New Sea Fishing mark looked Bassy... But now what?

I had noticed a reef that really shifts the water round a sand bar at low tide. The water just looked ‘Bassy’ today! So i aimed a Bait between two small reefs where i imagined the water would be most turbulent.
A recent post from coxandrawle asked what our number one Fishing tip was and over the years i’ve stood by “thinking like a fish”. Yes, theres a lot of luck in fishing but Im giving myself some credit for figuring out where the Bass were running.
The bite was very gentle hardly even a tap.I really like a super long Pulley(6ft) to get that lead away from any finicky fish.
An easy unhook of both the lip hooked 3/0 Hooks. It made a run across the beach towards the rocks and i knew this was a Bass from that.
For those that don’t fish i cant explain the excitement of seeing a fish like this come out thought the water.
A nice feeling when you know its well hooked and landing it at your feet on sand is the option. I rushed up the Beach to a rare passer by and shouted at him to take my photo Quickly!
He said “Nice Bass” and with my Bass brain on i may may of bellowed make it a good pic!
I ran back in to the water with cradling the wet bass! my phone under my chin to release the fish. Holding it in the oxygenated surf , Nellie the dog trying to lick it .it swam off strongly straight out. My boots full of water. It is always nice to see them swim away. Id imagined this fish has already spawned and was coming in close to feed up on an energy recovery mission. Hopefully off to breed again next year. I don’t know if you noticed it was quite fat with a big head. Not unlike its captor
A Happy Saltwater angler
for those new to bass angling a reminder that no fish are allowed to be kept until April. There are additional rules for nursery areas too so always check with your local IFCA.
Normally when you refer to Bass as "Massive" someone online will tell you it isn't ! But this to me at that time was massive and i hope the true enthusiasm of catching a bigger than normal fish comes across! . The fish swam off after a short recovery and as we were in March you are not allowed to retain Bass.
Interestingly i spoke to a women walking her dog who was amazed i was fishing but wasn't going to eat the fish! Interesting talking point i think.
If you want to support there are a number of ways to support the channel. Commenting and subscribing is really helpful and is alway appreciated- I read all the comments.
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[@leehotspur9679]

Bass ,Beautiful looking fish ,well done Another enjoyable Video Matt Thanks for sharing

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Thanks for watching again !

[@BYF1]

Hello again Matt, well done finding some Bass, that spot with the reef close in definitely looks bassy! I'd be going back for sure and also with the lures when the tide pushes up and over the reef. I'm a firm believer in going back to repeat past results, especially at the same tidal state/height, it more often than not works out. Water temps are a good bit higher than last year, I went out earlier in March to try out some new lures and something pulled back but came off, so I have been out three more times with the new lures and managed 4 fish, only small though, all on smaller 4 inch paddletails. Took me until mid May last year. I'm about 30 miles east of you so would have thought they will be showing along your patch. I will look forward to more lure fishing content over the summer.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Nice one thanks for the update, enjoyed reading that.

[@nicholascavie2464]

Awesome again Matt the ocean here is like a pane of glass water clarity is like gin u can see 2 maybe 3 fathom down need a storm & plenty of rain. Happy catching from Australia Nick

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Thats how how i remember Aus ! Good to hear from you Nick

[@davetevens5080]

Determination is key. I think we all try to replicate a good catch and go to the same areas with hope 😊 great video Matt 😊

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Absolutely!

[@agapelove916]

Loved your honesty. So many dont record Blanks. Its not a failing in my eyes 👍

[@Moontanthefirst]

If you just happened to catch a large predatory fish that was patrolling, or transiting from one place to the next, then you may never catch another one there again🤔. Finding where the schoolies are, or just happening to be the way of a passing fish, are two very different things aren’t they? 🤔 I’m happy to settle for either, and I deffo go back to the same place and try again…and again….and again……😢 Good vids, thanks. 😊👍

[@KeefsCattys]

Another fantastic video. That kind of sea always gives me hope , It will be good to see some lure fishing action over the summer but I love seeing the bait fishing too. Always enjoy your interesting camera angles and the views of the south coast where I started my fishing as a kid over 40 years ago . Tight lines

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Glad you enjoyed it. Yep i need to milk those good catches as there are many more blanks. I do try and show this coastline as best as possible - Thanks for the feedback

[@allenbrown8158]

I have fished for bass for many years every tide is different and as you know the fish are constantly on the move, persistence is the key and rivers going into the sea are a magnet for them.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Good tip about rivers ! even small water outfalls can provide a good feeding zone - i was thinking about going to the river mouth at Littlehampton and cuckmere this year

[@stinkymuppet9207]

Well that started well mr saltwater, nice early bass and so pleased for you, like adrenaline rushing through the veins anticipation levels fit for bursting … then the reality kicks in and the wait goes on for the next one … but never give up and one day the reward will be yours and that bar of silver will grace the shingle again for you . A good day or two for the dogs though in more ways than one, the blank saved and good to see Nellie and the doggy paddle … better than me 🙄 thanks for sharing

[@SaltwaterAngler]

You got that right! - Thanks you understand the sentiment of this video perfectly.

