Curious about where to fish for mackerel in the South Coast of the UK? Discover top spots like Looe, Cornwall and enjoy an unforgettable fishing experience from May to September.
Looe, Cornwall
Looe’s position along the English Channel makes it a prime spot for mackerel fishing from May to September. The town’s harbour and beaches provide easy access to deeper water where mackerel shoals often pass. You don’t need a boat to catch these mackerel either, as many anglers receive great fishing results from the Banjo Pier, which is known for its summer mackerel runs.
Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, Looe is perfect for people of all skill levels. You can join a guided boat trip, which often lasts just a couple of hours and includes all the equipment you need. These trips are family-friendly and perfect for beginners. For more experienced anglers, there are longer boat charters or the option to fish from the shore using your own gear.
With its easy access, reliable mackerel runs, and stunning views, Looe is one of the best places to enjoy mackerel fishing in the UK. Whether you're on a boat or pier, Looe provides a fun, rewarding, and memorable fishing experience.
Penzance, Cornwall
Penzance is widely recognised as one of the UK’s mackerel fishing hotspots. Its position along the warm waters of Mount’s Bay, with access to deep sea areas and strong tidal flows, makes it an ideal place for catching mackerel from May to September.
Penzance has a mix of deep water close to the shore and warm currents that flow in from the Atlantic. These conditions attract huge shoals of mackerel each summer, especially when there are large amounts of baitfish like sand eels and sprats. As a result, anglers fishing from piers, rocks, beaches, or boats can all enjoy successful fishing trips. The area also has good water clarity, which helps mackerel spot moving lures better.
For those looking for a more active fishing session, Penzance has a range of rocky headlands and coves that act as great fishing spots, especially during dusk and dawn, when mackerel are the most active.
Penzance is a true mackerel fishing hotspot. With its excellent shore, accessible boating trips, ideal sea conditions, and beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect place to enjoy mackerel fishing on the Cornish coast.
Plymouth, Devon
Plymouth is one of the best places to fish for mackerel. With its sheltered waters, easy access to the sea, and strong local fishing scene, it has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors during the mackerel season, which runs from May to September.
Plymouth is known for its deep water, strong tides, and rich feeding grounds for mackerel. The area is known for attracting large shoals, especially during the summer when baitfish like sand eels and sprats are in abundance. These conditions make it easier to spot and catch mackerel, both from the shore and on the water.
The city’s location also means mackerel are often found close to the coast, which is perfect for short boat trips or casual pier fishing. Plymouth is home to plenty of shore fishing spots, such as Mount Batten Pier, Devil’s Point, and the Hoe Foreshore, where anglers can cast feather rigs, spinners, or baited hooks with high chances of success. These spots are easily accessible and are suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Plymouth has a long fishing history and a strong community of anglers, so you’ll always find well-stocked tackle shops, friendly advice, and clean harboursides that make fishing both easy and enjoyable. Whether you're casting from a pier or joining a boat trip, Plymouth is a brilliant place to enjoy a day by the sea and catch your own fresh fish.
Weymouth, Dorset
Weymouth, located on the south coast of Dorset, is known for its clear waters, accessible fishing spots, and rich marine life. Weymouth sits along the Jurassic Coast which is home to deep waters, rocky areas, and sandy sea beds. These features create the ideal feeding conditions for mackerel, especially when sand eels and whitebait are abundant during the summer. The clean, clear water in and around Weymouth Bay makes it easier for mackerel to spot lures and for anglers to enjoy more consistent catches.
The town is also naturally sheltered, meaning the water is often calm enough for fishing even when the weather conditions elsewhere may be rough. One of Weymouth’s biggest advantages is its wide range of shore fishing spots. Places like Weymouth Pier, Stone Pier, and Newton’s Cove are excellent locations to catch mackerel without needing a boat. These spots are easy to access and ideal for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a relaxing fishing experience.
For those who prefer being out on the water, Weymouth has a busy harbour with regular mackerel fishing boat trips. These trips are typically short, affordable, and great for catching several fish in a short time.
Weymouth is a mackerel fishing hotspot thanks to its excellent conditions, easy access, and strong local fishing scene. Whether you're fishing from the shore or a boat, it’s a fantastic place to catch fresh mackerel by the sea.
Looking For Sea Fishing in Cornwall?
Join The Swallow II for exciting mackerel fishing trips along the Cornish coast. Our guided trips are perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike. We provide fun, scenic outings with great chances to catch fresh mackerel.
