Clear skies and scorching weather have arrived in the UK, with heatwave conditions forecast in June and likely to circle back around throughout the summer. This makes for the perfect excuse to grab your rod and reel, pick up some bait, and find yourself the perfect spot to cast a line and enjoy the sun.
Here’s what you should know if you’re eyeing up a spot for fishing in East Sussex this summer.
A British Affinity for Fishing
Fishing remains a beloved pastime across the UK, especially in coastal regions, where more people can head out on boats to enjoy the open water. Each year, around 100,000 people take part in angling, helped by the rising popularity of fishing as entertainment.
On TV, we’ve seen British personalities like Jeremy Wade and Robson Green tackle extreme fishing challenges. In fact, at the online casino in the UK, one series in particular has grown to over 25 instalments to meet demand.
That series is Big Bass. The original Big Bass Bonanza made waves by introducing a mechanic where the fisherman symbol collects the visible fish and their cash values. New releases like Big Bass Crash and Big Bass Boxing Bonus Round continue to innovate the gameplay.
With fishing games trending and good weather on the cards, 2025 could shape up to be one of the UK’s biggest years for angling – both digital and real-life.
Angling in and Around Brighton
The first thing to know before even considering packing your rod is if you’ll need a licence. A UK rod fishing licence is required for anglers in England and Wales if they’re looking to catch trout, salmon, smelt, eel, or any other kind of freshwater fish. With a valid licence, and unless otherwise restricted, you can fish at most inland sites.
In East Sussex, there’s no shortage of great fishing spots. Wylands Fishery Lakes, located in Catsfield, is a top pick with nine lakes spread across a scenic 150-acre site. You’ll find classic British species here – and if you’re after a challenge, Snake Lake is known for its hefty catfish.
Other standout spots include Horam Manor Fishery, Clive Vale Reservoirs, and Three Ponds Fishery. And of course, being on the coast, Brighton offers ample opportunity for sea fishing too. You could cast from the quieter Southwick Beach off Basin Road South or find a place near the iconic Brighton Pier.
Brighton is also home to many charter fishing and diving companies, too. On the Grey Viking II, you could go fishing off of deep sea wrecks, aim for turbot and brill, catch cod, or go reef fishing. Brighton Diver runs trips out for cod, mackerel, conger, bass, and many more fish and offers diving trips into the vast Brighton Marina.
Enjoy the grand weather coming to the South Coast this summer by kicking back in a comfy chair by the water while the fish size up your lure.