[@mikesaul8711]

Outstanding Matt,red letter day for you.lovely location, bass water all day long. Kind regards Mike.

[@glencronin1592]

Matt, i think you are not alone keep returning to the same place. It becomes an obsession sometimes but do we learn i dont know, wishful thinking i suppose.👍👍👍🎣🎣🎣.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yes - I’ll report back on the amount of blanks I get.

[@c.ifishingguernsey]

Bass can be very different from day to day eh here in guernsey I was catching loads of bass off the top in January and February then March came along then there was nothing crazy but that’s bass fishing great video as all ways 👍👍🎣

[@carp-uk]

Hi mate been fishing that mark for years on and off great place ..great vid as always

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Thanks for watching ! Made me realise i stick to the same places a bit too much

[@stephenking78]

Another great video, cheers Matt👍

[@DavidBing-t5k]

Great video Matt, really do enjoy the content and information. Brave to try new marks, other than tried and trusted ones but great when it pays off. What a lovely fish. We always expect to do the same again, but in my experience are usually disappointed. Usually have good intentions to try somewhere different but have second thoughts and stick to what I know! Best wishes, Dave, broadstairs

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yep thats a good point Dave good you recognise that sometimes we all stick to what we know.

[@skateboardingjesus4006]

Perseverance is definitely key, where past success and experience drives you on. I just finished a two day fishing/camping trip and didn't catch a sausage. Still, can't beat the sights, smells, sounds and head space.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Well said! you have captured the sentiments of todays video. Like how you appreciate the positives of your camping and fishing trip

[@eddybooth1]

Hey Matt , that PB bass will come again mate, good luck keep hunting cheers Steve.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Thanks for that Steve- Yep id love to have another double. Ive had two 9s too so surely my next big one cant be another 9lber !

[@dougfrazer1377]

That location looks like the one I spent quite a few days last year late spring/ early summer. Lots of small bass on the lures but nothing big.

[@trampster7306]

Nice one thanks Matt. Beautiful Bass and some useful tips. As for going back to the same marks, I tend to do that. Partly because they have reliably produced Fish, but also because health issues mean there are only certain marks within a reasonable travelling distance that I can access, so end up going back. What is it with Dogs & Dogfish ? !! 2 of the guys on a forum I visit have similar size Dogs to yours, and both of them will grab a Dogfish when put back in the surf if it dares to turn inshore again! Only happens with Dogfish! Tight lines, and stay safe & well. 🎣🎣👍👍

[@theamputeeangler]

Nice watch Matt 👌🏻 That spot looks Bassy as anything they will be back there 100% perhaps a night session would do more for you at the minute until it really switches on? Keep em coming buddy 🎉

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Cheers Ben, ye I neglect night fish more than I should. Good point

[@trampster7306]

@@SaltwaterAnglerGood point from Ben, but night fishing is not good for videos!

[@SaltwaterAngler]

@@trampster7306 very true

[@brianpask8955]

That reef area certainly looks like it should bring fish in to feed. I would be back there a few times trying throughout the tide cycle to try and find out when they are feeding. I do wonder if bait more associated with a rocky area might work - crab, prawn or small live bait! Only time will tell.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yep thanks mate- I just read your comment without seeing the name and thought to myself- That bloke knows what hes talking about ! Cheers Brian yes i have some summer ideas for here too. As you say Prawn and crab. Maybe you can join me some time find out a bit more.

[@naylorchris1975]

Found a great Mark last year. Produced fish at low water. Like to see if it produces this year. Also found a great boulder field for kayaking at high tide.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Sounds great!

[@naylorchris1975]

@@SaltwaterAngler I’ll have to let you know next time I see you.

[@londonviking3801]

Bass season opens tomorrow? Wish I lived closer to the south coast. Look forward to the lure sessions. Itching to go myself.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

send me a message before you come i can let you know the water conditions

[@londonviking3801]

@@SaltwaterAngler That would be awesome (although I leave around 4am... lol) Would have to be on twitter (maybe day before). Does that work for you?

[@l.r.sfishing4011]

Persistence mate!! I knkw exactly what you're going through mate. I had a fantastic 5lb bass from a beech alful wether driving wind and rain last cast the bass smashed my sqwid bait it was a stunning fish managed to get it on camra as well!! Been back to the same beach so many times and had nothing at all its so fustrating!! But its constantly in my head what if there is bass even bigger there!!!!! Hahahah i think we are mad 🤣🤣🤣🤣 great vidoe as always mate. All the best and tight lines 🎣🎣🎣

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yep that’s a familiar story . I’ve had a 9lb bass on two seperate occasions and both times I stopped fishing! Maybe I should of carried on and caught the 20lber!

