The Best Bite Alarms for 2025: A UK Buyer’s Guide

In our 2025 bite alarm review, we’ve compared 10 models from a range of top manufacturers. Our rankings are based on customer feedback, our own expert scores, and overall value for money. Check out the summary below to see all the products and their final rankings.

Click ‘View Product’ to see our in-depth analysis of each bite alarm. In the full review, you’ll find a summary of customer feedback alongside our own expert rating. Alternatively, click ‘Buy now’ to view the latest deals.

The Best Bite Alarms of 2025: Our Top 10 Rankings

 

What Are the Different Kinds of Bite Alarms and Bite Indicators? A Beginner’s Guide

Broadly speaking, there are three main types of bite alarm:

The perfect bite alarm for you depends entirely on your style of angling and how you want to be alerted to a bite.

To help you make the right choice, we’ll break down the unique features, pros, and cons of the different types below. We’ll also take a closer look at the various styles of mechanical indicators available.

 

How Does a Standard Bite Alarm Work, and What Are Its Pros and Cons?

A standard electronic bite alarm’s key feature is its ability to indicate a bite using both a loud audible tone and a bright LED light. This makes it the perfect choice if you don’t want to constantly watch your rod tip and need to be alerted to a bite, even from a distance.

The alarm works by screwing directly into the thread of a bankstick or rod pod, replacing a standard rod rest. Your rod and reel are then placed directly onto the alarm.

So, here’s a summary of the main advantages and disadvantages of a standard electronic alarm:

Electronic bite alarms offer anglers several key advantages that can greatly improve the angling experience. One of the biggest benefits is the freedom to position your rods further away without needing to constantly keep an eye on them.

Thanks to the audible and/or visual alerts, even the most subtle bite is registered instantly. This allows for a much faster reaction and a more effective strike, significantly increasing your chances of a successful catch.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Unlike mechanical models, they require a power source, which means batteries will need changing regularly.

On top of that, electronic alarms are generally more expensive to purchase. A key limitation is that they often fail to reliably indicate ‘drop-back’ bites, which occur when a fish swims towards the angler. For this reason, an additional mechanical indicator is essential to cover all scenarios.

 

How Do Wireless Bite Alarms Work, and What Are Their Pros and Cons?

A wireless bite alarm is an advanced type of electronic alarm, consisting of an alarm head and a separate receiver. When a bite is detected, the alarm head on your rod pod sends a wireless signal to the receiver you keep with you.

The receiver then alerts you to the bite with its own series of lights and sounds. The huge advantage is that you can be made aware of a bite from a much greater distance, making them the best choice for night fishing or when you’re socialising in the next swim.

The key feature of a wireless system is that the small, portable receiver mirrors the indication from the alarm head. You can carry this receiver with you, and if you wish, you can often mute the sound on the alarm heads themselves, so only the receiver makes a noise.

A wireless bite alarm system offers you the following pros and cons:

Wireless bite alarms are the next step up from standard electronic alarms and offer anglers several key benefits. Their superior range allows you to monitor your rods from much greater distances, meaning you don’t have to stay right next to your setup.

This is a massive advantage during night sessions or when targeting particularly wary fish, as it allows the angler to keep a low profile. Another huge plus is the ability to have sound alerts come through only on the receiver, which keeps noise to a minimum at the water’s edge.

Thanks to the instant bite detection, no take goes unnoticed, allowing you to set the hook quickly and securely.

However, wireless alarms do have a couple of downsides. Their battery consumption is higher compared to standard electronic models, so you’ll need to change batteries more often. They also typically come with a higher price tag.

Crucially, for detecting ‘drop-back’ bites, where a fish swims towards the rod, you will still need a separate bobbin, hanger or swinger, as wireless alarms alone cannot always register this type of indication reliably.

 

A Guide to Mechanical Indicators (Bobbins, Hangers & Swingers): How They Work, Pros & Cons

A mechanical indicator is designed to be used in conjunction with an electronic bite alarm, though some can be used on their own. Most types work by clipping directly onto your fishing line, providing a visual signal when a fish bites.

Mechanical indicators are generally more affordable than electronic alarms and have the significant advantage of not needing any batteries. They are also often much simpler and more straightforward to use.

