1 The River Tyne
Famous for its salmon fishing, with catches regularly weighing in at over 30lbs, the Tyne presents a variety of fishing opportunities – from idyllic pebble beaches further upstream to quayside tidal fishing in Newcastle’s city centre.
Splitting into the North Tyne and South Tyne just upstream of the market town of Hexham, the Tyne’s north and south divides are popular fishing grounds for the hallowed local salmon and trout – as well as the stretch of the main river between Hexham and Wylam. While coarse fishing opportunities are fewer and farther between, the North Tyne and main river do throw up the occasional roach or perch.
If you’re after saltwater species, head downstream into the tidal waters of Newcastle-upon-Tyne – where the river’s estuary is abundant with flounder, and the city’s quayside is regularly lined with local fishermen trying their luck.
2 Felton Fence Fishery
The region’s premier coarse fishing spot, Felton Fence Fishery is just a stone’s throw from the A1 – offering anglers round-the-clock competition carp fishing. With facilities onsite, the fishery’s four lakes attract serious anglers looking to snag a monster.
While the lakes are regularly stocked, the fishery is keen to promote the conservation of its carp and operates strict onsite rules to minimise injuries to the fish – so make sure you’re aware of the rules before joining in the fun.
3 Fontburn Reservoir
Amateur or professional, Fontburn Reservoir is probably the region’s most inclusive fishery. With plenty of onsite facilities, it’s ideal for families and those who want to combine fishing with a great day out – and there are even facilities for anglers who may be disabled, making it the region’s most accessible fishing spot.
Fontburn remains one of the region’s most popular reservoirs, due to its high numbers of sizeable rainbow trout. Day passes can be purchased from the visitor centre for £24 and will allow you to catch and keep up to 8 fish. The reservoir allows both fly and line fishing, with any and all types of bait.
4 Amble
The quaint, picture-perfect harbour town of Amble is situated on Northumberland’s stunning coastline. Amble is one of the region’s favourite fishing hotspots, favoured by locals and visitors alike.
Drop by the town’s angling centre to stock up on bait and tackle before heading out to Amble pier – where you’ll be able to catch mackerel, flounder and even cod, if you’re lucky. The harbour is also home to a number of fishing charter boats which welcome visitors, from beginners to experienced fishermen. These cod-fishing day trips out into the North Sea can be extremely lucrative, with the region famed for its cod-rich waters.
5 The River Wansbeck
Just a short stroll from the town of Morpeth, and within easy access of the A1, the River Wansbeck is a lucrative brown trout fishing spot – popular with fly and line fishermen. While its muddy banks can be challenging to navigate in wet weather, its waters hold plenty of reward for those willing to persevere.
With a mix of fast-flowing water and deeper still water spots, fishing here can be invigorating or relaxing (and everything inbetween). Don’t let the murky, soil-rich waters put you off – some of the region’s best wild trout are lurking below the surface.
Where to stay
If you’re visiting from afar, you may want to turn your trip into an extended stay – giving you the opportunity to sample a number of the region’s best fishing hot spots. For coastal stays, the seaside towns of Amble and Seahouses offer plenty to see and do – with easy access to a number of coastal fishing spots. If the Tyne’s salmon stocks are driving you to Northumberland, Hexham and the lively Newcastle-upon-Tyne offer plenty of local accommodation options – from self-catering apartments to B&Bs.
Author: Tori Atkinson is a travel and recreation blogger for Cottages in Northumberland, offering visitors to the region access to a wide range of self-catering holiday cottages.
https://www.cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk/
