Numerous
The main advantage of fishing specifically for olds is that they can be found in large numbers all along the coast, mainly on rocky bottoms, but also around patches of seaweed and gravel. Like sea bass, it can be found in 1 metre of water as well as in 20 or 30 metres, although I would advise against stalking it, as it is a fish that does not cope well with decompression.
Accessible from the shore and by boat
Because of their distribution along the coast and their sometimes large populations in certain areas, it's possible to track them from the shore, mainly on steep, rocky coasts where they like to sail from fault to fault. You may find them stuck to the wall.
By boat, explore the rocky plateaus or marked rock heads, and you'll be sure to get some hits.
A wide range of colors
Despite its stocky morphology and far less graceful than sea bass or other pelagic species, the oldsmelt is not devoid of charm and sports a variety of coats, depending on the individual. Some are green, others more orange or brown with white to bluish spots.
Its smaller cousin, the coquette, is colorful and, along with the gurnard, is one of the most elegantly dressed fish on the Atlantic coast.
Powerful fighting
Catches are generally between 500 g and 1.5 kg, but specimens measuring 60 cm and weighing over 3 kg can be found between the rocks and are accessible to all anglers.
Whatever its size, once shod, the old girl will have only one idea in mind and will reward you with several successive powerful rushes. If she runs out of steam once in the water, it's not uncommon to be caught off guard in the first few seconds if you're fishing with a badly adjusted drag.
On a fine line, with many bites and uncertain fights, its fishing is very pleasant and playful.
A good school
Substrate-dependent, you'll need to fish as close to the bottom as possible to hook the old lady. This approach requires excellent control of the rod, keeping the line taut and precise movements. As such, it's an excellent way to learn how to fish precisely on the scrape bottom, a technique you can use again for other species such as sea bass. In fact, it's not uncommon to hook this fish during outings dedicated to the old lady.
