Can I go fishing?
Yes, as long as you are doing so:
- by yourself
- with the people you live with
- with your support bubble (if you’re legally permitted to form one)
- in a childcare bubble where providing childcare
- when on your own, with one person from another household while following social distancing.
In connection to wider government guidance:
- You shouldn’t travel outside of your local area in order to go fishing
- Organised events or competitions can’t take place
- You should only go fishing once per day.
I had an email from Ethan Fletcher today...


What a cracker...(boom boom) (05 Nov)
I had this report in from Ann Heighton's email...am I surprised not at all by a nice cod turning up...but if we had more anglers than fair weather danglers we might get even more...
"Hi Tony. Fished Hythe 20th October. I think this one got lost "
How times have changed... (04 Nov)
I had this excellent report in from Elliot Watson last night...
I saw this posted by Simon Newman tonight...
DAA Juniors toughing it out... (23 Oct)
I had this report in from 'Shirly Codling' of the DAA Juniors match last Sunday...
"Hi Tony,
A very tough DAA Juniors match today at Littlestone wall. Only two anglers out of 13 actually caught. Well done to Luke who caught a flounder and a whiting and Max L who caught a whiting. Interestingly, both were fishing the end pegs! One other fish, a flounder was caught by Luke's brother Jack, but unfortunately it was 10 minutes after the match had finished! Regards Shirl"
Wrestling wrasse at the Hoe... (23 Oct)
Last week Neil went to Samphire Hoe, for a change....
"Hi Tony. Got another report for you. I went samphire hoe to escape the whiting. Had wrasse all day including a PB at 2.5lb. Also had pout, blennies and a solitary dogfish. I only used re purposed carp rods today as I was going straight down the wall pretty much. A big wrasse on a carp rod is pretty hair raising stuff but good fun none the less! Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil"
Another away day for Neil... (15 Oct)
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell who kindly sent it in on Monday...
"Hi Tony. I thought I would send you a report of my day at Brighton marina on Friday. The target was sole. I managed 4 at the beginning of the day with 6 other species mixed in including the largest Whiting I've ever caught. The fish turned into crabs around 1 and the wind picked up with the waves coming over the wall so called it a day around 3. Looking at getting back to dungy soon for a bass in the surf. Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil."
A nice surprise for Steve... (24 Sept)
I had this report in yesterday from Steve Martin...
"Hi fished dungeness Monday 21st in the morning not to far from the boats. Had a lot of whiting but no bass , it was pretty calm so not surprised . What did surprised me was a good knock on the rod fished far out with squid on a single 02 hook to a good fish being a baby smoothhound around 5lb.
Galloways always worth a go... (20 Sept)
I had this report in from Rob Lasells...
"Sitting at home last decided to go down to Galloways, grabbed lug and squid from the freezer. In the water 22.30 whiting all the way until 01.30 and landed a Thornback 7lb 4oz well worth the effort"
Nice to see...warming seas (17 Sept)
I had this report in from Rob Bower at the beginning of the week...
DAA 'vets' back on the beach (17 Sept)
I had this report in from Terry Carpenter last week (apologies for late posting)...
"DAA Veterans had their 1st match since January on a lovely warm afternoon today although the fish didnt want to play
Fish caught was whitting ,poulting,bass,eel"
1st. Steve Feild. 167cm
2nd Roger Sugden150cm
3rd John Barnes. 124cm
4th. Paul. Smith. 107cm
5th. John Smith ... 102cm
6th. Mick Lewis. 101cm
7th. Alan. Rudkin. 68cm
8th. Mick Reynolds. 26cm
9th Terry Carpenter. 0
DAA Seniors back in business...( 9 Sept)
I had this report in from Alex of the DAA Seniors match at the weekend...
"Hi Tony, Finally got the league up and running again. Tough going for the four of us who fished on Sunday. Venue was moved to the ‘Point’ as the planned venue was busy. Whiting was the main catch plus a few Pout and one dogfish. Our next match is Sunday 20th September at Littlestone. Pegged match, fish 12pm-4pm. Meet at Littlestone (Seafront in front of the watertower). Booking in between 10:30 and 11am. Many thanks Alex"
Nice to see the Juniors back...( 8 Sept)
"Hi Tony,13 Juniors fished at Littlestone on Saturday in bright sunshine and a gentle West breeze. Fish were thin on the ground with just a few Whiting showing. However, with the lack of Whiting, a few better fish did get the chance to find the bait. Newcomer Theadora caught her first ever sea fish, a stunning Bass of 46 cm (Pictured with her brother and dad)which she released to get even bigger. Malakai managed a nice Sole of 32cm and James caught an Eel of 35cm. Well done to all who took part. Many thanks Alex"
Last night...it went a bit flat...( 6 September)
"Hi Tony. The DAA Juniors finally got their 2020 season underway today (Sunday).Ten anglers fished Littlestone in good overcast conditions taking advantage of the dirty water from yesterday’s blow.Their catch was Whiting and a solitary Bass. Alex"
Keeping the girls busy......( 24 August)
I wished I had some feathers...( 22 July)
Smoothie...my favourite fish...( 19 July)
Take care!"
Nice ray for Brian...( 16 July)
Wind makes fish...and weed...( 08 July)
"Afternoon Tony and I hope you are keeping well.
Nothing like a bass...smile...( 05 July)
Nows that was a cracking bass...( 23 June)
Galloways, can be hit or miss...( 21 June)
Enough is enough...( 19 June)
"Hi. Fished by the boats at dungeness today. Early start and plenty of dog fish. Caught a very nice thorn back at around 8.30am on a squid and bluey cocktail. My wife had a very good first fishing experience here at Dungeness. Catching her first fish. Smiles all round."
Who let the dogs out...Becky... (11 June)
The photo came via messenger that why its not very good quality.
"Hi Tony. Bit of a blank report today from me down at Brighton. Couldn't get through the spider crabs but I came away with some local knowledge about how to catch mullet the next time I'm there. Nice day in all. My thoughts are turning to summer tactics at dungy. I've had mixed success like most people at dungy during the summer months. I wondered if there were any tips that people know of for winkling one out in sunny conditions behind the station? Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil."
It appears to me Neil that most people want to go when its sunny, calm and hot...very tough for catching fish. My view is that that a change of light can be good (dawn or dusk)...if we have a nice bit of surf...better still for a bass. Fish move inshore to feed, they are 'programmed' to react to certain conditions...if you can work out when the food is there...you will find the fish...or you can just go sun bathing.
Dungeness nature reserve... (9 June)
"Hi Tony. This seal is on the beach right now behind the lighthouse. John."
The beach is alive with bass... (5 June)
I had this report in from Nino Costa this afternoon...
Great fun...in the sun for Neil... (4 June)
Fishing from your front door... (3 June)
Summers here...classic catch... (2 June)
First rig selected, two hook loop with size two hooks, and on the other rod a size 2/0 pulley pennel.
The rig went out with lug and before I could get the other one out I had a rattle and the line went slack, I felt a bit of weight but lost it on the way in. Second cast out then sent the pulley out loaded with squid and lug, the other rod rattled and went a little slack, I felt a bit of weight then it went light, I thought not again. Twenty yards out the fish decided to head back out to sea, after a couple of minutes a beautiful silver bass weighing 5lb 7oz and measuring 65cm, was laying on the beach.
I don’t normally keep bass but decided to keep this one.
This was followed by a small smoothie to the squid, this was followed by a small bream then 4 small plaice all to lug. All in all a great fishing session"
DAA update for the EA road... (31 May)
DAA keys to the gate at Dungeness...
Great news Dungeness to open...( 27 May)
Great...except for sun bathers...( 25 May)
What a weekend for Becky Lee...( 25 May)
I saw this report from Becky Lee this morning, out yesterday...
Surfs up...first Bass for Colin ( 24 May)
I had this report in from Colin...it was a bit windy...
"Hi Tony,
I finally got out fishing yesterday, headed to Dengemarsh and arrived at 5am armed with some live rag and couple frozen mackerel. There were quite a few anglers set up and a few guys donated their blow lug which was well appreciated.
By 7am most had gone and I was left on a pretty much deserted beach. The wind was strong coming in from the south west and I had got the shelter set up and dug in. The conditions screamed bass so I was sending out running ledger pennel rigs loaded with lug and rag, holding bottom was no problem apart from at the peak of the tide and with a pendulum cast I could power through the wind.
A couple hours in I see the line has gone slack, reeled in to find the 1st bass of the season at 45cm and unfortunately that was it for the day and packed up around 8.
