Dorset Fly Bass

[andros]

Hi. I am keen to catch a Bass on fly in Dorset or West Hampshire by fishing from the shore [wading]. Where should I try near to Christchurch? Is Christchurch harbour worth a try? If it is who controls the fishing there?

[arbocop]

Hi. I am keen to catch a Bass on fly in Dorset or West Hampshire by fishing from the shore [wading]. Where should I try near to Christchurch? Is Christchurch harbour worth a try? If it is who controls the fishing there?

 

 

I don't know the answer to your question about Christchurch harbour, but I always fly fish from the rocks or the beach with rocks at either end. Small cove type beaches with both habitats are best as you have more options.

 

I fish the tide in, the faster running the better as this brings the fish in and the bass chase the sandeels and prawns. Some suggest fishing the gloaming as the prawns come in at night, but I always like a running tide early in the morning.

 

That said, I've had three bass in ten sessions. It's not very easy! I've nearly always seen bass in these circumstances though, so I've put it down to my ineptitude rather than a lack of bass.

 

I use #9 weaight rod and an american bass line with a short, heavy belly and short front taper so that it can throw the heavy flies. I find that having the rod underloaded makes it easier to double haul wihtout the cast collapsing on you.

 

EDIT: Somewhere like this with a reef.

 

Edited July 18, 2011 by arbocop