From the immediate depth
The first point that makes the vertical walls hold regularly carnivores is that they offer immediately depth from the first centimeter. This water height is a reassuring parameter for the fish, so they can stay there at any time of the day.
From the shadows
The second point, which is also a source of comfort for the fish, is the fact that these steep and often elevated banks offer a shaded area at some time during the day that is suitable for many species.
A rest station
Given the two characteristics mentioned, sheet piles and other vertical docks are more resting spots than hunting spots. Thus, it will be necessary to implement a strategy aiming either at seducing the carnivorous or at making them react.
Two different approaches
The two solutions are therefore completely opposite:
- The first one consists in irritating the predators to play on their instinct of aggressiveness by using erratic and jerky animations, in particular with the help of metallic lures. Blades, lipless or even lead paddles will allow to capture the percidae fond of this type of position.
- The second track is totally opposite and relies on very slow fishing. The goal is to present a prey so easy to catch that even a predator could crack in front of a treat. Slow scratch fishing or drop shot fishing will allow you to make some catches.
Trailing behind
As it is not always obvious to locate fish on these spots, the easiest way to prospect them and find potentially active fish is to troll... By walking.
A cranckbait or a well weighted soft lure are then weapons of choice that you will drag in a slow and regular walk along the docks. Leave 10 to 15 meters of banner and fish diagonally behind you. By doing so, you will increase your chances of encountering predators.
Vertical
Finally, whether you are fishing from the shore or from a boat, vertical fishing is obviously an excellent strategy for prospecting these long stretches of shoreline. It is no more and no less than the trolling mentioned above, but at a very low speed.
