Amazing Spring Bass Session!

An early spring session on the bass started out with small fish, but as the session went on, the fish just kept getting bigger!
Links to products used:
Tom's Bass Rig - christchurchan...
Urfes : christchurchan...
Fluorocarbon (0.40mm) - christchurchan...
Tronixpro T22 Circle Hooks (2/0) - christchurchan...
#bass #bassfishing #fishing #beachfishing #spring #crab #peeler

[@Sam_Clark-Seaangling]

I completely agree with bag limits. For the shore and off the boat. A min-max limit will definitely work. Keep up the great videos Tom 🎣

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Limits seem to be a popular choice.

[@petedevon]

Bag limits on all species definitely ( especially mackerel). Nice productive session there Tom

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Mackerel definitely need some attention!

[@llewellynrose1093]

Great work Tom, looked a great fun session, yes to the bag limits and yes to max size limits definitely

[@FishyTom]

Thanks bud. Seems to be the general concensus that bag limits on all fish and an upper size limit is the way forward.

[@shakyangler]

A nice simple productive session what more can you ask for 👍

[@FishyTom]

Exactly that mate, simplicity adds to the enjoyment.

[@jasonrace9275]

Circles are the way forward. Great hook set and least damage to the fish! Great vid. It's great people like you can get out and about

[@FishyTom]

Just for the audience's sake, can you explain 'people like you'... 🤣🤣 Thanks mate, can't wait to continue our "Two Idiots on a Boat" franchise this year.

[@ianclarkfishing]

As usual a thoroughly enjoyable video to watch! I’m expecting the bass in the BC to hit the local beach very shortly!! Fingers crossed I have a session like yours!!! Take care cheers Ian

[@FishyTom]

Thanks Ian. I'm still in awe of that enormous Bass in your video! For anyone who hasn't seen this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJrLq2iLrpaSqJI

[@ianclarkfishing]

A day neither of us will ever get tired of reliving…. Fortunately on film too!!! I can see Brean beach in the distance from my kitchen window and currently it’s looking rather windy….. again!!! I’m itching to get out but looks like it’s not going to be for a few days! Take care cheers!!

[@simoned01se]

Great Vid Tom, that's why we do it for sessions like that. Read a book by John Darling back in the 90's and I can remember he was advocating keeping 3lbs bass and putting mature 6lbs plus fish back so the logic was out there back then.

[@FishyTom]

Yes, it's certainly not a new concept, just very frustrating that we so rarely implement what we talk about in this country!

[@anthonywilson8998]

Once in a lifetime session. And all on. Camera fantastic to see or I wouldn’t have believed it. Amazing.

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Might have to put some hours in for a biggie up there now!

[@SOMERSETBEACHFISHINGtony]

well done tom great session that mate

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate.

[@FrugalOutdoors]

Stunning session, and really informative, was great to see you on the isoand as well. I agree on the two month ban, it seems a bit pointless for the shore angler. Especially when in Guernsey they can carry on. Ive hwars of the general rile of thumb that a 6lb or over should go back, but i uavent had one over yet, i think it would be difficult to put back knowing the food it will provide, I mean, if I go bassing, im essentially hunting for food a tough one that. Two is ebough though. I think bream sizes should be upped, and bag limitsvon cod, we don't really get many cod on the island, but I dont imagine the stocks are that great. A great topic for debate though. Apways an enjoyable watch, thank you👍🎣🎣

[@FishyTom]

Hi Frugal. Darren was telling me all about your channel whilst we were over, he's a big fan by all accounts. Keep up the good work. I really do like eating fish, and taking home a prize catch is something I enjoy, so I agree with you there. Putting back a nice plump 6lber would be tough! Certainly more research is needed into what sizes would work best for everyone involved.

[@chrishale6190]

Great vid tom thanks so simple yet so productive 👍

[@FishyTom]

Simple is so often best!

[@thesweetcornkid266]

Fantastic!! I've been working on putting a lighter kit together for trips like this, as well as general summer fishing. Seeing that yellow ball in the sky, and sessions like this one gives me hope and encouragement. And yes, size limits on all species, no closed season, and especially bass I'd say an upper limit, nobody wants to see 8-10lb bass being killed. Although that's easy for me to say, coming from a course angling background. Also perhaps a ban on killing Smoothounds and rays would be good. Thanks Tom!! 😎👍

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Why a total ban on smoothound and rays? Stocks of both are very healthy in general. I appreciate they're a fun sports fish to target, but does that mean an angler can't take the occasional one for food should they wish? I personally never take hounds, but that's just my choice. I don't think I'd like to force that on others just because I view them as a sport fish rather than a table fish. Does that make sense?

[@thesweetcornkid266]

@@FishyTom Yes, makes total sense. Perhaps my comment was tinged with a little selfishness. When you hold a certain fish with such fondness, it's hard to imagine not looking after them. I guess a limit of size and quantity would certainly help, as it would with most species.

[@stephenwilkinson4214]

Fantastic session Tom. Minimum and maximum size limits for Bass would be good and bag limits for all species but it’s the commercial side of fishing that needs to change that’s where the damage is really being done not the guy out with a rod and line taking a fish or two for the table. Thanks Tom you take care 👍🎣🎣

[@FishyTom]

Yeah, couldn't agree more. However, I do believe if we are seen to be doing everything we can, within reason, then we'll be in a far better position to argue against the mass destruction of certain commercial tactics. Beam trawling for example. If we were to simple complain at them, whilst doing nothing ourselves, we'd be easily ignored. Just my thoughts though.

