Fishing in Looe
Fishing in Looe, nestled in the heart of South East Cornwall, offers an unforgettable experience for both seasoned anglers and casual fishers. The town’s bustling port and abundant marine life make it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.
With a fleet of day boats bringing in fresh catches throughout the day, Looe is renowned for its exceptional seafood and vibrant fishing culture.
Whether you’re drawn to boat trips or prefer shore fishing, Looe caters to all. Popular species include Grey Mullet, Bass, Flounder, Wrasse, and Pollock. For those looking to fish from the shore, Banjo Pier is a top spot, though it’s important to note that access is restricted from May to September for safety reasons.
Other fishing areas remain accessible year-round, offering fantastic opportunities
Top Tip
What Fishing Opportunities Are Available in Looe?
Sea Fishing in Looe
Looe’s variety of fishing trips ensures that there’s something for everyone, from family-friendly outings to serious angling adventures. Full-day trips are perfect for targeting big game like sharks, tuna, and conger eel. Shorter trips like mackerel fishing are ideal for families and those looking to dip their toes into the fishing world.
Mackerel Fishing in Looe, Cornwall
Looe has a long-standing tradition of mackerel fishing. The harbour serves as the starting point for exciting boat trips that allow visitors to experience the thrill of catching mackerel. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fishing, this offers an exciting day on the water. For shore anglers, mackerel can also be caught from the rocks opposite the Pier.
Shark Fishing in Looe
For thrill-seekers, shark fishing is a must-try activity. Looe is one of the UK’s premier spots for Blue Shark fishing. The Shark Angling Club of Great Britain promotes sustainable fishing practices, including catch-and-release methods. Many charter boats offer shark fishing excursions, ensuring an ethical and exhilarating experience.
Trips can be booked directly through the club’s office at Middleton’s Corner on East Looe Quay. Call: 01503 262642 for details.
Top Shore Fishing Locations in Looe
Looe’s coastline offers plenty of shore fishing opportunities. From sandy beaches to rocky shores, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top spots:
- The Millpool: Mullet and Flounder
- Upper Estuary: Bass, Bream, Flounder, Mullet, Sea Trout
- The Harbour: Mackerel and Mullet
- Banjo Pier: Bass, Whiting, Pollack, Flounder (No fishing May 1 – Sept 30)
- East Looe Beach: Mackerel, Bass, Pollack
- Talland Bay Rocks: Mackerel, Dogfish, Wrasse, Pollock
- Seaton Beach: Whiting, Dogfish, Bass
- Whitsand Bay: Bass, Dover Sole, Flounder, Plaice
Be sure to follow catch-and-release practices, especially for smaller fish, to support sustainability.
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Video Spotlight
Thanks to Delintrepid for this informative video on Pier Fishing at Banjo Pier:
River Fishing in Looe
Both the East and West Looe Rivers offer great opportunities for Sea Trout, Bass, and Mackerel fishing. The River Tamar is also a popular spot for Sea Trout, Salmon, and Brown Trout. Make sure to check local rules and permits before fishing, particularly in areas like Seaton and West Looe, which require permits from the Liskeard and District Angling Club.
Top River Fishing Spots
- River Tamar: Sea Trout, Salmon
- River Seaton: Sea Trout
- River Fowey: Bass, Flatfish, Mackerel, Pollack
Lake Fishing Near Looe, Cornwall
For course fishing enthusiasts, lakes near Looe offer a diverse experience. Two of the top destinations include:
Bake Fishing Lakes
Located 8 miles from Looe, Bake Lakes feature seven well-stocked lakes filled with species like Rudd, Roach, Bream, and Carp. Established in 1998, it’s a great place to enjoy tranquil lake fishing. Visit the Bake Lakes Website.
Siblyback Lake
Located on Bodmin Moor, Siblyback Lake is known for its beautiful setting and excellent fly fishing opportunities. The lake is regularly stocked with Blue and Rainbow Trout, and boat fishing is available with advance booking. For more information, visit Siblyback Lake.
Fishing Trips in Looe
Looe boasts a variety of fishing charters for every interest:
Boat Name | Services | Contact |
Salty | 2-hour mackerel trips, bay trips | 07813 757656 |
Swallow 2 | Charter fishing for shark, ling, black bream | 07831 616316 |
Sowenna Fishing | Shark, tuna, reef fishing | 07738 057115 |
Black Pearl 2 | Mackerel, squid, wrasse trips | 07592 070418 |
Typhoon | 2, 4, & 8-hour fishing trips | 07828 449614 |
Responsible Fishing: Catch-and-Release Initiatives
Looe’s fishing community takes pride in practicing sustainable fishing. Catch-and-release initiatives help maintain fish populations for future generations. Using barbless hooks, wet hands, and quick release methods minimizes harm to fish.
Best Practices for Handling Live Catches
- Wet hands before touching the fish
- Use barbless hooks to reduce injury
- Support the fish properly to avoid damage
- Keep air exposure to a minimum
For more information on sustainable fishing in Looe, visit the Looe Marine Conservation.
Conclusion
Fishing in Looe offers more than just a relaxing day by the sea. Whether you’re hunting for trophy fish or enjoying the scenic waters, Looe’s fishing opportunities are vast and varied. Its rich traditions, commitment to sustainability, and diverse marine life make it a top destination for anglers.
For more insights, local guides, and accommodation options, explore our website. Happy fishing!
Collaborative Work: This article was written by Des Donnelly with contributions from OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model]. Visit ChatGPT.
Glossary
Looe Fish Market | Derek Harper | CC BY-SA 2.0
Banjo Pier | Philip Halling | CC BY-SA 2.0
East Looe, Buller Quay: Crabbing notice | Michael Garlick | CC BY-SA 2.0
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