RIG

Wherever you fish you should always ensure you use a strong terminal rig, as even a modest turbot fighting in a light run of tide will test the integrity of your fishing tackle.

The ideal rig for catching turbot is the running leger (above). Basic rigs, typically consisting of a flowing trace in the region of 6-12ft, are perfect. Many anglers add spoons or other attractors such as coloured muppets to their turbot rigs, and it is likely these do, in some degree, contribute to their success.

Hooklengths should be made from at least 50-60lb monofilament, to ensure they can handle the strain of holding a large flatfish in a strong tide.

Likewise, hooks should be strong and, of course, sharp. Depending on the size of bait, expect to use hooks from around size 3/0 to 6/0.

The turbot has a huge mouth, and hooks such as the excellent and reliable Japanese-made Sakuma Mantas are perfect.