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Auchmithie, Angus

John Greig 01 January, 2006 09:00:00

Auchmithie is a little fishing village set among the cliffs to the north of Arbroath this area of the coast is renowned for its winter Cod fishing. Getting here is very easy, follow the A92 from North or South and take the turning next to a little garage which is just outside Arbroath on the North side, follow this until you come to a T junction an take a left. Follow this for about a mile until you come to a signpost for Auchmithie turn right here and take the road into the village. In the village you will find a track that leads down to the beach, you can take your car down but it's not really advisable as the track can be very poor especially after a downpour.

THE BEACH
This is an excellent winter mark, especially after a good Easterly blow. Fish the beach two hours either side of high water during the winter months. Use a stiff beachcaster and 25lb-30lb line straight through to combat the weed and stones that wash around during a big sea. A rubbing leader can be used but watch for the weed build-up on the knot. A short cast is all that's needed here and as long as the base of your bait is fresh Lugworm or Ragworm along with Peeler crab and shellfish and you will be in with a good chance of fish.

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BEACH AT LOW WATER
During the summer months there are extensive kelp beds in front of the beach. To get here walk down the beach and over the rocks. Keep looking for the kelp, as that's where the fish are. You will need the regulation stiff rod and at least 25lb-30lb nylon to get any fish ashore from here and let's not forget a rotten bottom link. Go for size 4/0 hooks loaded with fresh peeler in the summer and lug/rag-based cocktails with frozen crab or shellfish in the winter.

THE HARBOUR
Walk down the left-hand side of the harbour wall and you will find the rough stuff at low water. Again, regulation rough ground tackle is a must in summer and winter, with a rotten bottom incorporated into your rig to save on tackle losses.
In winter, use a 4/0 hook with a lug/rag-based cocktail when the sea is dirty and that should see you alright. Keep on the move to locate the kelp and the fish.

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THE HARBOUR ROCKS
Walk around the little beach in the harbour to the right; here you will find the really rough stuff! There are extensive forests of kelp which are definitely not for the faint-hearted! Again heavy tactics are needed to winkle the fish out of their home. This area can, however, not fish if there is a slight movement on the sea. Be careful and don't ever attempt to fish here if there is a swell it can be very dangerous.