Sea Angling Tackle - Recommended Gear

We recommend that anglers bring a 12-20 lb class rod for the general fishing and preferably
with a lever drag for the tope fishing filled with 30 lb. braid. Most of our regulars also bring a Carp/spinning rod for the Pollack loaded with no less than 20 lb. line. We would suggest you print off this page and distribute to your party. Then bring the minimum following Tackle with you:

* We strongly recommend the use of 25 - 30 pounds Braid for Toping and line no
less than 18 pounds for the Pollacking. A set of Shrimp rigs or Sabikkis ( for sand Eel ), 2x sets of Mackeral Lures. (shiny preferred)
* 2x 5oz. leads, 2x 10oz. leads and 2x 1 lb. leads
* 6x 1/2oz.drilled bullets.
* swivels and links.
* Beads
* 1x 7inch Cigar Float with suitable lead for the Pollack
* 2 Booms, (Preferably tubi-booms approx 6 inches long but zip sliders will do.)
* good 20lb. trace line. ( Amnesia or equivalent )
* 6x 4/0 Hooks (Mustad 3261's or equivalent ), 6x 2/0 Hooks for Flatties, Haddock etc
* Flattie Rigs
* Tope traces. See preferred pattern below.
* See the "fishing itself" page for recommended rods.
* 1x Pair of Wellies for getting off the boat with!
* Good weather and a smile!
* For further information, please mail us!




image: A Pollack trace set-up as recommended by Onyer Marks Charter Hire.


Above, our suggested Pollack trace - 1/2oz drilled bullet & swivel, 4ft of 20lb trace line, Mustad or equivalent hook.

Below, our suggested Tope trace - 30lb braid main line, 6ft of 150lb nylon line, 30lb class swivels, 1ft of 150lb wire and a 6/0 O'Shaunessy or equivalent hook. We are happy to advise on various trace set-ups, baits and likely species.



image: A Tope trace set-up as recommended by Onyer Marks Charter Hire.

Questions And Answers About Angling With Onyer Marks Charters


What are we likely to catch?
Pollack and Tope are the main target but an average day will produce between 10 to 15 species

How long are the trips?
Usually 9 till 5 but we are not governed by the tides so are flexible

What tackle do I need?
A 20 lb class for general fishing and the tope and a light rod for the Pollack
(Spinning rods or Carp/Pike Rods are ideal )

Do I need to bring a tackle box as a seat?
A definite BIG NO here. The boats have built in seats and big tackle boxes get in the way and take up your space. Most lads bring the plastic tool box type which can be bought from B&Q for a few quid.

Do I need waders?
Waders aren't necessary but Wellies are essential for getting off the boat.

Can I take home all the fish?
Again a BIG NO for this. Onyer Marks runs a tight conservation programme. Anglers are welcome to keep fish caught offshore but inshore Pollack must be returned to preserve stocks.

When is the best time to come?
With out wishing to sound facetious, the best time to come is when the weather has been settled for a few days. The season runs from early May to late October with plenty of Pollack around at all times. The spring run of Tope from June to early August produces the most fish. (Average weight 25 to 35 lb) August to October doesn't produce as many Tope but they are generally bigger. Cod, Whiting, Haddock, Flatties, Gurnards, and Wrasses can be caught throughout the season.

Where do we sail from?
We have four launch sites depending on the wind and target species.

How many anglers do the boats carry?
Each boat is licensed (NDP Code of practice Cat 5) to carry 4 anglers plus skipper.

Do we need to bring bait?
We feather for most the bait (except early May) but bringing Rag worm or Lug worm gives more options for other species.