UK Sea Fishing Species

Whiting (Merlangius merlangus) is a popular sea fishing species found in the coastal waters of the United Kingdom. It belongs to the Gadidae family, which also includes other well-known species like cod and haddock. Whiting are widely distributed throughout the North Atlantic Ocean, including the North Sea and the waters around the British Isles. Appearance Merlangius merlangus have elongated bodies with a slender shape. They typically have a silvery coloration, which can vary from pale silver to a darker shade. They have a pointed snout and a small, slightly underslung mouth. Size They can reach lengths of up to 40 centimetres (15 inches) and weigh around 0.5 to 1 kilogram (1 to 2 pounds). However, larger specimens have been caught, especially in certain areas. Habitat Whiting are predominantly found in coastal waters, from shallow estuaries and bays to deeper offshore areas. They prefer sandy or muddy seabeds, often congregating around structures like wrecks and reefs. Feeding Habits

Wrasse are a diverse family of fish species found in the coastal waters of the UK. They are known for their vibrant colours, unique features, and often provide exciting sport for anglers.  Two common species of wrasse found in the UK are the ballan wrasse and the cuckoo wrasse.  Ballan Wrasse (Labrus Bergylta) Appearance Ballan wrasse are the largest species in UK waters. They have a robust body shape with a large head and thick lips. Their coloration can vary, but they typically have mottled brown or greenish skin, often with blue and gold markings. Size Labrus bergylta can reach lengths of up to 70 centimetres (27 inches) and weigh up to 5 kilograms (11 pounds). Habitat They are commonly found in rocky areas, kelp forests, and shallow waters along the coast, and are known for their ability to hide among rocks and structures. Feeding Habits Ballan wrasse are opportunistic feeders and have a diverse diet. They consume a variety of prey, including small fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and

Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) is a flatfish species that is commonly found in the coastal waters of the United Kingdom. It is a member of the flounder family and is highly regarded as a popular target for both commercial and recreational fishermen. Appearance Plaice have a distinct appearance with their oval-shaped bodies and smooth skin. It features a reddish-brown or greenish-brown colour on the upper side, which helps it blend into the sandy or muddy seabed. The underside is white, and the fish has a series of small bony bumps on its dark side. Size Pleuronectes platessa can grow up to a considerable size, with adult specimens typically ranging from 30 to 50 centimetres in length. The largest plaice recorded in the UK weighed around 9 kilograms. Habitat They are a bottom-dwelling species that prefers sandy or muddy seabeds. It is commonly found in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and bays, although it can also be found at deeper depths during certain times of the year. Feeding Ha

Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) is a popular and abundant fish species found in the waters of the United Kingdom. It is a pelagic fish, meaning it inhabits the open sea rather than coastal areas. Mackerel have a torpedo-shaped body with shimmering blue-green scales and a silver belly, allowing it to blend in with the surrounding water. Appearance Mackerel has a streamlined body with a forked tail and two dorsal fins. Its back is dark green to blue, and its sides have characteristic wavy lines known as "mackerel markings." The fish can grow up to 25-30 centimetres in length, with some individuals reaching even larger sizes. Habitat Scomber scombrus is highly migratory and can be found in both the northern and southern parts of the UK. It prefers cooler waters and is often seen in large shoals, especially during the summer months when it migrates closer to the coastline. Feeding Habits They are a carnivorous species that primarily feeds on small fish, such as herring, sprat, and sa

Pollack (Pollachius pollachius), also known as pollock, is a popular and widely distributed fish species found in the waters around the United Kingdom.  Appearance Pollack has an elongated and streamlined body with a relatively small head. They have a dark greenish-brown to blackish colour on their back, fading to a lighter silver-grey or white belly. Their body is covered in small scales, and they have a large mouth with sharp teeth. Habitat They are primarily found in the coastal waters of the UK, including rocky areas, wrecks, reefs, and offshore structures. They are known to be quite adaptable and can be found at different depths, from shallow waters to several hundred meters deep. Feeding Habits Pollachius pollachius are voracious predators and are known for their aggressive feeding behaviour. They feed on a variety of prey, including small fish (such as sandeels and herring), crustaceans (such as crabs and lobsters), and cephalopods (such as squid). They are known to be opportuni

Cod (Gadus morhua) is a widely recognised and highly valued fish species found in the North Atlantic Ocean, including the waters surrounding the United Kingdom. It is a cold-water species that thrives in a range of habitats, from rocky areas to sandy bottoms and wrecks. Cod has been an important part of commercial and recreational fishing in the UK for centuries. Physical characteristics Size Cod can grow quite large, with adults reaching an average length of 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 feet) and weighing up to 40 kilograms (88 pounds). Appearance They have an elongated body with a distinct dorsal fin and a prominent chin barbel. Their coloration varies, but they typically have a mottled brown or greenish-brown back with lighter sides and a white belly. Behavior and feeding habits Cod are predatory fish that primarily feed on other fish, including herring, sandeels, and whiting, as well as crustaceans and squid. They are known for their voracious appetite and can be opportunistic feeders,

Bass, scientifically known as Dicentrarchus labrax, is a popular and highly sought-after fish species found in the waters around the UK. Also known as European sea bass, it is a member of the Moronidae family and is widely recognized for its sporting qualities and delicious taste. Appearance Bass have an elongated and streamlined body shape with a silvery coloration, which helps them blend into their marine environment. They have a slightly humpbacked appearance and can reach lengths of up to 1 meter, although the average size typically ranges between 40 to 70 centimetres. Habitat They are commonly found in both saltwater and brackish environments, including estuaries, harbours, rocky shorelines, and offshore areas. They are known to migrate between different habitats, moving closer to the shore during warmer months and retreating to deeper waters during colder seasons. Feeding Habits Bass are opportunistic predators with a diverse diet. They primarily feed on small fish, such as sande