Frequently Asked Questions | Emma Kate Fishing Trips Padstow Cornwall

Answers to all your questions about fishing trips from Padstow, Cornwall. What to bring, how to book, what you'll catch, seasickness, children, private charters, Bluefin tuna and more.

Booking & Pricing

How do I book a fishing trip with Emma Kate?

The easiest way to book is through our website. Choose your trip, select your preferred date and follow the booking steps online. If you have any questions before booking, or would like to arrange a private charter, you’re very welcome to call us on 07970 595244 or email mail@emmakate2.com. Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll send full joining instructions for Padstow Harbour, PL28 8BY. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, especially for summer dates and Bluefin Tuna season, as popular trips can fill up quickly.

How much do the fishing trips cost?

All prices are per person for shared trips. Exclusive private charter prices are also listed:

2 Hour Mackerel Trip -£25pp · Charter: £300
4 Hour Wreck & Reef Trip - £60pp · Charter: £600
8 Hour Full Day - £90pp · Charter: £700
Evening Sea Fishing Trip - £45pp · Charter: £530
Bluefin Tuna Trip -£225pp · Charter: £900 · max 4 anglers

All prices include tackle, rods, reels and bait. There are no hidden extras. See the full trips page for complete details.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Shared trip bookings are usually paid in full at the time of booking. For private charters, a deposit or full payment may be required to secure the boat, depending on the trip and date. The balance, if there is one, will be confirmed when you book and is usually paid before or on the day of your trip. We’ll make sure you have all the details before you come aboard.

What is your cancellation policy?

If we need to cancel due to unsafe weather conditions, we will always offer a full rearrangement or a complete refund. We take this responsibility seriously and will contact you as early as possible - usually the day before or early on the morning of your trip. If you need to cancel, please contact us as soon as possible. Cancellation terms will be confirmed at the time of booking and depend on how far in advance you cancel. We always try to be fair and flexible where circumstances allow.

How far in advance should I book?

As far ahead as you can - particularly for peak periods. Here's a rough guide:

July & August - book 2–3 months ahead. Weekend dates go first.
Bluefin tuna season (Aug–Nov) - enquire in spring. Tuna dates are extremely limited and sell out fast.
Spring & autumn - 4–6 weeks ahead is usually fine for most trips.
Winter - availability is generally better. Contact us a couple of weeks ahead.

Can I book for a group?

Absolutely. Groups are very welcome on all our shared trips, up to the maximum number of guests per trip. For groups of 6 or more, a private charter is often the best option - exclusive use of the boat, total flexibility on what you fish, and often comparable cost to the per-person shared rate when split between a larger group.

Do you offer gift vouchers?

Yes - Emma Kate gift vouchers are available through our booking page and make a great present for anglers, families and anyone who would enjoy a fishing trip from Padstow. You can choose the voucher value online. If you have any questions before buying, you’re welcome to call us on 07970 595244 or email mail@emmakate2.com.

What time do trips depart?

Departure times vary with the tides, which change daily. We'll confirm your exact departure time when you book, and send a reminder before your trip. As a general guide:

2 Hour Mackerel - typically morning or early afternoon
4 Hour Wreck & Reef - morning departures, tide-dependent
8 Hour Full Day - early morning, typically 8:00am
Evening Trip - departs 5:00–5:30pm, returns ~9:00–9:30pm
Bluefin Tuna - early morning, typically 7:00-8:00am

We ask all guests to arrive at the boat 15 minutes before departure.

On the Boat

Is fishing tackle and bait included?

Yes - all rods, reels, tackle and bait are included in the trip price. We supply everything you need, so you don’t need to bring your own fishing equipment unless you’d prefer to use it.

Can I bring my own fishing gear?

Absolutely - experienced anglers are very welcome to bring their own tackle aboard at no extra charge. This is particularly common on our longer trips, where anglers may prefer to use their own rods, reels or specialist setups. Just let us know in advance what you’re planning to bring, so the skipper can factor it into the day’s plan and make sure there’s enough space on board.

What should I wear and bring on the boat?

We recommend wearing warm, waterproof layers. Even on a sunny day, it can feel cooler at sea and the weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is always a good idea. Wear comfortable footwear that you’re happy to be on a boat in. Non-slip soles are helpful, especially if the deck is wet. For your trip, you may also want to bring:

- Sun cream and sunglasses in summer
- Food and soft drinks for longer trips
- A bag or cool box for your catch on the way home
- A phone or camera for photos

You don’t need to bring any fishing equipment, as rods, tackle and bait are all included. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth planning ahead before your trip.

Can we bring food and drink on board?

Yes - food and soft drinks are very welcome on board. For longer trips, especially 4-hour trips, we recommend bringing something to eat and plenty of water. For the 8-hour full day trip, it’s best to treat it like a packed lunch day and bring enough food and drink for a full day at sea.

What's the boat like? Is it comfortable?