[@TheReelIsle]

The Isle of Man has a bass limit of between 50 and 60cm, so a min and max as you suggest. Makes a lot of sense! 1 per 24hrs for keeps.

[@FishyTom]

I've only just learned this about the rules on IOM. How do most of the anglers there feel about this? I wonder if restrictions should be done on a more localised basis might make more sense.

[@robertknight4539]

What a great session Tom, very well done. I like your idea using elastic at the top of the crab nicking it with the circle. I’m going to pinch that one for myself so thanks for that.

[@FishyTom]

No worries mate. Make sure you put a LOT of elastic tightly on that top bit though! I recently strapped my last bit of crab up, then watched it sail off into the sea, not attached to my hook... 🤣🤣

[@ScottH75]

I personally believe the minimum size limits on fish needs a major overhaul. Plaice, whiting, black bream to name a few are just to small at their minimum sizes. You'd be lucky to make a sandwich out of a 27cm plaice. I have my own sizes that I'll keep. As for maximum sizes, as much as i agree and several others will as well there will always be a minority that keep fish irrelevant of the correct sizes. Also returning a 10lb bass for instance may well be good for the future of bass fishing it is also good for the netters, trawlers etc who most certainly won't put it back.

[@FishyTom]

I agree with all those statements mate! A just sizeable bream is tiny! I'm with you on an overhaul on all species. I appreciate there will always be some who don't care about the rules, but I'd rather see them in place regardless. Even if only a few adhere to them, that would be an improvement.

[@brianmiles5191]

Great video, Tom. Sums up the very best of Bass fishing from start to finish. Thank you.

[@FishyTom]

Thanks Brian. Glad you enjoyed it. I really do love short, simple little session like that.

[@TheShoreHunter]

Well done mate. Fantastic video 🎉

[@FishyTom]

Thanks dude. We need to get together for a fish soon. Been too long!

[@michaelhurst1353]

You make it look so easy! I went out with the lures today for the first flick of the season for me… unfortunately not a sniff today.

[@FishyTom]

I've still not dusted off the lures, I really must!

[@Meirion658]

I totally agree with a max size limit for breeding purposes makes perfect sense and one I have thought about many times. Cracking session btw 👌

[@FishyTom]

Thank you. Yes, it seems most people agree with a maximum size too.

[@mikecurtis9617]

Another entertaining and informative video. Rapidly becoming my go to fishing video channel. Keep it up 👍🏻

[@FishyTom]

Thank you mate, glad you enjoyed and thanks for the positive feedback. Means a lot. 😁

[@carldawson832]

Hi Tom you ok pal, thanks once again for a nice flick to watch again. I've been out on the humber were bass are showing but am still catching dabs n flounders of not bad stamp and odd whiting what are still lingering about. Well done on your session, cracking bass Tom. All the best from GRIMSBY

[@FishyTom]

Hey Carl. Nice to hear you've been in amongst the fish. I love dabs, sadly a species we get very few of around here.

[@ianhooper3577]

Awesome video again mate and well done on all the bass top fishing mate 🎣👍

[@FishyTom]

Thank you Ian.

[@brianpask8955]

What a cracking session! Interesting discussion to be had over max size limits but totally agree with bag limits. My problem would be that it would have to be self policed and there are plenty out there that would carry on regardless especially when mackerel fever kicks in.

[@FishyTom]

Yes, you are absolutely right. However, is that a reason not to have the rules in place? I don't think so.

[@brianpask8955]

@@FishyTom I agree that it is not an argument not to have rules. Its frustrating that the majority will play by the rules but anglers in general will get tarred with the same brush as the minority who break the rules

[@FishyTom]

Yes, sadly you're right. As with many walks of life, the minority let down the majority.

[@mathewvickery9925]

Brilliant film again Tom and I agree with you on the size limits for minimum and maximum size, however I disagree on the close season. Your films are really inspirational and generous in their content so please keep them coming. Many thanks again 👍

[@FishyTom]

Thank you mate. I thought the close season might divide opinion, I get the arguments for and against. The majority of people are in favour of both minimum and maximum sizes. Thanks for your input.

[@PeterHolborn]

Great videos Tom really enjoying them. Quite agree that bag limits, slot sizes and a close season are essential to help bass stocks recover. I think the minimum landing size needs to be increased to 44 or preferably 46cm to allow all bass the chance to spawn at least once. Wish we could get commercial netting banned in our estuaries in Suffolk as you have down your way, trouble is Eastern IFCA cave in to the commercial lobby whenever this is suggested even though it would benefit them too in the long term by protecting vulnerable juvenile fish.

[@FishyTom]

Yeah, I don't like seeing netting in estuaries. They're vital habitat for juvenile fish.

[@peterjohnson8935]

Excellent video and great content. Good to see so many Bass.

[@FishyTom]

Thanks Pete 😁

[@simonsmith6053]

I completely agree with all comments on sizes and bag limits, Tom. The bag limit sits far more easily as I believe it should be an inalienable right to go and catch a fish to eat. As for bass protection - I think stocks are far better and less pressured than many other fish. Yes, they're slower growing, but think of the tremendous pressures upon cod stocks and plaice stocks to name just two in comparison. Think, too, of the huge numbers of mackerel taken by both commercial and recreational fishing. It simply doesn't stack up.

[@FishyTom]

Exactly that. It angers me that bass are so well protected just because they're a "fashionable" fish. I'm not saying they shouldn't be, of course, we just need to stop being so selfish with our ideologies. Some of these BASS groups are purely working to their own agenda, I'd love to see a much wider viewpoint used in future.

