The most common method to catch fish off a boat in the Bristol Channel is downtiding using squid baits on a 6/0 hook lowered to the bottom by a 1lb+ lead. At least a 25lb class rod is required to handle the 1lb to 2lb lead which may be required to hold bottom in the strong tide run.

One of the most productive and enjoyable methods of fishing for Cod, Whiting, Bass and Rays in the Bristol Channel is Uptiding, this method of casting a bait away from the boat with a 6 ounce lead. The tackle used usually consists of a 9 foot uptiding rod and a multiplier filled with 25 lb braid, read more about uptiding in the Bristol Channel.

Line

For Downtiding in the Bristol Channel 25lb line is usually the minimum required.

For Uptiding in the Bristol Channel 15lb line linked to a 50lb shockleader is usually the minimum required, braid is preferred particularly for uptiding, it provides easier bite detection as it does not stretch like mono, its also considerably thinner so there is less resistance in the fast waters of the Bristol Channel, this is particulary noticeable when uptiding.

Weights

Downtiding in the Bristol Channel requires heavy leads to hold bottom, ranging from 1lb to 2lb depending on the tidal conditions.

For uptiding 6oz grippers is about the minimum required.

Terminal Tackle Rigs

For both uptide and downtide fishing a standard flowing pennel rig is the most popular rig for fishing the Bristol Channel.

Keeping the terminal tackle simple will simply mean more time that your bait is in the water, increasing your chances of catching more fish.

 

Uptide Rods

Shimano Beastmaster BX Uptide     

The special construction of Beastmaster BX Uptide rods delivers an ultra sensitive tip for good bite detection on a stiff blank, ideal for uptide fishing. The tip will consume all the energy of a strong current while a special X-cross front grip gives better fighting performance under the hardest conditions.

Model Number	Length (m)	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Casting Weight (oz)	Casting Weight (g)
BMBXUPT9626	2.89	475	2	11	XT60 + Biofibre	2 - 6 oz	60 - 170 g
BMBXUPT9648	2.89	495	2	11	XT60 + Biofibre	4 - 8 oz	110 - 225 g
BMBXUPT96610	2.89	515	2	11	XT60 + Biofibre	6 - 10 oz	170 - 280 g

 

Shimano Forcemaster Uptide     

The use of fine crystal carbon and strong components make the entry level Forcemaster Uptide a great choice for anglers on a limited budget. The powerful and robust blank has a soft tip for good bite detection and absorbing boat movement. This rod is also available as a Multi Quiver version, with three interchangeable tips, or as a Multi Heavy Duty rod. Both models can be fished at two lengths.

Model Number	Length (m)	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Casting Weight (oz)	Casting Weight (g)
FMUPT9626	2.89	462	2	11	XT30 + Fine Crystal Carbon	2 - 6 oz	60 - 170 g
FMUPT9648	2.89	492	2	11	XT30 + Fine Crystal Carbon	4 - 8 oz	110 - 225 g
FMUPT96610	2.89	557	2	11	XT30 + Fine Crystal Carbon	6 - 10 oz	170 - 280 g
FMUPTM961148Q	2.89 / 3.35	644	3		XT30 + Fine Crystal Carbon	4 - 8 oz	110 - 225 g
TFMMHD9611648	2.85 / 3.45	696	6	12	XT30 + Fine Crystal Carbon	4 - 8 oz	110 - 225 g

 

Downtide Rods

Shimano Antares AX Boat     

A versatile rod range suitable for all kinds of boat fishing, but specifically designed for deep sea fishing. This new version is stiffer and longer thanks to the fast action of the blank ? guaranteed to satisfy those fishing at depths exceeding 500 metres. To support an increasing popularity for braid, the Antares Boat is equipped with sumptuous Fuji SiC guides.

Model Number	Length (m)	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Line Rating (lbs)
ANTAXBT761220B	2.28	337	2	12	TCurve + Biofibre	12-20
ANTAXBT762030B	2.28	341	2	12	TCurve + Biofibre	20-30
ANTAXBT763050B	2.28	401	2	11	TCurve + Biofibre	30-50

 

Shimano SpeedMaster Boat     

The Biofibre-powered Speedmaster boat rods are assembled with Fuji components, including a special reel seat that supports your grip position better than traditional types. The upshot is greater control, especially when you are playing fish or standing on board a boat that's being rocked by the tide. Available in two lengths and in four different actions, original Fuji guides makes them ideal for teaming with braided lines.