Mechanical indicators work without any power and are designed to be used in conjunction with electronic bite alarms. Below, we’ll break down the pros and cons, and introduce the main types of mechanical indicators available.

Mechanical indicators are a cost-effective alternative to electronic models. As they work without power, you never have to worry about changing batteries.

Their simplicity makes them particularly appealing to beginners. Furthermore, they are an essential addition to electronic alarms because they reliably indicate ‘drop-back’ bites.

Swingers and hangers achieve this by keeping the line taut; when a fish swims towards the angler, the indicator head drops, and this line movement will trigger the electronic alarm if one is used.

However, mechanical indicators do have their drawbacks. Compared to electronic models, their bite detection is less sensitive, meaning subtle plucks on the line might be missed.

Another disadvantage is that they require constant monitoring from the angler, as they provide no audible or remote alerts.

 

The Main Types of Mechanical Indicator: Bobbins, Hangers & Swingers

Bobbins, Hangers, and Swingers are the three main types of mechanical indicator. Their primary job is to keep the fishing line under tension to clearly show ‘drop-back’ bites.

Although they all serve this core purpose, they are fundamentally different in their construction, which makes each one suited to a specific angling situation.

Below, we’ll explain how these three different types of mechanical indicator – Bobbins, Hangers, and Swingers – are constructed and how they work. We’ll also cover the specific pros and cons of each.

 

Bobbins

As the lightest and most sensitive indicator, a bobbin consists of a small head, often made from acrylic or plastic, which hangs from a flexible ‘ball chain’ or thin cord.

This minimal weight means it exerts very little pressure on the fishing line, making it ideal for detecting even the most subtle of bites.

Once you’ve cast out and placed the rod on your rests, the bobbin is clipped onto the slack line between the front rest and the closest rod guide. During a ‘drop-back’ bite (when the fish swims towards you), the bobbin will fall. When the fish swims away from you (a ‘take’ or ‘run’), it will lift up towards the rod.

Bobbins offer some significant advantages, making them a popular choice for specific situations. Their main strength is their extreme sensitivity; due to their light weight, they can register the most delicate bites that heavier indicators might miss.

This makes them ideal for margin fishing with slack lines, where finesse is key. Furthermore, they are often very affordable, making them an excellent option for anglers on any budget.

The primary drawback, however, is that they are highly susceptible to wind. Even a moderate breeze can cause false indications, making them less suitable for long-range fishing or windy conditions.

 

Hangers

As a versatile and highly popular indicator, a hanger consists of a head, often made from acrylic or plastic, which hangs from a flexible cord or chain.

Slightly heavier than a traditional bobbin, this design offers an excellent balance of sensitivity and stability, making it a superb all-round choice for most angling situations.

Once you’ve cast out and placed the rod on your rests, the hanger is clipped onto the line between the front rest and the closest rod guide. During a ‘drop-back’ bite (when the fish swims towards you), the hanger will fall. When the fish swims away from you (a ‘take’ or ‘run’), it will lift up towards the rod.

Hangers are arguably the most popular all-round indicator, and for good reason. They offer a fantastic blend of high to medium sensitivity, making them a versatile choice ideal for short to medium-range fishing situations.

Many models are also customisable with add-on weights, allowing you to adapt to different conditions, and they remain a very affordable option for most anglers.

Their only real downside is that, like bobbins, they can still be susceptible to wind. While more stable than a bobbin, a strong crosswind can cause false indications, making them less reliable than a swinger in very challenging weather.

 

Swingers

As the most stable and robust type of mechanical indicator, a swinger is purpose-built for the most demanding angling conditions. Unlike a bobbin or hanger, a swinger’s head is mounted on a rigid, hinged arm.

This design completely eliminates false indications from wind, making it the ultimate choice for long-range fishing, fishing with tight lines, or in very windy weather.

Once you’ve cast out and placed the rod on your rests, the swinger is clipped onto the line between the front rest and the closest rod guide. During a ‘drop-back’ bite (when the fish swims towards you), the swinger arm will fall. When the fish swims away from you (a ‘take’ or ‘run’), it will lift up towards the rod.