[@simonknox5580]

Great session Tom well done that’s why we go. Agree with bag limits but policing and enforcing one is the issue

[@frenchyadamson]

Great work! :) A slot size yes. Closed season is a good idea in my mind, gives the stock a proper break. Bag limits for all species.. I don’t believe it’s moral to allow thousands of tons of fish to be taken for commercial purposes with industrial methods that are incredibly damaging, but not allow individuals to harvest, in the most sustainable way, enough fish to feed themselves should they wish to. That’s essentially what will happen if all species are restricted for none commercial anglers. I don’t believe any party should have more of a right to this resource & going down this road would mean selling out recreational anglers. The Bass bag limit is already borderline in my mind given how the commercial quota is well above the limit suggested by the data.

[@FishyTom]

Absolutely, couldn't agree more with those statements mate. It would definitely need looking at in great depth to come up with a fair solution for all. I'm with you, I think 2 bass is restrictive, although I've come around to the idea over the last couple of years. It is frustrating to think that on a session I'm lucky enough to catch 3 sizeable bass, I can't keep them knowing that it could be many weeks before that happens again. All whilst the commercial side are actually doing the damage to stocks. However, I do feel a well managed and sustainable approach to an RSA fishery will give us a really good position to fight our rights in the future.

[@chuckitandsea]

Nice 👍🏻 new sub from me it’s rare i will watch a bait session on KZbin but your joy and enthusiasm from simple fishing has won me over. Enjoyed that 🎣 tight lines

[@FishyTom]

Thank you mate. That's put a smile on my face ☺️

[@tillysgunstocks]

A lot of us on the north kent coast run slot sizing on the bass. Usually around 42-52. Having said that a lot of the lure anglers are mostly c+r now. Fishing light with a rod and backpack i dont fancy lugging a few lbs of bass around all day in my backpack 😆 I do however think its unwise to downplay how many fish are caught by RSA. Education is the key IMO. Especially with regard fish handling and related mortality rates. We all fumble a fish every so often but some people really need some lessons in fish handling, especially rays and hounds. Good idea for a vid Tom.... Anyhow nowdays i get a real buzz watching them big bass swim off and luckily i get more than my fair share 😎 Lovely little session you had, it looked real fishy...

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate, and some really good valid points made there. Can I respectfully argue the 'how many fish are caught by RSA' part? And I mean respectfully, I'm not saying you're wrong in any way, just my views on it. I think we're in a situation where 10% of the anglers catch 90% of the fish (made up figures of course, but hopefully you'll understand what I mean). It's an awkard fact that the majority of anglers who fish our beaches aren't the greatest (I'm really risking insulting my customers here🤣) , but hopefully enjoy their sport nonetheless. I also think of those successful 10% the majority are quite well educated when it comes to fish handling, retention and sustainability etc. I just wonder if we had a well managed, open and (most importantly) fair RSA fishery would that then be a great spring board for better education to all anglers? It will also give us a far better platform to fight against the inevitable restrictions that will come our way in the future due to over exploitation by the commercial sector.

[@tillysgunstocks]

@@FishyTom its really Interesting Tom, I wish more of us could openly talk about our view points without it ending up a slanging match as it often seems too on the net. The key thing I think we can all agree on is education. Not just for newbies or occasional anglers but even some of the old guard really needs to look at their own practices. Here in the south east we actively have clubs promoting weighing in fish that could just be measured. There's also other clubs actively putting a max weight of a certain species that can be weighed in now, Which is great news and a small step in the right direction. Unfortunately my mates and I still see the aftermath of local matches. It's absolutely rediculous this day in ages what still goes on. The amount of discarded fish we see regularly is disgusting really. I can send you some pics that would put you off your lunch and it does none of us any favours. I ,like you have devoted most of my life to the sport and would never deny a man a fish for his dinner,far from it infact but the better we can educate those around us the better the stocks and our sport will last. I've a vid on my channel releasing a double, i had a fella land it in his push net as I was all over the place at that point, I had to give him a lesson on why I return the big girls. I left some of it in the video... He had no idea the importance of sending the big breeding fish back. Sometimes it feels like we bang our heads against a wall but this stuff needs talking about and addressing 😉 Here.. if you fancy some hardcore lure fishing late in the season we could put you on some prolific marks... (Well it is fishing 😆 anything could happen but you know what I mean) Cheers Tommy

[@julianevans6823]

A bag limit and slot size for all fish is a great idea. Australia do it and it works very well

[@FishyTom]

Yes, I think the vast majority of sensible RSAs would struggle to come up with an argument against it!

[@johnhitchiner8598]

Wow that looked like an amazing session mate, those rigs work really well and kind to the fish. I know I have a Veret on order but would like to discuss other Rods in the range when your about next

[@FishyTom]

Yes mate, hopefully won't be long until your Syria arrives! Happy to chat rods whenever suits mate. Those rigs are super simple, and as you say, really good for the safe hook ups when using circles.

[@johnhitchiner8598]

@@FishyTom are you sure mate Toby said your new nickname is Lord Lucan 🤣

[@SteveQuilliam]

In the isle of Man we have different bass regulations, 1 fish per day and has to be between 50-60 cm to keep

[@FishyTom]

Yes, I only learned this yesterday! How do you feel about those restrictions?

[@petervallet8584]

Great video as always mate

[@FishyTom]

Thanks matey. Hope you're keeping ok. Looking forward to our bream hunt this year!

[@petervallet8584]

@@FishyTom so am I mate

[@Ian-xf5qb]

I don’t mind the ban period if f that is helping the stocks recover, but the 2 fish limit is a pain for those of us who only get to fish once or twice a month. Keep a limit, but maybe 3 or 4? Max limit - absolutely. Other species, certainly. Great vids, makes me want to move south!

