Reef Fishing Trips

Target a fantastic variety of bottom-dwelling species—including black bream, ray, wrasse, and bass—on our 3-hour reef fishing excursion. Operating straight out of Exmouth Marina to productive hard-ground marks, this trip includes all rods, tackle, and fresh bait, making it a hit for novices and seasoned fishers alike.

Reef Fishing Trips in Exmouth, Devon

Venture out into Lyme Bay from Exmouth Marina on an engaging, 3-hour sea angling trip targeting a diverse selection of bottom-dwelling species across the local rocky reefs and hard-ground seabed.

What to Expect on Board

Reef fishing offers a broader, more tactical angling experience where patience and variety take center stage:

• Bottom Fishing with Natural Baits: Instead of simple lures, you will use traditional ledger and dropper rigs baited with squid, mackerel, or worms. The crew will show you how to feel for the seabed, identify subtle bites, and time your strike.

• Target Species: Local South Devon reef structures attract a wide mix of species, including hard-fighting black bream, wrasse, small rays, dogfish, pout, and bass.

• Diverse Catches: Hard ground supports rich underwater ecosystems, meaning every drop offers the anticipation of landing something different from the bottom.

• Keep or Release: Any legal-sized, edible fish you land can be taken home for the kitchen, or you can practice careful catch-and-release to protect local stocks.

Who Can Join

• Families with Older Children: Great for adventurous youngsters, teenagers, and families wanting to spend quality time on the water with more varied fishing than surface mackerel feathering.

• Novices & Step-Up Anglers: Perfect for beginners who want to build their skills beyond mackerel fishing. The skipper and crew supply all rods, rigs, and bait, offering as much or as little hands-on assistance as needed.

• Experienced Anglers: An enjoyable way to target coastal sporting species on light ledger tackle over proven local ground without chartering an entire private vessel.

• Spectators: Friends and family who prefer not to fish are welcome to relax on deck, take in views of the East Devon shoreline, and watch the catches come aboard.

Practical Information for Your Trip

• Seasonal Window: Reef species feed actively throughout the spring, summer, and autumn months as water temperatures rise and marine life populates local coastal ledges.

• Weather & Clothing: The Southern Angler is an open sea-fishing vessel without passenger saloon cover. Please check conditions beforehand and bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, and flat, non-slip footwear.

• Facilities on Board: The vessel is equipped with an onboard toilet, and basic refreshments are available for purchase during the trip.

• Dogs: Well-behaved dogs and assistance dogs are welcome on board.