2 Hour Mackerel Fishing Trip

The 2-hour mackerel trip is the most popular trip we run — and the one that earns the most five-star reviews from families, first-timers and anyone who wants a taste of sea fishing in Cornwall without committing to a full day on the water. If you've never held a fishing rod before in your life, this is the trip for you.

From Padstow harbour it's just a 15–30 minute steam to reach the mackerel grounds — close enough that even guests who are nervous about being at sea find it perfectly manageable. The North Cornwall coast is stunning from the water, and the journey out is half the experience. Dolphins are regularly spotted on this stretch, particularly in summer.

Once on the grounds, Skippers Lee and John will rig everyone up and get all rods in the water. Mackerel are schooling fish that feed aggressively through the water column — when you're on them, the action is almost instant. Most guests hook their first fish within minutes of dropping the feather rig. For children especially, the excitement of feeling that first tug on the line is genuinely unforgettable.

Mackerel are spectacular fighters on light tackle — fast, acrobatic and powerful despite their small size. Hauling in a full string of five or six on a single feather rig never gets old, however many times you've done it. Take your catch home to cook it fresh.