Species · Sea · Gadus morhua
Cod
The ultimate winter shore target. Cod move inshore from October to February, following the cold water and rough seas. Night sessions on storm beaches produce the biggest fish.
Where and when
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Deep water, wrecks, rough ground, open beaches in winter |
| Best time | Night |
| Category | Specimen |
Baits and tactics
- Tactics: Beach casting, Boat fishing, Uptide
- Baits and flies: Lugworm, Squid, Peeler Crab, Mackerel
Tackle that suits
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Hooks | 2/0-6/0. Strong forged. Pennel rig with two hooks for large baits |
| Mainline | 0.35-0.40mm. 18-25lb. Heavy mono for beach casting, braid for boat work |
| Hooklength | 0.40-0.50mm. 12-18". Heavy mono snood - cod are not leader shy |
| Shotting | 4-6oz grip leads for beach casting in strong tides. Breakaway leads in heavy surf. |
| Field notes | Pennel rig (two hooks) holds large lugworm and squid cocktails securely; Fish after a north-easterly blow - cod follow the rough water inshore; Summer and early autumn are prime - conger feed closest inshore as the water warms; Cocktail baits work best - lugworm tipped with squid strip; Cast to the third breaker for cod patrolling the gullies; Use a 15ft beachcaster for maximum distance on open beaches |
The rules
Sea rules 2026
| 2026 | |
|---|---|
| Minimum size | 35 cm |
| Bag limit | 5 per day |
| Status | Monitored |
Strict quotas in place. Check local IFCA bylaws for additional restrictions in your area.
Authority: see the app. Verify the current rules before you fish.
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