Fishing with artificial bait for sea bass in the Netherlands

Fishing with artificial bait for sea bass in the Netherlands

Sea bass is one of the most popular sport fish on the Dutch coast, and fishing with artificial bait is an effective and exciting way to catch this predatory fish. Sea bass is known for its powerful fight and this sport fish often surprises anglers with sudden and powerful runs. In this article we discuss the best fishing spots and the right artificial bait to increase your chances of success.

Best spots for sea bass

In the Netherlands, sea bass can be found mainly along the coast, in harbours, at breakwaters and river mouths. Some of the best places to fish for sea bass are:

1. South Holland coast (Maasvlakte and Europoort) : This region is known for its strong currents and shallow waters, where sea bass like to hunt for prey.
2. Zeeland (Oosterschelde and Westerschelde) : The tidal action and the presence of nutrient-rich currents make these areas ideal for sea bass.
3. IJmuiden and the North Holland coast : Harbours, piers and the coastline here offer numerous places where sea bass are active.
4. Wadden Sea and Ems-Dollard : Sea bass are common in these tidal areas, especially around sandbanks and deep channels.

Fishing around obstacles such as breakwaters and pier heads is often successful as sea bass will congregate there to hunt for small fish.

The best lures for sea bass

Sea bass is a predatory fish that feeds on small fish, shrimp and other marine animals. Lures that imitate these prey are very effective. Some of the most commonly used lures are:

1. Softbaits : These soft lures resemble small fish and are particularly effective in shallow water. Shads and twisters are popular choices, with a natural colour such as silver or white often working well.
2. Plugs : These hard plastic lures come in a variety of sizes and styles, ranging from floating to sinking models. Plugs with a lively swimming action such as the "popper" are ideal for sea bass.
3. Jerkbaits : These lures are excellent for fishing at various depths and can attract large, active sea bass.
4. Spoons and metal lures : In strong currents, spoons and metal jigs such as the Pilker can be effective as they move quickly through the water and stand out.

It is important to fish with the right size lure, often between 8 and 15 cm, depending on the conditions and the food supply in the water. In addition, it is important to adjust the action of the lure well to the conditions: adjust the weight of the lure well to the degree of current and depth of the water. This allows you to make beautiful and effective bottom drifts when fishing with shads.

Surface bait works well on windless days when the water level is nice and flat. This allows you to get the best action in the lure and gives you a good view of the lure.

Tips for success

• Tides : Sea bass are most active during the rising and falling tides. Fishing at sunrise or sunset often yields the best catches.
• Weather conditions : A light swell or wind from the sea provides oxygen-rich water and increases the chance of bites.
• Change location : Sea bass are a mobile fish, so if you don't get a bite after 20-30 minutes, it's wise to change location.

Fishing for sea bass with artificial bait is a great way to enjoy the sport on the Dutch coast. By choosing the right spots and the right artificial bait, you can significantly increase your chances of a catch. Good luck!

Below you can watch a COOL video, in which Joep shows his TOP 3 SOFTBAITS for the Western Scheldt during a nice no-nonsense odskool GoPro session for sea bass!