Wrasse
A core fish-family amongst genuine UK ‘rockfish’ are the wrasse. In the UK we have 5 species of wrasse to target with light rock fishing (LRF) tactics; Ballan Wrasse, Cuckoo Wrasse, Corkwing Wrasse, Goldsinny Wrasse and the Rock Cook. The Ballan being the largest species. Each wrasse species has its preferences – both habitat and prey items. The following articles will hopefully help in terms of fish identification, suitable techniques and the best lures for each species.
Wrasse on Ima Trilobite
A beautiful golden colour Ballan Wrasse caught on an Ima Trilobite fished dropshot
Technicolor Corkwing Wrasse
Technicolor Corkwing Wrasse caught from Swanage Pier, Dorset
Ornate Wrasse from The Med
Beautiful Ornate Wrasse plucked from The Med. Caught on a Daiwa SW Rock Fish jighead and curl-tail grub combo
Painted Wrasse from Greece
Still uncertain on this one. Wrasse with a silver belly. Let us know on the comments if you can identify it.
Edit: This fish turned out to be a Painted Wrasse. Thanks to Gonzalo and Paul in the comments.
East Atlantic Peacock Wrasse
A new LRF favourite for me – the East Atlantic Peacock Wrasse. Like a Ballan on an acid trip! Caught in Paxos, Greece.
Wrasse on a Reins
Lovely looking Ballan on a Reins Saturn G Tail.