Beat the Winter Blues: Get Out and Fish!

As we drift through January it’s easy to feel the weight of the so-called “winter blues.” Indeed today, January 20th, is sometimes called ‘’Blue Monday’’ – officially the most depressing day of the year.

In the UK our short dark days and general feelings of lethargy after Christmas can take a toll on our mental well-being during this time of year. But there’s a simple and rewarding antidote: fishing!

Combining the serenity of nature, gentle exercise, and the rejuvenating power of fresh air, fishing offers a unique way to uplift your spirits – and there’s no better place to do it than Wales.

Reconnect with Nature

Winter may strip the trees of their leaves and muddy the fields, but it can also bestow a unique beauty on the landscape on cold frosty day. The rivers, lakes, and coastline of Wales take on an ethereal charm during the colder months, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of fishing.

Even a couple of hours spent outdoors with a rod in-hand will immerse you in the natural world, which is proven to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. The gentle flow of water, the crisp winter air, and the quiet excitement of waiting for a bite make fishing a calming escape from the pressures of modern life.

Tackle the Winter Blues, One Cast at a Time!

Short angling sessions can be just as rejuvenating as a full day by the water, particularly when the conditions are cold. Here are some short winter options to consider:-

Trotting for Grayling: Perfect for rivers like the River Dee, Wye, or lower Taff, this method involves using a float to ‘trott’ a bait naturally downstream with the current. Grayling are active in colder months, making this an ideal winter method for this species, which can be enjoyed with the minimum of gear.

Lure Fishing for Pike and Perch: Lure fishing is an exciting and dynamic option for targeting pike and perch in lakes or reservoirs on short winter sessions. With minimal gear needed, it’s easy to set up for a quick outing on venues such as the lower river Wye, Bosherston Lily pools, Mon and Brecon Canal and Cardiff Bay.

Visit a coarse fishery: Commercial fisheries are great for shorter trips, as they often provide easy access and well-stocked waters. Locations such as White Springs, Redhill, Tri-Nant, Ian Heaps Narberth and Grange Springs offer excellent opportunities to catch coarse fish and carp without requiring extensive preparation.

Trout on the fly: Our small Stillwater fisheries offer fantastic fishing in winter, with our many easy access venues simply perfect for a few hours action. Venues such as Foxhill, Wal-Goch, Chirk Fishery, Papermill, Dare Valley and Garnffrwd all offer a friendly waterside escape for a few hours.

Head to the Beach: Sea fishing on calmer winter days can really soothe the soul, despite a lack of winter fish such as cod. You’ll still find plenty of whiting, dog fish, flounder and rays about, maybe even a bonus winter bass.

Its called fishing not catching… enjoy

Fishing isn’t just about catching fish; it’s also about capturing moments of peace and mindfulness in the great outdoors. As you make that cast and the wait patiently for a take, the stresses of everyday life will all seem to drift away.

Wales, with its stunning scenery and abundant fishing opportunities, is the perfect place to beat the winter blues. So grab your rod, wrap up warm, and head out to discover how this simple pastime can refresh your body, mind, and spirit this winter.

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