All the best, Colin"
Neil enjoyed cool, clear, water... ( 21 May)
I saw this report from Neil Rodwell down south today...
Hi Tony. Had a few hours down langney point today. I have no idea what happened to the may rot from a couple of days ago but the sea was as clear as I've ever seen it up this way. Managed 2 plaice, 2 school bass and one smoothhound pup. Then it went dead after high tide. Perfect weather and perfect fishing. Camt wait for dungy to re-open! Many thanks. Neil.
Fishing for Spiders... (19 May)
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell...cracking weather to for a dangle...Sunday hunt for a flat dogfish... (18 May)
I had this report from Becky Lee...fishing near Hythe yesterday..."So after much deliberation and rig making and general sorting out I headed to the coast for a session in search of the not so elusive flat dogfish, more commonly known as Thornback rays lol. There are plenty here on our coast now and they can be caught most stages of the tide. Best over low or high usually where I go.
II had a chat today with the MOD...yes Dengemarsh is open for fishing. So is Galloways when the ranges ar not in use.
Please obey the rules... ( 13 May)
I have had concerns raised with me this morning that fishermen are still ignoring the signs at Dungeness. This is not acceptable behavior and is 'tarring' all anglers with the same brush.
What a beautiful morning... ( 13 May)
I saw this early bird report from James 'cliffy' Clifton..."1st morning out after lockdown went to hythe and bagged a few thornies. Was lovely to get out!" ...you have got give it to James started at Ipm pre dawn what a great way to see the sun come up...respect.
Here is the relevant section from this document published today...concerning fishing...
OUR PLAN TO REBUILD: The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy
Page 27...
"People may exercise outside as many times each day as they wish. For example, this would include angling and tennis. You will still not be able to use areas like playgrounds, outdoor gyms or ticketed outdoor leisure venues, where there is a higher risk of close contact and touching surfaces. You can only exercise with up to one person from outside your household – this means you should not play team sports, except with members of your own household. People may drive to outdoor open spaces irrespective of distance, so long as they respect social distancing guidance while they are there, because this does not involve contact with people outside your household. When travelling to outdoor spaces, it is important that people respect the rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and do not travel to different parts of the UK where it would be inconsistent with guidance or regulations issued by the relevant devolved administration. These measures may come with some risk; it is important that everyone continues to act responsibly, as the large majority have done to date. The infection rate will increase if people begin to break these rules and, for example, mix in groups in parks, which will trigger the need for further restrictions."
Well if you haven't heard the news we could be fishing locally by Wednesday...so we might get some real reports...in the meantime here is another of my stories to keep you going...
What I reported around this day a year ago...we can dream...
I thought as we can't go fishing that I would feature a fish per week just to remind us of what we are missing. This week a ray with attitude, Blonde Ray.
Here is a another story of a night's fishing down at Galloways in the early eighties...
The
night of the 'Big Freeze'
One thing I remember from the early eighties was the
clothing. I had a one piece 'state of the art' under suit...like wearing a
carpet with the pile on the inside...I called mine 'Cyril Lord'...those old
enough will get that.
My new Shogun (company car) was packed...I had my fresh
bait. It was all systems go...but it had been snowing all afternoon...not
worried, I had a 4x4.
I set off from Richmond down the A316 heading for the M25
as I headed anti clockwise, I was loving it, only one lane in use with the
thick snow...I had the outside lane all to myself in all wheel drive mode.
When I got to Lydd, I stopped by the church, the car
didn't feel right. When I got out my red Shogun was white and had grown by
nearly two feet you could even tell the make, headlamps, just twin halogen beams
drilling like pencils through the packed snow.
I reached the Galloways turnoff, you wouldn't know (it
blew down years ago) headed down to the beach...thank heaven the snow had
eased, everything white, cold, crisp & clean. In those days there wasn't an
eastern range. I drove east from the lookout tower along the crest towards
Dengemarsh, leaving virgin tracks for about half a mile.
I set up 'base camp' just below the crest in my 'brolly
tent'...a big umbrella with a skin over it with a roll-up door. The tide was
just beginning to make in the darkness, everything was silent.
My Shanghai special' 'Anchor lamp' was punching out plenty of light
& heat. My Phillips headlamp was pretty useless (they were in those days)
for everything but baiting up.
I set my rods...cast out and waited...it was getting
colder and colder as time went by. Suddenly my left hand rod started
dancing...I leaned into a nice codling about 3lb as I unhooked the fish my
other rod joined in another codling about the same year class...must be shoal
passing though.
I went to bait up but my fresh lugworm was frozen, I
placed some on the hood of my lamp for a quick defrost...the tide was silently
rising, waves of rippling slush moving in.
At least walking on the shingle was easy...frozen pebbles
a bit slippery. I was so glad I gutted the codling straight away as they were
freezing solid on the beach. The tide was pushing the slush in. The bites dried
up. As the tide turned and the sea slowly receded leaving sheets of ice looking
like beautiful ice sculptures.
As the night wore on...getting colder by the hour...I
couldn't take it anymore, crawled into my brolly tent to try and get warm. Sadly
my feet were sticking out the doorway. I eventually fell asleep. As dawn broke
I slowly woke up...so, so cold, I tried to move but couldn't ...my boots were
frozen to the shingle...
I
thought as we can't go fishing that I would feature a fish per week just to
remind us of what we are missing. This week the hard hitting Pollock.
Fish
of the week...Pollock
Besides cod, Pollock is the fish that made Dungeness
'wrecking' famous. Just offshore we have plenty of wrecks, lots courtesy of the
German navy. So after the war we had plenty of 'fresh' wrecks to fish. I
remember before we had 'fish finders' to find a wreck we had to go out through
low water to spot the 'over falls' the turbulence created on the surface as the
water down below is forced up over the wreck, creating visible disturbance. Skippers
before 'Decca' & 'gps' had to use land marks (lining up two objects to get
the right position). Then you had 'magnetometers' which could tell you that ferrous
metal was near bye. Early sounders produced paper print outs to give you a
paper record of the sea bed...how times have changed, nowadays you have so much
'Tec' to find wrecks...but catching a fish on the drift is still a challenge.
We are going through changes, warming seas, and wrecks rusting
away, but it appears we still have plenty of quality fish to go for.
My first encounter with a Pollock was when I was 16 my
first fishing holiday in Dartmouth with a friend, we borrowed a clinker dinghy
powered by an old 'Seagull' outboard. Headed out into the Dart estuary and
landed in a little sandy cove you could only reach from the sea. On one side a
large overhang of rock. Above 'gin' clear water. I was fascinated by this peering
over the ledge...I saw this black torpedo shoot out and hit a shoal of small
fish and dive back into cover. In my tackle box I had an elderly 'Mepps' minnow
armed with a pair of rusty twin hooks. I tackled up, sliding my rod out, I
'jigged' my minnow in just the right spot...I felt the 'whack' of the take as
the fish shot out from hiding. After a short but exciting fight, I landed a 3lb
Pollock...a beautiful fish.
Beach:
Dungeness
point being close to deep water has over the years 'thrown' up the odd
Pollock...you never know what's out there.
Boat: For a lot of anglers this is
charter fishing...drifting a 'gill' (artifical sandeel) over a wreck feeling
for the 'take' of a pollock followed by a crash dive towards the wreck...many
pollock have been lost by excited anglers forgetting to set the 'clutch' as a decent
fish dives.
Plenty of
good fish can be had out from Dungeness. Fish to 12lb are reguly taken.
Dungeness holds two British records and one is the Pollock. Caught on Bob
Tanners boat (I believe 'Robert John Dee') on a near shore wreck...a amazing
fish of 29lb!
UK records:
Shore: Pollock 'pollachius pollachius' 18-4-0
1986 C.Lowe Abbotsbury, Dorset.
Boat: Pollock 'pollachius pollachius' 29-4-0
1987 W.Mayes Dungeness, Kent.
What I reported this day a year ago...we can dream...
Spring bass are back...(23 April)
I had this report in last night from Shaun Brough...
"Hi Tony:
I hope you are well. A couple of catch reports for you and your readers from over the bank holiday weekend.
We fished up to the midday high tide on Good Friday. Caught a nice bass first cast 1.5lbs (returned) and then nothing for the rest of the session.
Returned on Saturday night and had two bass (the best 2lb) and four whiting. Pic of the biggest bass attached.
Plenty of bass about over the past year and it seems those EU rules are improving stocks. Please can you remind us what the rules are at the moment (it’s one per session and has to be 42 cm I think?).
