Glad to report that the inshore fishing has picked up on the South Coast with the usual suspects now falling to a range of light lure techniques.
Ballan Wrasse
Ballan Wrasse are one of my favourite species of fish to target on the lure. The Ballan Wrasse is a real thug and bigger specimens will test your tackle and skill to the limit. They come in a huge array of beautiful colours – from brown to red, to green, to gold. Most often found around rock and weed, they can however turn up almost anywhere there is some structure for them to inhabit. Because of their environment we most often use weedless techniques to target Ballan Wrasse, limiting the odds of us getting snagged in their surroundings.
If you are interested in lure fishing for bigger wrasse, take a look at my HRF Blog for plenty of inspiration.
LRF Portsmouth
Looking back at my blog, LRF doesn’t really get going until April. Or so I thought. With 5 days still left of March I can’t quite believe what a great day’s fishing I’ve just had around Portsmouth. Last year I had to drive west to find the early fish.
Our Alderney Lure Festival 2016
The 3rd and 4th of September saw both local and visiting lure anglers congregate upon the beautiful island of Alderney for the annual Alderney Lure Festival. Hosted by Alderney Angling and its 4th year, it was great to hear the event was going from strength to strength, with a record turnout.
Atlantic Ballan Wrasse
Caught a few Ballan Wrasse in West Cornwall. Felt their appearance was slightly different to their lazy South Coast cozens. They certainly fight well. Must be a tough existence in the Atlantic swell.
Wrasse Fishing Start Point
Spent the long weekend in Start Bay, Devon and I must say it was beautiful. Although I didn’t get much fishing in, I did have a quick go for the wrasse south of Start Point. What an amazing looking spot. The areas of coarse sand between the many rocky outcrops made me excited at the prospects of what other species may be present. As did the visible shoals of sandeel. I look forward to returning at a later date with more time to fish the area.
April Wrasse Fishing
Enjoyable day on the Dorset coast with Dan and Chris. While the wrasse fishing is still only a fraction of what it will be in the next couple of months, it still felt rewarding. Each of us caught. Creature baits were the key. Crystal clear water conditions. You can’t beat the ‘tonk’ of a bite from a Ballan Wrasse. I’m an addict!
Early Swanage Trip
With the sea temp approaching that magic 10 degrees and a lush forecast, I ventured back down to Dorset to see if any fish were feeding. Thankfully they were.