Once the major port on this part of the west coast Maryport has recently undergone a major facelift centered around the harbour with new waterside housing and marina developments. All very attractive and well worth a visit in its own right. The River Ellen empties through the harbour.
For sea anglers this is a popular venue with plenty of options to choose from. Fishing takes place in the harbour, from the piers and from the promenade to the north - all of which are easily accessible.
During the summer months plaice, bass and flounders are the main target species with codling and whiting over the winter. There is usually a good head of mullet to be found in the inner harbour.
From the promenade fishing is over mixed ground with some deep gutters. The best of the fishing is on the bigger spring tides with the four hours up to high tide being the prime time. At high water fishing is off the promenade itself.