Fishing at Groomsport Harbour & Orlock Head
A pretty Ards Peninsula harbour with Orlock Head nearby giving a genuinely wide species count, and summer mackerel that peaks hard in July.
📍 View on the mapWhat you can catch → Full fish guide
| Species | Season | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Codling (Juvenile Cod) | Oct–Feb | Fish bait fished from Orlock Head |
| Pollack (Pollock) | Apr–Oct | Spinning around the headland rocks |
| Whiting | Oct–Feb | Fish or worm bait cast at range |
| Mackerel | Jun–Aug | Feathers or casting for mackerel, peaking in July |
Tactics
Orlock Head, between Groomsport and Donaghadee, is the standout local mark — codling, pollack, coalies, whiting and wrasse year-round with mackerel shoaling thick in summer. Mackerel fishing gets underway in June and peaks in July; cast from the rocks on the edge or troll for squid as an alternative approach. The harbour itself gives easier, more sheltered access for a simpler session.
Best tide: Any · Best time: July for peak mackerel; winter for codling and whiting
Dogs
No verified source. Check current signage and the relevant authority.
Access & parking
Groomsport Boathouse car park. Sat-nav: BT19 6JR.Get directions → Family rating: ★★★ — A pretty, sheltered harbour village that's easy and safe for a family session, with Orlock Head a short walk away for more serious fishing.
FAQs
Is Groomsport dog friendly?
A seasonal order applies 1 June–31 August, 11am–8pm; outside that window dogs are unrestricted.
What's special about Orlock Head?
A genuinely wide species count year-round, with mackerel shoaling heavily each July.
Can you fish from Groomsport harbour itself?
Yes — it's a more sheltered, easier option than the open rocks at Orlock Head.
Nearby marks
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.