All fish fell to lug. The tide ran strong and it was hard to hold the bottom (even with 200 grm/7oz grapple leads). Any tips on how to keep the bait out there in strong tides would be greatly received. Best Shaun B"
Yes Shaun, you are right from the first of April till the thirty first of October you are allowed to retain one bass over 42 centimetre per day.
Holding bottom can be a challenge, try walking 'uptide' a bit before you cast (if you have space), don't over tighten your line, allow a bigger 'belly' of line just above the waves to stop you being dragged in. If you still have a big problem try shortening your cast to reduce tidal pressure on your line...some day's on a big spring tide with heavy surf the sea wins.
Look at your tackle, what line do you use? a lighter thinner main line, say 15lb will reduce tidal pressure, then a twenty foot shock leader will act like a 'chain on a anchor' this will help you hold bottom, I hope this helps.
What I reported this day a year ago...we can dream...
Good fishing in spite of 'may water' (21 April)
I had this report from Becky Lee Hodges fishing yesterday...
"So at it again today this time at Dengemarsh. Lots of tide and quite a bit of may weed. Still had 7 bass three sizeable and two flounder. Nice tan, a warm day and a few fish."
What I reported this day a year ago...we can dream...
What a beautiful baby...(20 April)
Hi Tony.
I have had some responses to my 'A Winter's tale' here is one from Martin...and yes the story was true...
Another effort to try and make this time more bearable...
My fish of the week...( 31 March )
Lets go fishing...No!...( 26 March )
On a wider point should fisherman go fishing in this crisis. I have seen on social media people saying they would go fishing as 'exercise'...but imagine the chaos if we all did that.
News just in from the DAA...( 21 March )
"Dungeness Angling Association news. In order to promote and assist social distancing for our members and our outlets, we are extending indefinately the current membership year which was due to finish at the end of this month. The existing padlock on the EA gate will not be changed so if you purchased a key for 2019/20 it will continue to work. If you do not have a key, you can still loan one for the duration of your visit from the usual outlets. If you have recently joined for 2020 and purchased a new key, we are afraid it will not yet work but your new membership will allow you to loan one from an outlet. Please return the loan keys at the end of your session. ALL COMPETITIONS AND JUNIOR MEETS ARE NOW CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. On the plus side, sea fishing is the ideal way of getting out for fresh air while maintaining social distance. The bass will turn up very soon, there are plenty of dogfish... Which taste lovely if you Google how to skin them and there are a lot of rays at Dymchurch and Hythe when this easterly wind stops. From all of us at DAA, tight lines and stay safe. No excuse now not to clean your reels and make a few rigs."
We all need a ray of light...( 21 March )
Kenneth...keep your distance...( 21 March )
Corona-19 update...( 20 March )
Good turnout...in spite of...( 19 March )
1st john smith
2nd mick lewis
3rd mick reynolds
Well done all that fished
Next match is subject to virus restrictions"
Neil getting away from it all... ( 15 March )
Big tides...and big doggies... ( 12 March )
Well done Neil Collison...at last a report from Dungeness tonight...
"Hi Tony went behind the boats today with my brother ,we caught 6 doggies all good size 2 dabs a few pin whiting and a lovely bass. All fish returned. Neil"
Just a reminder that the rescheduled WORLD DAB CHAMPIONSHIP is on the 1st of March. Book in at the Dungeness RNLI station...let's hope the weather is kinder to everybody taking part.
Every cloud has a silver lining...( 12 Feb )
I had this report tonight from Don...
I had this report in from Mike Shine last night...
I had this further report in from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. Following on from my last email. This is the underside of that large dogfish I had. I don't think it's a bull huss but I'm not totally sure as the spots were small. Many thanks. Neil"...spots and blotches can vary...I usually go by the 'nasal flaps'...do they go down to the mouth or make a 'w' shape as on a bull huss...looking at the photo I'm not sure. We did have a some huss reported a few years ago...it would be nice to see them back.
The dogfish are getting bigger...( 09 Feb )
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. Fished between the point and the station today. Used frozen lug, squid and bluey. Mainly dogfish today with one unusual one that was huge with dark colouration (not shown). Also had dabs and a rockling that tried to swallow a 4/0 hook and a bait the same size as it. Only 1 pin whiting all day so it looks like they're thinning out a bit. The right distance seemed to be around 30-50 yards out with not much at range or in close. Thanks for the bait today and will speak soon. Regards. Neil."
Just a lovely day on the beach...( 06 Feb )
I had this report in from Kevin Warden this afternoon...
"I fished the point from 11 until 3.30 pm today. No bites until the last couple of casts then a dogfish,2 dabs and 2 pin whiting. Bait was awful but not from Seagull. A lovely day nonetheless."
WDC...It's been blown off...( 05 Feb )
I have just seen this post from Simon Newman of the DAA...
"POSTPONED..... Tronixpro WDC. We are sorry to announce that this Sundays WDC has been postponed due to expected severe and dangerous weather conditions. The event shall now take place on Sunday 1st March, registration 0800 - 1000 and fishing from 1100 until 1600. We are very sorry for any inconvenience this will cause especially to everyone who has made travel arrangements and booked accommodation. This decision has not been taken lightly but with the forcast showing 60 mph onshore winds, there really is no other option. We very much hope to see you on the 1st March."
If you fancy a paddle...( 02 Feb )
I saw this reminder posted by Terry Carpenter of the DAA...
"Dungeness Veterans next fishing is on.
Wed 5th Feb .start fishing at 18.30pm...Meet at Littlestone wall"
The forecast is a bit windy...( 02 Feb )
I saw this posted by Simon Newman who runs the DAA Dab World Championships due to be fished on Sunday...
"Tronixpro WDC UPDATE : We have received a number of calls and messages regarding the inclement long range weather forecast for next Sundays World Dab Fishing Championships. A decision will be made Thursday lunchtime based on the more accurate 3 day forecast. The decision will be based on primarily safety but also comfort. We would appreciate it if you could help by sharing this information to the fishing pages and forums you use. Many thanks, DAA."

Some like it wet and windy...( 27 Jan )
A nice mixed bag for Joe...( 27 Jan )
The old saying...wind = fish ( Jan 26)
A starry, starry night...( Jan 19)
As the tide turned flounders and dabs began to show, biggest flattie was 31cm...
Was a strange night, as the tide climbed the beach the bites slowed...
For a bit of fun I rigged up a pulley pennel rig with a whole sprat as bait... Only to catch a 24cm flattie.........The only downer to the night which was disturbing was our eastern European friends....Every fish they hooked was thrown up the beach to die... Clearly they was lobbing them In the wrong direction... Even doggies deserve a right to survive.. the beach was littered with dead fish! Appalling! Disturbing!
I had this report in last night from Andrew Elsey...
"Had couple of dabs out and whiting from fishermen beach"
Showing Ashley how to do it...( Jan 12)
"Hi Tony. Went pevensey bay today. It was triple shots of whiting from the start. Managed a few dabs in between and one small flounder. It went dead at high tide and stayed that way till about 2 then the pin whiting made an appearance which was my signal to leave. Nice day day on the shore tho and will get back to dungy soon. Many thanks. Neil"
Strangely I had some scales in my box which I found a while ago. Bought them a few years back when I used to take people fishing in case they accidentally caught something worth weighing….so I actually had the chance to try them out! I estimated the fish to be 6-7lb, and was quite surprised to see the needle dragged down to exactly 9lb. Were a few stones still stuck to it’s slimy belly, so I’m taking to be about 8 1/2lb….not big by undulate standards but who cares..I actually caught one!!
Returned it to fight another day and carried on feeling rather chuffed.
Loads of fish for the 'Vets'... (11 Jan)
I had this report in from Terry Carpenter...the first DAA Veterans match of the year took place last Wednesday in not very pleasant conditions...hence the turn out...
Dungeness won't be the same... (6 Jan)
I had some sad news over the weekend...Anthony sent me a photo...after many years of leaning over the sixties wooden Diamond shaped trawler mark...just below the power stations so well known to Dungeness beach anglers, has fallen over 'giving up the fight' with the eroding beach...
