The 7 Best Lakes for Fishing in England

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, England is a dream destination. With an abundance of lakes, the options seem endless. However, fret not! We have curated a list of the absolute best fishing lakes in England, so you can focus on your angling adventure.

From peaceful countryside hideaways to captivating coastal retreats, these lakes offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable fishing experience. Let’s dive into the list and discover your next fishing destination in England!

1. Windermere

Windermere, England’s largest and most popular body of freshwater, boasts an astonishing capacity of 300 billion liters of water. This lake, located in the administrative county of Furness and Westmorland, as well as the ceremonial county of Cumbria, offers a perfect haven for fishing enthusiasts.

To fully experience the beauty of Windermere, there are plenty of ways to explore its sparkling waters. You can embark on a relaxing cruise boat ride, take control of a motor boat for a little adventure, or even take a refreshing plunge into the inviting waters for a swim. 

Windermere has a total of 19 islands. Among these, Belle Isle stands out as the most renowned.

One of the key highlights of Windermere is its exceptional abundance of wild fish. While there has been a decline in the numbers of brown trout and Arctic char in recent years, as well as some concerns regarding water quality, the lake still offers the opportunity to catch specimen-sized fish across various species.

If you’re specifically interested in pursuing Windermere Pike, the winter months from October to March are considered the most fruitful period. The North basin, which tends to be more favored by anglers, is generally more productive in terms of fishing yields. 

The lake is home to numerous fish, including:

• Brown trout
• Arctic Char
• Specimen pike
• Roach
• Perch
• Eels
• Bream
• Carp
• Chub
• Catfish

With numerous bays, tree-lined banks, and underwater features that serve as ideal fish habitats, you can opt for bank fishing. However, it should be noted that access to the shoreline is primarily restricted to private areas, making convenient bank fishing a prized opportunity.

2. Kingfisher Lake

Before we go into the details of Kingfisher Lake, let’s talk about its remarkable record: the lake’s most famous carp weighs a staggering 64 pounds! Yes, you read that right – 64 pounds! Spanning across 7 acres, this lake boasts varying depths, typically ranging from 13 feet to 16 feet.

Among the six lakes at Bluebell Lakes, Kingfisher Lake stands out as the prime fishing spot, holding the largest stock of impressive, large fish. Due to the challenges it presents, this lake is best suited for experienced anglers.

Swimming is not permitted in the lake, but the venue offers convenient amenities such as a tackle shop, café, toilets, and showers, providing anglers with all the necessary comforts.

Tickets are available for a minimum of 24 hours, but given the exceptional fishing opportunities, you might want to consider staying for a week-long fishing adventure.

Undoubtedly, Kingfisher Lake’s stock of fish can attract a significant number of anglers, leading to occasional crowding. However, there are favorable opportunities for newcomers on Wednesdays and Sundays, which are changeover days when many anglers leave the venue.

Fish available in Kingfisher Lake:

• Pike
• Bream
• Carp

It’s worth noting that if you’re seeking solitude during your fishing expedition, Kingfisher Lake may not be the ideal venue for you. However, if you’re the type of angler who relishes a challenge, look no further.

3. Bassenthwaite Lake

Nestled within England’s picturesque Lake District, Bassenthwaite Lake stands as a scenic gem. Covering an impressive 1310 acres, it is one of the largest and most captivating lakes in the renowned Lake District National Park.

Its shoreline spans approximately 11 miles, offering ample opportunities for exploration and fishing.

For boating enthusiasts, a purchased permit is required for general public access. Canoeists and kayakers should exercise caution to avoid the protected wildlife areas located in the northeastern and southern parts of the lake, respecting the designated no-boating zones.

Bassenthwaite Lake boasts a rich biodiversity, serving as a habitat for some of Britain’s rarest plants and fish species and over 70 species of birds. The majority of the lakeshore is managed by various trusts or privately owned, providing a safe haven for wildlife and creating a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

It’s important to note that access to most of the lakeshore is restricted to private ownership, requiring permission from landowners.

Remarkably, Bassenthwaite Lake is one of only two lakes in Britain where you can find the vendace, one of the rarest fish species in England. 

Fish in Bassenthwaite Lake:

• Vendace
• Eel
• Salmon
• Ruffe
• Trout
• Perch
• Common dace
• Roach
• Minnow
• Pike

Anglers interested in fishing the shallow waters of Bassenthwaite Lake must possess a valid lake permit and an Environment Agency (EA) rod license.

4. Brotherswater Lake

Located within northwest England’s Lake District National Park, Brotherswater is a hidden gem surrounded by grazing sheep, scenic hillsides, and green fields. Measuring 47 acres, there is ongoing debate as to whether Brotherswater should be classified as one of the largest tarns (mountain lakes) or one of the smallest lakes in the Lake District.