[@l.r.sfishing4011]

@SaltwaterAngler wow imagine that!!!!!! That's why I love fishing cos you just never know 😅😅👍🏼👍🏼🎣🎣🎣

[@jonathanbritton7347]

Another good video Matt will be trying Ramsgate couple weeks time

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Great yes do let me know how you get on down there. Ive vowed to head for Kent a bit more this year too.

[@jonathanbritton7347]

Will certainly let you know Matt, how get on Ramsgate

[@ManicFishing]

Liked that mate😎🎣

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yes thanks Mark. Got to love a ass- That was the day i thought you might of come down and said hi ! Your dogs can show mine how to be proper terriers!

[@stealthandysteath1069]

Hi mate, thanks for another interesting vid... Going out to Dale today. Hope the crabs don't eat all my bite 😂😂

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Good luck! Let us know how you get on

[@GregPodster133]

Hi Matt. Great video ( as usual ) sorry to be a pain mate but, ive been looking for the 'Shrimp Lures' everywhere but can't seem to find them( bought something similar but they don't look as good quality as the WhatsApp pictures. Anyway, hope your well ( hoping to get out june/July) ( knee operation 😢) take care and god bless. 🙏

[@SaltwaterAngler]

I’ll update the vlog with the ones I’ve got next week

[@GregPodster133]

@@SaltwaterAngler thanks. 👍👍🙏🙏

[@Be-lucky-my-friend]

Matt,, I'm going to swap out my multipliers for fixed spool as I just cannot grip the reel even with a thumby protector on,,,, any recommendations for a reliable good fixed spool reel for general beach fishing,,, any help greatly appreciated cheers,🎣

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yes . The Penn surfblaster in any of the three interations is tough and easy to use and has lasted well. For some smoother easy fishing i still rate the Sonik AVX 10000 which is basically a carp reel but so simple .Ive done reviews on them - But if i was to get an upgrade id go with my old friend the Shimano with the Ultegra providing a smoother and more powerful (and expensive option) Penn long term review. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqayhpauj956r5Ysi=ykixvpjAlnXnslXA Sonik AVX kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2KuqX6nfL5_d7Msi=vg913vytHP4UurzS

[@trampster7306]

@@SaltwaterAnglerSecond the Surfblasers Matt. I couldn't get one during the Covid lockdowns so bought a Michell Blue water RZ 8000 wich is still working well for me. All part of Pure Fishing, so a similar reel. Days later, I spotted a Surfblaster II locally for £30 so grabbed that. Great reel. A mate has now donated an original Surfblaster to me too, but it's had a hard life, so needs a service & clean befor I use it.

[@geoff738]

Looks a great mark and well spotted. Have you fished there in the summer with fish baits ? Reading your account of catching your very large Bass made me smile as I could relate partially to the capture. Great vid as always. 👍

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Not yet! Ill be back in summer for sure

[@MarkFriend-1979]

Bass used to be known as Spring/Summer target..years ago obviously changed really!! Your thoughts?

[@SaltwaterAngler]

All year round now- just more effort to tough it out jan-march

[@Whiteandpolite21]

Well done, you blanked🫵

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Thats not quite the story here 🙂

[@outoftownr3906]

I suppose the gulley water has been the worst for years due to the amount of rain we’ve had this winter.Patience & persistence for the most beautiful fish we have in the UK.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

I agree with that the Bass is King for me! Yea i hadnt thought about the rain causing worse gulley water. It is certainly earlier this year thats for sure.

[@trevorttilling438]

Getting serious now started make up some rigs,then decide where to go what abou seaford for plaice sole

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Seaford is a good Spring venue and should be some Plaice in better clearer conditions. Not sure about sole yet but all the flatfish species can be caught from there. Let us know how you get on

[@gordoncarass2360]

Its a difficult one. Trying to replicate a good catch whatever it might be, a single large Bass or maybe several average sized fish. We are all able to make an assumption of what are the correct weather and sea conditions from the experience we gain over the years but I think as a (mainly) shore angler is to have an up to date knowledge of the ground you fish. i.e. Gaps between sandbars, gully`s you might fish, are they silting up etc. Also, is lady luck smiling on you?

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Nicely summed up my friend

[@ianmandyb]

Hi Matt, I am a fairly new Lure angler and would love to catch a bass on lure. I live 2hrs from any beach so dont get much chance to beach fish. Can you suggest some good lure spots on the South East coast. Or if your free maybe you could come with me and give me some pointers. Great videos and very informative, Regards Ian.

