This is a great spot for the sea angler visiting the Isle of Wight because there is a car park 50 yards from the beach.

The extreme eastern and western ends of the small bay are fished from the beach, while the centre can be fished from the promenade over high tide or from the beach when the tide is lower. The bay offers deep water at high tide, fishing over broken ground.

SPECIES

Pouting, wrasse and eels, especially in calm weather. Good bass fishing at first light or late evening when rough in a southwesterly blow.

BAIT AND TACKLE

Whole squid, mackerel head or large crab baits for bass. Worms and smaller fish baits for other species. Plugs or Delta eels will suit the lure angler.

Standard 4-6oz beach gear will suffice, though 20-25lb mainline is beneficial because there are some snags.

In rough weather 8-10oz weights will be needed, though long casting is unnecessary. Spinning gear and 8-10lb line is best for lure fishing. Flowing traces, paternosters or pulley rigs work with hook sizes to match bait.

GETTING THERE

Freshwater Bay is at the western end of the island, directly south of Yarmouth. Closest ferry is the Wightlink Lymington to Yarmouth service.

Directions : Freshwater Bay is at the western end of the island, directly south of Yarmouth