Swingers are the ultimate solution when stability is paramount. Their key advantage is the excellent wind resistance, thanks to the rigid arm design that prevents false bleeps in challenging weather. This makes them ideal for long-range fishing, where tight lines and adverse conditions are common.

While their base sensitivity is medium to low, this is a benefit in these situations, and it can be precisely controlled via the adjustable sliding weight on the arm, allowing you to adapt to any scenario.

The main trade-off for this robust performance is the cost, as swingers are typically more expensive than their bobbin and hanger counterparts.

 

Rod Bells

Rod bells aren’t considered mechanical bite indicators; they are the simplest form of acoustic bite alarm. The rod bell is clipped onto the rod tip and rings when a fish bites.

The rod bell is attached to the rod tip. When a fish bites and the tip shakes, the bell rings. Below, you’ll find the main pros and cons of using a rod bell:

The rod bell is a classic bite indicator, well-regarded for its simplicity and low price. Using it is incredibly straightforward: the bell is simply clipped to the rod tip and signals a bite with a clear ringing sound. This makes it a popular choice for anglers who like to keep things simple or are fishing on a tight budget.

However, the rod bell also has its drawbacks. It’s relatively insensitive, meaning it only reliably indicates strong, aggressive takes.

More delicate plucks or cautious nibbles are often missed completely. Another key disadvantage is that it offers no indication for drop-back bites, where the fish swims towards the angler.

Furthermore, the rod bell demands the angler’s constant attention, as it provides no visual signals and its sound can easily be missed, especially in windy conditions or when you’re not close to your rods.

 

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Bite Alarms: Key Questions to Consider Before You Purchase

What are the advantages of a bite alarm over other bite detection methods?

You can certainly detect bites without an alarm by placing your rod on a rod rest. However, this method requires you to constantly watch the rod tip and your line for any sign of a take.

Compared to constantly watching your rod, electronic bite alarms offer the following advantages:

One of the greatest advantages of using an electronic bite alarm is the freedom it gives you on the bank. There is no need to constantly watch your rod tip for hours on end. Instead, the alarm does the work for you, as it indicates bites with a loud audible tone and a bright LED.

This dual alert system means you’ll be notified of any activity instantly, whether you’re tying a new rig, enjoying a cup of tea, or fishing through the night.

This leads directly to faster and more accurate bite detection compared to relying on sight alone. The sensitivity of a good alarm can pick up subtle movements that might otherwise be missed.

Ultimately, this precision ensures you miss fewer takes and catch more fish, turning tentative nibbles into successful catches and making every session more productive.

 

What Do Bite Alarms Cost?

The price of bite indication varies hugely depending on the technology you choose. You can start with simple Rod Bells for less than a pound, while visual indicators like Hangers, Bobbins, or Swingers typically range from £10 to £200 for a set.

For electronic options, a single standalone alarm can cost anywhere from £10 to £200.

If you need a full wireless system, budget-friendly sets start at around £50, whereas premium wireless sets from top brands can cost anywhere from £100 to over £850, offering the most advanced features for the serious angler.

Bite Alarm Category	Price Range
Rod Bells	£0.50- £1.00
Hanger/Bobbin Sets (Set of 4)	£10.00- £50.00
Single Electronic Bite Alarms (without Receiver)	£10.00- £200.00
Budget Wireless Bite Alarm Sets (Set of 4)	£50.00- £100.00
Swinger Bite Indicator Sets (Set of 4)	£30.00- £200.00
Premium Wireless Bite Alarm Sets (Set of 4) from Top Brands	£100.00- £850.00

When choosing a bite alarm, the cost can vary significantly depending on the technology you go for. Since bottom fishing often involves using multiple rods, purchasing a full bite alarm set is a practical and popular choice.

As with most things in angling, quality comes at a price, and understanding the different options will help you make the best investment for your needs.

For those starting out or on a tight budget, you can begin with simple Rod Bells for less than a pound. Visual indicators like Hangers, Bobbins, or Swingers offer a step up and typically range from £10 to £200 for a complete set.

If you’re looking for an electronic solution without the need for a remote receiver, a single standalone alarm can be purchased for anywhere between £10 and £200.

