Hi everyone. I'm sure plenty of you have heard about the Thornback Rays currently coming out but for those who haven't I thought I would give you all a heads up.



We have been catching Thornbacks for 5 weeks now and getting reports for a little bit longer at a variety of different marks but there are a few things which always stay the same.

1. Weather. It generally needs to be pretty flat with not much rain in the days before.

2. Distance. Every fish has come from distance. 100 yards plus. Generally fishing on a muddy bank in 15-25ft of water.

3. Slack or slow moving water. Every fish has again come within 1 1/2 hours of low or high water. Most within 1/2 hour of tide.

4. Light. All the fish have come at dusk or darkness.

Bait & Rigs
We have caught on 3 different baits. Frozen peeler crab, Mackerel and Full Squid. The Squid seems to be the one which is producing more fish. Don't be scared to use big baits, they tend to be pulling the larger fish in.
Rig wise hasn't really caused many issues, just make sure you can cast it a good distance. I have preferred a pulley pennel but I know they have come out on standard clipped rigs. Either way make sure you main hook is a strong 3/0.

Location.
Low water has been the most productive. 3 three venues which we have caught are on the sand bar in-front of the top end of the north wall, half moon bay and west end beach.
High water. Throbshaw point, jetty and the north wall have been the only successful venues so far.

Good luck to everyone who fancies catching a new species from the bay. If you want more info or the tackle please pop in and have a chat.

I'm back out for them next week.

thats a great session lads . its bin the same in the mersey . there was 5 of us and we had 26 in a hour and half . great report and photos

Hi Chris,
Great report, thanks.
Those wings look tasty - ask your dad if he knows of any good recipes!!

All my fish go back unless someone I like asks for a specific fish.

Each to their own though.

Yes, I know you do mate, well done - it was from the fear of your wrath that my 4 foot tope went back when out with Gerry last week!!
So that was one happy tope thanks to you!!

Crack on session that lads,good report and pics. Glad to see you have combed your hair for the photos Chris. Slot me in for one of them aswell as my plaice session with Jack. Cheers men.
PS Returned as they should be.

great report & pics chris some nice fish there

Good result mate well done