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If you are visiting a strange coast or you won't have time for a full
reconnaissance then make a shortlist of likely spots before you go. Here are
some useful resources.
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Ordinance survey maps
- Show access points. Give a rough idea of the
foreshore. Indicate how exposed the coast is to prevailing winds.
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Admiralty charts
- Show depths, currents, and the state of the ground. Detailed
charts show individual rocky features that might be good fishing
stances. Areas near inshore tide-races are always worth checking.
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Inshore sailing guides
- Are written for weekend sailors to use when pottering
about in fine weather. They contain detailed descriptions of the coastline,
often including photographs and mini-charts. They also describe longshore
currents and landing points.
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Divers guides
- Give yet another viewpoint. Usually biased towards areas that
are out of casting range, but there are often snippets for those who
schnorkel from the shore.
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Tackle shops
- They probably won't have a clue about fly-rodding in the
sea. Ask about spinning, plugging, and float fishing. Ask about local dangers.
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The Shipping forecast
- Listen to it, and believe
it. Compare the forecast to the conditions you find on the coast.
Remember; that peaceful cove that was so sheltered in a SW5 may be extremely
unpleasant after a few days of NW4. You can also consult
The Shipping
Forecast on-line.
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