Fishing Tackle Shops Near Me In The Uk

Looking for “fishing shops near me” can be frustrating. You want to find a place where you can get quality gear and good advice on the best fishing spots. I’ve been there, scrolling for hours, ending up more confused than when I started. At the bottom of this page, a map of all fishing tackle shops in the UK can be found.

I’ve visited countless shops; some were great, and others were a waste of time. Through it all, I’ve figured out which ones are worth visiting.

If you’re tired of searching and want to find the best fishing shops in the UK, you’re in the right place. I’m here to share my experiences and point you to the shops that genuinely make a difference. Stick around, and let’s get you equipped and ready to fish.

What to Look for in a Fishing Shop

Expertise and Insider Tips

The heart of a good fishing shop beats with the knowledge of its staff. Look for shops where the staff actively fish the local waters and share insights freely. 

They should offer advice on the best bait and tackle for local fish species, optimal fishing spots, and current conditions. 

Whenever I’m looking for a fishing shop near me, these are the things I consider.

So, when you step into a fishing shop, head straight to the counter and ask, “What’s hot right now?” and I’m not talking about the weather.

 You want to get the inside scoop on who’s biting and what they’re biting on. The staff should light up, sharing what lures or baits are flying off the shelves because they’re working wonders in the local waters. 

This information is gold, not just for catching fish but for making sure you’re not the one who got away with outdated advice.

Specialized Local Inventory

A top-notch fishing shop tailors its inventory to the local ecosystem. 

If you’re in Pike country, expect an array of Pike lures, rods suited for Pike fishing, and dead bait options like smelt and herring. In coastal areas, look for saltwater tackle, sea rods, and gear for deep-sea outings. 

The inventory should reflect the seasons and local fishing trends, ensuring you have what you need when you need it. 

Shops that carry locally made lures or baits offer a unique edge you won’t find in big-box stores. They’re the best fishing shops near me, by far.

Look for a section in the shop that screams local. Maybe it’s a rack of lures made by someone in town or a bulletin board dotted with pictures of recent catches (and what they were caught with). 

If the shop’s inventory looks the same year-round, they might not be tuning into the local fish’s calendar. That’s a miss.

Gear for Every Angler

Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience behind you, the right shop offers a range of products for all skill levels and budgets. 

Beginners should find starter kits and basic gear that’s high-quality yet affordable. More experienced anglers might look for high-end rods, reels, and technical gear. 

The best shops balance quality with variety, ensuring everyone from children picking up their first rod to seasoned fishermen seeking the latest technology feels catered to.

Here’s how to make sure there’s something for you, whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned pro who has a specific knot for Tuesdays. 

First, do a quick walkthrough. 

See if there’s a variety of gear that matches different skill levels. Got that? Now, grab something simple, like a fishing line. If they’ve got options from budget-friendly right up to elite-level tackle.

Brand Quality and Durability

Brand reputation and product quality matter. Reputable shops stock gear from well-known manufacturers with warranties and customer service to back up their products. 

They should offer a selection of brands at various price points but prioritize durability and performance. 

Brand names are more than just labels; they’re promises of quality. But here’s the catch: don’t just nod along to brands you’ve heard of. 

Pick up a reel, look it up on your phone, and see what the world says about it. I found a reel that’s supposed to last longer than hard candy but has reviews saying it jams more than a bad traffic day? Put it back.

Competitive Pricing and Promotions

While you’re unlikely to find rock-bottom prices in speciality shops, competitive pricing and regular promotions are signs of a good retailer. 

When you’re at a new shop, pick something off the shelf and compare its price to what you find online. If the shop’s price makes you want to fish for your wallet happily, great. If not, ask if they match prices or have a loyalty program. 

Shops that work to keep your business usually offer more than just gear; they offer deals that keep both of you happy.

After You Buy, Then What?

Before you buy anything, ask, “What if this breaks?” or “How do I use this?” If they offer to show you how to set it up or mention a return policy that doesn’t sound like a maze, you’re in good hands. 

Shops that stick by their gear and help you use it are like good fishing buddies—always there to help.

For Example:

Let’s say you’re eyeing a new spinner bait because you heard it’s the ticket for the local lake’s bass. 

Here’s what you do: Grab that spinner bait, walk up to the nearest employee, and ask, “Have you used this? How does it perform here?”

 If they can tell you it’s great for the weedy edges by the north shore but suggest a lighter colour for the current clarity, you’ve hit local knowledge gold. 

If they shrug and say, “It looks cool,” well, maybe keep shopping.

What Fishing Tackle Shop Near Me Do I recommend?