Daa vets 1st match 2020 is Wed 8th jan at 19.30pm
Meet at Littlestone 18.45pm"
Southern Circuit Sea Angling Society
2. Dave Andrews - 18 fish, 11lb 5.5ozs
3. Lionel Watson - 14 fish, 10lb 12.5ozs
4. Martin Humphries - 20 fish, 10lb 9ozs
5. Stephen Crimmins - 12 fish, 10lb 2ozs
6. Martin Jenkins - 14 fish, 10lb 0ozs
7. Philip Underdown - 10 fish, 10lb 0ozs
8. Jay Hill - 6 fish, 9lb 12ozs
9. Neil Creed - 9 fish, 9lb 6ozs
10. Stephen Foster - 12 fish, 9lb 2ozs
11. Paul Cox - 13 fish, 7lb 4ozs
12. Les Bates - 12 fish, 7lb 11ozs
13. David Hough - 9 fish, 7lb 10.5ozs
14. David Simon Bullock - 9 fish, 7lb 9ozs
15. Steve Richards - 10 fish, 6lb 13ozs
16. Becky Lee - 13 fish, 4lb 14.5ozs
17. Alan Jarrett - 6 fish, 3lb 10ozs
18. Lewis Clarke - 10 fish, 3lb 7.5ozs
19. Jonathan Creed - 5 fish, 2lb 13ozs
20. Keith Neame - 4 fish, 2lb 10ozs
21. Paul Jarrett - 7 fish, 1lb 13ozs
22. Sean Brown - 0 fish
I had this report in this afternoon from Phil Mahoney...
"Fished Imperial Hotel end of Hythe Friday 3rd January from 3.30 p.m till around 9 p.m. plenty of bites Whiting and some good size Dogs . Was a clear evening plenty of stars with no rain thankfully . Very pleasurable evening just never know when to pack up there's always one more fish to be caught.
Welcome to the start of 2020...will the fishing be better or worse...with the changing climate only time will tell...but I'm looking forward to the 'roaring twenties'.
DAA 'Vets' 2019...a great year (31 Dec)
Here are the results of the last DAA 'Vets' match of 2019 and the final league positions...well done John Smith on a great comeback to win the league...
Beautiful Day...great turnout...(30 Dec)
Yesterday we held the 2nd Nick Burton's Memorial match at Galloways. Nick was a popular local angler who was taken before his time...he loved Galloways and yesterday was tremendous weather and turnout, 34 anglers, Nicks friends competed for Nick's memorial trophy. Superbly run and organised by my mate Steve Harvey for the second year. Here are the results posted by Steve last night...
"Results for today's match at galloways ....
1st...Alex Veel 1.46 dogfish
2nd Dorian Partridge..1.42 dogfish
3rd Roy Godden ...1.32 dogfish
4th Trevor Froud ...1.16 dogfish
33 anglers and 1 donation ...means we raised £340 for the RNLI ...Thankyou to all who fished and donated ....hope to do this again next year"
A 'battered' Dengemarsh...(29 Dec)
I had this report in last night from Steve Latham...
I had this report in from Kevin Warden last night...no photos so far...but I'm intrigued...long shot but it could be a couches bream...the sea is still quite warm...
"Hi Tony. Was back at langney point today after being gifted a day off between the festivities! Had whiting all day long. Most were pins but had a few sizeable ones in between. When the tide started retreating the onslaught wained enough for the dabs to start coming through with a few nice ones included. Very calm day down there and quite warm considering the time of year. Will speak soon and if I don't see you before, happy new year! All the best. Neil."
It was a beautiful morning...(26 Dec)
I had this report in this morning from Ian Milligan, who fished Christmas day...I think Ian that's a flounder...
Wishing you all a nice day tomorrow, enjoy yourselves! I will be open 'Boxing Day' for a couple of hours in the morning then back in on Friday as usual...open Saturday but closed Sunday to fish the 'Nick Burton Memorial Match'.
A nice Xmas present for Craig...(22 Dec)
I had this great report in from Craig last night...well done for going...the fish are there...
"We decided that we would make a trip to deal and fish the pier. The first time back to deal in 2 years. With a 11.30 high tide we arrived at 9.00 am no other anglers in sight was this a bad sign. No we pleased to say, it started a little slow as the tide was rising just a few small pout and pin Whiting. Hit high tide and the larger Whiting and some very nice dogs turned up. Fishing black lug and squid cocktails doing the job, they didn't seem to be to interested in any fish bait strange. Between the two of us we had 30 whiting 7 of them were keepers and 10 dogs and 6 pout well worth the drive from the city. The lads running the pier now supply you with a bivvy table so you don't mess up the new bench planking return them at the end of your session. There are still areas out there that are snaggy we lost 5 rigs between the pair of us and £6 for two cups of coke from the now restaurant at the end of the pier. You wont get a bacon butty to take away cos they don't do take away, lar de dah.
November DAA Vets match results (5 Dec)
Here are the results from the last Vets match...better late than never...special thanks to Terry Carpenter who keeps the show on the road...
Yes it was cold...but enjoyable... (1 Dec)
I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell fishing Langley Point...famous as a big fish venue from the seventies...
"Hi Tony. Gave langney point a go today. Managed a handful of whiting also caught pout, school bass and dab as the sun went down. Very cold and a choppy sea but enjoyable to get out. Will speak soon. Neil"
It's just nice to get a report... (30 Nov)
I had this report in from Kevin Warden on Thursday night...
Nice to see the kids having fun... (18 Nov)
I had this report in last night from Terry Carpenter of the DAA Juniors...
"Morning Tony, we held our annual pub fishing comp at Hythe yesterday, a very enjoyable day.
Mainly whiting, but good sport.
One 10 Oz plaice, one doggy of good size.
The comp was won by Wayne Evans with a lovely thornback of 5lb 8oz. Sorry no pic's. Cheers. Del Phipp."
Just had this update from Jonathan Masters...
Wayne’s Thornback from yesterday.
Plenty of fish for Neil... (17 Nov)
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell last night...
"Hi Tony. Cheers for the bait. Went behind the station today. Had a total whiting fest from the start with double shots every cast. At high water it all went dead then on the drop it all started up again with the whiting thinning out enough to let a few dabs through. Some of the Whiting were big and fell to everything including 2 whole squid pennel hooked! The live bait rig didn't yield anything big but will try again. Thanks again and will speak soon. Neil."
DAA Vets match next week... (14 Nov)
I saw a reminder from Terry Carpenter...
"DAA Veterans next match is on Wed 20th November
Start fishing at 3.30pm at Littlestone"
Dab World Champs 2020... (6 Nov)
I had this update in from Simon Newman...
Bass catch & release... (2 Nov)
Just a reminder for those going fishing tomorrow after the 'blow' bass is back to catch & release...
"Recreational fisheries, including from shore, in ICES divisions 4b, 4c, 6a, 7a to 7k are limited to catch-and-release only during 01 February to 31 March and 1 November to 31 December 2019. From 1 April to 31 October 2019, not more than one seabass may be retained per fisherman per day." Quote from Sussex IFCA.
A perfect ten for Colin... (29 Oct)
I had this report this morning from Colin Hemsworth...
I had this report in last night from Mafia Muziq...
"Fished dungeness last night wow it was so calm and relaxing not a breeze in sight was hoping for a bass or two ended up with 47 whitings felt like Xmas all I had was just white stuff it snowed whitings ha ha it's better than having a blank session thanks they even took whole mackerels. Didn't take any photo we all know what they look like smerk"
Nick's match...second year... (27 Oct)
We are looking forward to the 'Nick Burton Memorial Match' this December to honor Nicks memory...
A lovely 'plump' bass for Andy... (26 Oct)
I had this in Andrew Elsey at the beginning of the week...
"Hi Tony had two bass and some nice whiting yesterday fished near the boats"
DAA 'Vets' match on results... (26 Oct)
Here are the results from last Wednesdays 'Vets' match, also current league placings...
DAA 'Vets' match on Wednesday (20 Oct)
Don't forget the next 'Vets' match is this Wednesday ( 23 October) kick off 6.15pm. tides are short so it could be a 'frozen' lug match...or get your 'pump' out.
Plenty of fish about at Dungeness (20 Oct)
I had this report in from John this afternoon...
"Hi. Thanks for the bait yesterday. Worked really well. 27 whiting and this cod between the two of us. John."
Langney Point...round two (20 Oct)
I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell having another go at Langney Point...back in the day this was a favorite cod spot...I used to fish it...err forty years ago!...
"Hi Tony. Thought I would try langney point in eastbourne again to see if I could winkle out another cod. Not this time but SAS kept busy throughout the day with whiting again. Also had dab, school bass and pouting including a bug grand daddy pout. Was another fun day on the beach. Will speak soon. Neil."
Just for a change...Neil tried... (16 Oct)
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell yesterday...