It’s crucial to remember that when you buy electronic alarms, you also need to factor in the cost of accessories. To ensure you can detect every type of movement, you will need to purchase Bobbins, Hangers, or Swingers to use alongside your alarms.

These are essential for registering “drop-back” bites—when a fish picks up your bait and swims towards you—so their cost should be included in your overall budget.

For anglers who fish with multiple rods and value convenience, a full wireless system is the way to go. Budget-friendly wireless sets are a great entry point, with prices starting at around £50.

For the serious angler, premium wireless sets from top brands represent the pinnacle of bite detection technology, with prices ranging from £100 to over £850.

While it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest model, it’s worth remembering that quality has its price. Well-known manufacturers put their wireless bite alarms through extensive and lengthy testing periods to ensure absolute reliability on the bank.

Therefore, spending a little more on a high-quality model from a reputable brand is a worthwhile investment that pays off in performance and durability for years to come.

 

How to Use a Bite Alarm Correctly: A Step-by-Step Guide to Never Missing a Bite

Getting your bite alarm setup dialled in perfectly is about more than just switching it on. It’s about adapting to the conditions to maximise indication and minimise false beeps.

In this video, Prologic’s Ben Steger breaks down his approach to getting the most from your alarms, ensuring you know exactly what’s happening at the business end.

1. First, unscrew and remove the rod rest head from your bankstick or rod pod. Place the bracket for your swinger or hanger over the exposed thread. Then, screw your electronic bite alarm down firmly in its place, which will also secure the indicator bracket.

2. After casting out your rig, place the rod on the alarm, ensuring the line sits correctly within the groove or on the roller wheel. Now, clip the head of your swinger or hanger onto the mainline, letting it hang just below the alarm.

3. Use the control dials on the alarm to adjust the volume and sensitivity to your desired levels. It’s always wise to give the line a gentle pull to test the alarm is working before you settle back.

4. When a bite is indicated by an audible signal, pick up the rod and strike firmly to set the hook into the fish.

For optimal bite detection, especially for registering “drop-back” bites, the correct setup of your bite alarms is crucial. First, the bracket for your swinger or hanger should be fitted onto the thread of your bankstick or rod pod before you screw the alarm head itself on top.

These indicators provide an essential visual signal and ensure that, in the event of a drop-back bite, the line is pulled back through the alarm, triggering the alert.

Once the alarm is attached, position your rod so the line sits correctly in the alarm’s groove, making contact with the roller wheel or, on models with infrared technology, the sensor. Correct line placement is essential for reliable bite indication.

The next step is to adjust the alarm’s sensitivity and volume to your personal preference. Test the setup by gently pulling the line in both directions to ensure the alarm responds as expected.

If you are using wireless alarms, you should also check the range and connection to your receiver. When you get a bite, loud tones and flashing LEDs will signal the moment to strike. This is where experience comes in: wait for the optimal moment when the fish is pulling, and then set the hook.

 

Where to Buy Bite Alarms?

Finding the right electronic bite alarms in the UK is easy, with options ranging from huge online marketplaces and major outdoor chains to highly specialised, angler-run tackle shops.

Whether you prefer to browse in-store or shop from the bankside on your phone, there’s a retailer to suit every need and budget.

You can find a massive selection of bite alarms at major, dedicated fishing tackle retailers, many of which have both a strong online presence and physical stores. Chains like Angling Direct, Total Fishing Tackle, and Johnson Ross offer a vast range of brands and expert advice. For great value and online convenience, websites like Fishdeal and direct-from-brand stores such as NGT Online are excellent choices.

Broad-spectrum retailers have also become key players. Online giants like Amazon UK* and eBay UK provide access to countless new and second-hand options, often with competitive pricing.

Similarly, large outdoor and sporting goods stores like GO Outdoors and Decathlon stock a solid range of alarms, perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.

For those loyal to specific, high-quality brands, you can often buy direct from the manufacturers themselves, such as the legendary Delkim or the innovative team at Gardner Tackle.

As you browse, you’ll notice significant price differences between various models and manufacturers. Well-known brands rigorously test all their products in long-term, real-world scenarios before they ever hit the market.

Because of this, it’s often worth spending a little more for a high-quality product from a reputable name to ensure reliability and longevity on the bank.

