Lyme Regis has a long maritime history and remains one of Dorset’s most popular destinations for family-friendly sea fishing trips. Departing from the historic Cobb, local fishing boats offer everything from one-hour mackerel fishing trips to longer deep sea fishing excursions along the Jurassic Coast.
Whether you’re trying sea fishing for the first time or looking to spend several hours offshore, Lyme Regis provides an enjoyable experience for anglers of all ages. Most operators supply rods, reels, tackle and bait, making it easy for beginners to simply turn up and enjoy the day.
With spectacular coastal scenery, experienced local skippers and productive fishing grounds in Lyme Bay, sea fishing from Lyme Regis is a great way to experience the Jurassic Coast from the water.
Google map Lyme Regis
Google map The Cobb
Fishing Trips at a Glance
| Experience | Best For |
|---|---|
| Mackerel Fishing | Families and beginners |
| Deep Sea Fishing | Anglers wanting a longer trip |
| Private Charter | Groups and experienced anglers |
Popular Fishing Operators
Harry May Fishing Trips
Website: https://mackerelfishinglymeregis.com
Operating from the Cobb, Harry May Fishing Trips has been introducing visitors to sea fishing for many years.
The company offers one-hour mackerel fishing trips together with three-hour deep sea fishing excursions, with rods, tackle and bait included. Fishing takes place aboard the Marie F and Sunbeam, which carry up to ten passengers.
The shorter mackerel trips are particularly popular with families during the summer, while the longer offshore trips allow anglers to target a wider variety of fish.
Nick’s Fishing Trips
Website: https://www.lymeregismackerelfishing.com
Nick’s Fishing Trips also operates from the Cobb, offering seasonal sea fishing trips from Lyme Regis.
The company specialises in family-friendly fishing experiences and provides equipment for visitors wishing to try sea fishing during their stay.
Mackerel Fishing
Mackerel fishing is by far the most popular sea fishing trip from Lyme Regis, particularly during the summer months when large shoals arrive in Lyme Bay.
Trips typically last around one hour, making them ideal for families with children and anyone trying sea fishing for the first time. Using feather rigs, it’s often possible to catch several fish at once when the mackerel are feeding, making these trips both exciting and rewarding.
Most operators provide all rods, reels, tackle and bait, and the experienced skippers are always happy to help complete beginners.
Deep Sea Fishing
For anglers wanting to spend more time on the water, several operators offer longer deep sea fishing trips lasting around three hours or more.
These trips travel further offshore to target a wider variety of species, which may include bass, pollack, bream, cod, conger eel, rays and other seasonal fish depending on conditions.
Longer trips provide a more varied fishing experience and are suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Private Fishing Charters
Some boats can also be hired exclusively for private groups, allowing anglers to choose the type of fishing they wish to do and the length of the trip.
Private charters are ideal for families, groups of friends and fishing clubs wanting a more personalised day on the water.
What Can You Catch?
The species available vary throughout the year, but commonly caught fish include:
- Mackerel
- Bass
- Pollack
- Bream
- Cod
- Conger eel
- Rays
Skippers will normally advise which species are fishing well before departure and select the best fishing grounds according to the season and sea conditions.
Things to Consider Before Booking
Choosing the right trip – One-hour mackerel fishing trips are ideal for families and beginners, while longer deep sea fishing trips provide more opportunities to catch a wider variety of species.
Equipment – Most operators provide rods, reels, tackle and bait, although you’re usually welcome to bring your own equipment if preferred.
Weather – Trips are weather dependent and may occasionally be cancelled if sea conditions are unsuitable.
Keeping your catch – Most operators allow passengers to keep their catch, although legal size limits and fisheries regulations apply.
Clothing – Even on warm summer days it can feel noticeably cooler offshore. Waterproof clothing and suitable footwear are recommended.