That bright orange thing in the sky has been showing from time to time recently bringing both a bit of optimism and improved fishing. What a difference a bit of sun makes!
As it warms, fishing has heated up too. Bass are now starting to show in much better numbers as they make their journey inshore taking advantage of the increasingly abundant crab, brown shrimp and immature flatfish. This should only go to improve in coming weeks although its worth remembering that, at present, all bass need to be returned unharmed. This is set to change as of 1st April 2026 where fish will then be permitted to be retained. Belief is that the daily limit will be increased to 3 fish per person, per day but we haven’t had confirmation of this yet.
With the calmer, settled weather experienced of late, plaice have started to show on the south coast with Brighton, Salcombe and Chesil all starting to through up these spotty flatties. Inquisitive in nature a rolling bait with plenty of bling can prove successful on its day. Consider using rigs kitted out with beads and sequins, black and green often being favoured as they resemble mussel beds and ‘peas’ plaice will often feed upon. On a rig front, generally your standard clip down rigs will do the job especially when you need to hit a cast hard to get that little extra distance which can pay dividend for this species. Bar rigs have been developed to aid in casting that little further and also allow a longer flowing trace to be used to give baits more movement and aid in searching out ground. Both rig types and rig accessories are available in our shop, speak to our team if you need any assistance or advice on how to bait up and use.
In the creeks both locally and further afield flounder are still plentiful as well as eels and bass. Try ragworm or crab baits if fishing up this way as they can be deadly for bass as they come in with the incoming tide to feed. If venturing down south or north Devon, don’t dismiss the chance of a gilt head bream as they have been reportedly showing in numerous estuaries early this year. A strong and powerful fish that can be very wary on their day. Don’t dismiss shellfish baits like razor clams if wanting to try for these increasingly common bream.
Rays are now prominent in numbers around Weston, Brean and Clevedon with some big numbers being caught by boat anglers lately. Thorny’s will be the mainstay up this end of the channel but further down towards Minehead and over the bridge there is the chance of small eyed and spotted showing. Fish baits like sandeel and squid wraps will do the damage. Try an up and over rig if fishing cleaner ground, a pulley if fishing reef marks where occasional snags can be found present.
Here in Portishead marina reports have been coming in of mullet making a show which is very early but very gratefully received. Simple ragworm baits presented under a sliding float will work although bread is still favoured. Don’t dismiss a baited Mepps or mullet spinner too, especially on warmer days where they may show more active.
The upper reaches of the channel should start to load up with fish in coming weeks. Kicking our Summer series off in a couple weeks time we still have some available pegs if you want to get involved. Call the shop on 01275 848652 to book in. Matches can either be fished as ‘opens’ or as part of the league. Speak to our team to find out more.
On a freshwater front, the rivers are now in closed season. Having said this, don’t let this put you off as there are still some great opportunities to get out fishing. Locally lakes like Ham Green, Jacklands, Plantations and Bullocks will all be worth a look whether you are a carp or general coarse angler. Keeping the bait going in is important at this time of year as fish really start to switch on with water temps starting to rise after a brutally cold, wet and miserable past few months. Consider using a method feeder approach if you just want some bites as having a bundle of bait around your hook bait can help draw in and keep fish in the vicinity. Sensas have just released a great range of Method Mixes and 2mm Sticky Pellets to compliment that are worth considering and are very reasonably priced. They are available in store now and come in four great flavours including Corn Yellow, Scopex, Krill and Dark Mackerel. Take a look in store the next time you visit. Of course we have plenty of fresh maggot, caster and dendra in store too.
For all your tackle and bait needs, call us on 01275 848652 or visit us in store.
The Reel Fun Fishing Team
Fishing Update 20.03.26