[@FishyTom]

That's a good point well raised. For me, 2 per day is ample, but that's because I get to fish as often as I like living so close to the sea. It's important to think of all situations. Thank you for your input on that one. Glad you like the vids 😊

[@peeannobar7797]

Great video Tom with some lovely bass fished on a super simple setup. Regarding the bass size rules, yes I agree on min & max sizes, it makes sense to protect the breeding stock. I would suggest that similar rules should apply to the commmercials too as they have far more of an impact on stocks than us recreational angler ever will. For example, no commercial fising during the spawning season or in any of the spawning areas. Agree on other species too, i’ve seen people with bin bags of macarel on the beach, i’ve no idea what state they must be in by the end of the day having been kept in a black bag in the sun for several hours. Go fishing in the US and you’ll find a whole load of rules about when certain species can be caught, how many you can take plus the size range that they have to be within. Plus they enforce that with a whole load of fisheries protection police. Expanding this idea further, maybe we could also make it mandatory for people to take nuisance fish? Maybe enforce the taking of two strap congers, 2 small whiting and a spider crab for every beach trip and don’t just limit that to anglers, make swimmers and people walking their dog on the beach take that lot home every time too 🙂

[@FishyTom]

🤣🤣 Brilliant idea! Glad you liked the vid mate. There seems to be an awful lot we can learn from how the Americans and Australians manage their fisheries. Sadly our greedy corrupt government will probably never go down that route!

[@PaulJones-u3e]

Nice bass, my favourite fish to go for

[@FishyTom]

They're a very popular fish, that's for sure!

[@iangraham3018]

The bans / size limits thing is interesting - when I left the UK in 1994, catching a Bass was a rarity. Now you catch them for fun, so the various Bass bans have achieved something (wasn't there a complete Bass ban for a while?). On the other hand, I used to catch many good 1lbs+ Whiting from the Suffolk beaches in Autumn, whereas now there's only impoverished looking pin Whiting. The other thing is bans on recreational fishermen are a drop in the ocean compared to commercial bans, in other words, if you really want to replenish stocks of a certain fish, then commercial bans need to be a part of it.

[@FishyTom]

Hi mate. You're absolutely right, the damage to fish stocks by RSAs is negligible compared to the commercial sector. However, I think it's very important we are seen to be doing our bit and, in a way, leading the way with conservation. Another good case study would be the undulate ray. These were protected a few years back, a near total ban I believe. The stocks recovered incredibly and we had several years of amazing fishing. They were removed from the commercial ban list, and almost over night our catches plumeted. Frustrating to see, but good evidence that fish will recover if protection is there.

[@596football]

Amazing session

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Was a lot of fun.

[@MrMerciless67]

Epic session 😎 very cool brother 😊

[@FishyTom]

Cheers dude 👍

[@coasttocountry]

Great sessions, mate 😊

[@FishyTom]

Thanks bud. Hope you've been managing to get out and wet a line.

[@solutions4feet]

great Vid Tom, when you coming out boat fishing for bass ???

[@FishyTom]

Cheers dude. Need to get a trip sorted matey. Especially now the better weather is here.

[@gordoncarass2360]

What a fantastic session! Good job you decided to stay put and not move into the harbour. I agree with you about bag limits for Bass but I can see all sorts of pitfalls trying to put bag limits on Mackerel or Whiting for instance. One final thing, could I ask what type of circle hooks for Bass fishing as I am thinking of giving them a try.

[@FishyTom]

Yeah, as much as I'd love to see bag limits on all fish, I think it would be very hard to police! I use the Tronixpro T22 circles here, brilliant hooks. I use the 2/0 when fishing crab baits, then up to a 6/0 if fishing a whole mackerel head.

[@pauldavis3343]

Hi tom stonking couple of bass and flounder what a bonus.total agree about the size limit both minimum and maximum again don't agree with the total ban period because the time of year of the ban means that anybody fishing that time of year is probably not targeting bass like many fisherman do later on in the season but if you bump in to one early it's a bonus and a maximum size means all breeding stock go back but like all things in life you'll always to someone who doesn't care about the sport .great video again stay safe and tight lines

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Sounds like we're signing from the same hymn sheet there then. I know there'll always be people who ignore rules, but I like to think there's enough of us who adhere to them. RSAs in general catch so few sizeable bass, a total ban does seem a little harsh, especially when there's already a small bag limit in place.

[@thesweetcornkid266]

@@FishyTom RSAs? I'm guessing something like Recreational Sport Anglers?

[@FishyTom]

Sorry, RSA means Recreational Sea Anglers. So you were very close.

[@dr4gon166]

Cracking session matey!

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate.

[@NeilFridayNightFishingClub]

Cracking session well done !!!

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate 😊

[@user-steve]

Nice one Tom

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate

[@andrewnewton-e3o]

tom, when you take fish home foe tea. how do you dispatch them. i have looked at the ikijeme method .

