St Abbs Fishing

St. Abbs Fishing and Visitor Guide

St Abbs Fishing, on Scotland's stunning Berwickshire coastline, is a picturesque location renowned for its breathtaking cliffs, diverse marine life, and fishing opportunities. With rugged terrain and clear waters, this spot offers anglers a unique experience, particularly those interested in saltwater fishing in an unspoiled environment. Alongside its fishing appeal, St. Abbs Head also provides excellent trails, wildlife watching, and scenic views, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fishing at St. Abbs Head

Fishing at St. Abbs Head is both challenging and rewarding, with a variety of fish species attracted by the kelp beds, deep waters, and rocky outcrops around the headland. This location is ideal for experienced anglers who are comfortable fishing from rocks and cliffs.

Target Fish Species

1. Pollock – Abundant year-round but best in warmer months. Pollock are frequently found near kelp beds, often in deeper waters off the cliffs.
2. Cod – A popular catch in colder months; St. Abbs Head has great cod stocks, especially around the deeper, rocky zones.
3. Wrasse – Found in shallow rocky areas, wrasse are particularly common in spring and summer.
4. Coalfish (Saithe) – Present throughout the year and often caught near the rocks.
5. Mackerel – In summer, schools of mackerel frequent the waters, especially in the bays and coves around the headland.

Fishing Tips and Techniques

• Best Techniques: Float fishing and spinning are effective from the cliffs, as they allow anglers to access deeper waters where pollock, cod, and coalfish are commonly found. Wrasse are often caught with a float rig using shellfish baits.
• Tackle and Bait: Due to the rocky seabed, strong tackle is recommended to handle larger fish and avoid frequent snags. Recommended baits include mackerel strips, lugworms, crab, and ragworm.
• Safety Precautions: The cliffs can be steep and challenging, so proper footwear is essential. Fish with a companion if possible, as weather conditions and tides can change quickly. Be mindful of the strong tidal currents.
• Best Seasons: Cod is more abundant in winter, while pollock, mackerel, and wrasse are best targeted in the warmer months.

Activities and Surrounding Attractions at St. Abbs Head

St. Abbs Head is not only a fishing paradise but also a nature lover’s dream, with dramatic cliffs, vibrant wildlife, and sweeping ocean views. Whether you’re fishing or exploring, the headland offers numerous activities.

1. Coastal Hiking and Photography

St. Abbs Head is famous for its coastal paths and rugged landscapes, which provide some of the most scenic hikes in the region. The paths range from gentle walks to more challenging trails along the cliff edge, rewarding hikers with spectacular views of the North Sea. The coastal scenery, combined with natural arches and sea stacks, makes it a popular spot for landscape photographers.

Highlights:

• Eyelid Cove – A unique rocky inlet popular for photography.
• St. Abbs Lighthouse – An iconic landmark with panoramic views of the coastline and cliffs.
• Nunnery Point – Another vantage point offering stunning views over the sea and cliffs.

2. Birdwatching at St. Abbs Head National Nature Reserve

St. Abbs Head is part of a protected National Nature Reserve, known for its diverse seabird colonies. Birdwatchers will find an abundance of species here, particularly during the breeding season from May to July.

Bird Species to Spot:

• Puffins – Nest in the cliffs and can be seen diving for fish.
• Guillemots and Razorbills – Common along the cliff ledges.
• Kittiwakes and Fulmars – Seen gliding along the coast.
• Shags and Cormorants – Frequently perched on rocks along the shore.

3. Diving and Snorkeling

The crystal-clear waters around St. Abbs Head make it one of the most renowned dive sites in the UK. Divers and snorkelers can explore vibrant kelp forests, sea caves, and abundant marine life, including fish, crustaceans, and unique invertebrates.

• St. Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve: This marine reserve offers protected waters ideal for marine life exploration, making it an attractive destination for diving enthusiasts.
• Guided Dives: Several local diving companies offer guided dives, providing equipment and expertise for exploring the underwater beauty of St. Abbs Head.

4. Wildlife Watching and Eco Tours

The marine and coastal ecosystems around St. Abbs Head support a variety of animals. Boat tours are available, giving visitors a chance to see dolphins, seals, and occasionally whales. These tours often operate from the nearby village of St. Abbs and provide eco-friendly ways to explore the marine reserve and spot wildlife.

Visitor Information

• Location: St. Abbs Head, Berwickshire, Scotland.
• Accessibility: Limited parking is available at St. Abbs Head car park, with trails leading to the cliffs and nature reserve.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing; winter for cod fishing.
• Nearby Facilities: The village of St. Abbs offers cafes, a small visitor center, and shops where you can find food, fishing supplies, and dive equipment rentals.

Nearby Attractions:

• St. Abbs Village: This charming fishing village offers cafes, craft shops, and an atmosphere of Scottish coastal heritage.
• Coldingham Bay: A nearby beach perfect for family picnics, beachcombing, and gentle surf conditions.
• Eyemouth: A short drive away, this historic port town offers additional amenities, including restaurants, pubs, and local shops.

St. Abbs Head is a captivating destination for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. With productive fishing spots, breathtaking hikes, and unparalleled bird and marine life, it offers a comprehensive outdoor experience on the Berwickshire coast. Whether you're here for the fishing or the scenery, St. Abbs Head is a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.