Which ones?
On the banks of lakes, rivers and canals, there are many different types of steep, often artificial banks.
In general, there are two main types of structure to exploit: stone or concrete walls, and metal sheet piles. The former are often found at bungs, dikes and locks, or on the banks of large canalised rivers such as the Seine.
The latter are generally used for bridge piers and artificial banks.
Why fish vertical walls?
At certain times of the year, these vertical walls are excellent spots and tend to shelter a few resting fish almost all the time. But then they're hard to lure and it's highly likely that at some point they'll become active in or near the area!
These spots are good for predator fishing, as they offer a quiet zone favorable to the presence of fish. Indeed, they are often synonymous with depth, but also with shade and calm.
Moreover, these structures, which are not always linear and are made up of a few recesses, are excellent stalking spots and, above all, a wall against which carnivores can easily press their prey to capture them.
What's more, during hot spells, these shaded areas provide the necessary coolness for the comfort of all species. In winter, on the other hand, the stone walls, in particular, release stored heat, providing an extra half-degree of thermal comfort.
As we've already said, you'll find these vertical walls at the level of dikes and bungs, and you can be sure that in the middle of winter, at the coldest times of the year, you'll find concentrations of white fish and, consequently, predators in the vicinity.
Which species to look for?
Along the vertical walls, you'll find mainly percids, as perch like to hunt there, and pike-perch, which take advantage of the low light and depth.
Catfish are also plentiful, and it's common to see chub sailing along these walls, especially if a current vein appears.
How do you approach them?
The first strategy on this type of spot, especially in the evening and morning, is to look for active fish with prospecting lures such as cranckbaits or blades.
But you can also set up vertical fishing, especially with paddle lead, which is very effective on percids or in drop shots.
Slow trolling, on foot, with a crankbait or a soft lure will also bring you its share of fish in the presence of a very long monotonous line. This will enable you to locate the fish and insist on the areas where you will record a hit.
