Fishing Tips

Here’s a list of practical tips to help you catch more fish and enjoy the experience — tailored for both sea and lake fishing in the UK.

Sea Fishing Tips (Saltwater)

Check the Tides
Fish are more active during rising or falling tides — use tide charts to plan your trip.
Use Fresh Bait
Mackerel, squid, ragworm, and lugworm work best when fresh. Frozen bait can work too, but fresh gets more bites.
Match Your Rig to Your Target
Use pulley rigs for large fish like cod or bass, and two-hook flappers for smaller species like whiting or pouting.
Try Different Casting Distances
Don’t just aim far — sometimes fish are right under your feet, especially near harbours and piers.
Use Grip Leads on Beaches
Strong tides and surf can drag your bait — a grip lead will hold it in place.
Fish at Dawn or Dusk
Many species feed more aggressively at these times — ideal for catching bass or mackerel.
Mind the Weather
Calm conditions are good for flatfish, but a bit of chop can bring predators closer to shore.
Stay Safe Near Rocks or Piers
Wear non-slip boots and always check the forecast and tide height before heading out.

Start Quietly
Fish are easily spooked in still waters. Approach quietly, and avoid casting shadows.
Use the Right Bait for the Species
Boilies for carp, worms for perch, sweetcorn for tench, maggots for roach — always match your bait!
Pre-bait the Swim
A few handfuls of bait 10–20 minutes before casting can draw fish in and keep them feeding.
Vary Your Depth
Not all fish feed at the bottom. Try float fishing, midwater rigs, or ledgering to find the strike zone.
Travel Light for Roaming
If the fish aren’t biting, pack light so you can easily move to a new swim.
Check the Margins First
Big fish like carp often patrol the edges, especially in early morning or late evening.
Use a Hair Rig for Carp
This setup helps hook the fish more effectively without spooking it with the bait.
Don’t Ignore Weather and Air Pressure
Stable or dropping pressure usually improves feeding activity. Overcast days are often best.