Boat fishing is a popular pastime in the UK and requires specialized tackle that differs from traditional shore fishing gear. Boat fishing tackle must be strong, durable, and able to withstand the unique challenges of fishing from a moving vessel. In this article, we will discuss different types of boat fishing and provide a basic guide on how to wreck fish with shads, bait fishing, jigging, uptide fishing, and other types.

Types of Boat Fishing
Boat fishing involves a variety of different techniques, each requiring specialized gear to achieve the best results. Some popular types of boat fishing include:

– Wreck Fishing: Wreck fishing is a type of boat fishing that involves fishing in and around shipwrecks and other underwater structures. This type of fishing requires specialized gear such as shads and jigs, which can imitate the movement of small fish as they swim around the structure.

– Bait Fishing: Bait fishing is a simple and effective type of boat fishing that involves using live or dead bait to attract fish. This method is particularly effective for catching bottom-feeding fish such as cod, bass, and plaice.

– Jigging: Jigging is a type of boat fishing that involves using a vertical motion to pull a lure up and down in the water column. This technique is particularly effective for catching predatory fish such as mackerel, pollock, and bass.

– Uptide Fishing: Uptide fishing is a type of boat fishing that involves casting a baited hook from the back of the boat and allowing it to drift with the tide. This method is particularly effective for catching flatfish such as plaice and sole.

– Trolling: Trolling is a type of boat fishing that involves dragging a lure or baited hook behind the boat at a slow and steady pace. This method is particularly effective for catching predatory fish such as tuna, marlin, and swordfish.

Now that we’ve covered the basic types of boat fishing, let’s dive into the specifics of each and the gear required for optimal results.

Wreck Fishing with Shads
Wreck fishing is a popular type of boat fishing in the UK and requires specialized gear such as shads. Shads are soft-bodied lures that are designed to mimic the appearance and movement of small fish, making them ideal for use in and around underwater structures. When wreck fishing with shads, it’s important to choose a color and size that closely resembles the natural prey of the fish you’re targeting.

When rigging shads, it’s important to use the correct hook size and keep the lure as straight as possible. This will ensure that the shad moves naturally in the water and will increase your chances of catching fish. Wreck fishing with shads also requires strong and durable line, as fish caught around underwater structures tend to be larger and more powerful than those caught in open water.

Bait Fishing
Bait fishing is a classic form of boat fishing that involves using live or dead bait to attract fish. When bait fishing, it’s important to use the correct type of bait for the species of fish you’re targeting. Common types of bait used in boat fishing include squid, mackerel, worms, and prawns.

To rig a baited hook, start by tying a hook onto the end of your fishing line. Next, slide your bait onto the hook, ensuring that it is securely attached. When casting the bait, it’s important to use the correct weight to ensure that it sinks to the bottom and stays in place. Additionally, it’s important to check your bait regularly and replace it if it becomes too damaged or ineffective.

Jigging
Jigging is a type of boat fishing that involves using a vertical motion to pull a lure up and down in the water column. This technique is particularly effective for catching predatory fish such as mackerel, pollock, and bass.

When jigging, it’s important to choose the correct jig and weight for the depth of the water you’re fishing in. For shallow water, a light jig and weight is usually sufficient, while deeper water requires a heavier jig and weight combination. Additionally, it’s important to use a fast and jerky motion when jigging to imitate the movement of small fish.

Uptide Fishing
Uptide fishing is a type of boat fishing that involves casting a baited hook from the back of the boat and allowing it to drift with the tide. This method is particularly effective for catching flatfish such as plaice and sole.

When uptide fishing, it’s important to choose the correct hook size and bait for the species of fish you’re targeting. Additionally, it’s important to cast the bait at the right angle, so it drifts with the tide and stays close to the bottom. Using a simple sliding ledger weight system is effective for tidal runs, where the tide is significant.

Trolling
Trolling is a type of boat fishing that involves dragging a lure or baited hook behind the boat at a slow and steady pace. This method is particularly effective for catching predatory fish such as tuna, marlin, and swordfish.

When trolling, it’s important to use a variety of lures or baits to increase your chances of catching fish. Additionally, it’s important to vary the trolling speed and depth of the lure to imitate the movement of natural prey.

Boat Fishing Tackle
Boat fishing requires specialized tackle that is designed to withstand the unique challenges of fishing from a moving vessel. Some essential items of boat fishing tackle include:

– Fishing Rods: Boat fishing rods are typically shorter and sturdier than traditional shore fishing rods and are designed to withstand the weight and power of large fish.

– Reels: To complement your fishing rods, you should look for a boat fishing reel, which should have a high level of drag and ample line capacity.

– Line: When it comes to line, anglers should look for a strong and durable option such as braided or monofilament line. A total of 50-80lb line is a good choice for most boat fishing activities.

– Rigs and Hooks: For most boat fishing types, anglers require a variety of rigs and hooks depending on the targeted fish species. Uptide fishing rigs, for example, should have a size 2-4/0 hook, while jigging hooks should be smaller to match the size of prey.

– Weights: Weights are necessary for most types of boat fishing, enabling the bait to sink to the bottom of the water and stay in place. Fischer’s brass grip weights are a popular choice for boat fishing.

In summary, boat fishing tackle should be selected according to the fish species that are targeted, the type of fishing being performed, and the water being fished on. With the right tackle, anglers can catch large and elusive fish species while enjoying the fun and excitement of boat fishing.