"Hi Tony. Got a week off so decided to make the most of the weather window and fished langney point in eastbourne today up through high tide and an couple of hours down. Total whiting fest throughout the day with double shots every cast. Also managed a brace of plaice and a small unicorn! Great day in all. Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil."
Non stop for Philip... (15 Oct)
I had this report yesterday from Philip Lammin...
"Just to say weather was great after the blow on Friday so decided to fish the morning high on Saturday straight blacks all day resulting in some nice sized whiting and some nice bass biggest just being under 4lb, all in all a good day and non stop action"
Three weeks = 9 codling... (14 Oct)
I had this report in today from Colin Hemsworth...
And another one hits the shingle... (10 Oct)
"Afternoon Tony, caught off the boards two hours after HW today"
Eight in two weeks... (7 Oct)
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell last night...
"Hi Tony. Thanks for the bait today and the tripod. I like the extending legs which works well for the long continental rod. Speaking of which I'm still to christen it as today was another blank. The baits were stripped back to bare hooks the moment they hit the sea bed by the crabs. I know it was easterly winds again but I was hoping the persistent south westerlys over the last week would have kept the fish in but it would appear not to be! Thanks again and will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil"
Lots more fish for the DAA Vets... (1 Oct)
I bet Colin was by himself... (30 Sept)

Hard work for Steve... (21 Sept)
Thanks to Terry Carpenter of the DAA or the results of our last match (4 Sept)
I have at last posted the results of our last DAA Veterans match with the current league positions...
DAA vets next match is on wed 25th at Littlestone. Start fishing at 7.45 pm
A lovely bass for Jack... (16 Sept)
I had this report in from Terry Carpenter of the DAA last night...
"Dungeness Juniors had their September meet today .it was lovely and sunny with a light breeze blowing .The juniors fished Littlestone and had a few whiting & a flounder with the biggest fish going to jack who caught a lovely bass well done to all that fished"
A bit of fun in the sun... (15 Sept)
I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. I went back to samphire hoe today for some fun on the light gear. Didn't have anything big but was kept entertained all day with ballan and corkwing wrasse, blennies and pout. Used float, beach casting methods and straight down the wall. All of which worked. No fish on the lures this time. Bait was simply big ragworm which done the trick. Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil"
You first have to go fishing... (06 Sept)
I saw this report from Simon Newman posted on facebook last night...for all those on social media saying there is no point in going fishing because there is no fish out there...think again...
"Dear Diary. Is this the end of my sole searching season? A session tonight at Hastings with mssrs Tim Knight and Vince Brooks. Tim won the biggest sole sweep with the only sole of the night at 29 cm. It was however a whiting fest... At all ranges within seconds of the bait hitting the water. In reality, any sole there didn't have a chance of getting anywhere near the bait. What was most interesting is that Mr Brooks caught 3....yes THREE codling. Two were very small but one would have been legally a keeper at about 2 lb. Hastings... The new cod mecca on the South Coast. Who'd have thought it aye? (all cod were safely and carefully returned to the sea..... To be caught in nets when slightly bigger)."
Sorry for the late posting... (04 Sept)
I had the results in from Alex Veel of the DAA...sorry for the late posting...
How to catch a nice bass... (01 Sept)
I had this report in this morning from Colin Hemsworth...welcome back Colin nice to see you haven't lost your touch...
I have decided as the tides are getting better (and so is the fishing)...and we should have some fresh bait!...to open the shop on Thursday (from 9am till 2pm).
Just fill your boots... (26 Aug)
I saw this posted last night by Alex Veel of the DAA...
"Just back from the match, few Whiting & a single dog carded for those that fished the boards (consolation prize was the Mackerel).
Point, and East off, had better luck with good bags of dogs & Whiting.
Got a few meals & the freezer stocked up 😊 🎣
Full match results tomorrow." I had a phone call late last night from Anthony out on Peganina as he came back in to Rye harbour he told me the mouth of the river was heaving with mackerel...more than he has ever seen before!
This is a marvelous report... (25 Aug)
I had this report in tonight from Alan...
What a cracking pair... (25 Aug)
I had this report in from Andy this afternoon...
"43cm & 44cm Sole on consecutive casts, top bait - thanks. Andy"
Fun in the sun...nice bass (24 Aug)
I had this report in from John yesterday...
I saw this reminder from Alex Veel of the DAA this morning...cracking weather forecast...
Fishing is 5pm - 9pm.
Rover."
🎣🎣🎣
I had this report in this morning from Andrew Griffith...
"Hythe Codling last night ‘Kentish Unicorn’ just before HW on black lug. Thanks"
New minimum fish sizes (19 Aug)
The Kent & Essex IFCA have adopted last week new bylaws on fish & shellfish sizes...here is the link to the site...
https://www.kentandessex-ifca.gov.uk/im-interested-in/angling/minimum-sizes/
DAA Juniors on the beach today (18 Aug)
I had this report from Terry Carpenter of the Dungeness Angling Association Juniors who had their monthly outing today at Littlestone beach...
"Juniors had their August meet today and they caught eels , whiting, poulting, starry smooth hound, on a lovely breezy morning"
Terry had a 'dangle' himself...nice thornback...should have saved that one for next months 'Veterans' competition...
A good bass day for Neil...(18 August)
I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. Had a good day behind the station today. Caught throughout most of the day except for a lull at slack water high tide. Mostly it was school bass throughout the day up to about 40cm. Also had quite a few large dab, a couple of whiting and an eel. Maybe it's a sign of the impending season change what with dab in August who knows. Very enjoyable. Will speak soon. Neil."
This raises some interesting points, the erratic weather, climate change increasing over the last few years has changed the species we catch. All I can say is nobody knows what's round the corner...I will say is the fishing has been brilliant, and all those 'stay at homers' saying there's no fish out there, don't know what they have been missing...sad.
Seagull open Tomorrow (14 August)
I thought seeing its holiday time I would open the shop tomorrow (Thursday)...better weather forecast and yes I will have Fresh Bait...Cheers Tony.
Nice bag for Richard... (14 August)
Hooked another about an hour into the session once it had got dark, similar size. That was all for the sole. All other fish consisted of whiting, smoothound pup and an eel. Finished up about 11pm."
My favorite fish...smoothy (08 August)
Great 'happy snaps' from Tim (07 August)

Been fishing by the boats on Thursday with my brother(his first trip in 11 years time lol) High to low tide
Plenty of fish about! Caught 10+ Dog fish , Whiting and a couple of Dover Sole with the biggest of 37cm. It was a great and busy afternoon to be out! Andrej"
DAA Juniors...well done George...(21 July)
I had this report in tonight from Terry Carpenter who runs the Dungeness Angling Association (DAA) Juniors, who had their meet today...
"Daa juniors had their july meet today sun 21st at duneness. It was a bright sunny morning with a nice breeze blowing. Fishing was slow but most caught whitting, with george catching a nice dog fish on his last cast. Well done to the ten who fished."
Tough going for Colin...next time (21 July)
I had this report just in from Colin Hemsworth...
I had this report in from Paul Joy this morning...
"Hi Tony,had this beast last night,10min before I was leaving, just over 11lb. took me for a 50 yard walk,to land it . Taken less than 15ft from the low Mark,on half mackerel,pulley pennel,and 8/0, sakuma,a new pb for me, I'm over the moon,

Well done Ben on putting it back (19 July)
I had this report come in last night from Ben...what great fun to end the day...
"I took my friend fishing for the first time, we had absolutely no bites at all for 6 hours then on the last cast... we hooked this beauty on a whole squid! What was more spectacular is that I had set up an 8ft spinning rod with 10lb line and a small j hook for flatties. Put a squid on for a laugh, and got the shock of my life! It took a good while to land it, and it spat the hook on the pebbles! We let it go, after some photos. Lucky last cast aye!"
Hard going for the DAA 'Vets'...(14 July)
Here are the results from last Wednesdays DAA 'Vets' Match...Well done Steve (Foss) Foster...tough going...next match September after the summer break...
A big summer high tide at Dungy...(7 July)
This report came in this afternoon from Ben Webb...
Here are the lasted DAA 'Vets' match results (sorry for the delay) from the 12th of June....next match July 10th 4.30pm. start...
I'm going to need bigger hooks...(1 July)
I saw this posted on social media the other day...from John Bunting of 'Kent Birding Group'...

A lovely summer sole...(28 June)
I had this report in late last night from Kenneth England...
