Shetland Banks fishing forecast
Shetland Banks is a saltwater fishing spot in North Sea, United Kingdom. Anglers here target Atlantic Cod, Haddock, Pollock, Atlantic Halibut. The most productive months are typically May, June, July, August, September.
Current conditions
| Sea surface temp | 12.2 °C |
|---|---|
| Wind | 26 km/h from NNW |
| Wave height | 0.6 m at 6 s |
| Current | 0.03 m/s toward NNE |
| Pressure | 1024 hPa |
| Depth | 95 m |
| Cloud cover | 100% |
Last updated Jul 22, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.
What the score means at Shetland Banks
Shetland Banks currently scores 60 out of 100 (Good). Water temperature is 12.2 °C. 8 forecast signals are active in this score. As a rough guide, a score above ~65 reflects conditions experienced anglers would typically fish; below ~45, consider waiting for a better window or targeting different species. The score blends live weather and ocean signals and can change through the day.
Bite windows
Best months for Shetland Banks:
About this spot
Open coastal saltwater — conditions and safety depend heavily on the live wind, wave, and tide forecast, so check them before you head out.
Approximate bottom depth: 95 m Depth is GEBCO-derived bathymetry, approximate only — not a nautical chart. Do not use for navigation or anchoring.
What you can catch
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Gadus morhua
-
Melanogrammus aeglefinus
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Pollachius pollachius
-
Hippoglossus hippoglossus
Best months by species at Shetland Banks
| Atlantic CodGadus morhua | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HaddockMelanogrammus aeglefinus | ||||||||||||
| PollockPollachius pollachius | ||||||||||||
| Atlantic HalibutHippoglossus hippoglossus |
Months reflect typical catchability by species at this latitude; local seasons and closures apply.
Local regulations
| Species | Bag limit | Min size | Open season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Cod | 5/day | min 35 cm | Jan 1 – Dec 31 |
| Haddock | 10/day | min 30 cm | Jan 1 – Dec 31 |
Licensing:
- saltwater-recreational — residents No licence required for recreational sea fishing from shore or boat in England and Wales. Scottish sea fishing similarly does not require an individual licence., non-residents No licence required.
Some rules may have changed since our last verification — always confirm with the authority before you fish.
FishRadar regulations are summaries for informational purposes only. UK rules vary by area (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland). Always verify with MMO at gov.uk and Marine Scotland before fishing.
Check Shetland Banks before you go
Live scores update through the day. Get the full forecast, bite windows, and your own saved spots in the FishRadar app.
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Nearby spots
Explore 5 more fishing spots within 469 km of Shetland Banks.
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Orkney Islands
Loch Ness Scotland
Scottish West Coast
Outer Hebrides
River Tay Scotland
Frequently asked questions
What fish can you catch at Shetland Banks?
Anglers at Shetland Banks target Atlantic Cod, Haddock, Pollock and Atlantic Halibut.
When is the best time to fish Shetland Banks?
The most productive months at Shetland Banks are typically May, June, July, August, September.
What is the fishing forecast for Shetland Banks right now?
Shetland Banks currently scores 60 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.
Do you need a licence to fish Shetland Banks?
Fishing at Shetland Banks follows the local rules for North Sea, United Kingdom. Bag limits, size limits, seasons and licence requirements are summarised in the Local regulations section above, with a link to the official authority.
Fishing guides for this spot
- How to Catch Haddock: The Groundfishing Staple of the North AtlanticHow to Catch Pacific Halibut: The Barn Door of the North PacificHow to Read Tides for Fishing
Scores and conditions are forecasts for guidance only and can change rapidly. Always check local rules and current conditions, follow all fishing regulations, and prioritise your safety on the water.