Manchester 7-Day Fishing Forecast (19.01.2026 - 25.01.2026)
Introduction
Welcome to your detailed fishing forecast for Manchester, where we cover the essential weather conditions and practical tips for your angling sessions over the next seven days. This report is tailored to coarse fishing enthusiasts and specimen hunters alike, providing species-specific guidance and winter feeder fishing advice to maximise your catch.
Weather Conditions
Currently, Manchester experiences temperatures around 6-8°C with frequent light rain showers and overcast skies. Winds are mild, generally between 1-5 mph from the east to southeast, creating manageable conditions for fishing. Humidity remains high near 90%, leading to damp surroundings but with low risk of severe weather interruptions. Light rain may persist intermittently throughout the week, with occasional clearer periods towards midweek. Night-time lows are expected to dip to 2-4°C, so dressing warmly is advised.
7-Day Fishing Forecast
Throughout the coming week, steady but cool temperatures combined with mild winds will encourage active feeding patterns, especially in sheltered swims. Light rain helps keep the environment lively but demands resilient tackle and waterproof clothing. Anglers targeting carp and bream should focus on mid-depth areas as these species become more active in temperatures hovering around 7-8°C. Pike and perch respond well to low light and slightly overcast conditions, presenting excellent specimen hunting opportunities at dawn and dusk. Roach and tench remain available but may feed slowly; thus, a patient approach with light feeding spots will pay dividends.
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Expert Opinion
Winter feeder fishing in Manchester’s stillwaters and slow-flowing rivers requires the right approach. Vladislav, a seasoned angler, shares key advice:
Groundbait
- Always prepare groundbait indoors to prevent it freezing - winter temperatures can be brutal on wet hands.
- Use dark-coloured mixtures when waters are coloured; red groundbait works as effectively as black for attracting roach and perch.
- Recommended mix composition includes a cold-water feeder blend with added bloodworm and vanilla groundbait for extra attraction.
Live Components
- Limit live bait quantity as fish slow their metabolism in cold water, feeding sparingly.
- Strain larger bits through a fine 0.2mm mesh to maintain a refined bait delivery.
- Incorporate buoyant particles to keep the bait cloud suspended near the bottom.
Rig Setup
- Employ size 16 hooks with fine mainlines of 12-14lb breaking strain.
- Reduce rig size to suit winter conditions and ensure subtle presentation to shy fish.
Baits
- Artificial white and red-orange maggots, live maggots, and worms as a backup tend to work best in local waters.
Location Selection
- Seek sheltered swims away from exposed banks and prevailing winds.
- Target depressions or holes within lakebeds where fish conserve energy.
- Avoid areas prone to ice or strong currents which can restrict fish movement.
Fishing Approach
- Learn from previous anglers’ experiences at your venue to adjust techniques appropriately.
- Experiment with hooklength and bait sizes if targeting larger carp or pike specimens.
- Use initial casts to detect depth changes and establish a suitable feeding pattern.
Conclusions
This week’s conditions in Manchester offer excellent opportunities for winter coarse fishing with a focus on tailored groundbait and rig setups. Expect steady feeding from species like carp, pike, perch, and roach if you fish patiently and select sheltered locations. Adapting to cool, damp weather with appropriate tackle and baits will help you capitalise on the feeding windows outlined in the forecast. Remember to dress warmly, prepare your equipment carefully, and enjoy your fishing outings.
Author: Wild Fishing UA