"Off the Scale"...just the picture...nothing else, venue etc...but it is a beautiful fish.
A great June trip for Mike...(24 June)
I had this report in from Mike Shine on Sunday after his trip down on Friday...don't believe the 'keyboard' fishermen, the fishing has been great...you could be in for a surprise...
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell Saturday night...
"Hi Tony. Went back to samphire hoe today as the weather was just right for this venue. Had the usual small wrasse and pout and 1 dogfish. Used a mixture of rag, feathers and lures catching on all. Nice day to be down by the sea. Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil."
A cracking sole for Kris...(21 June)
I had this report from Kris Hatton a couple of days ago (almost missed it)...
Sunday is for enjoying yourself...(18 June)
Another photo from Luke Jeffery from last Sundays session..."And this was the pic of the other flatty caught on Sunday 16 June"
Big waves...strong winds = fish...(18 June)
I had this report in yesterday from Luke Jeffery...
I had great report in from Colin Hemsworth this morning who had a nice session in the west bay on Saturday...
I saw these results of last weekends DAA match...posted by Alex Veel...
As long as you enjoy yourself... (11 June)
I had this report in today from Johnny Boone...
"Paid dungeness a visit Sunday only six fish caught enjoyed the day none the less two dogfish, two whiting one flounder and a first for me at dungeness a small smoothhound"
Then the bass turned up... (11 June)
I had this report come in yesterday from Jamie Mitchell...
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell Saturday night...
"Hi Tony. Thanks for the bait today. We all have bad days and today's was mine. My only fishing window was Saturday during the day so looked for somewhere out of the wind. Started fishing behind the boats to get out of the strong south westerly even though the wind on my back was difficult to deal with. Started with the rods on the tripod up high to avoid the waves but this caused problems with the seagulls diving on the food items washed up by the sea so had to have the lines down low. Managed to cut the skin off my knuckle with a pair of scissors when I was blown off balance by a sudden gust of wind and then later on broke a rod while casting out. I finally gave up when the lead was being beached by the tide around 2:30. Managed a handful of school bass throughout so at least I saved a blanked! I'll be in soon to buy a new rod as the old one literally splintered beyond repair. Thanks again for the bait and will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil."
Reminder, 'Vets' match next week (8 June)
Here are the results from the last 'Vets' match ( 29th May)...the next round is next Wednesday June 12th start 6.15pm. Well done Cliff Furr in tough conditions.
A change can make a difference... (2 June)
I had this report in tonight from Alex Whittlesea (AKA Shirley Codling)...
"Hi Tony
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell who was out yesterday...
"Hi Tony. Went back to samphire hoe to look for more pollack today. Only found one on the lure but had 30 odd fish again mainly including ballan and corkwing wrasse, pout and blennies. The action didn't stop all day. Bait was just rag again. Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil."
Don't forget DAA Vets Wednesday (27 May)
I saw this the other day from Terry Carpenter...
"Dungeness Veterans fishing wed 29th at 7pm at littlestone wall"...Arsenal are playing Chelsea, the final of the 'Europa' cup...kick off 8pm...for me Arsenal won!
Clear water, rising tide...= crabs (26 May)
I had this report in from Colin Hemsworth this morning...

I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. Had a fun day down samphire hoe today. Armed with just ragworm and a couple of lure rods I lost count of the amount of fish I had including Ballan wrasse, corkwings, goldsinney, pouting, blenny, and Pollack right at the end of about a pound. Was also treated to an aerial display by a spitfire all day to add to the enjoyment. May have got a bit burnt but walked away happy. Will speak soon. Regards. Neil."
I had this report in this afternoon from Terry Carpenter of the DAA...
"DAA juniors had there may meet today at Littlestone on rather grey & breezy sunday morning.
Eight young fisherfolk caught dogfish and smoothhounds no whitting turned up
but the juniors enjoyed a nice mornings fishing."
Neil's battling with the crabs... (19 May)
I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell...spider crabs give me the 'willies'...
"Hi Tony. I had an away day at Brighton today. Used lug, squid and bluey looking for Ray's and bream. Managed two plaice the size of my hand and a dab. The good news is the may rot looks like it is subsiding however the crabs are out in force. I saw a few mackerel coming to feathers as well. Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil"
I had a customer pop in this morning (James Ellis) to pick up some bait and he told me last Sunday he had a good day at Dungeness, best fish a bass of 8lb 12oz, he showed me a photo on his phone I asked James to copy it to me...here it is...beautiful fish best I have had reported this year...so far!
Tough
going for Neil... (07 May)
I had this
report in this morning from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi
Tony. Got a double report for you from this weekend. Went Norman's Bay in east
sussex on Saturday. Conditions were tough with the sea an orangy yellow colour
from all the may rot. Managed to scratch out dogfish and a rockling. Today I
went samphire hoe with a bit of lure fishing in mind. Again it was tough with
just the one wrasse to show for my efforts. I don't know what it is but I'm
really struggling this year so far. Hopefully it picks up later in the year.
Its not through lack of trying! Lol. Will speak soon. Regards. Neil."
Disappointing turnout for match... (06 May)
I had this report in last night from Alex Veel of the DAA...
"Hi Tony, Please find attached todays results and updated league table....
Cheers Alex"
Cracking
early bass session... (05 May)
I had this report in this evening from Arkam Belhouchet...
"Hi Tony
Plenty of bass showing up yesterday.squid sorted the good ones out( 6
sizable)"
Plenty of fish and May rot... (05 May)
I had this report in this morning from Colin Hemsworth...
"Hi Tony,
I fished Dengemarsh yesterday, arrived a few hours before HT and set up
two rods loaded with fresh lug. Conditions were wet and windy at times, but
casting was fine with the NE winds, the sea on the other hand was like soup
with all the rot in the water which stuck to the line in globules and caused a
lot of drag. Fishing was a bit quiet to start but picked up, first catch was a
whiting and a bass, followed by dogfish, flounder, plaice, another bass a dab
and more whiting. All fish were close in on lug. Thanks for the great lug and
will be down soon. Colin"
DAA match
this Sunday... (02 May)
I saw this post
from Alex Veel of the DAA...
Reminder
time....
Our
next DAA league match is this coming Sunday (5th). This is the replacement
fixture for the cancelled match on 21st April.
Sign in
is at the gate 9:30am - 10am. We will then drive round in convoy to the
overspill carpark & fish behind the Powerstation. This will be a pegged
match.
Fishing is 11am - 3pm.
Vets results & standings... (26 April)
Disappointing turnout for match... (06 May)
I had this report in last night from Alex Veel of the DAA...
Fishing is 11am - 3pm.
I had this report in last night from Shaun Brough...
"Hi Tony:
I hope you are well. A couple of catch reports for you and your readers
from over the bank holiday weekend.
We fished up to the midday high tide on Good Friday. Caught a nice bass
first cast 1.5lbs (returned) and then nothing for the rest of the session.
Returned on Saturday night and had two bass (the best 2lb) and four
whiting. Pic of the biggest bass attached.
Plenty of bass about over the past year and it seems those EU rules are
improving stocks. Please can you remind us what the rules are at the moment
(it’s one per session and has to be 42 cm I think?).
All fish fell to lug. The tide ran strong and it was hard to hold the
bottom (even with 200 grm/7oz grapple leads). Any tips on how to keep the bait
out there in strong tides would be greatly received. Best Shaun
B"
Yes Shaun, you are right from the first of April till the thirty first
of October you are allowed to retain one bass over 42 centimetre per day.
Holding bottom can be a challenge, try walking 'uptide' a bit before you
cast (if you have space), don't over tighten your line, allow a bigger 'belly'
of line just above the waves to stop you being dragged in. If you still have a
big problem try shortening your cast to reduce tidal pressure on your line...some
day's on a big spring tide with heavy surf the sea wins.
Look at your tackle, what line do you use? a lighter thinner main line,
say 15lb will reduce tidal pressure, then a twenty foot shock leader will act
like a 'chain on a anchor' this will help you hold bottom, I hope this
helps.
Reminder for the DAA 'Vets' (22 April)
This Wednesday 24th April...the 4th round of the DAA Veterans Series. Fishing 1.30pm to 4.30pm meet at 1pm at Littlestone Wall, high tide 15.07, weather forecast, a bit more breezy southerly wind and light cloud cover.
Great weather for the Juniors (22 April)
I had this report in last night from
Terry Carpenter of the DAA with his report of the Juniors match...
"The Daa Juniors had their april meet today.
We had 11young fisher folk. fishing behind fairchance on a lovely sunny
morning .