[@martinwaller5458]

Nice Vid Tom - As usual! Now to your questions.... Firstly, Bass are still very much at the recovery stage stock wise, and IMO it's misleading to suggest that they are plentiful? When you look at the average size of Bass caught, it's way off what it should or could be. Lets not forget that a 10lb Bass is only half the size of what Bass can grow too here, and a 6-7lb fish is only a 3rd of that potential. If the stock was healthy, everyone could potentially expect to catch one or two fish this size in favourable conditions? This is backed up by Commercial landings where a bit of digging reveals a huge proportion of Bass landed into the markets (>90%) are actually quite small in the 1-2 kilo bracket. Factor in the 42cm mls - approx only 50% of all Bass will be able to breed at that size, and you start to see the issue. A very slow growing fish - a 10lber will be at least 20 yrs old, and all these schoolies are getting hammered by the Commercials before they have a chance to get to a decent size - the data is there to back this up. The frustrating thing is a 42cm Bass at market will fetch the commercials half of what a Bass of only 8 cms bigger will, so while the comms are in a race to the bottom, they are not only ruining the stock for all of us, they are ruining their own earning potential! A slot size is the way forwards with 50 - 60cm fish being taken for the table if required - bigger go back. These bigger fish provide more, stronger and healthier eggs that are not only more likely to survive but pass on the better genes too. Bag limits and slot sizes for all species is the way to go - unfortunately fisheries (mis)management in this country is still at the forefront and needs a major step change away from MSY (Maximum Sustainable Yield) which is a proven failure, to MEY (Maximum Economic Yield) where the Economics, including RSA could have a positive impact. This is why BASS were advocating a 'More and Bigger Bass' approach to the recent Bass Fishery Management Plan, which was one of the Pilots for the other FMP's being worked on now. Mart.

[@FishyTom]

I would disagree (respectfully) with you entirely with the misleading to say bass are plentiful statement, they really are around in huge numbers at the moment, and have been for a few years now. This is of course a great thing to see, and is perhaps a sign that the restrictions are working. I suspect this is variable depending on location, and this is something that obviously needs to be taken into account. I am only speaking for my immediate area, which is enjoying the best bass fishing I've ever known. The size argument is a great point to raise though, thank you. I've not experienced bass fishing better than we have it now in the 30 odd years I've been fishing, so I don't really know what the realistic 'should' or 'could' be figures are. I know what I'd 'like' them to be, based on my agenda, but that's a different thing altogether! A lot more large bass would be brilliant for my business after all! The commercial landings of 1-2kg is a skewed figure. The numbers are high in the size bracket because this size fish are not only the easiest to catch, but also the size that the market actually wants! Commercials aren't out there targeting 5kg+ fish. This information comes to me straight from the mouths of a couple of rod and line commercial bass anglers I questioned. I'm starting to sound like I'm defending the commercial sector here! I'm not, just trying to answer a few questions that I had myself. I found this point interesting so thought I'd share. I think what we all agree on, though, is that RSAs aren't the issue. However, a well managed and fair RSA fishery will give us a good platform to argue our case with. I agree with slot sizes, I think that makes sense, although personally 50-60cm seems a little too restrictive for my liking. I think it's also important to roll similar rules out onto all species, hopefully this can then be shown to the commercial sector. Thank you for taking the time to write all of this though, I appreciate the great input.

[@jasonrace9275]

This lot watch you fish. They know exactly what i mean😅 I'm excited for this season. New commercial venture on the bass.

[@FishyTom]

I'm an expert don't you know.

[@jasonrace9275]

Consummate

[@tunapursefishing1984]

Great video Tom, 100% agree on the bag limits across the board, like you said it seems crazy to just concentrate on the bass, I’ve heard there’s been talks around the bream potentially for next year in and around the bay, personally think it’s a great idea to to have a maximum size too. Clearly the bass protection program has worked, I see no reason why it can’t with other species 👍🏽🎣

[@FishyTom]

Absolutely mate, couldn't agree more!

[@martinpaul6146]

I always learn more on 2nd view, I must be slow on the uptake? If anyone like me struggles tying the perfect loop with a hook on, the “Browning Loop tyer” makes it easy to do with the hook unlike some gadgets and 4 options of sizes..

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Shame there's no UK supply of Browning anymore.

[@danielserbanescu8298]

Happy for you

[@FishyTom]

Thank you 😊

[@jamesroberts7]

Great video tom

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate 😁

[@zulcronsports]

Epic session Tom!!

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate 😁

[@steveburt1824]

Looking at taking my daughter and nephew out Tuesday for anything that swims, even dogfish. Which spot around the Poole area would be best do you think?

[@FishyTom]

Hi mate, sorry for delay in reply! Tomorrow we still have some quite strong westerly winds, so ideally a venue that'll be sheltered from those! Swanage, Studland, Shell Bay, Sandbanks etc will all be nicely sheltered. The back of Hengistbury Head, as in this video, will also be sheltered.

[@MrPaul0123]

Hi Tom, a bag limit on mackerell would be good idea to stop people taking carrier bags of them from chesil. Has anyone ever been checked though? Good vid mate, nice bass.

[@FishyTom]

I definitely think a bag limit on mackerel is needed! We've all seen some terrible sights down venues like Chesil! I know the argument is there for rules not being policed, but is that a reason not to have the rules at all? I think not. Even if it only deters a few, it's better than the current situation.

[@topfuelteddy]

Good idea , but who would enforce it ? Most people doing that are holidaying and don't respect anything down there , the litter down on Chesil is disgusting at times.

[@topfuelteddy]

Great watch Tom . Can honestly say i didn't see a bite until you changed your hooklength .

[@FishyTom]

It was nigh on impossible to see the bites today. The side wind was far stronger than it looked on camera and the sideways surf was doing all sorts of funky things to the rod tip!

[@topfuelteddy]

@@FishyTom I'd be interested to know in all seriousness if made a similar size sausage from some bacon instead of crab if this would work in any way ? Bass are such greedy buggers , I caught one once on a lump of yellow dyed haddock that smelt rancid .

[@DavidHaynes-z7s]

nailed it a great video Tom tight knickers

[@FishyTom]

Cheers dude. Thankfully my knickers were reasonably loose today. The LOOOONG walk back could have been uncomfortable otherwise.

