Fishing Holidays in Swanage
Swanage is popular with anglers hoping to enjoy a fishing holiday in Dorset. There’s a variety of shore fishing marks within easy reach of the town and it’s also possible to book a fishing trip aboard one of the popular charter boats.
There’s plenty of self-catering accommodation available at Ulwell Holiday Park, so you can make a couple days of it if you choose. Swanage has a wide selection of pubs and restaurants to refuel at the end of the day – including our very own restaurant, The Village Inn!
Fishing Holidays in Swanage
Swanage is home to a small fleet of charter fishing boats if you fancy getting out on the water during your stay. The experienced skippers will take you out to sea and use their expert knowledge to give you the best chance of catching a personal best and maybe something for dinner too! Along the way you’ll enjoy picturesque views of the Jurassic Coast and you may catch a glimpse of iconic natural landmarks including Old Harry Rocks. There’s always a chance of seeing marine life whilst out on the water, so keep your eyes peeled for dolphins!
Swanage has a mixed fishery, so you’ll have the opportunity to catch a range of species, depending on the time of year. The boats offer inshore trips as well as offshore wreck fishing trips targeting cod and pollock. If you’ve never fished before it’s not a problem, many of the boats offer half day beginners fishing trips as well as 90-minute mackerel trips, which are well suited to families and beginners. Rods, reels and bait can be supplied on demand.
Recommended charter boats: Swanage Sea Fishing, Marsh Boats (mackerel fishing trips only)
Fishing from Swanage Pier
If you’d prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, don’t worry as fishing is also permitted from the end of Swanage Pier! It’s possible to catch a range of species, including pout, pollock, garfish and mackerel, when the tides and conditions are right. Float fishing is most productive, though it’s also possible to fish on the bottom if you’d prefer. We do not recommend feathering as it can get busy on the pier.
Pop into Swanage Angling Centre on your way down to pick up some tackle and bait. The friendly team will be able to supply anything you need and offer helpful guidance and advice.
Anglers are encouraged to use the special SeaClean bins, which have been provided by Dorset Wildlife Trust to help protect the natural environment.
Please note there is a small charge to fish from the pier and seasonal opening times are in place.
Shore Fishing Marks
The Isle of Purbeck is home to some excellent shore fishing marks, where you can fish from the beach and rocks. These are best suited to experienced anglers as some are fairly tricky to access, especially if it’s windy or raining.
Family-Friendly Holiday Park in Swanage
Ulwell Holiday Park is perfectly placed to enjoy a fishing holiday in Swanage. Our family friendly caravan and camping site is situated just a short walk from the beach and within easy reach of Swanage Pier.
We have a range of self-catering accommodation to choose from, with something guaranteed to suit your needs. Pitch a tent, bring your own caravan, campervan or motorhome or stay in one of our well-equipped holiday homes. If you’d prefer something a bit different, we also have a wooden camping pod and newly renovated studio with private garden.
Facilities include an on-site bar and restaurant, well-stocked shop, children’s play area and indoor swimming pool.
Search availability and book using our online booking system 24 hours a day. Alternatively, you can call reception and speak to our friendly team of receptionists that will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
