Updated: May 2025
Hake may not be the most talked-about species among UK anglers, but for those targeting deep-sea or offshore catches, hake is a prized fish — tasty, powerful, and often under the radar.
In this guide, we’ll cover the UK hake fishing season, the best locations to catch them, and tips on how to target this sleek predator in 2025.
📅 When Is Hake Fishing Season in the UK?
Hake is typically targeted from April to October, with the peak season between May and August. These months offer:
- Warmer waters
- Better offshore conditions
- Higher activity levels as hake follow baitfish movements
In winter, hake retreat to deeper waters and are rarely caught recreationally.
🎯 Peak months: May, June, July
⚠️ Note: Hake is a deep-water species, not typically found from shore
📍 Where to Catch Hake in the UK
Hake are most commonly found offshore, in deeper Atlantic waters, particularly on the southwest coast and parts of Scotland. Here are the top spots:
⚓ 1. Plymouth, Devon
- ✅ Why: Deep waters just offshore, lots of charter boats available
- 🎣 Best method: Bottom fishing from charter boats
- 🐟 Bonus species: Pollack, ling, conger
⚓ 2. Newlyn & Penzance, Cornwall
- ✅ Why: One of the UK’s commercial hake hubs
- 🎣 How: Deep sea charters or wreck fishing trips
- Often caught alongside whiting and haddock
⚓ 3. Oban, West Scotland
- ✅ Why: Productive deep-water marks in the Firth of Lorn
- 🧭 Access: Boat required
- Calmer weather windows needed for offshore access
⚓ 4. Irish Sea (Anglesey & Liverpool Bay)
- ✅ Why: Migratory hake pass through during summer
- 🐟 Tip: Ask local charters if they’re targeting hake or deep wrecks
🧰 How to Catch Hake
Hake are usually caught offshore while targeting mixed-species bottom ground or wrecks.
✅ Gear & Method:
- Rod: 20–30 lb class boat rod
- Reel: Multiplier with 30–50 lb braid
- Rig: Running ledger or two-hook flapper
- Bait: Squid, mackerel strips, or whole small fish
🎣 Best depth: 100m+ (depending on location)
🌊 Tip: Use glow beads or luminous tubing in deep, murky water
⚠️ Legal Considerations
- Minimum size: 27 cm (commercial), recreational limits vary — always check local rules
- Bag limits: Not always defined, but sustainable practices are encouraged
- Protected areas: Some offshore reefs may have restrictions – check with charter/skipper
🧠 Bonus Tip: Night Hake
Some deep-sea charters in Cornwall and Plymouth offer night-time wreck fishing trips. Hake feed more aggressively after dusk — an excellent way to improve your chances.
📌 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to catch something different this summer, hake fishing is a rewarding challenge. With the right gear, location, and a solid boat crew, you’ll have a chance to land this underrated UK species between May and August.
Tight lines and deep drops!