[@adyhbris]

Hi Tom Great video again mate, please keep it up. I’m looking at getting a lighter set up for this type of fishing, can you tell what Rod you’re using please? Totally agree with a maximum fish size, this will help to keep stocks up on all fish, also a maximum catch on for instance mackerel I’ve seen a lot of wastage and it’s such a shame. Thanks again Ady

[@tallguy3310]

Hi Tom, can you give me the name of the rod your using please and the spec 😊👍🐟🐟

[@FishyTom]

Sadly a discontinued model! I should probably stop using it in my videos! lol For something very similar though, check out the Tronixpro Competition Match ST. That's a beautiful rod and very similar to the one I'm using here.

[@marklilley3899]

Great vid Tom definitely on the money shot today ,definitely think a great idea about maximum size limit as well as bag limit not just bass ,think black bream should be included , got a lot of fiends ,skippers of charter boats that have told me they've been told to target bream basically on a commercial scale ,I know ifca have started monitoring bream catches ,but really have no idea how many are being caught,evan spoken to officers saying they tagged 120 last yr ,boats were doing that a day out of Poole, then you've got to enforce it ,but unfortunately there's not enough fisheries officers to enforce the rules ,it's ment to be a sport after all

[@FishyTom]

No, sadly I think we're many years away from enforcement. An RSA licence would need to come first, and that's an argument for another day! Having said that, I do strongly believe rules in place, even without enforcement, will have a positive effect. It'll kick start education for generations to come, and hopefully even see a good percentage of us adopt these rules knowing they're for long term good.

[@MrHippo12]

Top job sir

[@FishyTom]

Thank you matey. Hope you're keeping well and catching everything that swims.

[@goldthorp1366]

So you think Rod and line need a limit but tralers can rapp the sea ?

[@FishyTom]

Um... when did I say that? 🤔

[@hughgostelow8934]

Hi Tom, slightly different question. Is that the Aquastar Smock from Guy Cotton you are wearing in your video? Any views as i am looking for a decent waterproof for my fishing both with waders and from the shore. Thanks Hugh

[@FishyTom]

Hi Hugh. No this one is the Guy Cotten Efficient (I think they call it!). It's a very lightweight top, so ideal if long walks are on the cards, but comes with quite a hefty price point! I actually wear the Aquastar Bib & Brace and rate them very highly.

[@mmmthatsnice]

wonderful

[@FishyTom]

Thank you.

[@philipbagg3555]

Definately agree on the bass upper size limit, maybe 5lb maximum. Also something needs to be done to stop the amount of mackerel that some people take, who really needs more than 20 a session.

[@FishyTom]

Yes, the bin bags full of mackerel is just a horrific sight. Not only is this not great for conservation, but it's pretty damning to the image of angling as a whole.

[@jameswhite6402]

Hi Tom, what rod are you using I use a 4nbait for bass and want to upgrade! That’s if you sell it!

[@FishyTom]

Annoyingly this particular one is discontinued (I should probably stop using it in my videos 🤣). I think if I was buying a new one now I'd go with the Tronixpro Competition Match ST. That's a beautiful light 3 piece rod with a lovely soft tip, ideal for this style of fishing.

[@boyscott7193]

Great session. I generally agree with your ideas about the size limits and extending to other species. But lets not get blase about the state of bass stocks. There is a reason there seem to be plenty about these days and there is a risk that limits get relaxed and it becomes a free for all again. We don't want to go back to those days.

[@FishyTom]

No, absolutely not, that's why I'd love to see a well managed fishery for us, and stricter rules for the commercials! But we do need to cover more species. There are so many species that aren't enjoying the boom that bass are sadly.

[@christravis3270]

Totally agree Tom, maximum number of fish per day. Limit for the shore definitely and boat possibly. Not a boat fisherman, so interested to hear from someone with an opinion there, that will no doubt be more informed than mine. No ban required then.

[@FishyTom]

Agree entirely mate. I think I'd keep the shore and boat anglers in line though. I'm not sure a division in different branches of our sport would help. I think we need to be as unified as possible.

[@leecarterreppinjesuschrist7686]

Great vid!! How big in lb was your biggest bass that day do you think roughly?

[@FishyTom]

I'm rubbish at guessing weights! Maybe 3 or 4lb. No giants.

[@graham3377]

I just don’t get the urfe rig. Surely the fish pulls against the lead instead of the rod tip. Isn’t a trace with a lead locked between two swivels better as the fish pulls through the lead up to the rod tip. In other words a simple running ledger rig.

[@FishyTom]

Hi mate, thanks for the great question. Using an urfe rig means the fish is pulling directly against the lead, which is actually what we want as a fish will hook itself against the lead rather than the rod tip. This results in a really good hook up ratio.

[@eynonr1]

Most enjoyable video. Can I ask what rod and reel you are using please?

[@FishyTom]

The rod is my, sadly discontinued, Veret Eclisseo 425. But any light 3 piece beach rod, capable of casting 3 or 4oz will do. Pick something nice and forgiving. This style of fishing just isn't the same on a stiff beach caster. If conditions allow then a barbel or Avon rod is a great choice too.

[@eynonr1]

@@FishyTom Many thanks for the rely. The next time I am about I will come in the shop and hopefully you can point some out to me as very keen to get into this style of fishing but am coming from a course background

[@FishyTom]

@eynonr1 of course, no probs.

