Sea fishing is one of the most popular activities along the Dorset coast, with boat trips available from several harbours including Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Poole and West Bay. Whether you’re hoping to catch mackerel during the summer, spend several hours offshore targeting larger species or simply enjoy your first fishing trip with the family, Dorset offers something for anglers of all abilities.
This guide focuses on boat-based sea fishing trips. If you’re looking for information on fishing from beaches, piers and harbours, see our Dorset Shore Fishing guide.
Most operators provide rods, tackle and bait, making sea fishing an easy activity to try even if you’ve never fished before.
Below you’ll find our guides to the main sea fishing departure points across Dorset.
Sea Fishing from Weymouth
Weymouth is Dorset’s leading destination for sea fishing, with the widest choice of operators offering mackerel fishing, deep sea fishing, wreck fishing and private fishing charters throughout the year.
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Sea Fishing from Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis offers family-friendly mackerel fishing trips and longer deep sea fishing excursions from the historic Cobb. Most trips include rods, tackle and bait, making them suitable for beginners as well as experienced anglers.
Read more: Sea Fishing from Lyme Regis
Sea Fishing from Poole
Poole offers a variety of sea fishing trips within Poole Bay and further offshore, including private charters, reef fishing and mackerel fishing during the summer months.
Read more: Sea Fishing from Poole
Sea Fishing from West Bay
Seasonal sea fishing trips operate from West Bay, providing opportunities for mackerel fishing and exploring the rich fishing grounds along the Jurassic Coast.
Read more: Sea Fishing from West Bay
Which Departure Point Should You Choose?
- Weymouth – Dorset’s largest choice of sea fishing trips and private charters.
- Lyme Regis – Excellent family mackerel fishing and beginner-friendly trips.
- Poole – Fishing in Poole Bay and offshore reefs.
- West Bay – Seasonal fishing trips along the Jurassic Coast.