Gilthead Bream are a popular target amongst shore anglers in Cornwall. This warmer water species of bream frequents many estuaries along the South coast during the Summer months and is well known for its fighting prowess. I have been wanting to catch one from a kayak for a while so it was time to dedicate some sessions to targeting Giltheads. |
I have caught several Gilthead Bream from the shore and have found that early morning tends to fish best, so early morning is when i would be putting in the effort....and by early i meant early!
Gary would be joining me in a quest for a Gilthead. I knew an estuary mark that produces a few fish so we hatched a plan and began researching the venue and the target species. We would only be able to dedicate a session together every 2 weeks so we really wanted to put ourselves with having the best chance of catching.
I won't be giving away any marks in this blog post - as you will read, i have spent time and effort at unearthly hours of the day to find a spot which produces these fish so its down to you to do the same and find your own Gilthead mark - trust me it is rewarding when you do! I also don't want to advertise any marks to illegal netters who i am sure scan the internet to find the areas that are holding these fish. Illegal netting is a continual problem in many South West estuaries. Often nets are removed full of bream, bass and mullet, including juveniles. If you ever come across an illegal net, or some form of illegal fishing, you can report this via the Environment Agency's free 24-hour hotline on 0800 80 70 60.
A Quiet Start...
Gold
It shot off downtide stripping braid from the reel...a bit of pressure persuaded it to turn. it was going bezerk and swimming all over the place. I was using reasonably light rod (Ugly Stik Elite Spin 20-50g) and it was giving it a good work out. Soon enough a bright silver flash broke the surface....it was a Gilthead! A few more dives under the kayak before i could slip it into the landing net....result!!
Bream Bonanza!
My next fish felt a little bit bigger. Another good scrap and another Gilthead Bream was pulled into the landing net.