We run three well-maintained charter fishing boats: Emma Kate, Prue Esther and Sally Anne. Emma Kate and Prue Esther are both Lochin 38s, while Sally Anne is a Lochin 33. Lochin boats are well known for their strong, seaworthy hulls and have a long-standing reputation in commercial, patrol and rescue-style vessels -exactly the kind of build quality you want for the North Cornwall coast. All three boats are set up properly for sea fishing, with clear working decks, quality tackle and the equipment needed for a safe, comfortable and professional trip from Padstow.

Is there a toilet on board?

Yes - toilet facilities are available on board. We still recommend using the facilities at Padstow Harbour before departure where possible, especially before longer trips.

How many people can come on each trip?+

2 Hour Mackerel Trip - maximum 12 guests
4 Hour Wreck & Reef Trip - maximum 10 guests
8 Hour Full Day Charter - maximum 8 guests
Evening Trip- maximum 12 guests
Bluefin Tuna Charter - maximum 4 anglers (exclusive trip)

If your group is larger than the shared trip maximum, a private charter gives you the whole boat exclusively - contact us to discuss.

Beginners & Families

Do I need any fishing experience?

No fishing experience is needed. Skippers Lee and Gav welcome complete beginners and will show you what to do, from holding the rod and using the reel to understanding what happens when you feel a bite. The 2-hour mackerel trip is a great choice for first-timers, families and anyone who wants a shorter, easier introduction to sea fishing.

Is fishing suitable for children?

Yes - the 2-hour mackerel trip is our best option for children and families. It’s shorter, closer to shore and a great introduction to sea fishing. Skippers Lee and Gav are used to helping younger guests and beginners, and life jackets are provided for all ages. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Our 4-hour and 8-hour trips are suitable for ages 12+, as they are longer and more suited to older children, teenagers and adults. If you have very young children or any specific concerns, please call us on 07970 595244 before booking and we’ll advise on the best trip for your group.

What is the minimum age for fishing trips?

Our 2-hour mackerel trip is suitable for children aged 3+. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. For longer trips, including our 4-hour and 8-hour fishing trips, we recommend children are 12+, as these trips are longer, more involved and can be tiring for younger children. If you’re unsure which trip is best for your child or family group, please call us on 07970 595244 before booking and we’ll be happy to advise.

I'm worried about seasickness - what should I do?

Seasickness is a common worry, especially if it’s your first time on a boat. If you’re prone to travel sickness, it’s worth planning ahead before your trip and speaking to a pharmacist if you’re unsure what’s suitable for you. Before you come aboard, we recommend eating something light and dressing warmly so you’re comfortable for the trip. Once on board, fresh air, looking towards the horizon and staying on deck can all help. If you start to feel unwell during the trip, please let the skipper know. Lee or Gav can advise you on the best place to stand or sit and help make you as comfortable as possible. If you’re unsure how you’ll feel at sea, our 2-hour mackerel trip is the best option to start with, as it’s shorter and stays closer to shore.

I've never been on a boat before. Should I be worried?

Not at all - plenty of our guests are first-timers, and the skipper will talk you through what to expect before you head out. Our 2-hour mackerel trip is the best starting point if you’re new to boats or feeling unsure. It’s a shorter trip, stays closer to shore, and is a great way to experience sea fishing without committing to a longer day.

Which trip do you recommend for a complete beginner?

The2-hour mackerel trip, every time. It's designed specifically for beginners, the duration is manageable, the action is near-instant, and the shorter time at sea means even nervous first-timers feel comfortable. Many guests who start with the mackerel trip come back the same day or later in the week to book the 4-hour wreck and reef trip.

Your Catch

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes - if the fish is within legal size limits and suitable to take home, you’re welcome to keep it. The skipper will always advise on what can be kept and what should be returned. We encourage guests to only take what they’ll use, so the catch is valued and not wasted. We can provide bags for your fish, and you’re welcome to bring a cool box or bag for taking your catch home. The only exception is our Bluefin Tuna trip, which is strictly catch and release under the UK licensing scheme. Bluefin tuna cannot be kept under any circumstances.

What fish are we likely to catch?

It depends on the trip, the season and the conditions on the day, but common catches include: 2 Hour Mackerel Trip - mainly mackerel, especially through the warmer months. 4 Hour Wreck & Reef Trip - pollack, cod, gurnard, pouting, ling, wrasse and mackerel. 8 Hour Full Day Trip - a wider mix of species, which may include pollack, cod, ling, gurnard, wrasse, bream, ray, smooth-hound, conger and seasonal tope. The skipper will always advise on what can be kept and what should be returned.

Is there a guarantee of catching fish?

We can’t guarantee catches - fishing always depends on the season, tide, weather and conditions on the day. What we can promise is that our skippers will use their local knowledge and experience to give you the best chance of a good trip. They’ll choose the marks carefully and adapt where needed depending on what’s happening on the water. Mackerel trips are usually very productive in season, and our longer wreck and reef trips give the chance of a wider variety of species.

How do I clean and cook my catch?

