Arbroath Cliffs Fishing

Arbroath Cliffs Fishing Guide and Activities

The scenic Auchmithie Cliffs near Arbroath offer an incredible fishing experience against the backdrop of dramatic coastal cliffs and rugged terrain. This secluded area combines breathtaking scenery with productive fishing spots, making it a perfect destination for anglers who love wild landscapes and a bit of a challenge. While the cliffs are best suited to experienced anglers due to steep drops and rugged ground, they offer exceptional opportunities to catch a variety of species year-round.

Fishing at Auchmithie Cliffs

The cliffs around Auchmithie are known for their deep waters, making them a prime spot for targeting larger fish species. Anglers here are rewarded with an excellent variety of catches, especially those willing to navigate the rocky landscape and test their skills with some cliffside angling.

Target Fish Species:

1. Pollock – Found in abundance near the rocky outcrops, pollock are best caught in summer and autumn.
2. Cod – A popular target, especially in winter, cod can reach impressive sizes here.
3. Mackerel – Active during warmer months, mackerel are often spotted in schools close to the cliffs.
4. Wrasse – The rocky terrain provides the perfect habitat for wrasse, making it a common catch for anglers targeting smaller fish.
5. Coalfish – Also known as saithe, these are prevalent near the cliffs, particularly in autumn.

Fishing Tips:

• Best Techniques: Float fishing and deep spinning are ideal here due to the cliffside vantage points, which allow for excellent casting distance into deep waters.
• Bait Recommendations: Mackerel strips and ragworms are effective for pollock and cod. For wrasse, try using crab or prawn baits.
• Safety First: Due to the steep drops, fishing at Auchmithie Cliffs is best suited to experienced anglers. Make sure to bring proper footwear and always fish with a companion for safety.
• Seasonal Advice: Cod fishing peaks in the winter, while pollock and mackerel are more abundant during the warmer months.

Other Activities Around Auchmithie Cliffs

Auchmithie Cliffs are not only a fisherman’s paradise but also a spot of natural beauty perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. With dramatic cliffside views and hidden coastal treasures, there’s plenty to explore.

1. Coastal Hiking: The walk along the cliffs from Auchmithie to Arbroath is stunning, with views of the North Sea and the opportunity to explore coastal rock formations, including the impressive red sandstone arches. The paths can be steep in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
2. Birdwatching: The cliffs provide nesting spots for seabirds, including kittiwakes, razorbills, and puffins in season. Bring binoculars to catch close-up views of the diverse birdlife.
3. Photography: Auchmithie Cliffs offer some of the most photogenic landscapes in the region, with dramatic rock formations and the wild sea below. It’s a dream location for landscape photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset.
4. Picnicking and Relaxation: There are several scenic spots near the cliffs where visitors can relax, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the view. The small village of Auchmithie is also a charming place to explore, with historical sites and local eateries.
5. Explore the Arbroath Area: Just a short distance from Auchmithie, Arbroath is a bustling fishing town known for its smokies—smoked haddock prepared traditionally. Visitors can explore the town’s historic sites, including Arbroath Abbey and the Arbroath Signal Tower Museum, both rich with history and local culture.

Nearby Attractions

Arbroath Abbey: Famous as the site of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, this historic abbey offers fascinating insight into Scottish history and is worth a visit for history enthusiasts.

Seaton Cliffs Nature Reserve: Located just south of Arbroath, this coastal reserve offers scenic walks, with cliffs, caves, and coves rich in geological features and diverse flora.

Red Lion Caravan Park: Ideal for travelers looking to extend their stay, this nearby park offers camping and caravan accommodations with easy access to the beach and surrounding nature spots.

Arbroath Harbour: A classic working harbour, this is the place to sample fresh seafood, including the famous Arbroath Smokie, and explore the local fishing heritage.

Visitor Information

• Location: Auchmithie Cliffs, Arbroath, Angus, Scotland.
• Access: Free access with parking available in the village of Auchmithie. The cliffside paths are unpaved and may be challenging for some visitors.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round for fishing; summer for coastal walks and birdwatching.
• Facilities: Basic amenities are available in Auchmithie, with more extensive facilities, including cafes and shops, in nearby Arbroath.

Arbroath’s Auchmithie Cliffs provide an unforgettable experience for those seeking rugged beauty and diverse fishing opportunities. Whether casting a line or exploring the breathtaking coastal landscape, visitors are sure to find something remarkable on this stretch of Scotland’s east coast.