ShoreMarksUK

Fishing at Criccieth

BeachGwynedd🐾 Seasonal daytime dog ban★★☆ family

Two beaches either side of the castle headland — shingle-to-sand to the east, mixed sand and rock to the west — giving a choice of ground depending on wind and swell.

📍 View on the map

What you can catch → Full fish guide

SpeciesSeasonMethod
BassMay–Seplures or bait over the mixed ground west of the castle
Turbot Spotted RayJun–Sepfish or squid bait fished hard on the bottom over clean patches
Dogfish (Lesser-Spotted) Whiting Bull Huss (Greater-Spotted Dogfish)Sep–Marfish strip or squid on a simple leger through autumn and winter
MackerelJul–Sepfeathers in late summer when shoals push into the bay

Tactics

Fish the eastern shingle beach for the winter dogfish-and-whiting run, and try the western Marine/Castle Beach mixed ground for summer bass, turbot and rays.

Best tide: Any state, high water for the castle-side ground · Best time: Summer evenings and autumn

Dogs

A seasonal dog ban applies to most of the beach from 1 April to 30 September, with a dog-friendly stretch at the eastern end beyond the restricted zone.

Unofficial source: View the supporting source →Not an authority; check current signage.

Access & parking

Park in the town or seafront car parks and walk onto either beach either side of the castle. Family rating: ★★☆ — Mixed shingle and rock underfoot in places, fine for older children with sturdy footwear

FAQs

Is Criccieth good for beginners?

Yes, it's an easy walk-on venue with a wide species list, though check which side of the castle is fishing best on the day.

Are dogs allowed on Criccieth beach?

There's a seasonal ban on most of the beach from 1 April to 30 September, but the eastern end stays open to dogs.

Nearby marks

Pwllheli · Abersoch

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.