Many of you have asked us to find out about the best time to fish for sea bass. And with good reason. Sea bass, or sea bass, is without doubt one of the most sought-after fish in France. This fish fascinates as much by its fighting spirit as by the difficulty of catching it. But to do so, you need to know when to fish for it and in what conditions! That's why in this article we wanted to detail the best times to fish for sea bass.
Our article in brief:
Knowing when to fish for sea bass is essential for luring this fish. Here are the key facts to remember:
- Autumn is the best time to fish for sea bass, particularly large specimens. Conditions are generally best from September to November.
- The spring and summer are also good times to fish for sea bass of all sizes.
- Focus on specific times of day. (tides, weather, atmospheric pressure).
Autumn: the ideal time for bass fishing
Autumn is the best time of the year for bass fishing. In our opinion, September to November are the best months to fish for sea bass, whether from the shore or from a boat. Sea bass tend to move closer to the coast at this time, for a number of reasons:
- Lower temperatures
- Favourable gales
- Sea bass congregate in compact shoals as spawning approaches
- Increased fish activity as winter approaches
During our sea outings in the Cotentin region, we have often found that the arrival of a low-pressure system can trigger a high level of sea bass activity. It's the perfect time to try your luck! Sea bass are becoming more opportunistic, looking to build up their reserves before winter. This is a great time to catch fish, as they are particularly active and voracious.
It is important to note that autumn marks the start of sea bass migration to their spawning grounds. This period makes them more predictable and easier to locate. We recommend targeting coastal areas where shoals gather before their big departure.
Spring and summer: transition periods not to be overlooked
Although autumn is the key season for bass fishing, spring and summer also offer great opportunities. Here is a table summarising the specific features of these seasons:
| Seasons | Features | Our advice for bass fishing |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Early season after breeding | Target coastal areas from late March/early April |
| Summer | Intense heat, boating activity | Fishing early in the morning or evening, or even at night |
In spring, sea bass gradually move closer to the coast. This is a period when we can start to see the return of sea bass activity to our coasts. In June, for example, sea bass concentrate near the shore in search of sand eels. This period often allows you to make the most of your time and catch the big fish that target these sandeels.
Summer is often a tricky time of year for bass fishing. With the high temperatures and increased boating activity, bass are often more educated and difficult to catch. However, with the right techniques and by choosing the right moments, it is quite possible to make some great catches. We have often had success fishing at dawn or dusk, when bass activity is at its peak.
Comply with current regulations
Sea bass fishing is subject to strict regulations that vary from region to region. Here are the key points to remember:
- In North Brittany (above the 48th parallel): fishing authorised from 1st April to 31st January
- South Brittany and the Atlantic coast fishing authorised all year round
- Limit of 2 bass per day and per angler
- Minimum catch size: 42 cm in the Atlantic and English Channel, 30 cm in the Mediterranean
It is vital to note that from 1 February to 31 March, only catch-and-release fishing is permitted north of the 48th parallel. This measure aims to protect sea bass during their breeding season, which generally runs from January to March.
At Rodmaps, we are convinced that the preservation of fish stocks is of paramount importance. That's why we urge our readers to adopt a responsible approach to fishing, scrupulously complying with these regulations and practising no-kill whenever possible.
Tips for optimising your bass fishing sessions
Based on our experience in lure fishing, we have compiled a few tips to help you maximise your chances of success:
- Targeting slack tides Focus on the period 1h30 before and after low tide
- Taking advantage of key moments in the day Sunrise and sunset are particularly favourable.
- Adapt your techniques according to the season use lures lighter in spring and bulkier in autumn
- Keeping an eye on the weather The arrival of a low can stimulate bar activity
- Experimenting with night fishing : particularly effective in summer to avoid daytime crowds
Sea bass fishing offers a host of opportunities throughout the year, with a particular focus on the autumn season. By understanding the behaviour of this captivating fish and respecting the environment, you can enjoy unforgettable fishing experiences. Whether you're a novice or an experienced angler, never forget that every outing is an opportunity to learn and marvel at the beauty of marine nature.
