A Cornish Angler's Winter Guide: Finding Codling, Bass & More on Our Shores

As the winter chill sets in across Cornwall, the fishing changes. The summer species move on, but for those willing to brave the elements, the reward can be some of the most memorable fishing of the year. Here at Lizard Tackle & Bait, the conversation in the shop is all about the winter shift. The hope of a codling, the persistence of the bass, and the tactics that make the difference.

This guide isn’t about sales; it’s about sharing the knowledge we’ve gathered from years of fishing these local marks. Think of it as a chat over a brew in the shop, covering everything from the right rigs to the best baits for a successful winter session on the Cornish coast.

Winter Beach Fishing: Chasing the Cornish "Unicorn"

While a true specimen Cornish cod can feel like a unicorn, they are out there, and the colder months are your best chance. The key is patience, location, and rock-solid end tackle.

- The Rig: For the best chance at a codling from a Cornish beach, you can't beat a classic Pulley Pennel Rig. Its beauty is in its simplicity and effectiveness. To tie a simple version, you'll need a long hook length of around 4-5 feet. The first hook is fixed about 18 inches from the end, with the second hook secured further up the line. The design allows a big bait to be presented naturally on the seabed, and when the fish takes the bait, the lead acts as a pivot point, helping to set the hook firmly, crucial when fishing at distance where bite detection can be tricky.

- The Bait: This is where freshness counts. A big, juicy bait is essential to tempt an opportunistic codling. The trio that consistently produces is fresh-frozen squid, mackerel, and lugworm. A combination, like a lugworm tipped with squid, can be irresistible. We make sure our freezer here at the shop is always stocked with a broad range of frozen bait, so you can grab what you need for a mission.

- The Tactics: Focus on rough ground marks or the edges of sandy gullies. Fish the bigger spring tides during the hours of darkness, as codling are often more confident feeders under the cover of dark.

Don't Overlook the Winter Whiting

While they might not have the glamour of a codling, whiting provide some sport and are excellent eating through the winter months. A simple two-hook flapper rig with size 1 or 1/0 hooks baited with mackerel strip or lugworm will often see you rewarded with a bucketful, keeping you busy while you wait for that bigger bite on the 'big rod'.

Lure Fishing for Winter Bass in Cornwall

Don’t pack away the lure rods just yet. Bass can be caught throughout the winter in Cornwall, but your approach needs to adapt.

- Think Slow and Low: As the water temperature drops, a bass’s metabolism slows down. They are less likely to chase a fast-moving surface lure. Switch to sub-surface lures like slow-sinking minnows or soft plastic paddle tails that can be worked methodically through likely holding spots.

- Embrace the Dark Side: After a storm, the water can be coloured with sand and sediment. This is the time to switch to dark lures, blacks, purples, and dark blues, which create a stronger silhouette. It’s a simple trick that can save a blank session.

- A Lure That Works: Lures like the Sidewinder Skerries Pro are fantastic for this kind of fishing, giving you that slow, tantalising action that can trigger a take from a cautious winter bass.

Gearing Up for the Cold: A Helping Hand in the Shop

Your gear takes a beating in winter. Salt, rain, and cold test every component. Choosing the right rod and reel is a personal thing, it has to feel right in your hands.

We have a great selection of rods and reels in the shop, from trusted brands that we use ourselves. The best advice we can give? Pop in. Have a waggle of a few rods, feel the balance of a reel, and have a proper natter with me about what you're planning to do. No jargon, no pressure, just friendly, honest advice to help you choose the kit that will work for you and last the distance.

Winter Fishing Safety: The Most Important Kit

Your safety is the most important piece of kit you own. The winter brings shorter days and more unpredictable conditions.

- Always let someone know where you're fishing and when you expect to be back.

- Check the tide times twice, it gets dark early and a big rising tide can catch you out quicker than you think on those steep Cornish beaches.

- A reliable headtorch with fresh batteries, a warm hat, and a pair of grippy boots are non-negotiable for a safe and comfortable session.

More Than a Tackle Shop: The Lizard Tackle Community

I’ve always believed that a tackle shop should be the heart of the local fishing scene. It’s why we started our ‘Feature Friday’ tradition on social media. Seeing the photos you send in of your catches, from a first-ever mini-species to a personal-best fish, is the highlight of my week. It’s a celebration of your success and a way for us all to share your success. Keep sending them in!

It’s also why our door down on the Lizard is always open for a chat. We’re here to share marks responsibly, discuss what’s working, and help you find the right bit of kit for your fishing. I'm an angler first, shopkeeper second. 

The Last Word

By the way, as it’s payday weekend and many of you asked, we’ve decided to keep our 20% off everything offer running until Sunday, November 30th. If this guide has inspired you to tweak your setup, replenish the lures, buy a thoughtful Xmas pressie or stock up on frozen bait for a codling mission, we’re here to help. No pressure, just an open invitation.

The winter sea can be challenging, but the rewards are there for the taking. Stay safe, stay warm, and we look forward to seeing your winter catches.

Tight lines,

Tony, Daisy & Jake