[@markstacey6082]

lol , if i take my 2 little dogs down Brixham beach they do what dogs do best.....run away! ;)

[@tangledtackleuk]

Would lv to see you using methods that you have never used before

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Thanks mate always interested in this feedback! Will have a think

[@tonycamplin8607]

Although it's tempting to fish the same area I don't think that it's a good idea, unless of course its a known hot-spot with lots of fish. That bass looked great but you didn't tell us its weight so it was hard to tell how big it really was. I can't get used to all those new rules regarding fish size and season etc.. When I did all my sea fishing they didn't exist. Our ideal bass was one of about a foot, (30cm) because they fitted nicely in the frying pan, the larger ones we put back. Times have changed.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Good point! yea its hard to say id say 6lb ( thats also what my expert mate recons) but as i said in the video description saying the weight upsets people. The regulations are linked to breeding ages and 42 cm being the minimum size. Added to that are two fish a day limit now we are in April.

[@tonycamplin8607]

@@SaltwaterAngler Fair enough. I'm just not used to the modern way of sizing fish. In my sea fishing days there weren't any restrictions at all. Our ideal keeper bass was about a foot, (30cms) long, they fitted nicely on the frying pan. Anything much bigger we put back. Haven't times changed?

[@robertcornelius8056]

Are there times of the year for bigger bass?

[@fatfish6839]

October November when the big females come inshore to feed up before they go offshore to spawn

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Good question YES October and November mostly but actually May and June can see bigger fish too - My guess is they are feeding up before (Autumn) and after spawning for a few weeks in April and May maybe

[@ukgraffitiwalker8846]

I was going to the same mark, and catching at least 6 times in a row, I blanked once then moved on to other spots. I'll always go back to the mark, but I like to try other spots.

[@billybass4189]

Understand the mark obsession mate, I have been to marks that got under my skin with good results and unbelievable bites (on squid too) and never replicated the days when it happened. Still get results there just not like the purple patch.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Yes my friend, thanks you have grasped the idea of the video - I recon if i go back another 5 times without success it will no longer be the Special new mark anymore !

[@fisherman5517]

nice video try and try again results come to patient fishers . have you seen what they are doing to hastings harbour ,the sand is being replaced with tons of shingle ,anothrer great place being destroyed by mindless councils.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

I 100% agree with you on both points - that shingle will be gone on the first storm too ! Millions spent on so called coastal protection but nature always wins

[@milkyporridge5929]

Whats the mark?

[@ukgraffitiwalker8846]

You'll be lucky!!

[@milkyporridge5929]

Looks like rottingdean

[@gratefulobserver7742]

What's the fixation with the secrecy of marks? If you find somewhere good, share the joy! I live in the Midlands so every trip is a long haul to the coast. Would make life that much easier if I had an inkling of where may be successful. It's not like I'd be stealing local's fish every day! Don't have the luxury of living on the coast, unfortunately.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

O.K - Firstly its not a fixation. This channel provides over 50 videos with hours of footage of mark reports including: parking, catches , what species to expect , previous good catches and even where to cast including google maps to help viewers out with exact locations. The channel was set up initially to help those that live away from the coast find somewhere to fish. I used to love the Sea Angler Mark guides when i lived inland and tried to replicate those in Video form. To educate those that don't live on the coast and the fishing culture -its not about protecting MY marks and its not about finding somewhere good. The exact mark is not shared because it time dependent and commercial netters follow youtube and facebook posts and could easily put a big Gill net across the same rock. Imagine that ...putting something on the internet to share the joy and a commercial angler literally stops any fish being caught there. I respect you all not to do that. Bass are by nature a habitual fish they have patterns and tidal routes they follow. It would show a total disregard for the species and the rod and line Angler. So in may respect i'm trying to help you and have spent many many hours making videos to share marks over the years. The other factor here is that if you watch the whole video you would actually gain some valuable insight in to place names that will help you. I'd also politely say that if you follow my methods and learn from my mistakes you are more likely to catch a good fish than by just looking for a mark. I hope this gives those new to the channel an idea of what i do here Here is a play list of Fishing Marks across the U.K Some of those llyn Peninsular marks are a good option from the midlands. 100s of thousands of views and many weeks worth of my time to produce these videos. kzbin.info/aero/PLzPQkklnsvxuhKpf9n8AM3LhVaNKE2BLE&si=WSciGhi6aXlK2Qhw

[@gratefulobserver7742]

My comment was not aimed at you! I follow your channel and have done for ages. It was aimed at one of the responses to your post. Saying "no chance" when someone else asked where the mark was. My comment was to that person, and those the same, who seem to treat marks like trade secrets! I'm sorry if you mistook my remark as intended for you, it was not. I see all the time that you share where you are, which is a great help and thank you. Others should be so generous with their knowledge and time, is all that I meant!

[@richardritheshnoronha2688]

Which Location is this??

[@stilldiggin6015]

be a dog lol great vid mate.

[@SaltwaterAngler]

Well spotted