SEA SCHOOL 101 GREATEST WINTER TIPS
1 Top rig for all cod fishing is the Pennell pulley. Its two-hook paternoster arrangement suits all rig styles. A large, long bait requires a Pennell, so there is a hook at each end.
2 Onshore westerly or south-westerly winds along the English Channel coast, Bristol Channel and South Wales are usually most productive for winter cod. Easterly and north-easterly winds are best on North Sea coasts.
3 A big bait is often the way to go when seeking big cod from shore or boat. A large bait won’t be taken by a smaller fish, but is harder to cast to long range.
4 Set up a feeding frenzy of whiting or dabs by consistent and accurate casting with a baited three-hook rig and, eventually, a big cod will muscle in on your bait.
5 Strong tackle with small hooks is essential for catching codling. A trio of baits on a three-hook rig sets up a scent trail and is easier to cast long distances than one big bait.
6 Scent-filled cod cocktail baits will almost certainly induce a bite from a cod when fishing the northern rock marks. Try crabs, mussels and worms or cart (the innards of edible crabs). A large size 4/0 Pennell rig may be required.
7 Bait clips are invaluable for winter cod fishing. A bait flapping around on a rig reduces casting distance, while a bait tucked behind a lead weight can go up to 20 metres further.
8 Peeler crabs are an essential bait for cod on some rock marks, but for big specimens try a lugworms and squid head.
9 Fishing a livebait is best for catching bigger cod, but it’s a waiting game. Use a small hook baited with lug attached to the gape of a bigger hook. A whiting or similar grabs the bait and, hopefully, a big cod takes the hooked small fish.
10 Cod have huge mouths, so a big hook is important, but should be matched to bait size. Remember, the hook point and barb must