 

Buying Criteria: Use These Features to Compare and Evaluate Bite Alarms

In the following section, we’ll show you the most important features you can use to assess and judge bite alarms.

You should consider the following criteria when purchasing a bite alarm:

• Type (Standard or Wireless)
• Range (for wireless alarms)
• Type of motion sensor
• Special indication for drop-back bites
• Latching LED
• Night light
• Adjustment options (volume, tone, and sensitivity controls)
• Smartphone connectivity
• Power source
• What’s included in the box

Below you will find a detailed explanation of these features. Using these criteria, you can compare and evaluate different bite alarm models.

 

Type

There are standard electronic bite alarms and wireless bite alarms. Wireless alarms offer a greater range and are better suited for night fishing and for targeting very wary fish.

In the following section, we’ll briefly introduce the unique aspects of these two types of alarms.

 

Standard Electronic Alarms

Standard electronic alarms consist only of the alarm unit itself and do not have a separate, portable receiver. If the sound is switched on at the alarm head, a take could potentially spook other fish in the immediate vicinity.

Because the alarm is located directly under your rod on the bank, very shy fish could be scared off by the shrill tone. Therefore, you should only set the volume just loud enough for you to hear it. The sound can also be turned off completely, so that a bite is indicated only by the flashing LED.

 

Wireless Bite Alarms

Wireless bite alarms consist of an electronic alarm head and a wireless receiver. They can be set up so that the audible alert sounds only on the receiver. This makes them much better suited for night fishing and for targeting particularly cautious fish.

Wireless alarms offer the significant advantage of being able to silence the alarm heads on the bank, with the audible alert coming exclusively from the receiver in your pocket or bivvy.

This is especially useful when night fishing for wary species like carp. It makes sense to position your bivvy a little further away from your fishing spot and keep the receiver with you while you sleep. This way, when you get a bite, the alarm tone won’t scare away any fish that are near your rods.

 

Range

The effective range of a standard electronic alarm depends on the volume of its speaker. With ranges of up to 1 km, wireless bite alarms offer a significantly greater range than electronic alarms without a receiver.

Standard electronic alarms can be real screamers. However, their audible range depends on many factors, such as the tone frequency, volume, ambient noise, and even the angler’s own hearing.

In comparison, wireless bite alarms offer a much greater effective range. According to manufacturers, the receivers of some wireless alarms can function at distances of up to 1km. Wireless alarms achieve their maximum range in flat, open areas without sources of interference (such as high-voltage power lines and radio masts).

 

Type of Motion Sensor

Most electronic bite alarms use a roller wheel as a mechanical sensor to detect line movement. The most modern electronic alarms feature more sensitive infrared sensors.

Every electronic bite alarm works on the same principle: the movement of the fishing line is detected by a sensor and converted into an audible and visual signal.

In most electronic alarms, a roller wheel is installed as the mechanical sensor. When the line moves during a bite, the roller wheel spins with it. This movement is converted by the alarm into a signal.

For anglers who place a high value on exceptionally sensitive bite detection, alarms with an infrared sensor are the best choice. Line movement detection via an infrared sensor is completely frictionless and even more sensitive than detection with a mechanical sensor.

 

Special Indication for Drop-Back Bites

All modern electronic bite alarms also detect drop-back bites. The best models can differentiate between drop-backs and normal “runs,” using a special indication for the drop-back.

A drop-back bite occurs when a fish picks up the bait and swims towards the angler. In good light, a drop-back is recognisable by the fishing line suddenly going slack. In poor light, such as during night fishing, drop-backs can’t always be identified by watching the line.

Many electronic alarms have a dedicated indicator for drop-backs. This could be a special LED illuminating, a different LED colour, or a different audible tone. Some models also have multiple LEDs that light up in a different sequence for a drop-back.

Because the line is no longer tight during a drop-back, the angler must first quickly reel in the slack line and then strike to set the hook. Alarms with a special drop-back function offer the advantage of allowing these bites to be identified quickly, even in the dark, so the angler can strike correctly.

 

Latching LED

A latching LED remains lit for a set period of time after a bite has occurred. It offers additional certainty in bite detection, especially when fishing with multiple rods.

