Chesil Beach in May is a prime destination for beach fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of fish species and excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. This 18-mile stretch of shingle beach along the Dorset coast is renowned for its productive fishing grounds, and May is a particularly fruitful time to visit.
Targeted Species and Baits
In May, anglers can target a variety of species at Chesil Beach, including:
- Plaice
- Bream
- Smoothound
- Gurnard
- Undulate Ray
To attract these species, small multi-hook rigs tipped with ragworm, blow lug, or half a crab are effective. For larger fish like Undulate Ray or Conger, consider using larger hooks and fish baits, particularly during the night sessions.
Thick Lipped and Golden Grey Mullet can also be targeted using plenty of ground bait and ultra-light setups, especially in the western marks of Chesil Beach.
Tackle and Gear
When fishing Chesil Beach in May, a surf rod paired with a Penn Affinity 7000 fixed spool reel is a suitable setup for handling the heavy surf and fish. A heavy-duty kit, such as a Sonik Gravity surf rod and Penn Affinity 7000 fixed spool reel, is recommended to cope with the challenging conditions.
Gripper leads ranging from 4 to 6 ounces are essential to hold the bottom in the surf. Anglers can choose between braid or mono, depending on their personal preference and fishing style.
Timing and Tides
The best times to fish Chesil Beach in May are during high tide, particularly within the first two hours of the tide. While daytime fishing can be productive, night sessions can also yield good results, especially for larger species like Undulate Ray or Conger.
Location and Access
Chesil Beach offers several popular and productive fishing marks, including:
- West Bexington
- Cogden
- Abbotsbury
- Ferrybridge
These marks provide a range of fishing opportunities and can accommodate anglers of all abilities. Access to these marks is generally easy, with car parks available nearby, but anglers should be prepared for a potentially challenging walk over the shingle. Wide-wheeled beach trollies can be helpful in transporting gear over the shingle.
Tackle Shops and Bait
Chesil Bait n Tackle is a recommended tackle shop near Chesil Beach, offering fresh bait and up-to-date information on the current fishing conditions. Ragworm and peeler crab are popular baits for Chesil Beach fishing, especially for flatfish and larger species.
Additional Considerations
When fishing on Chesil Beach in May, anglers should be aware of the weather and potential sea state, as strong winds from the southerly quarter can create large waves and swells, making the beach both unfishable and dangerous. It is essential to check the weather forecast and seek advice if unsure about the conditions.
Chesil Beach in May is a true fishing enthusiast’s paradise, offering a diverse range of species, productive fishing grounds, and a stunning natural setting. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to beach fishing, this stretch of the Dorset coast is sure to provide an unforgettable fishing experience.
References:
– Chesil Beach Fishing Guide
– Chesil Beach First-Time and Last-Timer
– Tripadvisor Review of Chesil Beach
– Maggot Drowning Forum Thread on Chesil Beach
– YouTube Video on Chesil Beach Fishing