The Definitive Guide To Coarse Fishing

There are 3 types of fishing (also referred to as “angling”): coarse fishing, game fishing and sea fishing. Coarse fishing refers to fishing for any species of fish apart from those that live in the sea, as well as trout and salmon. Game fishing refers specifically to the fishing of trout and salmon. Sea fishing – as it suggests on the tin – refers to the fishing of fish species that live in the sea. Here, we present the definitive guide to coarse fishing.

What is Coarse Fishing?

Coarse fishing is the most popular type of fishing in the United Kingdom. This type of fishing features a “catch and release” approach, which is to say that it is a form of fishing undertaken as a hobby rather than a necessity. People undertake coarse fishing for sport or enjoyment.

Coarse fishing is an immensibly accessible hobby for those in the country, and if you are thinking of taking it up, there are likely several quality tackle shops and fisheries in your area that you could pay a visit to. Most tackle shop owners would be pleased to start you out with some useful pointers, so visiting such a shop is also an opportunity to introduce yourself to your local coarse fishing community.

Types of Coarse Fish

There is no significant scientific difference between coarse and game fish. One noticeable difference, however, is that coarse fish prefer to inhabit warmer and more placid environments. Below is a list of some highly sought after coarse fish species.

• Bream
• Grayling
• Eal
• Catfish
• Barbel
• Chub
• Dace
• Carp
• Perch
• Gudgeon
• Grayling
• Roach
• Rudd
• Ruffle

These fish all require a different approach and tactics to catch. Exploring these various approaches over time is one of the most rewarding aspects of coarse fishing.

What You’ll Need

Here, we list down some basic fishing tackle that you’ll require while coarse fishing.

• Rod and Reel: A fishing rod and a well-balanced reel are the cornerstones of the game!
• Line: Ideally, your line has a breaking strain of 8 to 10 pounds
• Floats: Loaded floats are the perfect for this endeavour.
• Split shot weights are something you can consider if you have only have regular fishing floats, however.
• Hooks: Beginners can look for hooks that are pre-looped. We recommend a size between 10 to 14.
• Plummet: This is a weight that you attach to your hook so that you can measure the depth of a lake.
• Landing net: To help you transfer larger fish to a bank more safely and easily
• Unhooking mat: To protect the fish while unhooking; remember, coarse fishing is all about “catch and release”. A wet mat helps protect the fish, reducing any friction that could cause harm to its scales and skin.
• Disgorger: This helps you unhook your fish easily, and to work around hard-to-reach hook holds
• Scales: To finish off the hunt! Whether you’re participating in match angling or just want that sense of accomplishment, a good pair of scales helps you measure the weight of your catch.

Fishing for All Seasons

Coarse fishing can be enjoyed all year around. Fishing in weather has its own special charm, so if you’re planning your Christmas holidays already, add some layers, such as knitwear and socks, to keep you warm and dry.