Fishing Republic

Walking into Fishing Republic for the first time, I felt like a kid in a candy store but for fishing gear. It’s massive, stocked with everything from the latest carp tech to the sturdiest sea fishing tackle. I remember needing some guidance on a budget-friendly rod and reel combo, and the staff were just fantastic. 

Unsure of what gear to get on a tight budget, I was lucky enough to have Chris from the store guide me through. He walked me through my options without pushing the priciest stuff, which I appreciated.

The store’s layout is a dream, organized in a way that makes sense even to a newbie. And if you’re a bit of a gearhead like me, you’ll appreciate the range of brands they carry – it’s pretty impressive. They’ve got a solid online presence too, so checking stock or getting advice before you visit is super easy. Their customer care info is handy for any questions, and returning items is straightforward.

Contact: 01613937058 or email them at [email protected] . 

Location: Edinburgh House, Hollinsbrook Way, Pilsworth, Bury, BL9 8RR, it’s easy to find and well worth the visit for any angler looking for quality gear and sound advice.

Total Fishing Tackle

Total Fishing Tackle (TFT) has been my go-to for years, and it’s easy to see why. They’ve curated a vast selection of gear that caters to every fishing style. The team at TFT, including Amy, Rudi, George, and Frank lives and breathes fishing, offering not just products but valuable advice and support. 

My first visit here was because of a recommendation from a good friend, and I wasn’t disappointed. Whether it’s carp, coarse, or predator fishing, they’ve got it all, and their service is top-notch. I mean, there are not many Tackle shops that still offer this Personal Service.

Plus, their collect in-store option is super convenient, and for those who shop online frequently, the TFT XTRA subscription for free next-day delivery is a game-changer. 

Contact: [email protected] 

Location: Berners Hall Farm, Berners Roding, Ongar, Essex, CM5 0TB.

Fishing Tackle and Bait

Fishing Tackle and Bait is my literal go-to for all things fishing. Their selection covers every aspect of the sport, from freshwater to saltwater, and their knowledge of the latest gear and techniques is unmatched. 

The first time I ordered from them, I was impressed by the speed of delivery and the quality of the products.

I needed new gear, so I browsed their website, impressed by the wide selection and positive customer reviews. Ordering was easy, and my items arrived quickly, well-packaged, and matched the online descriptions perfectly.

After receiving my order, I had a few questions about returns and warranty through them which were answered promptly. The customer service team was incredibly helpful, promptly providing the advice I needed. Their expertise made a noticeable difference in my fishing outings.

Contact: [email protected] , +44 2866 322 008. 

Physical store: Old Scotch Stores, 1 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT74 7JY, United Kingdom.

Why is it important to have a fishing tackle shop near me?

Having a fishing tackle shop nearby is crucial for both novice and experienced anglers for several reasons:

1. 1. Access to Quality Gear: Nothing beats being able to dash out and grab exactly what you need when you need it.  A local tackle shop provides immediate access to high-quality fishing gear and tackle. Whether it’s a specific lure for bass or just the right kind of line, fishing shops near me usually have my back. 

2. 2. Expert Advice: The thing about the folks running these shops is that they fish. A lot. They know what works and what doesn’t because they’ve probably tried it all. So, when I need advice on where to fish or what to use, I head to my local fishing tackle shop near me.

3. 3. For Those “Oh No” Moments: We’ve all been there — out on the water when something goes wrong. Maybe you run out of bait or need a quick fix on your gear. A local shop means you can sort it out fast and get back to what you were doing without losing the whole day.

4. 4. Live Bait:  And let’s not forget the bait. Sure, some shops might not have live bait, but the ones that do? Really comes in handy, and you’re more like to find it at fishing tackle shops near me.

Frequently Asked Questions For Choosing a Fishing Tackle Shop

Can I buy live bait at a fishing tackle shop near me?

• • Not always. Live bait can be a hassle for shops to keep fresh. But, most places have a solid range of dead bait that does the trick. If you’re set on live bait, give them a ring first to check. 

Is the bait fresh at a fishing tackle shop near me?

• • Yeah, the good ones make sure of it. Stores like Total Fishing Tackle, Fishing Republic, and Fishing Tackle and Bait pride themselves on offering quality products.

Should I ask the fishing tackle shop for tips on where to fish?

• 100%. The folks working there are usually out fishing when they’re not in the shop and so, can provide valuable insider tips on local fishing spots, conditions, and which bait or tackle is working best at the moment.

Fishing Tackle Shop Locations

The map below lists most Fishing Tackle Shops in the UK. It’s a great map to help you search for fishing tackle shops near me.

Just note, that this is a work in progress and some locations are associated with fishing but not fishing tackle shops. If you want a shop added, please either leave a comment or send us an email.