Fishing Has Always Been Part of Life in West Bay

Fishing has long been an important part of life in West Bay and along the Dorset coast. In the past, much of the fishing was carried out from small boats that could be launched directly from the beach. Mackerel and sprats were among the species caught, while settlements along Chesil Beach used seine nets to bring in their catch.

Fishing has changed over the years, but the sea remains central to West Bay’s character, livelihoods and identity. Today, the local fishing industry also faces the challenge of protecting marine life and ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the sea.

Sustainable Fishing in Lyme Bay

Protecting the marine environment is vital for the future of fishing. The Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA) was introduced in 2008, it was the country’s largest MPA at the time, closing upwards of 200 km2 to bottom-towed fishing. Conservation measures in Lyme Bay have helped the seabed recover, benefiting marine wildlife and supporting the local fishing community.

Sustainable fishing means managing catches responsibly, protecting habitats and allowing marine species to reproduce. These efforts help maintain the rich variety of life beneath the waves while supporting fishing for the future.

Find out our local fishermen are working together to support the coastal communities and the fishing industry across Lyme Bay.

Discover West Bay’s Catch

The waters around West Bay and Lyme Bay are home to a fascinating variety of marine life. From flatfish living close to the seabed to seasonal visitors travelling long distances, every species has its own story.

• Cuttlefish – Masters of disguise, they can change colour and pattern to communicate and blend into their surroundings.
• Thornback Ray – These rays lay distinctive egg cases, often found washed up on local beaches and known as Mermaid’s Purses.
• Spider Crab – These impressive crabs migrate seasonally, travelling considerable distances.
• Sole – A flatfish caught using static nets, which are checked regularly by fishermen.
• Mackerel – Fast-swimming fish that travel in shoals and have long been an important part of local fishing.
• Brown Crab – A valuable catch. Undersized crabs and egg-bearing females are returned to the sea to help protect future stocks.
• Scallop – These shellfish have rows of tiny eyes around the edge of their shells.
• Bass – A popular sport and food fish that can take several years to reach maturity.
• Lobster – A prized catch, valued in seafood markets both in Britain and overseas.
• Plaice – Recognisable by its flat body and orange spots, plaice is a familiar favourite on fish menus.

Explore Fishing at West Bay Discovery Centre

Discover more about West Bay’s fishing heritage and the wildlife of Lyme Bay through our displays and hands-on activities.

• Try the magnetic fishing game: Match the shapes and learn about local fish.
• Explore the underwater world: Watch marine creatures on our large screen.
• Look closely at fishing equipment: Discover the nets and floats used by fishermen.
• Dress up as a fisherman: Have fun in our children’s activity area.
• Admire our giant mackerel: See the colourful wall hangings created by a local artist and children attending one of our craft workshops.
• Take the mystery challenge: Put your hand into our feeling hole and see if you can guess what you have touched!
• Discover more stories: Pull out our information panels to uncover more about fishing in West Bay.
• Learn how to care for crabs: Pick up our free leaflet with advice on responsible crabbing, helping to ensure there are crabs for others to enjoy in the future.

Entry to West Bay Discovery Centre is free, and our fishing displays offer something to discover for adults and children alike.

Read More: Fishing and West Bay Stories

Explore more of West Bay’s fishing heritage, memories and family activities through these articles on our website.

• Fishing Through Time at West Bay – Discover how fishing has changed over the years.
• A Trip Down Memory Lane – Explore memories and stories from West Bay’s past.
• Stories from the Past: Tragedy at West Bay – Read a story from the harbour’s history.
• 10 Fun Activities for Children in West Bay – Find more ideas for family visits.
• Crabbing in West Bay – Find out how to enjoy crabbing responsibly.

Fishing in West Bay Today

Want to experience fishing for yourself? West Bay Angling Centre can help you find fishing equipment and information about sea-angling boat trips from West Bay. You can also follow the West Bay Sea Angling Club on Facebook to find out more about local sea angling.

Whether you are interested in the history of fishing, the creatures living in Lyme Bay or the future of sustainable fishing, West Bay offers plenty to discover.Come and explore the fishing story at West Bay Discovery Centre