These rocks produce some outstanding catches of cod with double-figure fish taken every season.
The rocky skeers at the southern side of King Edward’s Bay are accessible for about two hours either side of low water. The point rocks jutting out into the bay provide a casting platform. The bay is full of boulders, which hide crabs and small fish. Add to this the strong currents and you have a real cod hot spot. Care should be taken if a northerly or easterly sea is running because anglers have been stranded.
SPECIES
The heavy nature of the ground dictates that cod will be the main species, with fair mix of coalfish, plus occasional pollack or flatfish.
BEST BAITS
Fresh or frozen peeler crabs are best for cod. Lugworms, mussels and various shellfish, often in a cocktail with a peeler crab, are used to good effect in winter.
TACKLE
There are no half measures here and only the sturdiest gear will cope with the terrain. Use a quality beachcaster, such as a Cono-flex Nemesis Plus, coupled with a 9000-type multiplier reel, 35lb mainline straight through, a single hook trace using a size 4/0 Mustad Viking-type hook and a 6oz sinker incorporating a rotten-bottom system.
GETTING THERE
Take the A1058 east from Newcastle and head for Tynemouth. At the Broadway roundabout, at the end of the A1058, continue straight ahead to the sea front and then bear right towards Tynemouth. Stay on the coast road until you reach the castle. There are plenty of car parking areas in the nearby streets. The fishing marks are accessed down a series of steep stairs and short promenades, ending in a short walk across King Edward’s Bay to the rocky headland.
TACKLE SHOPS
Billy’s, 41 Saville Street West, North Shields, tel: 0191 259 6262.
