Shore Fishing on the Isle of Islay: July 2012 (Part Three)

The shoreline around Islay offers endless sea fishing possibilities

This third and final part of the July sea fishing trip to Islay sees the group fishing on a beach in the approximate south-west(ish) part of the island, between Port Ellen and Bowmore. Bait for the day included rag worms, mackerel, calamari squid and sand eels and the catch proved to be extremely varied.


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Rag worm were just one of the bait types used on this trip

The general idea for this day's fishing was to enjoy as much sport with as many different fish species as possible. As you will see from the photos, the group had the beach to themselves as far as the eye could see and they were free to experiment with different baits, end tackle combinations and casting distances to see what they could ultimately hook in to.

Set up and fishing a beach in the south-west of Islay

Flatties - whether they be plaice, flounder, dab or sole - are not every angler's chosen target species. On a beach such as this one, however, the various species are often found and contrary to popular opinion - where you are heading straight home at the end of the day - can often make good eating.

This plaice was just one of the species caught on day two on Islay

Starfish and wrasse of any type are not common catches for most shore fishermen in the West of Scotland and are unfamiliar even to many who fish only from the boat. Taking both on the same trace from the same cast was therefore quite an unusual achievement.

A starfish and a ballan wrasse makes for an unusual catch combination

Crabs are a common scourge of fishermen, usually for stealing and making off with the bait. Occasionally, however, the more stubborn specimens are just not going to give up their free meal without a fight.
 

This hungry crab was not for letting go of his prize

Turbot are usually caught or seen in fishmongers as larger fish, capable of providing a decent meal for a number of people. Occasionally, however, one pops up that doesn't quite fall in to that category...

Turbot are generally recognised as being just that little bit bigger...

The Islay trip proved a definite success and the group enjoyed not only quality and varied sea fishing but the well renowned, fabulous hospitality of the local people. If you are considering a weekend's sea fishing, in a beautiful, unspoiled location where peace and tranquility can reign all day, you don't have to look further than this beautiful island. Be sure only to organise your trip properly in advance - particularly in terms of transport and accommodation - and you may just find a destination that will afford you everything you are looking for in a fishing trip for many years to come.

Who says fishing is not a relaxing, chill out pursuit?