[@dalecox8109]

Hi mate great video again, just bought & received 4 of the rigs you are using 2x of each size hook I am just wondering which way you are attaching you're lead to the rig please as there seems to be 2 swivel type circles on both ends of the bar, cheers dale

[@FishyTom]

Hi mate. One end of the bar has a swivel, the other end has a clip covered by a sleeve. Slide the sleeve back and attach the lead there.

[@dalecox8109]

Thanks mate, I only now seen your reply, I worked it out earlier after a closer inspection whilst sorting through my rigs, thanks for your response tight lines 👌🎣

[@FishyTom]

No worries mate. 👍

[@wye-fisher]

Nice one Tom, you always seem to do well; or is that clever editing? (only kidding).. My session on the East Coast wasn't quite so productive but I'll blame the local area Crab Bait Ban especially as the CEFAS HQ was just up the road!! As for fishing regs.? I catch and release everything nowadays but, whatever the rules, I find that some people do what they want anyway because there's nobody out there to enforce it. Keep showing us up, we love it 🤣

[@FishyTom]

I'll be honest, this was 17 sessions carefully edited together to look like one. 🤣🤣

[@georgecurrier428]

Enjoyed your video, never seen your videos before but really enjoyed it and it’s true what you say about bag limits, mackerel were a hard to catch species last year, it was easier to catch a bass!😂

[@FishyTom]

Welcome to the channel, glad you enjoyed your first video 😁 Yes, last year we had more bass than mackerel! Crazy days!

[@redvalley9]

Great session Tom. Interested to know how you got across the run. Ferry?

[@FishyTom]

Nah! I'm one of those weirdos that likes a long walk! Having said that, you could do the ferry, or jump on the land train. There are also Beryl scooters at either end, that had me thinking!

[@redvalley9]

Do you think whole squid may have picked out the whoppers?

[@FishyTom]

@redvalley9 that could definitely be worth a try mate.

[@acereflectionsfishing]

great session tom, yes i have to agree with you on the limits on all fish,,, i have taken bigger bass7+ before now but do put my fair share back and stick to the size limits and increase them for my self , if im honest i would like to see the bass come down a couple cms and up the daily quota to 3 or 4 and maximum put in place on them, i feel it would benefit more, its sickening to put a specimen fish back just for it to be picked up else where

[@FishyTom]

Some valid points there mate. I've often wondered if 2 is really enough, but then I wonder if we should be setting an example for others to follow? The arguments for and against are there for sure!

[@richpeas1924]

Great session Tom. What's the advantage of using a urfe bar instead of a three way swivel? Agree with you on the fishing sizes & bass season, also as you I'd like to see a maximum size as well. Roll on 14th May & it'll be time to dust off the spinners, hopefully the river levels will have dropped & all that water coming through will have gone. 🎣

[@FishyTom]

I can't wait for mullet season!!! I find an urfe bar tangles a lot less than a 3 way swivel as the swivel on the bar moves far freer than a 3 way does.

[@Meirion658]

What weight were you using on the end of that uref?

[@FishyTom]

I was using a 125g pyramid lead. I was actually surprised how well that was holding given the conditions. I usually carry some 150 and 175g too just in case, but didn't need them.

[@Meirion658]

@@FishyTom fair play in that surf.

[@Conormufc7]

Class

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate

[@paulmerritt7516]

Great session well done, love it down there with the lures. I would like to see an increase in minimum landing size.

[@FishyTom]

Thanks mate. Yes, it's a great lure spot too. It's been good to see the minimum raised over the last few years for sure, I can't believe we used to keep 36cm bass! What would you like to see it raised to? 45cm? That presumably would allow for another year or two of breeding.

[@kevinbuckler1085]

Wow,what a session Tom. Got to agree that there needs to be a complete overhaul of the size limits and amount of certain species that can be kept. By the way, what are the new denim/trainer’s combination, they don’t look very waterproof 😂😂🐟🎣

[@FishyTom]

My wet feet on the walk home will testify to the fact that they are, in fact, not waterproof 🤣🤣 It's a long old walk and back to that mark though, so I prefer something a little more comfy than my wellies!

[@kevinbuckler1085]

😂😂,but you own a tackle shop, you have the pick of the bunch 😂😂🎣🐟💦

[@cloudbreak7913]

Not sure why bass are quite so revered. Two fish a day seems reasonable and I think most bass anglers work to their own slot size. I will consider keeping fish between 48cm to 58cm. I probably take 12 to 15 fish a year in that bracket. The only trouble with the two fish limit is if you've bagged your two, but then damage a third and feel bad about releasing it to almost certain death.

[@FishyTom]

Yeah, that's a good point well raised. However, we could come up with so many scenarios that would make nearly all restrictions pointless. Having a good set of sensible guidelines will at least mean the majority of fish go back ok? After all, we can just as easily damage a 30cm fish that sadly fails to recover, that doesn't mean we should scrap size limits. 48 to 58cm is a very respectable window mate, kudos to you.

[@philiplebas2321]

I follow all the rules but one. If I catch my personal bag limit for the year in 1 or 2 sessions. I will take more than 2 fish I just keep myself accounpaul For how many fish I take out of the sea and I think having an upper size limit would definitely be a good idea

[@FishyTom]

It's all about being sensible really and not taking more than we need!

[@wetkneehouston6293]

To be honest I think that the size limit on bass is ridiculous these days, there are millions of school bass everywhere eating all small fry up so nothing else can thrive on them, also the bass ban doesn't bother me as during those months it's normally big breeding bass that you will catch any way so it's best they're put back

[@FishyTom]

Good point well made mate.

[@raygunner5714]

Good idea to have bag limits

[@FishyTom]

Seems to make sense to me. I love eating fish, but there's no need to take more than the odd one here and there.

