Fishing at Carnoustie Beach
A long open sandy beach on the Angus coast, best known for golf but a solid, easy-access flatfish and bass beach when there's a bit of colour in the water.
📍 View on the mapWhat you can catch → Full fish guide
| Species | Season | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Flounder | Apr–Oct | Small hooks with lugworm or ragworm over sand, fish close to any gullies. |
| Bass | Jun–Sep | Bait or lures worked along the tideline after dark or in coloured water. |
| Dab | Spring–Autumn | Worm baits fished hard on the bottom. |
| Codling (Juvenile Cod) | Oct–Jan | Bigger baits cast beyond the breakers on a rising tide in winter surf. |
Tactics
A featureless open beach so look for any storm-cut gullies or slight changes in the sand — that's where flatfish and bass will hold up. Best after onshore winds have put some colour in the water.
Best tide: Rising tide · Best time: Autumn evenings
Dogs
No verified source. Check current signage and the relevant authority.
Access & parking
Several car parks along the seafront including Easthaven; flat walk straight onto the sand. Sat-nav: DD7 7JB.Get directions → Family rating: ★★★ — Judgement call — big flat sandy beach, gentle shelving and easy parking make it one of the easier venues for kids.
FAQs
Is Carnoustie Beach good for beginners?
Yes — it's a gently shelving open sand beach with easy parking, good for flounder and dab on simple running-leger rigs.
What fish can you catch at Carnoustie?
Flounder and dab through the warmer months, with bass in summer and codling showing in the winter surf.
Is Carnoustie Beach dog friendly?
Yes, no confirmed seasonal ban was found for this beach.
Nearby marks
Arbroath Harbour & Cliffs · Broughty Ferry Pier & Castle Green
Last updated 16 July 2026 — sources & disclaimer
Compiled from angling guides, forums and the relevant council's dog byelaws, cross-checked where possible.
Rules and conditions change, so always check current signage and tides before you go. We do our best to keep this accurate but can't promise it's error-free.