St Marys Island Fishing

St Marys Island Fishing: A Unique Coastal Fishing Spot in Northumberland

St Mary’s Island, located just off the coast near Whitley Bay in Northumberland, is a striking tidal island known for its iconic lighthouse and beautiful marine environment. Accessible by a causeway that submerges at high tide, St Mary’s Island provides a unique fishing experience for anglers, combining the thrill of the North Sea with the stunning coastal scenery of Northumberland. The area surrounding the island is a Marine Conservation Zone, teeming with marine life and attracting anglers who come for its varied fish species, intriguing rock pools, and rocky outcrops. With its natural beauty and ample fishing opportunities, St Mary’s Island is an excellent destination for both serious and recreational anglers.

Fishing at St Mary’s Island

• Prime Fishing Conditions
  The waters around St Mary’s Island are known for their abundant marine life, providing anglers with the chance to target a variety of fish species. The rocky shoreline and numerous pools create an ideal environment for bass, cod, pollock, and flounder, while deeper areas of the sea yield mackerel and other larger fish. Fishing here can be particularly rewarding as the tidal changes bring fresh opportunities throughout the day.
• Key Features of St Mary’s Island
  • Unique Tidal Access
    St Mary’s Island is accessible via a causeway that becomes submerged at high tide, making timing essential. This feature adds to the excitement of fishing here, as anglers must carefully plan their sessions around the tides, offering a mix of calm and fast-paced fishing windows as fish move closer to shore during tidal shifts.
  • Rock Pools and Rocky Outcrops
    The rocky environment surrounding St Mary’s Island is home to numerous rock pools and ledges, providing shelter for fish and making it a prime spot for shore fishing. Anglers can fish from these rock formations, taking advantage of the habitat to target a variety of species that thrive in the rocky crevices and kelp beds.
  • Seasonal Fish Species
    St Mary’s Island offers diverse fishing opportunities throughout the year. During summer, mackerel and pollock are more plentiful, while winter and autumn months bring cod closer to the rocky shore. Flounder and bass are also common catches, making the island a productive spot across different seasons.
  • Stunning Coastal Scenery
    Fishing at St Mary’s Island comes with breathtaking views of the lighthouse and surrounding North Sea, providing a serene and picturesque setting for anglers. Watching the waves crash against the rocks while waiting for a bite adds a sense of tranquility and adventure to the experience.

Recreational Highlights
St Mary’s Island offers more than just fishing. Its unique landscape and lighthouse attract many visitors for photography, sightseeing, and exploring the rock pools at low tide. The island is also home to various bird species, making it a great location for birdwatching, especially for those interested in observing migratory seabirds and local wildlife. Nearby, Whitley Bay provides restaurants, cafes, and amenities, allowing anglers and visitors to enjoy a complete day out along Northumberland’s coast.

Fishing Tips for St Mary’s Island

• Best Times to Fish
  The best times for fishing around St Mary’s Island are generally around high tide, when fish come closer to the shore, and early mornings or evenings when fish activity is higher. Checking the tide schedule is essential to avoid being cut off by the rising water, as the causeway becomes inaccessible during high tide.
• Effective Baits and Lures
  Common bait choices for fishing at St Mary’s Island include lugworm, ragworm, and mackerel strips. These baits are particularly effective for targeting bass and cod. For pollock and mackerel, using lures such as metal spinners or feather rigs can yield successful results, especially when casting into deeper water off the rocks.
• Fishing Seasons
  St Mary’s Island offers good fishing conditions year-round. Summer is excellent for mackerel, pollock, and bass, while cod fishing is best during the cooler months. As with most locations, keeping an eye on local fishing reports and sea conditions can help determine the optimal time for visiting.
• Safety Tips
  Safety is crucial when fishing at St Mary’s Island, as the surrounding rocks can be slippery and the causeway is inaccessible at high tide. Anglers should wear sturdy footwear, avoid venturing too far from the causeway when the tide is rising, and always check the local tide schedule to ensure they can safely return.

Additional Information
St Mary’s Island is a fantastic location for anglers seeking a unique, picturesque spot that combines excellent fishing with the allure of a tidal island. With opportunities to target a variety of fish species and explore the rich marine ecosystem, it’s a great destination for all skill levels. Its proximity to Whitley Bay provides easy access to nearby amenities, allowing anglers to enjoy the best of both the natural and town environments.

Location
St Mary’s Island, Whitley Bay, Northumberland, England