Dorset is a county located in the South West of England. The coastline stretches for over 100 miles and is dotted with fishing villages and lakes perfect for carp fishing. On this page, we will explore some of the best places to go sea fishing and fresh water fishing in Dorset.
- Rawlsbury Trout Lakes
- Winterborne Zelston Trout Lake
- Orchard Lakes Dorset
- Pinnock Lakes
- Kingsbridge Lakes
- Alder Hills
- Creekmoor Ponds
- Hatch Pond
- Waddock Lakes
- Wedgehill Ponds
- Holtwood Pools
- Todber Manor
- Wood Farm Holiday Park
- Riverside Lakes
- Revels Fishery
- Pallington Lakes
- Rosewall Camping
- Nea Meadows Lake
- Moors Valley Country Park and Forest
- East Moors Lake
- Mangerton Lake
- Lyons Gate Holiday Park
- Bakers Mill Farm Holiday Cottages
- Throop Fisheries
- Warmwell Fisheries Dorset
- The Victorian Barn
- Gold Oak Farm
- Crooked Willows
- Dorset Springs Fishery
- Sherborne Lake
- Martin’s Farm Fishery
- Clump Hill Farm Fishery
- Cranborne Lake
- Culvers Farm Fishery
- Higher Kingcombe Coarse Fishing
- Summerlands Farm Fishery
- Whitemoor Lakes
- West Compton Manor Fishing
- Sopley Lake
- Radipole Lake
- Parley Lakes
- Luckfield Lake
- Lodden Lakes
- Highway Farm Fishing
- Heath Lake
- Paddock Specimen Lake
- Coking Farm Fishery
- Capstone Farm Country Park
- Longham Reservoir
Carp Fishing In Dorset
Dorset is a county located in the southwest of England. The coastline stretches over 100 miles and is dotted with fishing villages and fishing venues perfect for carp fishing. This page will explore some of the best places to go coarse fishing and carp fishing in Dorset.
Carp fishing is a popular pastime in Dorset, and many lakes offer great carp fishing opportunities. Some of the best lakes for carp fishing include:
Swan Lake
Swan Lake is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Dorset. The lake is perfect for carp fishing and is home to various other fish species, such as pike, perch, and roach. Swan Lake is also a popular spot for bird watching and is a haven for wildlife. You can fish here on a day ticket.
Horton Tower Hill Lake
Horton Tower Hill Lake is another great carp fishing lake in Dorset. The lake is situated in the picturesque countryside and is home to a variety of fish, including carp, pike, perch, and bream. Horton Tower Hill Lake is also a popular spot for walking and picnicking.
Corfe Castle Pond
Corfe Castle Pond is a small pond located in the village of Corfe Castle. The pond is perfect for carp fishing and is also home to various other fish species, such as roach, perch and bream. Corfe Castle Pond is also a popular spot for walking and picnicking.
Todber Manor
Todber Manor is a large estate located in Dorset. The estate has many fishing lakes that are perfect for carp fishing. The lakes on the estate are well stocked with various fish species such as carp, pike, perch and bream. Todber Manor is also popular for walking, cycling and horse riding.
Beach Fishing, Boat Fishing, and Fly Fishing
Dorset, a picturesque county on the southern coast of England, offers fantastic fishing opportunities for anglers of all experience levels. Dorset has something for every fishing enthusiast, from beach fishing along the stunning Chesil Beach to boat fishing trips departing from various coastal towns. For those who prefer a more tranquil experience, the region’s beautiful rivers provide the perfect setting for fly fishing.
Beach Fishing
Chesil Beach, located in Dorset, is renowned as one of England’s top shore fishing destinations. Anglers from all over the country flock to its shingle banks to cast their lines and enjoy the unique shore fishing experience. On weekends, tents can be lining the shore as people fish through the day and into the night.
The presence of deep shelving ledges just meters from the shoreline creates a diverse range of fish species that can be caught on Dorsets beaches. Record-breaking catches have been made recently, making Chesil Beach a highly sought-after location. In the summer, mackerel are abundant, making for a delicious barbecue treat as you watch the sunset. Plaice, gurnard, sole, and bream are common catches on calm, clear days.
Boat Fishing
Dorset offers a variety of boat fishing trips departing from Lyme Regis, West Bay, Weymouth, Portland, and Poole. These trips cater to different preferences and skill levels, with various sea fishing excursions available throughout the year.
In the warmer summer months however, inshore fishing trips are popular, targeting species such as plaice, turbot, rays, conger eels, and tope, depending on the weather conditions. Summer is an excellent time for beginners to try their hand at boat fishing. During the school holidays, many boats offer shorter half-day and mackerel fishing trips designed for families and novice anglers. Some charter boats provide bait and equipment, so inquire about this when booking.
Winter boat fishing focuses on wreck fishing for cod, pollock, and lying in the English Channel. These trips are generally more suitable for experienced anglers due to the need for additional gear and longer days at sea. Be prepared to travel for a few hours to reach prime fishing spots.
Poole Harbour
Poole Harbour is a large natural harbour located in Dorset. The harbour is home to various fish species, such as cod, mackerel, bass and flatfish. Poole Harbour is also a popular spot for sailing and windsurfing.
Fly Fishing
Dorset’s scenic rivers offer a serene setting for fly fishing enthusiasts. Take in the breathtaking countryside views as you wade through the waters and perfect your cast. The River Frome and River Allen are two of the best fly-fishing venues in the area, where you can catch brown trout, sea trout, and salmon.
You’ll need to purchase a day fishing ticket to fish private waterways in Dorset. The Wrackleford Estate, Flowers Farm Trout Lakes, Amherst Lodge, and Wessex Fly Fishing Trout Lakes are all highly recommended fly-fishing venues.
Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced angler, hiring a guide for the day is an excellent way to improve your skills and increase your chances of success. An experienced guide can offer expert knowledge of the area and fishing techniques, making your outing more enjoyable and productive.
Dorset Fishing Clubs
| Name | Address | Website | FB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christchurch Angling Club | 21d Magnolia House Stour Road Christchurch Dorset BH23 1PL UK | Website | |
| Poole Bay Small Boat Angling Club | 32 Alton Road Lower Parkstone Poole Dorset BH14 8SN UK | Website | |
| Swanage and District Angling Club | Club House, Peveril Point, Swangae, Dorset BH19 2AY | Website | |
| Weymouth Angling Society | Commercial Road Weymouth Dorset DT4 8NF UK | Website | |
| Wimborne and District Angling Club | The Secretary Poole Dorset BH121 3LP UK | Website | |
| Poole Dolphins Sea Angling Club | Broadstone Poole Dorset BH189HT UK | Website | |
| Crosshands Angling Club | 85 Down Road Winterbourne Down Bristol Avon BS361BZ UK | Website |
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Dorset offers a range of fishing venues for all skill levels and preferences, from beach fishing on Chesil Beach to boat fishing trips and fly fishing in picturesque rivers. With its beautiful coastline and stunning countryside, Dorset is a must-visit destination for any fishing enthusiast.