All caught fish mainly doggies with a couple of whitting and rockling.
Well done to all that fished"
All caught fish mainly doggies with a couple of whitting and rockling.
Well done to all that fished"
Good fishing in spite of 'may water' (21 April)
I had this report from Becky Lee Hodges
fishing yesterday...
"So at it again today this time at Dengemarsh.
Lots of tide and quite a bit of may weed. Still had 7 bass three sizeable and
two flounder. Nice tan, a warm day and a few fish."
You just
don't know what's next...(21 April)
I had this report in this morning from Alan Mills...
"Fished
Pevensey Bay last night, not seen this before, 2 thornies on the same
bait"
Beautiful mackerel weather...(20 April)
I had this report in this morning from
Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. Thanks for the bait today. I fished denge marsh from 10am
to 5:30pm. Fished with 3 rods using lug, sandeels and herring. No bites for
most of the day but managed a solitary flounder at 4:30 and that was it.
Someone next to me had a string of mackerel so they must be about! The may weed
and bright conditions didn't make it easy but saved a blank anyway. Also got
the tan going for this year as well! Will speak soon. Many thanks.
Neil"
What a beautiful baby...(20 April)
More flatties in the sun...(20 April)
I had this report in from Tony Holland this afternoon...
In front of the power station...(14 April)
I had this report in from today from Simon Drury...
Plenty of fun in the sun...(13 April)
A nice mixed bag for Mick...(13 April)
DAA match posponed...(12 April)
High tide: 12:01pm (7.37m)
Fishing: 11am - 3pm, pegged at Powerstation.
We had a brilliant trip today(sat)near Eastbourne,between the two of us we had 12 plaice from small up to 2lb 3oz,3 doggies and a very summery starry smoothound or two and even a couple of schoolie bass."
Tough going in the sun...(26 March)
The sun shines on Steve...(25 March)
1st Stephen Echo Harvey 1 fish 100pts
2nd Dorian Partridge 1 fish 38pts
3rd Paul Mortlock 1 fish 12pts
Fishing is 11am - 3pm.
Hopefully this settled weather will gave brought the Plaice back into the bay"
I had this report in Sunday night from Terry Carpenter...well done Terry tough conditions for the youngsters...
"Dungeness Juniors had their meet today Sun 10 march on a very windy morning .
9 brave juniors fished Littlestone for not a great reward only rockling caught but every one managed to catch.
Good to see 2 new faces at this meet, thanks to all that fished
Next meet is Sun 21st April (yes Easter Sunday so you can bring your Easter eggs ) meet at pilot pub car park at 10.4am"
Tough conditions...big bags...(10 March)
Just had these results in from Paul Jarrett of last nights Southern Circuit Sea Angling Society match at Dungeness...
2. Michael Ferrier - 23 fish, 24lb 8.5ozs
3. Keith Neame - 15 fish, 23lb 13.5ozs
4. Sam Collier - 22 fish, 22lb 7.5ozs
5. Steve Richards - 18 fish, 19lb 10ozs
6. Dave Sales - 15 fish, 15lb 10ozs
7. Les Bates - 14 fish, 14lb 15.5ozs
8. Stephen Foster - 12 fish, 14lb 11ozs
9. Wesley Cheeseman - 12 fish, 13lb 14ozs
10. Paul Jarrett - 14 fish, 13lb 2.5ozs
11. Ashley Brown - 15 fish, 12lb 4.5ozs
12. Philip Underdown - 9 fish, 9lb 3ozs
13. Alan Jarrett - 9 fish, 5lb 8.5ozs
14. Tony Taylor - 4 fish, 2lb 1ozs
15. Jay Hill - 0 fish
Summers coming... (08 March)
DAA Juniors match, Sunday (04 March)
Mixed bag for Neil...( 03 March)
Had a little session with Becky Lee at Dymchurch last night.
We got there just before dark & set up 2 rods each & with no wind & a nice calm sea everything look spot on. I was using a Pulley Rig on 1 rod & an up & over rig on the other rod. Becky was using up & over rigs on both her rods. I had Bluey & Launce with me & Becky had both as well as Herring.
Becky was the first to have a bite on her first cast, but missed it. Then it was quite until just after low when the tide just started to move & I had a nice slack line bite which resulted in a nice plump Ray of between 8-9lb (second photo). Becky then followed that up with a couple of Rays around the 5lb mark & I had the usual Dogfish. After about an hour I had another slack line bite which resulted in another small Ray around the 4-5lb mark. Becky had another Ray around the same weight & after that it went quiet again.
We ended up with 5 Rays, 5 Dogs & only 1 solitary Whiting.
A good night with a good friend."
Old bait...its all down to the smell ( 20 Feb)
Phil...shows them the way...( 19 Feb)
I fished Dengemarsh on Saturday and after a bit of a break it was good to be out on the beach. Bait was frozen lug and squid which have been in my freezer for about a year. I arrived to a deserted beach with no one in sight and walked to the spot, really calm conditions with very light Sw winds. It was slow going at first with baits coming back untouched until the first fish in the afternoon, a nice flounder. With the tide on the rise more fish started to bite, I noticed the rod tip twitching and reeled in to feel a bit of weight and even a good tug from the other end on the fairly stiff zippy so I hoped for something sizeable. A good sized plaice appeared out of the surf, after that a few more flounder then as it got dark it was dab after dab and and not a single whiting caught all session! A really enjoyable day on the beach and looking forward to spring, will be down for another go soon. Colin"
Beautiful weather...well done...( 18 Feb)
Great weights for February...( 17 Feb)
2. Keith Neame - 29 fish, 18lb 5.5ozs
3. Michael Ferrier - 22 fish, 17lb 14ozs
4. Les Bates - 24 fish, 17lb 11.5ozs
5. Neil Creed - 28 fish, 15lb 5ozs
6. Dave Sales - 27 fish, 14lb 8ozs
7. Paul Jarrett - 37 fish, 13lb 12.5ozs
8. Wesley Cheeseman - 36 fish, 13lb 9ozs
9. Ashley Brown - 28 fish, 13lb 1ozs
10. Philip Underdown - 54 fish, 12lb 12ozs
11. Stephen Foster - 15 fish, 10lb 12ozs
12. Steve Richards - 22 fish, 10lb 7ozs
13. Lewis Clarke - 21 fish, 10lb 0.5ozs
14. Tony Taylor - 25 fish, 8lb 4ozs
15. David Simon Bullock - 26 fish, 7lb 12ozs
16. Alan Jarrett - 22 fish, 7lb 5ozs
17. Jay Hill - 14 fish, 3lb 2.5ozs
18. Louis Clarke - 10 fish, 2lb 12.5ozs
Took Devan beach fishing for the first time and he pulled in a lovely big dab i think, which we took home and he cooked and enjoyed himself. Not Bad for only 9 years old. Think ive got him hooked!"
Valentines at Dungeness...(15 Feb)
Becky Lee...a real dab hand...(12 Feb)
World Dab Championship
I saw this from Simon Newman on Sunday night. Simon posted the results on facebook. What a great turnout for the 'Dungeness World Dab Championship'...I was told 154 anglers took part...a great turnout for these days. Well done Simon...as usual a great event...
After the storm... (10 Feb)
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell out today...
"Hi Tony. Thanks for the bait today. Didn't have a very good day in all. Found a spot behind the station and managed to fish it for about an hour before admitting defeat due to the conditions. The weed was mainly made up of smashed up shellfish which led me to believe the fish were preoccupied with chasing this rather than anglers baits hence my baits coming back untouched everytime. Also found it difficult holding bottom due to the big swells. Decided to salvage the last of my day at Littlestone wall which was sheltered from the wind and much calmer. Managed to scratch out a dogfish and a whiting before it all went dead at high tide. I guess it was just one of those days (for me at least). Will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil"
Fishing is a funny old game Neil...last week loads of dabs reported...come the day of the 'World Dab Championship'...and you couldn't buy one!
