Chinook III Charter Fishing Report – April III

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Chinook III Charter Fishing Report – April III

The last fortnight has seen a big shift towards the summer species with the winter Cod finally leaving, however we have had a fantastic season and next winter promises to be a cracker if we get a lot of these fish returning having put on weight during the summer.

There are now big numbers of Thornbacks returning to mate and spawn inshore, the bigger fish, the females, are all now pregnant and should be returned alive. The best baits for these fish have been Squid, Mackerel and Herring, but most fishy baits will tempt them. When targeting these hard fighting, heavy fish, it's essential to use a strong trace of at least 40lb breaking strain and a nice big 6/0 forged hook.

There are more Bass turning up too, with reports of fish up to 12lb landed. Most charter boats have reported them in most areas, with them turning up on a mixture of Lugworm, Ragworm, Crab and Squid.

The piers and beach marks have been fishing well for Codling, Bass, Whiting and Thornbacks, with once again, the most successful baits being Squid and Crab, which if whipped on with elasticated cotton can withstand distance casting. The most successful periods of tide has been around the medium strength tide up to the Springs and dropping down to a medium again, with the strongest part being best.

As usual the estuaries have also been producing Thornbacks, Whiting and Codling, although the latter named have mostly gone.

Offshore has been good for the Thornbacks but the departure of the Codling has left a void, which has mainly been filled by Dogfish! However it should all change soon as the Bass numbers will increase and the first Smoothound will start to show.

Prospects are excellent with more Bass showing by the day and it only a matter of time before the Smooth Hounds really start to fill the estuary.

Tight lines, Phil.

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To book a session on the Chinook III charter boat, which is based in Bradwell-On-Sea, Essex, contact Phil White on…

Visit - www.philwhitecharters.co.uk Call - 07786080771 Email - philwhite31@aol.com

About the Chinook…

The place you need to come for a great day out fishing the Thames Estuary from Bradwell on Sea in Essex with one of the most experianced and friendly skippers on the East Coast. Whether you are a novice or experianced angler, they cater for both.

Due to an upturn in demand we have purchased a newer boat, she is a purpose built angling vessel, twin 330hp turbo diesels with a cruise of 20 knots, enclosed crew cab with seating for everyone, on deck toilet and a walk around island wheelhouse, she is a superb angling vessel, coded for 10 anglers
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