EamonX1

I collect Lugworm (both Blow and Black) on beaches in Southern Ireland. There is a PLENTIFUL supply in late spring, summer, autumn. However I notice that the supply almost disappears in Winter, especially this year, and there is no sign of a resurgence yet. I want to make the following points: There are virtually no squiggles or craters on the surface (indicating the presence of lugworm). If I dig a trench about a foot deep and work at that level I do eventually come across some lugworm, but they are extremely scarce (one in 20 shovels at most). Weather has been extremely cold with frost most nights for the last 2 months. Could this be a factor? I read that sometimes the worms go deeper in cold weather. If I dig down two feet, might I be more successful? However, if the worms are present (even at the deeper depth) why are there no squiggles (heaps of excrement) or craters? Can anyone clarify the above.

Thanks for these excellent replies which I will take seriously to heart.

When Beach Fishing (I am relatively new to it) along the South-East Coast of Ireland I encounter a lot of sea-weed, especially after storms. Any tips on coping with sea-weed would be greatly appreciated. Does one search for spots where there is little or no sea-weed (very rare) or can one fish fruitfully in the presence of moderate seaweed?