The waters around Anglesey and Holy Island are some of the most productive in the Irish Sea. Whether you want to cast a line from the rocks, charter a boat for a day offshore, or introduce the kids to fishing for the first time, there is something here for every level.
Shore Fishing
Anglesey has hundreds of accessible shore marks, and the coastline around Trearddur Bay and Holyhead is particularly good. Porth Dafarch is a popular spot for bass in the summer months, while the rocks around Penrhos Bay produce wrasse, pollack and mackerel. For those who prefer sandy beaches, Rhosneigr and Aberffraw offer excellent flatfish opportunities, particularly in autumn and winter.
The Breakwater at Holyhead is another favourite – the deep water on the outer wall produces conger eels, dogfish and rays, while the inner harbour side is good for mullet in summer. Night fishing here can be particularly productive.
Charter Boat Fishing
For those wanting to get offshore, there are several excellent charter boat operators working out of Holyhead harbour. A typical day trip will take you out around the Skerries or the offshore reefs, where you can expect to catch species including pollack, cod, ling, tope, and in the warmer months, bass and smoothhound.
SBS Rib Charter, run by Aubrey Diggle, has been operating in Anglesey waters for almost 20 years. As a former Auxiliary Coastguard and current RNLI Operations Manager, his knowledge of local waters is unsurpassed. Half-day and full-day trips are available, and they can tailor trips to all experience levels.
Kayak Fishing
Kayak fishing has become increasingly popular around Anglesey. The sheltered bays of Trearddur and the calmer waters of the Menai Strait offer safe launching points, and you can find yourself fishing over ground that the boats cannot reach. Bass, pollack and mackerel are all regularly caught from kayaks in the summer months.
Freshwater Fishing
If sea fishing is not your thing, there are several well-stocked freshwater lakes on the island. Llyn Alaw, Anglesey’s largest lake, is a productive trout fishery, and day tickets are available. The lake at Breakwater Country Park in Holyhead also offers coarse fishing in a beautiful setting.
What You Need to Know
- No licence is required for sea fishing in Wales
- A rod licence is required for freshwater fishing (available from the Environment Agency)
- Minimum size limits apply to many species – check current regulations
- Several tackle shops on the island can advise on local marks and bait
After a day on the water, head back to one of our coastal holiday homes in Trearddur Bay – several have outdoor showers and utility rooms perfect for cleaning down your gear.