Chesil Beach in September is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of species and ideal conditions for both bait and lure fishing. From the iconic Cod to the elusive Sole, this stretch of coastline provides an abundance of opportunities for anglers to test their skills and enjoy the thrill of the catch.
Targeted Species and Techniques
As the summer months transition into autumn, the waters around Chesil Beach come alive with a variety of fish species, each with its own unique characteristics and preferred methods of capture.
Cod
Cod start to make their presence known in significant numbers from the middle of September. Ragworm and peeler crab are the top baits for targeting these sought-after fish.
Plaice
Plaice are more numerous and in better condition during the month of September. Lugworm is a better bait choice at this time of year, as evidenced by the plump autumn Plaice caught by angler Chris Morris, along with a few nice Sole and a Cod.
Other Species
In addition to Cod and Plaice, anglers can also target Bream, Gurnard, Trigger, Bass, and Cod at the Portland end of Chesil Beach. To the west, Sole, Plaice, Dabs, Rays, and Smoothound are common.
During the day, Garfish and Mackerel can be found in abundance, while as dusk approaches, Scad move in and can be caught on float-fished strips of Mackerel or even Mackerel feathers and lures. Bass and Garfish can also be seen chasing baitfish around Ferrybridge and Castletown in Portland Harbour.
For those seeking a more sporting experience, Pollock can be caught from most of the rock marks at dawn and dusk using a white sidewinder or Metal X Bubblehead lure.
Ideal Conditions and Bait
The conditions along Chesil Beach and the surrounding areas can greatly influence the success of your fishing endeavors. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal conditions and bait for each location:
| Location | Conditions | Bait |
|---|---|---|
| Chesil Beach | Calm with lightly colored water | Ragworm and peeler crab |
| Portland | Calm with clear water | Ragworm float-fished or hard on the bottom for Wrasse, or soft plastic lures |
| Portland Harbour | Calm with clear water | Bass and Garfish can be caught chasing baitfish around Ferrybridge and Castletown |
| Weymouth Bay | Calm with clear water | The harbor should still have plenty of Mullet, while the piers are good for numbers of smaller fish, but Mackerel and Bass often show |
Additional Considerations
Fishing Tails, a local guide service, offers expert guidance for anglers seeking to target species such as Bass, Wrasse, Garfish, and Pollock on lures and fly, or for catching a wide variety of species on bait. Autumn is considered the best time for sea fishing in Dorset, with a diverse range of summer and winter species available.
It’s important to note that the entire western stretch of Chesil Beach is subject to a mass spider crab invasion around April and May, which can affect bait fishing. Some anglers use a short braid ‘biting’ snood in an effort to prevent this from happening.
Strong winds from the southerly quarter can create large waves and swells, making the beach both unfishable and dangerous. A south-east wind can generate a huge swell, which has caught out many anglers in the past. If you’re unsure of the potential sea state, it’s always best to seek advice before heading out.
Conclusion
Chesil Beach in September is a true haven for fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of species, ideal conditions, and a range of techniques to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, this stretch of coastline promises an unforgettable fishing experience. So pack your gear, grab your bait, and get ready to reel in the catch of a lifetime at Chesil Beach this September.