Sea Fishing
Sea Fishing in Scotland
Scotland offers excellent opportunities to enjoy the sport of sea fishing. Of all the varied types of angling none is as fascinating, and as healthy, as sea fishing. Scotland's main advantage as a sea fishing venue is it's enormous amount of coastline, pure and clean waters and excellent quarry of Mackerel, Sea Bass, Cod, Pollack, Ling and a great many more varieties of fish. Of all sea fishing Scotland is most well known for the sport of salmon fishing.
Fishing off the rocks, or from a beach, is great fun and can be enjoyed in all but the most severe of weather. Rock or pier fishing is, most likely, going to be our first introduction to the sport of sea fishing. For most of us it is the thrill of boat fishing that we enjoy most. Even with the relative safety of the shore it is very important to check a few things before we set off on a fishing trip.
Sea Fishing Tips
Weather - The most important aspect of sea fishing is always going to be the weather. Scotland's weather is notorious, it can be glorious sunshine one moment, horizontal rain and gales the next. Obviously it is not wise to go sea fishing in a boat if the weather forecast shows the likelihood of severe gales but there is also risk in the best of weather.
Summer Clothing - Common sense dictates that it is not wise to wear heavy winter clothing when we are experiencing a scorching hot sunny day. However it is vitally important that we are aware of the dangers of sea fishing in such weather. It is common to have a cool breeze accompanying hot sunshine, this tends to disguise the effects of the sun upon our skin. Many people are now aware of the dangers of over exposure to sunlight but I am forever shocked when I hear of stories of people who have stripped to the waist while fishing only to find themselves visiting the emergency department of the nearest hospital complaining of severe burns. Yes our sun can be strong enough to give you 3rd degree burns requiring hospital treatment. So, please, ensure that you remember to pack the strongest factor sun lotion when you are planning a sea fishing trip.
Winter Clothing - As mentioned earlier is it pretty likely that you will experience colder weather on the same day that you experience our best. However, you should really consider how you are likely to feel after your day's boat fishing! While you are enjoying the energetic fight of the catch you are expending energy and working up a sweat, the rush of adrenaline also keeps you from feeling the effects of the environment. When you have finished fishing you cool rapidly and the adrenaline subsides and it is then that you are highly likely to feel cold. If you enjoy sea fishing as much as myself it is likely that you will be heading back home in the early hours of the evening which is also a lot cooler than midday so a good warm jacket is essential, especially if you have managed to get yourself wet. For this reason it is advisable that you consider packing a change of clothing or, at the very least, a spare shirt.
Tides - It is always wise to check the time of the tides. Tides can have an effect on the fishing but there are also safety aspects. Around the coast of Scotland there are many reefs that are dangerous at low tide. These reefs are marked clearly but accidents can happen so please be careful when fishing these areas at low tide. Closer inshore there are many areas of shallow waters which are not marked so, when sea fishing in such areas it is advisable to employ the services of a guide or consider one of the many daily sea fishing trips available in most seaside towns. If one is not available do not be afraid to ask a local fisherman who is more than likely going to be eager to oblige. Also consider from where you will depart and return as it can be extremely difficult removing all of your fishing equipment and catch if you return to a pier at low tide as you will need to climb high slippery ladders. It is usually best to drop off all your gear at a nearby slipway before returning the boat.
Safety Gear - Under no circumstances should you ever set out to sea without informing somebody when you plan to return. It is vital that every safety precaution is taken as sea fishing, if done incorrectly, can be dangerous. You should always have a buoyancy aide and you should always have an emergency medical kit aboard the boat. If possible use a radio as mobile phones can prove useless in some areas.
Well that is most things covered, if I remember any more I will add them. I hope that you enjoy your sea fishing in Scotland and that you plan to return again soon. I will be adding more details to this section over the next few months so, if you are planning a fishing vacation in Scotland remember to bookmark this page and call back before you set off as I hope to include valuable information to help you have a wonderful days fishing.
Articles about fishing in Scotland:
Fishing In Scotland
An in-depth look at the popular pastime of fishing in Scotland.
Fishing Seasons In Scotland
An introduction to the seasons of Scotland, the weather and the fishing season for trout and salmon.
Choosing A Fly Fishing Rod
A short article about fly fishing rods that may be beneficial to both beginners and seasoned anglers.
What Is The Best Gear For Fly Fishing?
A look at the equipment and accessories available and what should be considered for best personal safety.
Fly Fishing Waders: A Look At Breathable Waders
As technology moves forward anglers take advantage of every edge they can get I believe these waders should be considered essential.
Essential Equipment: Fly Fishing Flies
A look at the fly fishing fly, how it works, fly fishing fly patterns and much more.
A Look At Some Salmon Flies
A selection of images showing the trusty salmon fly. To view enlargements just click the thumbnails.
A Look At Some Traditional Fly Fishing Flies
A selection of some of the many traditional flies available to the modern angler.
Wild Salmon Vs. Farmed Salmon
A brief look at the unfair battle of the wild Atlantic Salmon against the corporately supported farmed salmon.
Choosing Salmon Fishing Gear
A look at some of the many things you should consider before and during the purchase of salmon fishing gear.
Salmon Fishing on the River Girvan
A look at salmon fishing on the River Girvan and the wonderful Blairquhan Estate.
Sea Fishing in Scotland
A look at the sport of sea fishing including a few very important tips
Saltwater Fishing
A collection of general saltwater fishing articles not directly relevant with Scotland but somewhat applicable.
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