Sea Bass Fly Fishing

Saltwater fly fishing is fast becoming one of the hottest ‘must do’s’ for any angler. This innovative new sector of the sport offers a huge variety of exciting challenges and a host of different fish to be caught on our beautiful coastal waters.

The wild, hard fighting sea bass (Dicentrarchus Labrax) is the species of choice for discerning fly anglers and the English south coast is fortunate to be home for many of the prolific breeding grounds. One of the best is Lulworth Cove where local guide, Tony King, has spent many years wading every gravel spit, sand bank & estuary to locate the bass & mackerel running channels

Saltwater fly fishing is not like conventional sea fishing as the fishing is done with a combination of time in the boat and wading. Tony will concentrate on the shallow drop-offs along the gravel spits and sand banks.

Each day starts with a 20-30 minute boat ride from the quay to the first spit or bank of the day. Leaving the boat safely anchored and with Tony at your side, you then wade along the edge of the channel casting into the runs to fish you can see or likely running lies. This will be the pattern for the remainder of the day moving around Tony’s favoured spots in the harbour depending on the weather, tides & fish.

Although the fishing is confined to the inland coastal area, it is important to understand these are still tidal waters and therefore they require the skills of a Guide for safety reasons. Both Tony & his boat are fully certified under the Maritime & Coastguard Agency. However, clients must wear lifejackets at all times, observe the safety briefing, be competent swimmers & observe the instructions of the Guide at all times. This is a physically demanding day, requiring many hours of wading, walking & casting.

Finally, a word on the weather. Perhaps surprisingly we only lose a handful of days a year to the weather but it is always a possibility. We make a decision the evening prior to your trip after the MET forecast has updated, so you will be informed no later than 7pm the night before if postponement is necessary.

What is best about this day

A new adventure for thrill seeking fly fishermen

This day is suitable for

Competent, able-bodied fly fishermen

What tackle is needed

None. It is all supplied

Clothing & footwear

Life jackets are supplied. Bring chest waders, waterproofs, warm clothing & sunscreen

Times

6-7 hours tide to tide. Start times vary according to tides

Location

Lulworth Cove, Dorset

Season

April-October

April-October

£225 per person