Fishing Through the Year in Salcombe: A Guide to the Twelve Seasons and Their Catches
Salcombe, with its stunning coastline and rich marine biodiversity, offers incredible fishing opportunities throughout the year. Each season brings its unique array of species, making it a haven for both seasoned anglers and beginners. This guide will explore the fishing calendar, focusing on key species like bass, mackerel, gurnard, pollack, garfish, John Dory, cod, plaice, and whiting.
Spring (March - May): Reawakening Waters
As the waters begin to warm, fish become more active, and spring marks the start of the fishing season in earnest.
Bass: Early spring sees bass moving closer to shore. They’re often found around estuaries and rocky areas. Try using live bait or lures for the best results.
Mackerel: By late spring, mackerel shoals arrive in large numbers. These fish are easily caught with feather rigs or small spinners.
Pollack: Pollack are abundant around wrecks and reefs. They’re particularly active in the spring, making this a prime time for deep-sea trips.
Early Summer (June): A Prime Time for Variety
The warmer months bring an explosion of activity beneath the waves, with many species reaching their peak.
Bass: This is one of the best times for bass. They’re drawn to shallow waters and can be caught from the shore or boat.
Mackerel: Mackerel continue to thrive, often found in vast shoals near the surface.
Gurnard: Gurnard start to appear more frequently in early summer. These bottom-dwelling fish are a rewarding catch, particularly in sandy areas.
John Dory: While less common, John Dory can be found lurking near reefs. Their striking appearance makes them a prized catch.
High Summer (July - August): Peak Fishing Season
Summer is the height of the fishing season in Salcombe, with warm waters attracting a diverse range of species.
Bass: Still abundant and highly sought after. Try fishing early mornings or late evenings for the best results.
Mackerel: A staple of summer fishing. Easy to catch, they’re perfect for beginners and a delicious treat on the barbecue.
Garfish: Known for their acrobatics, garfish are a fun and exciting catch during summer months.
Gurnard: Continue to be plentiful and can be targeted with small baited hooks.
John Dory: These elusive fish are a rare but rewarding find, often caught on light tackle near reefs.
Autumn (September - November): A Transition Period
As the waters begin to cool, some species depart while others move in, making autumn an intriguing time for anglers.
Bass: Large bass are often caught in the autumn as they feed heavily before winter.
Pollack: Pollack fishing picks up again, particularly around wrecks and reefs.
Cod: Autumn marks the return of cod to Salcombe’s waters. They’re best targeted with baited rigs in deeper waters.
Plaice: Plaice become more active in the autumn, especially in sandy areas.
Winter (December - February): Cold Waters, Big Rewards
Winter fishing requires patience and preparation, but the rewards can be significant for those who brave the colder conditions.
Cod: This is the prime season for cod. They’re often caught on deep-sea trips using large bait.
Whiting: Whiting are abundant in the winter months. They’re a smaller species but offer excellent sport and are delicious to eat.
Plaice: While less active, plaice can still be caught in winter, particularly on calm days.
Seasonal Highlights for Key Species
Bass: Best seasons are summer and autumn, with peak activity in June through September.
Mackerel: Thrives in late spring and summer. Ideal for beginner anglers.
Gurnard: Early summer through autumn is the prime time.
Pollack: Spring and autumn are best, especially around wrecks.
Garfish: High summer offers the most action.
John Dory: Summer is ideal for targeting this elusive fish.
Cod: Late autumn through winter is the best period.
Plaice: Autumn and winter are ideal for this flatfish.
Whiting: A winter highlight, plentiful and fun to catch.
Tips for Successful Fishing in Salcombe
Tide and Weather: Always check tidal patterns and weather conditions. Early mornings and evenings are often more productive.
Gear and Bait: Match your tackle to the species you’re targeting. Fresh bait often outperforms artificial lures.
Local Knowledge: Consult local fishing guides or charters for insights on the best spots and techniques.
No matter the season, Salcombe offers something special for every angler. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a powerful bass or enjoying the simple joy of catching mackerel on a summer’s day, the waters of Salcombe promise unforgettable experiences year-round. So grab your rod and reel, and let the adventure begin!
