While summer gives plaice, bass and dogfish, this beach is better known for bags of codling in autumn and winter. A south-westerly wind at night can give some good fishing for cod and whiting over high water, but most of the action is two hours either side of low water when the coral and rocky scars are exposed and give access to deeper holes. Distance casting can be an advantage on this shallow beach, but plenty of fish are caught at close range.
SPECIES
Expect to catch codling, whiting, bass, dab, plaice, flounder and some dogfish.
BEST BAITS
Crabs take cod in autumn and early winter. Switch to lug in November, with back up baits being frozen peeler, rag, mussels and razorfish. Crabs are best for bass from summer to early winter.
Use lug, rag or a cocktail of both for plaice.
TACKLE
A stiffer beachcaster coupled with a 7000-size reel, loaded with 25lb line and a 50lb shockleader, will be required to handle the rough bottom. A two-hook flapper rig armed with size 2/0-4/0 hooks and a 5oz grip lead with cover most situations. A pair of chest waders is an essential item. Travel light because you need to keep on the move as the tide floods; do not fish alone.
GETTING THERE
This beach is located between the northern end of Maryport promenade and the village of Allonby. Take the A595 west from Carlisle, then take the A596 at the Thursby roundabout heading for Maryport. On the outskirts of Maryport take the B5300 Silloth road for about one mile. There are several car parks on the sea side of the road, which provide a short walk to the beach.
TACKLE SHOPS
Reel ‘Em In, Unit 1, 38 Curzon St, Maryport, tel: 01900 810968.
Coast Bait & Tackle, S Quay, Maryport, CA15 8AB, tel: +441900814774