Model Number	Length	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Line Rating (lbs)
SMBT760612	7'6" / 228,5	334	2	11	BIOFIBRE	6-12
SMBT761220	7'6" / 228,5	340	2	11	BIOFIBRE	12-20
SMBT762030	7'6" / 228,5	372	2	10	BIOFIBRE	20-30
SMBT763050	7'6" / 228,5	406	2	10	BIOFIBRE	30-50
SMBT860612	8'6" / 259	375	2	12	BIOFIBRE	6-12
SMBT861220	8'6" / 259	402	2	12	BIOFIBRE	12-20
SMBT862030	8'6" / 259	409	2	11	BIOFIBRE	20-30
SMBT863050	8'6" / 259	434	2	11	BIOFIBRE	30-50
SMBT30030503	300	480	3	12	BIOFIBRE	30-50

 

Shimano Technium DF AX Boat     

Manufactured with high module carbon and Diaflash wrapping ? synomonous with reliability and power. Highly versatile, the Technium range will satisfy the requirements of all levels of angler and techniques, from drifting with live bait ? to deep sea boat fishing. The flexible and elastic blank allows the use of braid main lines and is particularly suited to electric reels.

Model Number	Length (m)	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Line Rating (lbs)
TDFAXBT760612	2.28	435	2	10	TCurve	6-12
TDFAXBT761220	2.28	435	2	10	TCurve	12-20
TDFAXBT762030	2.28	430	2	10	TCurve	20-30
TDFAXBT763050	2.28	467	2	10	TCurve	30-50
TDFAXBT860612	2.59	424	2	11	TCurve	6-12
TDFAXBT861220	2.59	446	2	11	TCurve	12-20
TDFAXBT862030	2.59	465	2	11	TCurve	20-30
TDFAXBT863050	2.59	464	2	11	TCurve	30-50

 

Shimano Beastmaster AX Boat     

The AX Boat series has been developed to meet the increasing demands of boat angler's. Exceptionally light, and ideally suited for long sessions. Equipped with new Shimano guides and a Biofibre blank - delivering relentless power whilst maintaining optimum sensitivity. The will cover all requirements from light to heavy boat fishing.

Model Number	Length (m)	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Line Rating (lbs)
BMAXBT0068	2.21	518	2	10	XT40 + TCurve + Biofibre	6-8
BMAXBT1015	1.87	563	2	10	XT40 + TCurve + Biofibre	10-15
BMAXBT1620	2.21	560	2	10	XT40 + TCurve + Biofibre	16-20
BMAXBT2030	1.87	571	2	8	XT40 + TCurve + Biofibre	20-30
BMAXBT3050	1.87	589	2	8	XT40 + TCurve + Biofibre	30-50
BMAXBT3050R	1.87	758	2	7	XT40 + TCurve + Biofibre	30-50

Shimano Hyperlooop AX Boat     

This is the entry level Shimano Boat Rod, which just simply cant be be beaten for its performance for its low cost.

Model Number	Length	Weight (g)	Sections	Guides	Blank Material	Line Rating (lbs)
HPAXBT7020ML	212	460	1	9	Glass	20
HPAXBT7030M	209	550	1	8	Glass	30
HPAXBT7050MH	211	610	1	8	Glass	50
HPAXBT7080H	210	690	1	8	Glass	80

 

 

 

Reels

The following reels are more than suitable for boat fishing the Bristol Channel

Shimano TIAGRA

Since its introduction over ten years ago Tiagra has become a worldwide market leader. It is the solid construction in combination with easy to use features that is so loved by even the most demanding fishermen. Amongst its many features it boasts a one piece machined Aluminium frame, cold forged aluminium spool, A-RB ball bearings, 2-speed gears, Twin Disk Drag system (on 16 & 130 size), new designed Septon grip and much, much more. Tiagra is a reel built to comfortably cope with the biggest fish on earth, and to release them after the catch with a smile. Obviously Tiagra is the perfect choice for the ever increasing number of British anglers who travel the globe in search of the very best rod and line action, while closer to home Tiagra is undoubtedly the finest big conger, shark and skate reel available for those anglers who fish around the UK.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings
TI12	12-880/16-650/20-460	3,9:1 /1:1,7		992	6 ARB
TI16	16-980/20-670/30-430	3,9:1 /1:1,7		1077	6 ARB
TI20A	20-690/30-470	3,9:1 /1:1,7		1409	4 ARB
TI30A	30-700/50-420	3,9:1 /1:1,7		1486	4 ARB

