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The problem of deep-sea fishing
Pollack is a fish that does not tolerate decompression well. Any fish caught at depths of 30 meters or more is very difficult, if not impossible, to return to the water in good conditions.
Deep-sea fishing, especially on wrecks in search of trophy fish, has become more complex since the introduction of the two-fish quota. In fact, this quota is sometimes reached on the very first drift.
That's why I set out to find areas with good fish, but at more modest depths, so that I could practice responsible no-kill fishing.
The easiest way to overcome this constraint is to target shallower areas and gain a better understanding of the pollack, its behavior and diet. This fish prefers cool, well-mixed waters, as well as kelp-covered bottoms where it lies in wait. Its golden-brown coat ensures perfect camouflage in this environment. It feeds mainly on sandeels and bluefish, depending on the season.
The shores of Breton islands such as Sein and Ouessant, as well as the Channel Islands off the Cotentin peninsula, offer numerous opportunities to catch very large specimens in very little water.
The right equipment for maximum light fishing pleasure
We sport fishermen are well aware that equipment selection has a considerable impact on the fight and therefore on the pleasure of fishing. A 2 kg pollack caught in the current with light tackle is a real challenge and a real pleasure.
It's for this reason that I particularly enjoy fishing in shallow water: it allows me to use lighter tackle. So I switch from my â??verticalâ? outfit, with which I mainly use lures weighing over 100 g, to a 5âeuros25 g rod combined with a size 3000 reel, fine braid and 30/100 leader.
This technique is different from the one often used for vertical pollock fishing.
Lures, equipment and techniques for "light" pollack fishing
To fish pollack in light water at depths of no more than 20 metres, I turn to the "scratching" technique when the fish are not very active.
A sensitive, resonant rod is essential. Rodhouse models such as the Statement 724, NFC SJ 706 and NJC SJ 804 Delta are among my favourites. They allow you to feel even the slightest contact with the bottom, as well as the most discreet touches.
I use a size 3000 reel with PE 1 braid, a well-balanced package that offers both sensitivity and fishing comfort.
To fish with maximum safety, a Texan-mounted lure is an excellent choice. This setup considerably reduces the risk of snagging on the bottom, especially in congested areas. Fiiish's Black Minnow is the perfect lure for this technique.
My selection consists mainly of sizes 120, in khaki, pink or blue.
What about shore fishing?
Fishing for pollack from the shore is not a common practice in France. The size of the catch is often average and it is rare to catch a fish over 50 centimetres.
For adventurous anglers, I can only invite you to Ireland. There, I was lucky enough to discover fishing from the shore, where the catches are of a completely different calibre.
The configuration of the Irish coastline quickly offers great depths. It is not uncommon to find areas 15 to 20 meters deep, directly from the shore. The big yellows are well represented on these drop-offs.
Unfortunately, in France, it is virtually impossible to find this type of configuration, which severely limits the possibilities for shore fishing for pollack.
In conclusion, remember that it's perfectly possible to target beautiful lake trout elsewhere than in very deep areas. This will allow you to practice lighter fishing, vary your approach and, above all, discover new sensations in combat.
