← Back to map
Runswick Bay
A picture-postcard North Yorkshire bay between Whitby and Staithes with mixed sandy and rocky ground, genuinely excellent for winter cod once a bit of rough weather has stirred the water up. Watch for weed after a blow, it can make life difficult, but all the standard baits work and the bay is fishable on any tide, which makes it an easy one to plan a trip around.
Access: Free shore access from the beach, no permit needed. Fishes on any state of tide.
Parking: Village car park above the beach, short walk down to the sand
Last updated: 23 August 2026
Species you can expect
| Species | Best season |
|---|---|
| Cod | Winter |
| Coalfish | Autumn, Winter |
| Flatfish | Summer, Autumn |
Sea fishing needs no rod licence anywhere in the UK - shore, boat or wreck marks are all licence-free.
Caught something here?
Upload a photo of your catch from Runswick Bay → - not sure what it is? We'll help identify it.