Fishing Forecast for Leeds: 19 to 25 January 2026 (19.01.2026 - 25.01.2026)
Introduction
Welcome to your detailed fishing forecast for Leeds, covering the period from 19 to 25 January 2026. This report combines the latest weather data with expert angling advice to help coarse anglers and specimen hunters make the most of their sessions this week. Whether targeting pike, perch, carp or other species, knowing the conditions is key to success.
Weather Conditions
Current conditions in Leeds show cool winter weather with temperatures around 6-8°C and persistent light rain expected through much of Monday and Tuesday. Winds remain light to moderate, mostly from the east-southeast at 1-6 mph, with gusts up to 14 mph in the evening and overnight periods. Humidity is high, reaching 95-99%, and skies are predominately overcast. Visibility is generally good but reduces noticeably in rain showers.
This unsettled pattern with frequent light rain and overcast skies will continue throughout the week, gradually easing towards the weekend. Temperatures will remain steady between 4°C and 8°C, typical for mid-winter. Anglers should prepare for damp conditions and occasional gusty winds when planning outings.
7-Day Fishing Forecast
Monday 19 January: Expect challenging conditions for match fishing with steady light rain and slick water surfaces. Pike may be sluggish but targeting shelter edges with live bait perch or crucian carp can entice strikes. Coarse species will be less active in the damp and cooler water.
Tuesday 20 January: Rain continues into the day before easing towards evening. Pike anglers should consider using brightly coloured roach or gudgeon to improve bait visibility in coloured water. Carp will likely hold in deeper areas as water temperatures remain low.
Wednesday 21 January: Mixed light rain and cloudy breaks expected. Pike and bream fishing may improve with slightly increased activity during warmer afternoon hours. Using lively perch as bait can trigger aggressive pike responses, especially near submerged structures.
Thursday 22 January: Persistent rain throughout the day advises selective specimen fishing in sheltered waters. Tench and roach respond well to feeder tactics during steady drizzle. Pike remain a good target with adaptive live bait choices.
Friday 23 January: Rain diminishing with clearing skies overnight. Coarse fishing conditions improve with potential for better water clarity. Carp and bream begin moving more actively-good day for ledgering tactics.
Saturday 24 January: Clear skies and cold with temperatures dropping near 3°C. Early morning frost may affect fish activity; target midday when fish warm up slightly. Ideal for perch and roach on light tackle in shallow margins.
Sunday 25 January: Dry and bright with light winds. A good day for match fishing and specimen hunting as fish become more active in stable conditions. Use a variety of baits and consider switching tactics as needed.
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Expert Opinion
Selecting Live Bait for Winter Pike Fishing: A Practical Guide
As a winter pike fishing specialist, I cannot overstate the importance of carefully selecting your live bait. Success on the water hinges almost entirely on this fundamental decision. There is no one-size-fits-all solution-the ideal choice depends on numerous variables, including the specific characteristics of your fishery, prevailing weather conditions, and the pike's feeding temperament on any given day. Crucian carp, perch, roach and gudgeon each offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, and a skilled angler must learn to adapt their selection to the circumstances at hand.
Understanding which bait will prove most visible and appealing to pike under your current conditions is absolutely critical. Fishing coloured or turbid water? Opt for crucian carp or brightly coloured roach, which create greater contrast and visibility. Pike activity sluggish? Present a lively, energetic perch capable of triggering an aggressive response from the predator. The key to consistent success lies in experimentation. Observe carefully, remain flexible, and don't hesitate to change your bait throughout the session. Only through this adaptive approach will you discover what truly works and consistently achieve the results you're after.
Conclusions
This week's fishing forecast for Leeds suggests a challenging start with persistent rain and cool temperatures affecting coarse fishing activity. Pike anglers should focus on live bait strategies tailored to water clarity and fish mood. Later in the week, improving weather and drying conditions offer better prospects for carp, bream and tench. Anglers are advised to choose their tactics carefully and adapt throughout each session to the changing conditions for best results.