Shimano TORSA

Torsa can be summed up as speed, power, durability and castability. When developing the Torsa Shimano engineers succeeded in designing different types of drag cams, which can be put on the reel to create different drag curves. This system looks set to revolutionise the way we play fish, especially on light, sporting tackle. Eight drag cams are available, all with very different characteristics. The extremely strong frame and spool are created by using diff erent techniques; cold forging and machining of the finest kinds of aluminium, while the High Efficiency Gears are the biggest Shimano have ever designed for fishing tackle. The gears are housed in a low-based gearbox, creating an excellent balance that offers you more control. In size Torsa is a small reel that in reality can cope with really big fish.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings	Roller Bearings
TS16	16-450/20-320	5,8:1		825	8 ARB	1
TS16N	14-300/16-270/20-200	5,8:1		811	8 ARB	1
TS20	20-420/25-300	5,8:1		856	8 ARB	1
TS30	25-420/30-350	5,8:1		882	8 ARB	1
TS40	30-470/40-320/50-260	5,8:1		1032	8 A-RB	1

Shimano TYRNOS

Tyrnos features a gear ratio of 5.0:1 and is built for power thanks to its 4 A-RB bearings, oversized gears, die-cast machined aluminium handle and ergonomic rubber power grip. As part of the metal series of reels,the sturdy frame keeps all moving parts in precise alignment to ensure long-term efficiency. The Tyrnos is ideal for numerous saltwater angling applications.

TYRNOS 2-SPEED
A metal design construction is the base of all Tyrnos reels, creating stability and durability that ensures that all parts are perfectly aligned for a smooth movement and long lifetime. The ability to be able to swiftly change from high to low gear and then back again is a massive advantage in many offshore angling situations, while the advantages of a silky smooth yet powerful lever drag when fighting big fish are too numerous to mention.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings	Roller Bearings
TYR20	20-700/30-450/40-330	5,0:1		1021	4 ARB	0
TYR30	30-600/40-450/50-350	5,0:1		1080	4 ARB	0
TYR12	15-420/20-300/25-250	5,0:1		-	4 A-RB	0
TYR16	20-520/25-420/30-350	5,0:1		-	4 A-RB	0

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings	Roller Bearings
TYR20II	20-700/30-450/40-330	5,0:1 / 2,0:1		1110	4 ARB	0
TYR30II	30-600/40-450/50-350	5,0:1 / 2,0:1		1160	4 ARB	0
TYR12II	15-420/20-300/25-250	5,0:1 / 2,0:1		850	4 ARB	0
TYR16II	20-520/25-420/30-350	5,0:1 / 2,0:1		895	4 ARB	0

Shimano TRINIDAD

No longer need you compromise between speed and power thanks to the Trinidad's massive 6.2:1 ratio main gear housed within a one-piece aluminium frame. A large Dartanium washer, six A-RB ball bearings plus one roller bearing ensure performance and longevity. Besides an alarm, there's a unique adjustable clicker system.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings	Roller Bearings
TN14	14-300/16-270/20-200	6,2:1		432	6 ARB	1
TN16	16-450/20-320	6,2:1		560	6 ARB	1
TN30	25-420/30-350	6,2:1		588	6 ARB	1

Shimano TORIUM

Like Trinidad reels, Torium belongs to the new generation of high-speed power reels. A full one piece aluminium frame and special adjustable power handle with ergonomic handle knob are demanded by the power you can create. Super Stopper system, 3 A-RB ball bearings, adjustable clicker and star drag come as standard.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings	Roller Bearings
TOR14	14-300/16-270/20-200	6,2:1		445	3 ARB	1
TOR16	16-450	6,2:1		635	3 ARB	1
TOR20	20-420	6,2:1		645	3 ARB	1
TOR30	25-420	6,2:1		660	3 ARB	1
TOR50	40-490/50-440	4,9:1		941	3 ARB	1

