Home to over 16 bodies of water, along with countless smaller tarns, its no wonder that Lake District fishing is such a popular sport.
Whether you’re fishing for carp, pike, trout or samon, you’ll find the perfect spot here. Grab your rods, secure your licence and get going on your next visit to the Lake District.
Keep reading to learn more about fishing in the Lake District…
Why is Lake District fishing so popular?
Fishing is a wonderful pastime, aiding in both your physical and mental wellbeing.
With wonderful views along the way, the walk to your fishing spot doesn’t seem like such a task here.
Idylically positioned alongside glistening waters and enveloped in the sound of birdsong and surrounding wildlife, fishing in the Lake District is a tranquil experience.
Offering a much-needed escape from reality, the sport is good for relaxation and helping reduce stress and anxiety.
Maybe you’re an experienced angler, or fancy trying something new. Whatever your reason, our guide to fishing in the Lake District is sure to help!
How many lakes are in the Lake District?
Contrary to popular belief, there is, in fact, only one official lake in the Lake District.
Bassenthwaite Lake sits in the north of the National Park and stretches a staggering 4 miles in length.
The only body of water with “lake” in its title, the 15 other ‘lakes’ in the region are technically tarns, meres or waters.
With the highest concentration of bodies of water in England, it makes sense that Lake District fishing is such an enjoyed sport here.
Do I need a Lake District fishing permit?
First things first, if you’re thinking of fishing in the Lake District, be sure to protect yourself with a fishing permit.
An EA rod license is a legal requirement for fishing and is needed in all instances. These EA rod licenses are available to purchase online or in-person at all post offices.
We would always recommend checking for local permits and bylaws for your chosen location before casting your line.
The Government has issued strict guidelines on fishing seasons along with restrictions on when and how you can fish. You can find more information regarding this here.
Where can I fish for free in the Lake District?
Once you have purchased your rod licence you need to find a fishing spot open to the public.
Windermere, Coniston and Ullswater are the three main bodies of water that are open to free fishing in the Lake District.
This means that you’re not required to pay for access nor do you need to purchase any other fishing licence or permit.
What fish are in Lake Windermere?
A popular Lake District fishing spot, Lake Windermere plays host to a facinating array of fish.
You’ll find arctic char in Lake Windermere, a local Cumbrian delicacy, along with brown trout, pike, perch, roach and eels.
Salmon and sea trout pass through the water in the Autumn to spawn in the tributaries.
You’re sure to catch something interesting with a spot of Lake Windermere fishing!
The Windermere, Ambleside and District Angling Association is the largest club of its kind in the county. The WADAA manages several bodies of water, offering a variety of different fishing opportunities nearby.
Find out more about permits, day tickets and membership with the WADAA here.
Trout fishing in the Lake District
At Ullswater, trout fishing season runs between the 15th of March and the 30th of September. Along with trout, here you’ll find char, perch, pike and the endangered & protected schelly fish.
At 184 feet deep, there’s plenty of room for trout to play hide and seak at Coniston Water. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll find a good number of rainbow and brown trout. You may even find pike lurking beneath the water, avoiding you!
It’s shallow around the shores at Coniston Water, however you’ll need a boat to reach the deepest parts of the water.
Pike fishing in the Lake District
Bassenthwaite Lake is a peaceful spot to cast your rod, and is mainly known for its pike fishing.
As a National Nature Reserve, there are restrictions on motor boats. Check out the requirements for pike fishing at Bassenthwaite Lake before you head out for a day of peace and quiet.
Keswick Information Centre sells rod licenses and permits for non-powered boats. Keswick Anglers Association sells permits.
Esthwaite Water, to the west of Windermere, is a managed trout fishery offering roach fishing, pike fishing and coarse fishing. You can choose from boat and short fishing, and there is a tackle shop and equipment hire options available.
Coarse fishing in the Lake District
Grasmere & Rydal Water offer smaller but perfectly formed coarse fisheries. Impressive-sized fish are caught on a regular basis, including pike, perch and roach.
This is a gorgeous location, promising a tranquil day of fishing and enjoyment. With dreamy views all around, it’ll be hard to find an excuse not to visit!
Parking is available in the village or at White Moss Common. Day tickets for Rydal & Grasmere cost £10 from Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association.
If you’re thinking of fly-fishing check out some ideas and how to go about it from Windermere Ambleside & District Angling Association. They have three main rainbow trout fisheries, Ghyll Head, High Newton and Bigland
Why not try fishing in a Tarn?
For something small and remote, why not try your hand at tarn fishing in the Lake District?
The word ‘tarn’ comes from the Norse word ‘tjorn’ meaning a small lake or pond. It’s a term used quite extensively in Northern England and gives a feeling of wild upland waters, where you can enjoy solitude and a unique experience.
Scott Winstanley, a local fisherman and artist, tells us how to enjoy the tarns of the Lake District:
“These waters of the wild hills are home to trout, pike, perch, minnows, vendace, schelley, char and eel and who knows what else! The little brown trout is the most abundant, and offers the visiting angler the most realistic opportunity of sport.”
He urges that there are no strict rules to tarn fishing in the Lake District. There is, however, some basic etiquette for fishing in more wild places:
- Catch and release is a must, along with the use of barbless hooks. Fish stocks are precious.
- Fly fishing is preferred, but if your fly casting is a little rusty or indeed none existent then there are alternatives.
- Flies can be fished with a standard spinning rod and fixed spool reel and can be cast with the aid of a bubble float.
- Please, no bait fishing, and no spinning. Stick to barbless hooks.
Check out local artist Scott Winstanley on Facebook or Instagram for more inspiration and an array of wonderful fish-themed artworks and photographs.
Lake District Fishing
The final and most important points to make about fishing in the Lake District are as follows:
Remember to tell someone where you’re going. Many bodies of water are in remote locations. Ensure someone knows your whereabouts for your own safety.
Respect the countryside. The remarkable landscapes of the Lake District National Park are best kept in a tidy, clean and safe condition.
Adher to the fishing codes. Not only is it bad practice to go against these codes, you could find yourself with a hefty fine!
Most of all, enjoy your time in the great outdoors.
Tempted to try your hand at a spot of Lake District fishing? Browse our wonderful range of Lake District lodges here and secure your perfect base for your next Lake District fishing holiday!
And if the weather isn’t on your side, give our guide on things to do in the Lake District when it rains a read!
This blog was updated based on original content written by Lake District Lodge Holidays
