Bagging the Mackerel: A Bait Collecting Session at Blackpool Sands

I'd planned a fishing trip to Blackpool Sands for a while now, but the weather had other ideas. A strong westerly wind and heavy drizzle made my usual approach impossible. Not one to give up easily, I decided to turn the session into a bait collecting mission – targeting mackerel to use for future trips.

The Bait Collecting Approach

Collecting mackerel for bait is all about maximizing your catch of these feisty fish. Here's the gist:

• Gear: Instead of my usual setup, I opted for my trusty beachcaster loaded with 18lb line. It might seem like overkill, but it proved to be the perfect rod for using a string of sabikis (feathers).

• Lures: Mackerel are attracted to shiny things, so sabikis with their multiple flashy feathers are ideal.

• Technique: I cast out and retrieved at varying speeds, letting the sabikis flutter and sink occasionally.

The Session

Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the mackerel were biting! The action was sporadic though - it seemed like there were two distinct sizes in the water. Lots of tiny ones were getting caught, mixed in with some real whoppers. I even managed to land one absolute monster, which I snapped a picture of for Kev to use in his upcoming YouTube fishing video on the #fishingwithkevy channel.

It was a great reminder that even when the weather isn't cooperating, there are still ways to enjoy a day of fishing. And, with a freezer full of mackerel, I'm well-prepared for my next trip.

Tight lines!