Fishing at Welcombe Mouth
A wild, National Trust-managed cove right on the Devon–Cornwall border where the Marsland stream cuts through the beach — the kelp gullies either side of the stream mouth fish well for wrasse and bass, but the potholed access lane and steep coast-path descent mean you earn every fish here.
📍 View on the mapWhat you can catch
| Species | Season | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Wrasse | May–Sep | Float-fished crab or ragworm tight against the kelp-lined ledges either side of the stream mouth. |
| Bass | May–Nov | Lures or a fish-bait cocktail worked through the gullies on a good push of tide and clear Atlantic water. |
| Pollack | May–Oct | Soft plastics worked over the kelp on the flood, especially towards dusk. |
| Bull huss | Jun–Sep | Mackerel or squid bait fished hard on the bottom after dark in the deeper water off the ledges. |
| Mackerel / scad | Jun–Sep | Feathers or small spinners worked mid-water off the rocks when fish are showing. |
Tactics
Fish the kelp gullies on either side of the stream mouth on a rising tide, starting with lures tight to the rocks. Bait fishing after dark on the bottom accounts for the bigger bull huss, but the walk in is long and ground rough.
Best tide: Flood tide · Best time: Dawn and dusk
Dogs
Access & parking
From the A39 between Bude and Bideford, follow signs through Darracott and Mead to Welcombe, then a narrow, pothole-riddled lane to the small National Trust car park above the beach. Sat-nav: EX39 6HL.Get directions → Family rating: ★☆☆ — No facilities, no lifeguard, a steep coastal track unsuitable for wheelchairs or buggies, and a rough, potholed access lane.
FAQs
Is Welcombe Mouth dog friendly?
Yes, it's a National Trust beach with no seasonal restrictions, so dogs are welcome all year.
How do you get to Welcombe Mouth?
Take the signposted turning off the A39 through Darracott and Mead to Welcombe village, then follow the narrow, potholed lane to the small car park above the beach.
Is Welcombe Mouth good for fishing?
Yes — the kelp gullies either side of the stream mouth hold wrasse, bass and pollack in summer, with bull huss on bait after dark.
Nearby marks
Last updated 7 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.