringing anything home for the BBQ. Please dispose of hooks and line responsibly to reduce any impact on local wildlife.
The River Allen boasts one of the most unspoilt chalk streams, making it a prime location for fishers. Spanning 13 miles, the river is especially renowned for its robust wild brown trout population.
Within Deans Court, you will find a diverse range of fish, including grayling, dace and gudgeon.
Wally’s Lake and Meadow Lake are located within the same fishery. Both lakes offer a serene atmosphere that is perfect for a day of peaceful fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, you’re sure to have a great time here. There’s a chance of catching roach, skimmer break and specimen carp to 30lb.
There are plenty of swims to choose from – it’s first come, first served on the day. The South Side of Wally’s is deepest – cast near the island if you want to fish on the surface.
The River Frome is a beautiful location for fishing enthusiasts, offering nearly five miles of prime fishing opportunities. Wild trout are a popular catch in this area, and from mid-summer onwards, salmon and sea trout can also be caught. It’s truly a fantastic spot for anyone looking to reel in some impressive catches.
If you’re into fly fishing, then the River Frome should be your ‘go to’ spot. There are a number of guides operating on the river should you need tuition, or help perfecting your technique.
Clumphill Farm Fishery is a tranquil spot for anglers looking to escape the stresses of daily life. It’s situated on the outskirts of Wimborne, not far from our caravan and camping park. With its small yet well-stocked one acre lake, this fishery offers plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater species. There’s an abundance of silverfish, which will keep your flat bobbing all day long!
For those who are up for a challenge, there’s always the chance to reel in some of the bigger carp. The record is 30lb, with plenty more in the double figures!
You will need a rod licence for freshwater fishing. These are available from the Post Offices or can be bought online. You will also need to buy a day ticket to fish on rivers and lakes.
Thoroughly read the venues rules before casting out. Rules can change between venues – for instance, some do not allow keep nets or barbed hooks.
Ocean Runner Charters are an excellent option for guests staying at South Lytchett Manor. They operate from Poole Harbour and offer a range of inshore, wrecking and half day fishing trips from aboard their spacious catamaran. They also offer mackerel fishing trips, which are well suited to novice anglers looking to try something new.
Using their expert knowledge of weather and tides, the team will take you to prime locations along the coast. We think a boat fishing trip is the perfect day out for families, friends or couples!
Amarisa specialise in deep sea fishing trips along the Jurassic Coast from Weymouth Harbour. Catering to both beginners and experienced fishers, the friendly and helpful crew are on hand throughout the day to help you land your catch. It’s possible to catch a range of species depending on the conditions and time of year.
Weymouth has an excellent reputation among experienced boat anglers. It has played host to the European and World Championships in addition to big prize fishing events.
Fins-Up! Charters is an excellent choice if you are looking for fishing charters from Portland. Skipper, Dan has an excellent reputation in the industry and is well known for putting his groups on the fish. The boat is spacious and stable providing the perfect platform for a day on the water.
South Lytchett Manor is ideally placed for fishing holidays in Dorset. Our multi-award-winning holiday park is close to a range of angling hotspots – perfect for keeping you entertained during your Dorset holiday!
Browse our range of accommodation options online (whether you prefer camping, glamping or touring) and book via our website. Or, call and speak to our friendly team.
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For your complete commitment to us during our stay - thank you.... Mark and Stella , Mar 2024
What a fabulous place! Our first outing in our new campervan to try it out, the campsite and facilities are... thewardrobem, Nov 2023
