Fish don’t act the same in January as they do in July—and neither should we. As the seasons change, so does everything about angling: fish behaviour, bait choices, feeding times, and even your gear. If you want to stay consistent (and keep catching), adjusting your approach with the seasons is key.
Here’s how to adapt your tactics to the UK’s four fishing seasons.
🌱 Spring: Wake-Up Season
After a long winter, fish slowly begin to move and feed again as water temperatures rise. Early spring can still be tricky, but by April and May, things really come alive.
Target Species: Carp, tench, bream, perch, trout
Best Tactics:
- Use smaller baits and fish slower until temperatures pick up.
- Try method feeders, light groundbaiting, and slow retrieves.
- Keep mobile—fish may be active, but still not feeding heavily.
- For fly anglers, this is prime time for dry fly and nymph work on rivers.
Tips:
- Fish will often be in shallower, sun-warmed areas by midday.
- Water clarity is often good—so keep your rigs subtle.
☀️ Summer: Peak Time for Pleasure and Pressure
Long days, warm water, and lots of activity—summer is when most anglers hit the bank. It’s a great time for surface fishing and long sessions.
Target Species: Carp, tench, rudd, barbel, bass, mackerel
Best Tactics:
- Surface baits (dog biscuits, floating pellets) are deadly on calm, warm days.
- Try zig rigs to target midwater fish.
- Fish early morning or late evening to beat the heat.
- Sea anglers can enjoy spinning for mackerel and bass at dawn/dusk.
Tips:
- Don’t overfeed in high heat—fish can become sluggish.
- Carry suncream, plenty of water, and polarised glasses to spot fish.
🍂 Autumn: Feed-Up Before the Fall
Fish instinctively bulk up before winter, making autumn one of the best times for quality catches. As water cools, activity stays high, but with fewer anglers around.
Target Species: Carp, perch, pike, barbel, zander
Best Tactics:
- Larger baits and higher-protein offerings (like boilies, pellets)
- Deadbaiting begins to shine for predators
- Shorter daylight hours mean a tighter feeding window—make it count
Tips:
- Overcast, breezy days are often great for lure fishing
- Look for deeper water as fish begin to shift from the margins
❄️ Winter: Hard But Rewarding
Fishing in winter is all about patience, finesse, and choosing the right conditions. Fish feed less—but they still feed. Catching just one or two can be a triumph.
Target Species: Perch, pike, chub, roach, grayling
Best Tactics:
- Use lighter lines, smaller hooks, and minimal bait
- Try liquid attractants or single bright hookbaits
- Stick to midday sessions when water is warmest
- Slow your retrieve and stay in one productive spot
Tips:
- Predator fishing can be red hot in cold water—especially pike on deadbaits
- Dress warm and fish safely—slippery banks and icy water are no joke