While it may not attract as many visitors as other lakes in the area, the steep hillsides and rugged fells encompass Brotherswater and offer unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Brotherswater is a perfect destination for hikers. With its rugged mountains, small villages, and serene lake shores, this area offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. When it comes to accommodations, there is a variety of options available, such as cozy bed & breakfasts, campgrounds, convenient self-catering facilities, charming holiday homes, and even real estate properties located in the nearby villages.

Being designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Brotherswater boasts strict regulations that prohibit boats on its pristine waters, while fishing is restricted to the western shore.

Despite these limitations, fishing enthusiasts are still drawn to Brotherswater for its exceptional qualities. Notably, it is one of only seven lakes in the United Kingdom where the endangered schelly fish, a member of the whitefish family, can be found.

Fish available in Brotherswater Lake:

• Schelly fish
• Trout
• Perch
• Eels

Despite its limited access, Brotherswater remains an enticing spot for anglers. 

5. Crag Lough

Crag Lough, situated within the picturesque Northumberland National Park, is renowned as one of the most iconic lakes in the region, often gracing the frames of countless photographs. It lies at the base of the majestic Whin Sill cliffs, featuring remnants of the historic Hadrian’s Wall along its southern shore, attracting adventurers and history enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.

Spanning an area of approximately 25 acres, Crag Lough offers visitors an opportunity to dive into the country’s geologic formations and ancient heritage.

The surroundings of Crag Lough have not gone unnoticed, as there is a wide array of holiday vacation rentals, self-catering cottages, bed & breakfasts (B&Bs), and even real estate properties available nearby. 

Currently, Crag Lough’s fishery is under a three-year fishing lease with the National Trust, with a primary focus on conserving its natural attributes and reviving the indigenous fish population.

From May 1st to October 31st, anglers can enjoy fishing, provided they hold a permit from the owner of Crag Lough’s fishing rights and possess an Environment Agency National Rod License.

Fish in Crag Lough include:

• Rainbow trout
• Brown trout
• Perch
• Eels

To ensure the conservation, a catch, and release policy is in effect, and the number of rods allowed in the lake’s seven-foot depths is limited to 15 at any given time. Given the size of Crag Lough, with a length of just over half a mile and a width of a tenth of a mile, a maximum of five boats are permitted on the lake simultaneously.

6. Buttermere Lake

Among the magnificent western lakes of England’s Lake District, Buttermere Lake stands as a ruggedly beautiful gem, forming part of a stunning chain of three lakes. With its sprawling 222 acres, Buttermere offers sparkling lakes, towering mountains, and verdant meadows showcasing the best of Lakeland’s natural beauty.

Hiking is a must in Buttermere, with a scenic four-mile path encompassing the entire shoreline. Along this trail, hikers can enjoy not only the breathtaking scenery but also find refreshments, encounter working farms, and discover historic inns. Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers will be thrilled by the diverse array of native wildlife that thrives in the Buttermere Valley.

Surrounding country villages offer a range of accommodations, including self-catering cottages, holiday rentals, and cozy bed & breakfasts (B&Bs), ensuring a delightful stay where family moments can be savored. 

For a change of scenery, just a short distance of less than 10 miles northeast of Buttermere lies Whinlatter, known as England’s “only true mountain forest,”

Boating and fishing on Buttermere Lake are regulated by the National Trust. While motor crafts are not permitted, anglers can hire a limited number of rowboats to explore the waters.

Fish available in Buttermere Lake:

• Arctic char
• Salmon
• Brown trout
• Perch
• Eel
• Pike

Although the lake’s depths of up to 75 feet may not be as renowned as those of other fishing spots like Windermere, anglers can still enjoy the remarkable surroundings of Buttermere while quietly casting their lines.

7. Horseshoe Lake

Situated in the heart of Gloucestershire, Horseshoe Lake earns its name from its distinctive horseshoe shape. This renowned lake attracts many enthusiastic anglers drawn to its abundant fishing opportunities.

Spanning across 62 acres, Horseshoe Lake comprises two main arms known as Summer and winter bay, offering diverse areas to explore and cast your line. The lake also provides an array of water sports possibilities, including windsurfing, dinghy sailing, dragon boating, raft building, and canoeing, catering to those seeking adventure on the water.

For those who prefer a leisurely stroll amidst picturesque scenery, Horseshoe Lake offers attractive countryside walks with delightful lakeside views. More adventurous individuals can partake in longer routes, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

When it comes to fishing at Horseshoe Lake, anglers can choose from day tickets or seasonal permit options, with Carp Society members enjoying the privilege of access.

Carp reign supreme in Horseshoe Lake, and their size is remarkable. Catching one of these magnificent specimens is a memorable experience, as they historically reach an average weight of 21 pounds, with the lake’s record standing at an impressive 41 pounds.

Fish available in Horseshoe Lake:

• Carp
• Pike
• Rudd
• Perch
• Bream
• Roach
• Tench

Summary of the 7 Best Lakes for Fishing in England

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock.com