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UK Shore Fishing Size Limits: A Complete Guide

  • Writer: Big Fish Fishing
    Big Fish Fishing
  • Feb 23
  • 4 min read

Fishing in the UK is a popular pastime, but knowing the legal size limits for different fish species is crucial. These regulations help preserve fish populations and ensure sustainability for future generations. In this guide, we’ll cover the legal size limits for fish commonly caught from the shore in the UK, along with useful information about the species, best fishing tactics, and recommended baits.


A guide to legal size keep limits of fish in the UK
Responsible angling isn't just about catching fish—it's about protecting them too

Why Size Limits Matter

Size limits are set to allow fish to reach maturity and reproduce before being taken. Keeping undersized fish can have serious consequences for fish stocks, so always measure your catch and return any fish that do not meet the legal size requirement.

Commonly Caught UK Fish and Their Size Limits

Below is a list of popular shore-caught species, their minimum size limits, and how best to target them.

Bass

  • Legal Size Limit: 42cm (England, Wales, Northern Ireland & Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Lure fishing with surface poppers or soft plastics, or bait fishing with peeler crab or ragworm.

  • Best Bait: Peeler crab, ragworm, sandeel.

Cod

  • Legal Size Limit: 35cm (England & Wales), 38cm (Scotland), 36cm (Northern Ireland)

  • Best Tactics: Fishing over rough ground with pulley rigs and large baits.

  • Best Bait: Lugworm, squid, peeler crab, mackerel strip.

Whiting

  • Legal Size Limit: 27cm (England & Wales), 30cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Ledgering with small hooks in winter months.

  • Best Bait: Lugworm, ragworm, mackerel strip.

Mackerel

  • Legal Size Limit: 30cm (England, Wales & Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Spinning with feathers or lures.

  • Best Bait: Mackerel strip, sand eel, feathers.

Plaice

  • Legal Size Limit: 27cm (England & Wales), 30cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Light ledgering over clean sandy beaches.

  • Best Bait: Ragworm, lugworm, peeler crab, razorfish.

Flounder

  • Legal Size Limit: 25cm (England & Wales), 27cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Light tackle fishing in estuaries and harbours.

  • Best Bait: Ragworm, lugworm, peeler crab.

Turbot

  • Legal Size Limit: 30cm (England & Wales), 35cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Drifting bait over sandy ground.

  • Best Bait: Mackerel strip, sandeel.

Brill

  • Legal Size Limit: 30cm (England & Wales), 33cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Similar to turbot, found in deeper sandy areas.

  • Best Bait: Mackerel strip, sandeel.

Sole

  • Legal Size Limit: 24cm (England & Wales), 30cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Bottom fishing at night on sandy beaches.

  • Best Bait: Lugworm, ragworm, peeler crab.

Dab

  • Legal Size Limit: 23cm (England & Wales), 27cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Ledgering with small hooks over sandy areas.

  • Best Bait: Ragworm, lugworm, mackerel strip.

Skate & Rays (Thornback, Blonde, Small-Eyed, Spotted, Undulate, Cuckoo)

  • Legal Size Limit: Varies by species, check local regulations.

  • Best Tactics: Large baits fished over sandbanks.

  • Best Bait: Sandeel, squid, mackerel.

Pollack

  • Legal Size Limit: 30cm (England & Wales), 35cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Spinning or float fishing near rock marks.

  • Best Bait: Sandeel, ragworm, artificial lures.

Coalfish (Coley)

  • Legal Size Limit: 35cm (England & Wales), 38cm (Scotland)

  • Best Tactics: Spinning or bottom fishing over mixed ground.

  • Best Bait: Ragworm, sandeel, mackerel strip.

Conger Eel

  • Legal Size Limit: No official limit but smaller fish should be returned.

  • Best Tactics: Fishing in deep rock marks or harbour walls.

  • Best Bait: Mackerel, squid, cuttlefish.

Smoothhound

  • Legal Size Limit: No official limit, but best practice is catch and release.

  • Best Tactics: Ledgering over clean ground.

  • Best Bait: Peeler crab, squid.

Tope

  • Legal Size Limit: Protected species - catch and release only.

  • Best Tactics: Strong tackle required for these powerful fish.

  • Best Bait: Mackerel, squid.

Wrasse (Ballan & Corkwing)

  • Legal Size Limit: No legal limit, but conservation efforts encourage catch and release.

  • Best Tactics: Float fishing near rocks.

  • Best Bait: Crab, ragworm.

General Guidelines for Measuring and Handling Fish

  • Use a reliable measuring tape or fish ruler to check fish length.

  • Measure from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail fin.

  • If a fish is below the legal limit, return it to the water immediately.

  • Handle fish with wet hands to avoid damaging their protective slime coat.

  • When practicing catch and release, support the fish until it swims away strongly.

Check Local Regulations

Fishing regulations can change depending on location, and some areas have specific bylaws regarding size limits and catch restrictions. Always check with your local fisheries authority or visit the government’s official website for up-to-date rules.

Conclusion

Being aware of size limits is crucial for responsible shore fishing in the UK. Whether you’re targeting bass, cod, mackerel, or flatfish, knowing the legal requirements helps protect fish stocks and ensures you stay within the law. By using the right tactics and sea fishing tackle, you can enjoy productive and sustainable fishing trips while preserving marine life for future generations.

Remember, responsible angling isn't just about catching fish—it's about protecting them too. Tight lines!

 
 
 

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