As the days get chillier and the nights are drawing in, it’s tempting to pack away our fishing gear until the spring when the fishing season starts again. But you don’t have to put your love for fishing on hold until March, there are other options. Not all fish slow down in the winter and you could see it as a chance to try something new; you could make the most of the peace and solitude out there on the riverbank while everyone else hibernates in front of a fire, or you might see it as an opportunity to try a completely different location – maybe by jetting off somewhere hot and sunny.
So, where is the best fishing destination in the world? We thought we’d take a look at some of the options for a winter fishing holiday.
SOME LIKE IT HOT
What could be nicer than combining your favourite sport, a bit of relaxation and a lot of sun? There are plenty of warm places where you can do all three depending on which type of fishing you want to try; Antigua, the Maldives and the Bahamas are great for fly fishing, whereas Florida Keys is the self-proclaimed ‘Sportfishing capital of the World ’ and has lots of opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing, with the chance to catch seatrout, flounder and tuna.
PLAY IT COOL
Northern Norway is a real hot spot for cold weather fishing between January and April; the Gulf Stream and its accompanying warm air currents mean the coast and fjords are pretty much ice-free and there are plenty of fish around. You could even take part in the famous Skrei (migrating cod) fishing – they spawn all along the coast. You could also go whale spotting and may even catch the northern lights if you’re lucky.
ICE ICE BABY
Ice fishing can be traced back centuries; it was essential for survival in harsh conditions and involves drilling a hole in the ice on a frozen river or lake (which can sometimes be up to a metre thick) then feeding a line and hook through. Then it’s just a case of sitting and waiting; you can catch grayling, whitefish, perch and salmon this way. It’s popular in countries such as Finland, Norway, Sweden and Canada and while the technology may have changed – with sonar and power tools – the basic principle is the same. It’s a great back-to-nature way to spend your time, and a taste of tradition while you’re surrounded by an amazing landscape.
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fishing in the UK, whatever time of year you choose, but there’s something really special about fishing in the winter. Fishing in the winter months can be really rewarding, but you may need to adapt your usual techniques. Fish such as carp tend to feed less in the winter so it’s a great time to ‘spread your net’ and target other species too. Whether you’re interested in trying fly fishing in Scotland, staying in a cabin near a fishing lake in the Cotswolds, or going river fishing on the Norfolk Broads, there are plenty of opportunities available.
TIPS FOR WINTER FISHING
- During the summer you’ve got those long evenings when it stays light until late, and you know you’ll get good results at dawn and dusk, but timing is crucial during the winter. The water temperature can vary from morning to afternoon, and even just a few degrees of extra warmth can affect how lively the fish are. This means you need to be organised, from sorting your kit before you hit the riverbank, to planning your location.
- You’re going fishing to enjoy yourself, and nobody wants to be sat on a riverbank feeling cold and wet, so the key is to have the right clothing. You’ll need plenty of layers and a waterproof coat and shoes, and don’t forget thermal socks, gloves and a hat, as well as a spare set of clothing. And you won’t be the first person to take a hot water bottle with you!
- A cold sandwich just isn’t going to cut it on a cold winter day, so take a big flask of tea or coffee to drink, and plenty of warm food such as soup or stew. Granola bars also have lots of energy and are easy to snack on while wearing gloves.
- Make sure your equipment is fully charged; e.g. your headtorch, phone, fishing gadgets etc.
- Don’t fish alone. There won’t be as many other anglers around, so it makes sense to have someone else with you in case there’s an emergency.
- Always tell someone where you’re planning on going.
Winter fishing is a whole new adventure, you just need to make the most of the new opportunities a new season brings and enjoy yourself. Winter is a time when we need to look after ourselves, physically and mentally, and it’s no secret that fishing is good for our mental health.
Chances are you’ve accumulated quite a bit of kit, and that doesn’t come cheap; so it’s always worth thinking about fishing insurance and having cover in place for if the unexpected happens; with Worldwide Cover as a standard benefit, you know that wherever your passion for fishing takes you, we’ve got you covered. Look at our website or call us for a free, no-strings quote today.
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