Sea and shore fishing

Sea and shore fishing are extremely popular along the Dorset coast. Chartered angling boats are increasingly in demand around the harbours of Christchurch, Poole, Weymouth, West Bay and Lyme Regis, as well as coastal towns like Swanage.

As well as fishing along the coast, there are also a good range of trout lakes throughout the country, both privately and publicly owned.

Obtaining a Rod Licence

The Environment Agency (opens in a new window) Rod Licence is required by all persons of 12 years and over and is available from Post Offices and online. In addition, the angler must also get permission from the land owner.

The Environment Agency owns all fishing rights in the tidal waters of the Rivers Frome and Piddle from Wareham to the white posts where the river enters Poole Harbour. For permits contact the Blandford office by calling 0870 8506 506.

Tackle Box Guide

Download the 'tackle box guide' (opens in a new window) for information such as minimum catch size, spawning seasons and fish handling techniques.

The SeaClean Project

The SeaClean Project provides recycling bins so you can recycle your fishing line. Find the bins at Christchurch, Swanage, Kimmeridge, Weymouth, West Bexington and West Bay and at Poole Harbour in Hamworthy, Baiter and Sandbanks. Find out about what you can do to keep Dorset's coastline, beaches and wildlife free from fishing tackle on the Dorset Wildlife Trust website (opens in a new window) .

Dorset's edible fish

A large number of edible fish can be found off the coast of Dorset. The issue is how they can be managed sustainably to ensure that viable populations continue into the future.

Recycle Fish

Sign up to the Recycle Fish (opens in a new window) campaign and become a responsible angler. Open to individuals, anglers, divers, boat charters etc, to agree to only take what you need and release unwanted fish alive and well back into the sea. Many local boat owners have already signed up.