These rock edges are a mixture of deep, weedy gullies interspersed with small sandy bays offering relatively-easy access to deep water close to the shore that will produce fish throughout the year.
This area is popular with holidaymakers in summer. Fish show regardless of conditions and sport is often best when the sea is flat. When the sea is rough the Howick Haven marks are hard to beat; bags of cod are taken in darkness. Big cod are landed during the Christmas period.
SPECIES
Red cod are the main quarry at all times. They live and feed in the vast kelp beds. Summer species are pollack, wrasse and a few coalfish.
BEST BAITS
Fresh or frozen peeler crabs are best, often fished as a cocktail with lugworms, ragworms, white rag and mussels. Razorfish, squid and clams can prove effective in the winter.
TACKLE
Use a 13ft beachcaster, such as a Cono-flex Armageddon, coupled with a 7000-type reel, 35lb mainline all through, and a single-hook trace with a 5oz wired sinker incorporating a rottenbottom system. Expect to lose a few sinkers in the snaggy bottom.
GETTING THERE
Take the A1068 north from Ashington and, just past Alnmouth, turn right for Lesbury onto the B1339 heading for Longhoughton. Approximately half a mile past Longhoughton take the right fork, signposted Howick. Continue along this road, past the entrance to Howick Hall until you reach the sea front. When the road turns to follow the coast turn right and park carefully in the farm service road.
TACKLE SHOPS
Amble Angling Centre, Newburgh St, Amble, tel: 01665 711200.
R L Jobson & Son, Bondgate Within, Alnwick, tel: 01665 602135.