[@nigelhaines7900]

I totally agree we should have bag limits on all fish say 2 a session to take home if big enougth mind you try telling that to the french

[@martinpaul6146]

Yes fully agree on your views on limits, yes we do need limits in place but yes a bit of leeway would be nice but we know it could be abused and sadly hence the need for what feels like mad restrictions. We are looking at it from respecters compared to DGAF. Even then if there is no implementation of rules it is totally ineffective..

[@FishyTom]

Yeah, I get what you're saying, but I do think there are a good number of people, like us, who will stick to rules despite the knowledge we'll never be checked. Also it's a way of educating people. Get the information out there as to why these rules are in place, and hopefully future generations will begin to see things differently.

[@StewartCutler-b9i]

Well done! Are you not disappointed you didn't catch a dogfish?

[@FishyTom]

Not as disappointed as I was to not catch a pouting. 🤣🤣

[@jamesion2733]

As a very keen bass on lure angler. I think the min max would be ideal. My explanation would be tiresome to read - marine life scientifics etc! I have never taken a bass for the table, and the only time I have a split second thought of taking one would be a 48-52cm fish. Anyway, nice to see the good size fish your way, I know there are plenty out there on the ol'plastic. On the subject of other species, yes, I match fish a lot and a min max on say a flounder would be great. But the opinion for anyone will be loaded as you can open a can of worms with domestic vs commercial fishing etc. Anyway, top film. Nice watch

[@jamesion2733]

Then he catches a flounder...! 🤦😂

[@FishyTom]

The domestic vs commercial argument will rumble on for as long as fishing exists. But, I like the idea of us lot doing our part and being seen to be more future minded. I think we'd have a stronger argument if we had a genuine RSA fishery with sensible rules and policies.

[@markbrindley8011]

Bag limits on all fish, and slot sizes on them too, we need to preserve the big breeding fish 🐟

[@FishyTom]

Agree 100%

[@alanbrown8432]

For what Impact we have on fish stocks compared to trawlers is minimal, if they ban us from taking a single fish they should ban trawlers from taking bass

[@FishyTom]

Absolutely! Every restriction put onto us is absolutely ridiculous whilst things like beam trawling are still allowed. That is simply disgusting! However, I do think there is value in RSAs doing "the right thing" as it were and trying to lead the way.

[@lunacy1971]

I dont think the size limits are the issue The policing of them is more of an issue for me Ive only ever once had my bag checked for undersize fish by the authorities But a maximum size limit would be more useful than a minimum size limit I work in fishmongers and yesterday being our first trading day after the ban was eased the local boats had landed so much bass.... The boat wr buy from had 15 boxes of decent sized bass 3-8lb and thats just one day after the ban was lifted .....so sea anglers are not the problem but we get punished .... One boat on a good day can catch more bass than i could ever dream of catching in 5 years

[@FishyTom]

Yes, it is sad to see us punished when we really don't even scratch the surface of what the commercials do. However, if we are to continue to push for stricter rules for them, I think we'd be in a better place if we had a better run RSA fishery. It gives us more of an argument, and perhaps future proofs us too! I know the policing isn't there, which is frustrating, but that's not a reason not to have rules in my opinion.

[@lunacy1971]

100% correct tom .... The bass stocks are healthy so the measures they put in place actually work ... So it is vital to keep the programme going ... And like you say move to protecting other species I'd like to see more areas like they have in Sussex where the seabed is now thriving with not just fish but plenty of wildlife .... I live near dungeness and the area has been so overfished we haven't seen a cod for 5 years and dungeness used to be the place to go cod fishing ....but that is down to climate. Change aswell ..... I must come down and give southbourne a go ...only fished it once and blanked but your videos on the place have made me want to go back and give it another go

[@FishyTom]

@lunacy1971 thanks mate. Yes, it's been great to see the programme being successful, and surely can be used as a case study for all fish species.

[@andrewnewton-e3o]

i agree with a maximum size. as i personally dont know what sizes are breeding fish. i do take bass around 5lb for the pan but bigger and smaller ones go back. what would you say are the maximum size . to give me some idea. thanks

[@FishyTom]

I wouldn't like to state a size without doing some proper research and consulting with the right people, but I've seen an illustration that shows a 40cm fish has produced 230,000 offspring, a 60cm fish 1.3 million and an 80cm fish 3.3 million! So there's definitely value in looking after those big girls!

[@PaulJones-u3e]

I believe in the minimum and maximum that all

[@FishyTom]

Seems to be a popular option. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@theportsmouthangler7297]

Loving my bass fishing at the moment, not something ive really done Great session mate and in terms of "rules" i think there defo needs tocbe a max size on bass. Taking prime breading fish isnt cool

[@FishyTom]

The fishing is really good at the moment! I'm looking forward to targetting a few bigger fish soon, to be returned of course 😊

[@sarsenmuck]

We are 1 a day , and can keep a bass between 50 to 60cm Isle of Man .

[@FishyTom]

That's quite restrictive. What's the general consensus of that rule? Nice to see a maximum size.

[@sarsenmuck]

@@FishyTom Personally not that fussed as only take the very odd bass . Consensus seemingly goes along with it , but I think it’s a bit over the top as it’s a bit of double whammy . But we have no closed season as any kind of spawning patterns locally are not that well understood yet . Numbers of bass have been increasing progressively year on year , but it feels its more of a trend ‘across the board’ as the fish numbers increase further into more northern latitudes . I don’t think it’s down to our own regulation . Catch bass in numbers where a decade ago the same spot it may of been a rarity. Always been bass , but used to be more location specific. We don’t have any kind of commercial fishery for them either .