Shimano TEKOTA

Within these metal frame reels, a multi disc star drag system can be adjusted in every position required. A line counter model is available in 500 and 600 sizes. Gears are assisted by 3 A-RB ball bearings plus a roller bearing.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings	Roller Bearings
TEK500	14-340	4,2:1		435	3 ARB	1
TEK500LC	14-340	4,2:1		460	3 ARB	1
TEK600	20-300	4,2:1		450	3 ARB	1
TEK600LC	20-300	4,2:1		480	3 ARB	1
TEK700	30-350	4,2:1		815	3 ARB	1
TEK800	30-450	4,2:1		845	3 ARB	1
TEK300	14-200	4,2:1		376	3 ARB	1 ARB
TEK300LC	14-200	4,2:1		407	3 ARB	1 ARB

Shimano TLD

TLD
The new lower priced and highly popular TLD 15 is spot-on for mid-Channel pollack, light line bass and conventional "up and down" fishing. Consultant Dave Lewis has landed 100lbplus (45kg-plus) Namibian sharks on his! The TLD 20 suits medium weight pirking, blue sharks and deep water where its fast retrieve and wide diameter spool are appreciated. An outstanding reel capable of handling any European fish, the TLD 25 fits the bill for pirking, conger, skate, sharks and overseas sorties.


TLD 2-SPEED A
The same drag system on standard TLD reels but heavily engineered for even tougher work. They offer the option of switching between high and low speed retrieve as situations dictate. If you are pumping a 200lb skate through 400ft of water, you'll need low. A high-flying billfish that changes course to rush the boat demands high. If you want just one reel for home and abroad, make it a TLD 2 Speed.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio	Weight (g)	Ball Bearings
TLD15	20-450/25-350/30-300	4,2:1	527	4 ARB
TLD20	20-700/30-450/40-330	3,6:1	670	4 ARB
TLD25	30-600/40-450/50-350	3,6:1	695	4 ARB

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight	Ball Bearings
TLD20IIA	20-70/ 30-450/ 50-250	4,0:1/ 1,7:1		1026	4 A-RB
TLD30IIA	20-800/ 30-600/ 40-450/ 50-350	4,0:1/ 1,7:1		1064	4 A-RB
TLD50IIA	50-700	3,5:1/ 1,4:1		1624	4 A-RB
TLD50IILRSA	80-440	3,5:1/ 1,4:1		1624	4 A-RB

Shimano TLD-STAR

Another top quality value-for-money multiplier reel, perfect for many boat fishing applications. The generous line capacity of the TLD Star reels make these especially suited to deeper water applications.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings
TLD1530S	20-360/25-290	5,2:1		472	2 ARB
TLD2040S	20-480/25-390/30-330	5,2:1		496	2 ARB

Shimano CHARTER SPECIAL

Is this the perfect choice all-round reel for the UK based angler? Available in two sizes and featuring the somewhat unique combination of a lever drag, level wind and centrifugal brakes, this is one reel that is equally at home casting baits uptide from an anchored boat as it is working artificial lures such as jelly worms and shads over deepwater wrecks and reefs on the drift. The Shimano Charter Special is the perfect choice for use with either braid or monofilament lines.

Model Number	Spool capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings
TR1000LD	12-390/14-330/17-250	5,2:1		475	4 ARB
TR2000LD	14-480/17-400/20-300	5,2:1		500	4 ARB

Shimano TR

The TR200G is the perfect choice for the novice angler, though this feature packed and highly aff ordable reel is also ideal for more experienced anglers looking to carry a second or third reel for use as a spare, or when needing to venture off shore equipped with a selection of different breaking strains or types of line. The reel features a level wind and is ideal for general downtide fishing at anchor with bait, or fishing on the drift using either bait or artificial lures.

Model Number	Line Capacity (lb/yds)	Gear Ratio		Weight (g)	Ball Bearings
TR200G	14-480/17-400/20-300	4,3:1		375	1 ARB

One of the best and most used small multipliers used on charter boats in the Bristol Channel, the Calcutta main frame is machine cut from one-piece aluminium bar stock for incredible strength and lightness. Two ball bearings and a Roller Bearing maximise performance and the Variable Braking System reduces overruns. The level wind system gives superb hasslemfree spooling of mono or braid and a precision star drag is easily adjusted to tire bigger fish.

 

Also take at a look at Bristol Channel Fish Bait.

Also take a look at what species of fish to target and when at Bristol Channel Fishing Seasons.

Want to check the weather forecast for South Wales.