Hello and welcome to the first instalment of our new blog series on the art of lure fishing for Bass in the UK. This series aims to be your ultimate guide, covering everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques.
Now, let's talk Bass! These sleek, silver predators are the holy grail for many sea anglers, known for their hard-fighting nature and elusive presence. For many anglers chasing after Bass with lures is not just a hobby, but a way of life.
First off, if you're new to Bass fishing or fishing in general, fear not! We're here to walk you through every step along the way. From choosing suitable gear, to understanding fish behaviour and knowing where to go, consider this your crash course in all things bass.
For seasoned anglers, don't worry, we'll be delving into the nitty-gritty details too. We'll explore advanced lure techniques, tackle modifications, and even delve into the psychology of bass fishing. There's always something new to learn, even for the most experienced among us.
Now, you might be wondering, why focus specifically on lure fishing for Bass? Well, let me tell you, there's something special about the dance between angler and fish when you're using lures. It's an art form, a game of wits, and when that Bass finally strikes, it's pure magic.
Throughout this series, we'll be covering topics such as:
- Selecting the right lures for different conditions and seasons.
- Understanding Bass behaviour and locating prime fishing spots.
- The different tactics from shoreline to boat.
- Equipment and how to select the right tools for the job.
- And much, much, more.
So, whether you're itching to hit the water as soon as the Bass fishing season kicks off or you're just looking to brush up on your skills before, you're in the right place.
First up, we felt best to cover exactly what tackle you need before heading out.
Essential Equipment for Bass Fishing in the UK: Shoreline & Boat Fishing
Bass fishing in the UK offers a thrilling challenge for anglers of all levels, whether you're pinging lures out from the shore or jigging away on a boat. To have a successful trip it's essential to have the right equipment to hand.
Here's a quick start guide to the gear you'll need:
Invest in a medium to medium-heavy spinning rod and reel combo, ideally between 7 to 9 feet in length. This provides the versatility needed for both shore and boat fishing. Look for a reel with a smooth drag system to handle the powerful lurching runs of a fleeing Bass. If you’re casting from the shore, you wouldn’t need anything bigger than a 3000 reel - from the boat, you may want something a little bigger.
- Fishing Line & Leader:
Opt for a quality braided or monofilament line with a test strength of 10 to 20 pounds, depending on the size of Bass you're targeting and the environment you're fishing in. Braided lines offer superior sensitivity, while monofilament lines provide stretch, which can be beneficial in certain situations. A lot of angler’s opt for about 3 ft of fluorocarbon after their braid, which provides low visibility in the water and is renowned for its abrasion resistance.
- Tackle:
Add some swivels and lure clips to your tackle bag so you’re ready to rig up the business end of your line.
Experimenting with a range of lures is key. Soft plastic lures such as shads, sticks, and sandeels are highly effective, especially when rigged Texas or Carolina style. Top water lures are arguably the most fun, (who doesn’t love seeing a splashy surface take!) the famous Patchinko is the go to in this area.
If you’re on a boat, a heavier lure would be a great choice. Drop it down to the seabed, and jig the lure on its ascent to entice fish to strike.
Don't forget to pack essential accessories like polarized sunglasses to reduce glare on the water, a hat for sun protection, and a pair of needle-nose pliers for easy hook removal. A landing net can also come in handy for safely landing and releasing Bass.
- Safety Gear (for Boat Fishing):
If you're fishing from a boat, prioritise safety by ensuring you have the necessary equipment onboard. This includes life jackets or personal flotation devices for all passengers, a throwable flotation device, a fire extinguisher, and a first-aid kit.
- Local Regulations:
Before you hit the water, familiarize yourself with catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures to help conserve Bass populations.
With the right equipment and a bit of know-how, Bass fishing in the UK can be an immensely rewarding experience. Join us next week, as we dive in depth into the different types of lures available, and when best to use them. Until then, tight lines!