Top 11 UK Lakes to Reconnect with Nature Through Fishing
Fishing is one of those rare excuses to slow down for a minute. It gets you out of the noise and into places where it’s just you, the water, and whatever wildlife decides to show up.
Whether you are a novice angler seeking calm, a seasoned fly-fisher chasing wild brown trout, or a specimen carp angler looking for depth and solitude, the UK’s lakes deliver some of the most peaceful and picturesque settings imaginable.
I’ve put together this list of eleven of the best UK lakes for fishing, with still water, fresh air, and gorgeous scenery.
Let’s get into it.
1. Lake Windermere, England (Lake District)
Windermere is the largest lake in England, and one of the easiest places in the Lake District to get a proper day’s fishing in.
Not only is it among the most accessible lakes in Europe, but it’s also packed with variety – pike, perch, and brown trout, and even the occasional char.
It has plenty of secluded areas and forested shores that are ideal for fishing, and there’s a good mix of shore spots and boat-friendly areas.
Add in the classic Lake District scenery, and Windermere ends up being one of those places where you can fish for hours and still enjoy being there, even if nothing bites.
Why it’s among the top fishing lakes in the UK
- Amazing scenery
- Mix of pike, perch, and trout
- Simple access through such villages as Bowness and Ambleside.
2. Ullswater, England (Lake District)
Ullswater is more isolated than Windermere, but it is famous for its silent atmosphere and reflective waters supported by spectacular fells. It provides great wild fishing, particularly for people seeking a calm coastline.
Highlights
- Strong populations of brown trout, with perch and pike to be found as well
- Quiet shorelines, away from the crowds
- One of the ideal places where a fly or light spinning setup can be done.
3. Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), Wales
Llyn Tegid, also known as Bala Lake, is the largest natural lake in Wales and one of the top fishing lakes in the UK, with pike, perch, grayling, trout, and even the rare gwyniad if you’re into local oddities.
The shore access is straightforward, the water is clear, and the surrounding hills give it a rugged, brooding feel. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for a full day without interruption.
To those who like vast scenery and real silence, Llyn Tegid provides exactly that.
Why it stands out
- Great fishing for pike, trout, and perch.
- Traditional wild fishing.
- Easy accessibility and an explicit permit system in Bala village.
4. Hollow Ponds, London, England
Hollow Ponds is one of those surprisingly calm little pockets in East London that provides a relaxing experience without the need to move out of the city.
You can set up along the banks and still feel tucked away from the city noise, especially early in the morning. It’s the kind of spot that works for a quick, low-pressure fishing session when you don’t have the time to escape to the countryside, but still want that moment of quiet with the water.
The lake supports carp, roach, perch, and other coarse species, making it an excellent introduction to fishing lakes in the UK for beginners and casual anglers. Its convenience and natural atmosphere have made fishing in Hollow Ponds grow in popularity amongst Londoners seeking a nature escape without a long journey.
Highlights
- An easy escape without leaving the city.
- Good mix of species
- Hassle-free access and simple bank fishing
5. Loch Lomond, Scotland
One of the most famous fishing lakes in the UK is Loch Lomond – huge, luminous and with tree-covered islands scattered through it.
Loch Lomond is a dream if you want big, dramatic landscapes and equally big fishing potential. It’s one of the largest freshwater lochs in Scotland, with endless spaces to explore – quiet bays, rocky shorelines, deep stretches perfect for pike, and rivers feeding in with salmon and trout.
You get a proper variety here, from casual bank fishing to more serious boat days, and even on busier weekends, you’ll always find a quiet corner to slip into.
Species
- Salmon
- Trout
- Pike
- Roach and other coarse fish (minnows, sticklebacks, stone loach)
- Freshwater eel
6. Loch Leven, Scotland
Historic and windswept, Loch Leven boasts a strong trout fishery and a unique open-water environment. It is one of the best places for traditional boat fishing, and provides one of the purest experiences for fly anglers in Scotland.
Day tickets and boat hire are well organised, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the loch responsibly.
Why anglers love it
- One of the best managed trout fisheries in the UK.
- Good brown trout fishing with some lake record fish.
- Open and clean landscape
7. Rutland Water, England
Rutland Water is one of the most popular trout fisheries in England and stands out among UK fishing lakes based on its scenery, conservation of wildlife, and ease of access, with facilities including toilets, tackle shops and even boat rentals.
Why it’s one of the best fishing lakes in the UK
- Productive trout waters.
- Vast banks, shore fishing room.
- Plenty of nature trails to roam.
8. Chew Valley Lake, England
Chew Valley Lake is a peaceful, serene retreat where you can relax and indulge in a slower pace of fishing. It is well known because of its big pike and steady trout fishing, which attracts experienced fishermen and tourists seeking peace and quiet along the waters.
It is a good mix of nature, open water, and predictable fishing environments, making it one of the best fishing places in the UK.
What makes it special
- Home to the largest pikes in England.
- Excellent trout seasons.
9. Lough Erne, Northern Ireland
Lough Erne in Northern Ireland combines size, variety, and accessibility in a way few other lakes do.
It’s actually two connected lakes, Upper and Lower Erne, which means there’s always somewhere new to explore, whether you’re after quiet shore spots or wide open water from a boat.
The fishing itself is excellent: pike, perch, roach, bream, and trout give anglers plenty of options, while the loch’s islands, inlets, and reed beds create natural habitats that produce consistent catches. On top of that, the scenery – rolling hills, scattered castles, and peaceful waterways – makes it one of those places where you can spend the whole day and still feel like it isn’t enough.
10. Grafham Water, England
Extensive open water fishing is available in the Southeast of England, and Grafham Water is home to carp, trout, bream, roach, perch, and tench. Its combination of serene bays and convenient shoreline renders it one of the most favoured UK fishing lakes among beginners and experts.
Highlights
- Superb fishing for rainbow trout.
- Available beaches with effective fishing areas.
- The day visitor has good facilities.
- Local tackle shops and well-kept tracks nearby
11. Llyn Gwynant, Wales
Llyn Gwynant is a small lake amid mighty mountains and woodlands and is amongst the most peaceful sports fishing lakes in Wales.
It is smaller than most of the other lakes on this list, but it provides unrivalled peace and stunning views.
Great for
- Fly spin arrangements and light spin.
- Anglers who value open areas.
Tips for a More Mindful Fishing Experience
Spending time in nature is as important as catching fish. To make your experience more restorative:
- Carry little equipment to easily move and concentrate on the surroundings.
- Be there in the morning or evening, when animal life is active.
- Choose locations with fewer crowds or hidden shoreline paths.
- Be respectful towards nature by not leaving any trace, managing fish ethically, and respecting local permit regulations.
- Take breaks frequently – listen to birds, watch the calm waters, and observe insects and animals.
Final Thoughts
The top fishing lakes in the UK don’t just provide sport, but are a source of sanctuary, calm and the beauty of nature.
From Bluebell Lakes to the Highlands of Scotland or Hollow Ponds, all the same, they beckon you, entice you, get you to take your time, get you back in touch with nature.
XOXO
If you liked this article and would like to support my work, please click the button above to donate a couple of bucks and buy me a coffee. The ad revenue that I receive on this website is minimal, so support from my readers enables me to keep creating content that you (hopefully!) love to read.
Disclaimer: Travelling Jezebel contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase on a recommended site, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
