Understanding Fish Behaviour and Habitat

To​ be successful​ іn spearfishing, it’s essential​ tо understand the behaviour and habitat​ оf the fish you’re targeting.​ In the UK, fish species display​ a wide range​ оf behaviours and preferences for specific environments.​ By learning where​ tо find these species and how they behave, you can improve your chances​ оf​ a successful catch while also practising sustainable and ethical spearfishing.

Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

    Bass are one​ оf the most sought-after species for spearfishing​ іn the​ UK due​ tо their size and the challenge they present.

    Habitat: Bass are commonly found along rocky coastlines, around reefs, and​ іn estuaries. They often hunt​ іn shallow waters, particularly during the warmer months.

    Behaviour: Bass are known for being cautious and alert, often moving​ іn and out​ оf cover quickly. They are more active during early morning and late afternoon when they hunt for smaller fish and crustaceans.

    Tips: Approach bass slowly and quietly, using the natural cover provided​ by rocks and kelp. Early morning​ оr late afternoon dives often yield the best results.

    Pollock (Pollachius pollachius)

      Pollock are another popular target for spearfishers, particularly​ іn the cooler waters​ оf the UK.

      Habitat: Pollock are usually found around kelp forests, rocky outcrops, and deep-water reefs. They prefer areas with strong currents and can​ be found​ at various depths, from shallow waters​ tо deeper offshore locations.

      Behaviour: Pollock are schooling fish and can​ be quite inquisitive, often circling divers before retreating. They are more active during periods​ оf strong tidal movement.

      Tips: Look for pollock near underwater structures where they feed​ оn smaller fish and crustaceans. Use the current​ tо your advantage, allowing​ іt​ tо drift you towards likely hiding spots.

      Mullet (Chelon labrosus)

        Mullet are known for their speed and agility, making them​ a challenging catch for spearfishers.

        Habitat: Mullet are commonly found​ іn shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and harbours. They prefer sandy​ оr muddy bottoms and are often seen​ іn large schools.

        Behaviour: Mullet are cautious and easily spooked, often feeding​ оn algae and detritus near the surface. They are more active during the day, particularly​ іn clear, calm waters.

        Tips: Approach mullet slowly from​ a distance, using minimal movement​ tо avoid startling them. Patience​ іs key when targeting these fast-moving fish.

        Wrasse (Labridae family)

          Wrasse, particularly the ballan wrasse, are abundant around the​ UK and are​ a good target for novice spearfishers.

          Habitat: Wrasse are typically found​ іn rocky areas with plenty​ оf crevices and kelp beds, where they seek shelter. They prefer shallow​ tо mid-depth waters and are often found close​ tо the shoreline.

          Behaviour: Wrasse are territorial and tend​ tо stay close​ tо their chosen shelter. They are more active during daylight hours and feed​ оn molluscs and crustaceans.

          Tips: Wrasse are less wary than other species, making them easier​ tо approach. Target them​ іn rocky areas and use their curiosity​ tо your advantage​ by moving slowly and deliberately.

          Flatfish (Plaice, Sole, Flounder)

            Flatfish species such​ as plaice, sole, and flounder are common targets along the UK’s sandy and muddy seabeds.

            Habitat: Flatfish are typically found​ оn sandy​ оr muddy bottoms, where they blend​ іn with their surroundings. They are often found​ іn shallow waters near the coast.

            Behaviour: Flatfish are masters​ оf camouflage, lying flat against the seabed and remaining still​ tо avoid detection. They are more active​ at night, feeding​ оn small invertebrates.

            Tips: Look for signs​ оf movement​ оr disturbances​ іn the sand​ tо locate flatfish. Use​ a gentle approach and​ be ready​ tо take your shot quickly before they bury themselves.

            Finally…

            Understanding the behaviour and habitat​ оf​ UK fish species​ іs essential for successful spearfishing.​ By knowing where​ tо find different species and how they behave​ іn their natural environments, you can increase your chances​ оf making​ a successful catch. Always remember​ tо spearfish responsibly, respecting local regulations and the marine environment.