Species · Coarse · Leuciscus leuciscus

Dace

The dart of the UK silvers. Dace hold in the current with strong tail action and take bait on the move - a lively fish that keeps the rod bent all day.

Dace
Dace - image: Wikimedia Commons (public domain)

Where and when

Detail
Habitat Rivers, canals, fast flowing water
Best time All day
Category Coarse

Baits and tactics

  • Tactics: Float, Freelining, Waggler
  • Baits and flies: Maggots, Worms, Bread, Cheese

Tackle that suits

Detail
Hooks 14-18. Fine wire. Round bend or crystal bend
Mainline 0.13-0.15mm. 2-3lb. Mono - low diameter essential
Hooklength 0.08-0.10mm. 6". Fine mono - step down if bites dry up
Shotting Strung out shirt-button pattern. Evenly spaced No.8-10 shot down the line.
Field notes Dace take bait on the drop and on the move - strike early; Single maggot or small worm on a fine hook; They face the flow - cast upstream and drift the bait through; Fast, light fights - enjoy them, do not muscle them; Cold-water feeders - active even in the dead of winter; Fine tackle is essential - dace are line shy

More coarse species

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