Quite chilly on the drive down to the boat this morning. Just three degrees showing on the thermometer in my Qashqai. With a NW breeze this amplified the cold, and I was pleased to see my guys wrapped up properly for it. Awaiting me, Rik, David and his lad Bob, and Daniel. Off we went.
It is time to be realistic about local bass fishing. January and February, the bass are absent in the edges for the most part. And this year already it seems chances of catching on the surf beaches are much reduced. This trip, I had already advance warned, would likely be more about food from pelagics, and feathering with feathers I supply, would be actively encouraged.
Why what I supply? Well, where herring are concerned, there is one feather to rule them all... Although japanese Sabiki style are good, with the sole skin ones perhaps the best, nothing beats soft white feathers tied to size 6 silver hooks. And that is what you get with TRONIXPRO FEATHER RIGS. 40lb main line, 12lb droppers, small white feathers whipped to size 6 silver hooks. Highly recommended.
And thats how it went. We did go look where the bass have been holding, but no birds and nothing on the scan. But the feathers were the answer. Lots of whiting, but none big enough for the table. And plenty of herring. Still some mackerel in among them, and again the herring were a decent size. a good feed will, I hope, be happening soon. Especially for those with smokers at home. No better taste experience, than a smoked herring.
Second sailing, I was joined by Ian, regular for many many years now, way before floatie things, and new to me and BIF1 but recommended by my beautiful Polish friend Maggie, Raff, Martin and Krzysiek. This time, the bass spot did hold promise, and Ian nailed it with a true December leviathan. The only one interested and very little marking. Back to the feathers. And similar rewards. Too many small whiting, a single mackerel, but a healthy dose of herrings.
Just one more sailing in the morning, and then BIF1 will remain aboard her dock until the middle of March. Taking bookings for March now so please feel free to text your requirements to 07970 112774 I will be travelling to Portugal Thursday, and receiving guests two at a time, pursuing Bass, spotted bass, Large Mouthed Black bass, Barbel and Zander, on the 2025 Fishyrob Gastronomical Light line lure tour of Portugal. Likely there will be a summary either published here or maybe a video on my fishyrob youtube channel. Lets see how time goes. Meanwhile, I leave you to an oncoming cold spell, thanking everyone who has either been aboard BIF1 this year, or who has taken the time to read my ramblings. Happy new year one and all.
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