Sea Bass in Ireland
Ireland is a fantastic place to fish for sea bass, and there are several locations around the country that are known for their excellent sea bass fishing. Here are some of the best places to fish for sea bass in Ireland:
- Cork Harbour: Cork Harbour is a popular spot for sea bass fishing, with its shallow waters providing an ideal habitat for the fish. The harbour is also home to several wrecks, which can be productive areas for sea bass.
- Dingle Peninsula: The Dingle Peninsula, located in County Kerry, is another great spot for sea bass fishing. The rocky coastline and deep waters of the Atlantic provide a perfect environment for sea bass to thrive.
- Dublin Bay: Dublin Bay is a popular spot for sea bass fishing, with its sheltered waters and variety of fishing marks. There are also several piers and jetties in the area that can be productive for sea bass.
- Wexford Harbour: Wexford Harbour is a large estuary that provides excellent sea bass fishing. The harbour is home to several channels, sandbanks, and mudflats, all of which can hold sea bass.
- Galway Bay: Galway Bay is another great spot for sea bass fishing, with its clear waters and rocky coastline providing ideal habitat for the fish. There are several marks around the bay that can be productive for sea bass.
It’s worth noting that sea bass fishing in Ireland is subject to strict regulations, including catch and release policies, so be sure to check the rules and regulations before heading out.
Sea bass can be caught using a variety of methods in Ireland. Here are some of the most effective methods:
- Fishing with bait: This is a popular method for catching sea bass in Ireland. Use fresh or live bait such as ragworms, lugworms, sand eels, or mackerel. Fish close to the shore or in deeper water around rocky outcrops and inlets. Use a light to medium spinning or beachcasting rod and reel with a fluorocarbon leader.
- Lure fishing: This method involves using lures such as soft plastics, metal jigs, and plugs to attract sea bass. Fish around rocky outcrops, estuaries, and inlets during the tidal change, when sea bass are feeding. Use a light spinning rod and reel with a braided line and a fluorocarbon leader.
- Fly fishing: This method is becoming increasingly popular for catching sea bass in Ireland. Use a 9-10ft saltwater fly rod and reel with an intermediate or sinking line. Fish around rocky outcrops, estuaries, and inlets during the tidal change, when sea bass are feeding. Use Clouser Minnows, Deceivers, and other baitfish patterns.
- Kayak fishing: Kayak fishing is a great way to access areas that are difficult to reach from the shore. Use a kayak equipped with rod holders and a fishfinder to locate sea bass. Fish with live bait or lures using a light spinning rod and reel or a fly rod.
- Night fishing: Sea bass are often more active at night, so fishing during the hours of darkness can be productive. Use a light to medium spinning or beachcasting rod and reel with fresh or live bait such as ragworms, lugworms, or sand eels.
It’s important to remember to follow all local fishing regulations and to release any undersized or unwanted fish. Tight lines!