If you’d like to take your catch home, the skipper can advise you on how to look after it and prepare it after the trip. Mackerel is best eaten fresh and is lovely grilled, pan-fried or cooked on the BBQ with simple flavours like lemon, garlic and herbs. Pollack and gurnard are also excellent eating fish when prepared well. We also share simple recipe ideas on our website, including easy ways to cook fresh mackerel at home.

Are there legal size limits on the fish I catch?

Yes - some fish have minimum size limits, and there may also be seasonal rules depending on the species. Our skippers know the current guidance and will let you know what can be kept and what needs to be returned. We always fish responsibly, follow the rules, and encourage guests to only keep what they’ll use.

Weather & Safety

What happens if the weather is bad on my trip day?

Safety always comes first. If the weather or sea conditions are not suitable, we won’t go out. We’ll contact you as early as possible, usually the evening before or on the morning of your trip, depending on the forecast and conditions. If your trip cannot go ahead, we’ll offer to rearrange for another suitable date. If that isn’t possible, we’ll issue a refund in line with your booking terms. The skipper’s decision on weather and sea conditions is final, as they are responsible for everyone’s safety on board.

Is the Emma Kate safe?

Yes. Our boats are MCA licensed and carry the required safety equipment for the trips we run, including life jackets, marine radio, navigation equipment and emergency safety kit. Our skippers are properly qualified and experienced, with the knowledge needed to make decisions based on the weather, sea conditions and the trip on the day. Emma Kate and Prue Esther are both Lochin 38s, and Sally Anne is a Lochin 33. Lochin boats are well known for their strong, seaworthy hulls and have a long-standing reputation in commercial, patrol and rescue-style vessels - making them well suited to the North Cornwall coast. Safety is always taken seriously, and the skipper’s decision on weather, conditions and the route of the trip is final.

What if conditions change while we're at sea?

The skipper monitors the weather and sea conditions throughout every trip. If conditions change unexpectedly, they’ll make the safest decision for the boat and everyone on board. That may mean changing fishing marks, adjusting the route, or returning to Padstow Harbour earlier than planned if needed. Our skippers know these waters well and will always put safety first.

What is the best time of year to go sea fishing in Cornwall?

There isn’t one single best time - every season offers something different, and the fishing depends on the weather, tides and conditions on the day. As a general guide:

Spring - pollack, gurnard and the first signs of mackerel as the water starts to warm.

Summer - peak mackerel season, with a good mix of species on longer trips including pollack, gurnard, wrasse, bream and seasonal tope.

Autumn - often one of the best all-round times of year, with a good variety of species and Bluefin Tuna trips running until the season ends on 30th November.

Winter - weather windows can be shorter, but when conditions allow, winter fishing can produce quality catches including cod, ling and conger.

Do you run trips in winter?

Yes - we run winter fishing trips, weather permitting. During the winter months, Emma Kate operates from Falmouth, while Prue Esther and Sally Anne remain in Padstow. Winter can offer some excellent fishing, including species such as cod, ling, conger and pollack, depending on the conditions and the marks being fished. Weather windows can be shorter at this time of year, so flexibility is helpful. If you’re interested in winter fishing, please contact us to discuss availability and the best options for your group.

Getting Here & Practical Info

Where do I meet you? Where is Padstow Harbour?

Our Padstow trips depart either from Padstow Harbour, Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8BY, or from George’s Well Beach, near Padstow. When you book, we’ll send full joining instructions with the exact meeting point for your trip. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure, so there’s time to get checked in and ready to board. Padstow is on the North Cornwall coast and is well signposted from the main roads. There are several public car parks in and around the town, but Padstow can be busy in the summer, so please allow plenty of time for parking and walking to your meeting point.

Is there parking near Padstow Harbour?

Yes - there are several public car parks in and around Padstow. Padstow can get very busy in peak season, so we recommend allowing plenty of time to park and walk to your meeting point, especially during school holidays and on sunny days. Your joining instructions will include the exact meeting point for your trip, so you can choose the most suitable car park before you arrive.

How do I contact you?

The quickest way to reach us is by phone:

Phone: 07970 595244
Email: mail@emmakate2.com
Facebook: facebook.com/emmakatepadstow
Instagram: @emmakate.padstow

Contact hours are Monday–Saturday 8am–8pm, Sunday 9am–5pm. We aim to reply to emails within 24 hours.

What else is there to do in Padstow?

Padstow is a great place to spend the day before or after your fishing trip, with plenty to do around the harbour and nearby coast. You’ll find restaurants, cafés, pubs, shops and galleries within easy walking distance of the harbour. Padstow is also well known for its seafood, with several places to eat nearby. If you’re staying longer, there are beaches such as Harlyn Bay, Trevone, Constantine Bay and Daymer Bay within a short drive. The Camel Trail is also close by, with cycling and walking routes along the Camel Estuary. It’s worth allowing extra time if you can - Padstow is a lovely place to explore, especially in the summer.