Nice to have 9 keepers on Sunday (06 Feb)
Some nice dabs, and dogs...(05 Feb)
Next Sunday...the big one...(04 Feb)
A blast from the past...(03 Feb)
What a nice bag of dabs... (01 Feb)
Dogfish are off the menu (31 Jan)
"Hi fished near the boats again saturday another enjoyable day 27 whiting some knocking 1LB,8 dabs again 3 nearing the 1LB mark and 1 rockling ,no dogfish this time round"
Great day for Steve (29 Jan)
I saw this report yesterday from Steve Field..."Some proper fishing at a deserted Dungie today , didn’t have one blank cast . Loads of double shots of dogs and plenty of over 25cm Dabs so looking bang on for WDC"
Dungeness...you never know (29 Jan)
Set a sprat to catch a...( 27 Jan)
I had this report in yesterday from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. I went for langney point in eastbourne today seing as the M20 was shut and couldn't be bothered with yet more traffic. Started just after the flood tide with the baits coming back in tact then about 2 hours in had a small plaice and it all came to life after that with a mixture of dabs and whiting one of which had a still live sprat in its mouth! Some of the whiting were big along with a couple of the dabs. The bites started to tail off at high water so I packed up around 3. Nice mild day down on the sea front in all with not too much wind. Will speak soon. Regards. Neil"
Don't forget your 'thermals'...( 24 Jan) I saw this on the DAA page, from Alex Veel of the DAA...** Match Reminder ** Morning all, just a reminder our next match is this Sunday (27th). Sign in at the gate 12pm - 12:30pm. Fish 1:30pm - 5:30pm. Rover. Hope to see you all there 🎣😊🎣
I had this report in from Terry Carpenter of the DAA...
"Daa vets had their 1st match last night (wed 16th) on a windy & wet evening.
11 fished and usual fish caught i.e whiting& dog fish.
Well done all that fished."
All alone on the beach...( 18 Jan)
I had this report in Today from (childloose20) ...
At least Adam had a good time...( 14 Jan)
I had this report in this afternoon from Adam Smith...
It has been quiet this week for reports...just a 'trickle' of anglers...more going yesterday, so thanks to Johnny Boone for this report...
"Fished near the boats today enjoyable day plenty of fish in a mixed bag 36 whiting 8 dabs 6 dogfish(one about 2LB),1 rockling. fishersway"
The DAA new 'Veterans' season...( 7 Jan)
Here's another reminder from the DAA...
The New Veterans season kicks off on Wednesday the 16 Jan...The matches are 3 hour sprints, held at Littlestone Wall...easy parking, close to the beach...if your over sixty its great fun here is the full match list for more details contact Veterans Match Secretary: Terry Carpenter - 07866514138
The DAA new season starts...( 7 Jan)
I had this reminder on facebook last night from Alex Veel of the DAA...
"Evening all. Just a reminder that next Sunday (13th), we have our first match of the DAA league 2019.
Sign in is 11:30am - 12pm at the DAA gate. Fishing 1pm - 5..."
I had this report in from Neil Rodwell last night...
"Hi Tony. It was tough going behind the station today. Had a small pin whiting first cast then a dogfish in close as the tide started to drop. After that it was quiet. Had a lot of nuisance crabs to deal with up then packed around 4. The sea was like a sheet of glass and not a puff of wind all day. The northerly wind must gave pushed the fish out i guess. Cheers for the bait. Will speak soon. Neil"
I was chatting to my bait digger and he told me that morning he had spotted a crab 'peeling'...the seas are still warm...strange weather?
Galloways on target...( 3 Jan)
This report came in last night from Wayne Beale...
I had this report in from Wayne Beale this evening...
I had this report in from Harry Newbury this morning...
I had this report in Alex Hansen this morning...
"Hello
First time at Dungeness yesterday, staying in Camber with family for Christmas. Couldn’t get any bait sorted in time so resorted to metals and feathers at The Boils.
Result -this feisty little bass on a beautiful Boxing Day with the tide half way up."
I had this report in this morning...well part of it concerning Ian Milligan's report of his Christmas day fishing...if the report shows up I will publish it...
"Dear Seagull fishing. Forgot to add a few of pictures to my report sent earlier this morning." Here is the missing report...
"Here is the report that my iPad failed to send.
Fished from 07:30 to 14:30 on Xmas day to fish from low to high tide, decided to go by the boats due to the SW wind. Started catching Whiting from the start on all baits. The Whiting were of a good size and gave big knocks on the rod tip which happened as soon as the rod was put back in the rod rest after casting out. Fish were caught on lug, squid and Bluey both close in and far out. Their were diving birds all day and I heard that some sprays had been washed up on the point. Ended up with 44 Whiting 3 Dabs and 1 Dogfish"
Silent night...peaceful night... ( 24 Dec)
Well I have just got back from Dungeness (walking the dogs on the shingle) spotted two anglers fishing...lets hope with the calm moonlight they get lucky...I will be open boxing day and the rest of the week...just in case somebody wants to fishing...Have a merry Christmas and a 'fishy' New Year. Tony
I had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell...
"Hi Tony. Fished behind the station today with the easterly wind off to the side. To be honest it wasn't too bad and the wind died down as the day went on. I had bass from the offset until low water when it went dead. When the tide started moving again the bass reappeared with most fish being around the pound mark. After that it suddenly stopped again and that's how it stayed until I packed up. Used the fresh rag and frozen lug you supplied me, with the rag doing the trick most of the time. Called it quits around 3. No weed and not a whiting in site. Nice winters day on the beach in all. Cheers for the bait and will speak soon. Many thanks. Neil"
The World Dab Championship ( 11 Dec)
Here is the poster from Simon Newman for the 2019 World Dab Championships...
A great day for the DAA juniors ( 11 Dec)
I had this report in from Terry Carpenter of the DAA Juniors of their Sunday Christmas match...
Many thanks to the Pilot pub for the meal and a special thanks to John Smith for his donation of £110 the juniors prize fund. Thanks to all that fished have a very merry Xmas"
I had this report in from Paul Jarett of the latest Southern Circuit Sea Angling Society match...
2. Ashley Brown - 47 fish, 23lb 8ozs
3. Philip Underdown - 49 fish, 22lb 1ozs
4. Sam Collier - 36 fish, 19lb 13.5ozs
5. Dave Andrews - 45 fish, 19lb 5.5ozs
6. Paul Jarrett - 39 fish, 18lb 11ozs
7. Michael Ferrier - 33 fish, 16lb 7ozs
8. Wesley Cheeseman - 22 fish, 11lb 14ozs
9. Jay Hill - 15 fish, 10lb 5.5ozs
10. Keith Neame - 18 fish, 9lb 6ozs
11. Les Bates - 15 fish, 7lb 10.5ozs
I had this 'heartening' report in from Colin Hemsworth this afternoon...
had this report in last night from Neil Rodwell...'Piranhas' ideal for fish cakes...
"Hi Tony. Thanks for the bait today. Thought I'd take the opportunity of using the weather window and had a go behind the station. Fished from 10:30 till 2. Cut the day short as the start of the rising tide bought the weed in and it became almost unfishable. Also pulled in a lot of rubbish from plastic bags filled with water to tangled balls of fishing line which added to the headache. On the bright side caught whiting all day with triple shots being bought in every cast, some of which were big. Even the live bait rig came in with a double shot which is strange as the top hook didn't have bait on it! They must be hungry! The weather was nice and the rain seemed to stay out in the channel so still got my fishing fix! Will speak soon. Regards. Neil"
'Vets'...great year so far...( 30 Nov)
Here are the results and places after the November DAA 'Vets' match (14 Nov)...
Sorry for the delay. Next match 19 December.
Early Xmas for the Juniors...( 29 Nov)
I saw this reminder from Terry Carpenter of the DAA...
"Daa Juniors next meet Dec 9th at 9.15 meet at Pilot pub car park"
And I nearly missed it...( 27 Nov)
I missed this report last Wednesday (bloody facebook) from Michael Wibley...can anybody tell me what it is...
"Saturday night at Dengemarsh 1 hour before high tide"
Colin gets bonus points for trying ( 27 Nov)
I had this report in Sunday night from Colin Hemsworth...
Due to the success of the ragworm last weekend I have restocked for this weekend...please call and order in case we sell out.
Don't be left in the dark... ( 20 Nov)
I had this reminder in from Gavin Smith of the DAA...
"Hi Tony
Just a quick reminder about this weekends match, fishing 24th (Saturday) meet at the gate booking from 16:30 fish 18:00-22:00
Don’t forget head lamps"
A trip to whiting heaven ( 18 Nov)
I had this report in from Kristian Walker...
Still summer species at the 'hoe' ( 18 Nov)
"Hi Tony. I had a few hours on the lures today down samphire hoe. I was the only one there in a cold easterly wind. Caught wrasse and pouting then on the way home decided to stop in at dungy and have a chuck for a bass. Didn't catch any but was worth a cast and was a nice end to the day as the sun was going down. Will speak soon. Regards. Neil."