Almost all electronic alarms indicate bites not only with an audible tone but also with a flashing LED. Some alarms also feature a “latching” LED, which continues to shine for a specific duration after the initial indication.

The main advantage of a latching LED becomes clear when fishing with multiple rods. It isn’t always immediately obvious which of your alarms has just sounded. If you have several rods on a rod pod, the latching LED shows you precisely which rod has the bite.

A latching LED offers an extra layer of confirmation, especially for moments when the audible tone was very short or wasn’t heard clearly. Imagine you’re fishing on a large river with passing boats. You’ve cast your rods out and are having a quick nap. Suddenly, you wake up because you heard a sound. You’re not sure if it was from a boat or a bite. A quick glance at your alarms, and the latching LED will instantly tell you if one of them was triggered.

 

Night Light

A night light can be activated after dark and provides a useful, low-level point of reference.

Many of us have been night fishing and know how difficult orientation can be in low light conditions. Some bite alarms offer a dedicated night light function for this purpose. When switched on, the night light LED glows constantly, helping you to see where your rods are positioned.

 

Adjustment Options

Electronic alarms have control dials for adjusting sensitivity, volume, and tone.

Not all electronic bite alarms offer the ability to adjust sensitivity, volume, and tone. Some basic models, for example, may only have adjustable volume.

 

Volume

Almost all electronic bite alarms have a volume control.

With this, you can set the volume of the signal as desired. At some fisheries, the loud tones of bite alarms are very unpopular with fellow anglers. In this case, you can turn the sound off completely or set it to a very low level.

 

Sensitivity

Some bite alarms have a sensitivity control. This is particularly helpful in strong currents and when fishing for very shy-biting fish.

A sensitivity dial is especially useful when targeting cautious fish and in waters with a strong flow. Some fish bite very briefly and tentatively; setting your alarm to the highest sensitivity will help you detect the vast majority of these takes.

Conversely, when fishing in fast-flowing rivers, it’s possible for branches or other debris to hit your line and trigger a false alarm. In such cases, being able to reduce the alarm’s sensitivity is extremely practical.

 

Tone

On some bite alarms, the pitch or tone can also be adjusted. This allows you, for example, to set the tone to a lower frequency so that the signal sounds less shrill.

Electronic alarms can be real screamers, and the high pitch of the signal is not always pleasant for all anglers. If your alarm has a tone control, you can adjust the pitch as you wish.

 

Smartphone Connectivity

The settings on some electronic bite alarms can be controlled via a smartphone app. On some models, the audible bite alert can even be sent to your phone.

Nowadays, many electronic devices can be controlled via smartphones. Bite alarm manufacturers have also responded to this trend and equipped their models with this function. To adjust the alarm from your phone, you first need to download the manufacturer’s corresponding app. You can then make the desired adjustments directly from your smartphone.

 

Power Source

Electronic bite alarms are powered by standard batteries or rechargeable battery packs. Some models have solar-powered batteries and supply themselves with power from sunlight.

To ensure your electronic alarm always performs reliably on the bank, it needs a sufficient power supply from a battery.

If your model is powered by standard batteries, we recommend always having a few spares with you. That way, you’re always on the safe side.

It’s a different story with electronic alarms that have rechargeable battery packs. You can conveniently charge them at home and not have to worry about the alarm dying during a fishing trip. The most modern bite alarms are solar-powered. Their solar panels convert sunlight into energy to charge the battery. On many models, simple daylight is sufficient to charge the battery; strong, direct sunlight is not required.

 

What’s Included in the Box

Electronic bite alarms are often supplied in sets containing several alarm heads. Batteries are generally not included in the purchase.

When specimen fishing, it’s common practice to use at least two rods. You should consider this when buying electronic bite alarms and opt for a set with multiple alarms.

In the UK, fishing with three rods is permitted at many fisheries, and buying a set of three is a popular choice for carp anglers. Purchasing a set also has the advantage that you pay less per alarm, as the price for single units is usually higher.

 

Bite Alarm FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Here, we tackle the most frequently asked questions about bite alarms. Whether you’re a seasoned carp angler or just starting, this guide will help you understand the essentials of modern bite indication.