Sea Fishing
South West
To me Conger fishing has to be one of the cheapest and simplest types is sea angling. In this post I aIm to give you an overview of the tackle and bait required to target your chosen quarry.
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RodsThese don’t have to be mega expensive you can pick up a good eel rod like the Ron Thompson Axellerator (around £150) or Tronix Naga MX (around £270) these rod have a stiff action which is required for bullying an eel out of its layer.
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Reels I and many people choose to use the Daiwa SL30SH size reel whether it be the standard version or the more expensive Saltist range, these hold plenty of 35 - 40lb main line required for eeling.
MainlineAs mentioned above mainline wants to be in the region of 35 - 40lb bs, my personal preference is Asso Invisisilk in red. To me this line in super strong and the bright red colour allows you to see it easily at night in you headlight beam.
Terminal TackleThis has to be the simplest form of fishing, a standard running ledger or fixed pattern oster (my preference over rough ground) is all that is required.
Bait
Bait to me varies from mark to mark, if fishing in the River Tamer I prefer to use Cuttlefish or Mullet, these baits are tough and withstand crab activity for longer. If I’m fishing more open coast marks I find baits like mackerel, garfish or calimari squid the best.
Accessories
A good headlamp will be required, I use one of the LEDLenser models although Fenix and Petzl also make good headlamps.
A T-bar is essential for unhooking eels making the job simple.
Depending on where you are fishing a gaff / drop gaff or large drop net will be required should you hook a large eel.
I always use a carp sling or old mail sack to weigh eels, this is for two reasons one it it much easier and two you won’t damage the fish.
A sharp knife will be required to prepare you bait and plenty of strong cotton is needed to secure it.
I hope this helps anyone who’s just starting eel fishing and no doubt you’ll tailor it to suit your needs.
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And one last tip, a great group to join is Plymouth Conger Club on FaceBook
Tight Lines!