Q&A

BOAT ANGLING

Q: I have read that many species of fish are attracted by sound. Is this true and, if so, is it worth incorporating a rattle of some sort into my terminal rigs? DOUGIE MCKIE, BY EMAIL

DL says: Many species certainly do respond to sound. In the past, I have used Booby Beads (below), which were designed specifically for this purpose. There are some hard lures made with internal rattling beads too.

Exactly how much of a difference these make I do not know, but they certainly do no harm, and I know anglers who are convinced they make a positive difference.

Q: Our club has booked a week’s skate fishing off the west coast of Scotland. What are the best baits for skate that we can catch on the trip? JOHN DREW, BY EMAIL

DL says: Skate can be caught on most types of fish bait.

Mackerel are a popular choice, but these will probably not be available to catch fresh in the spring. Dogfish are one of the most effective baits for big skate, and these should be readily available where you fish.

Q: How accurate are the weights of big fish that have been calculated by measurements rather than weighing? ANTHONY NORRIS, MANCHESTER

DL says: In most cases I would say that the weight of a fish calculated from accurate measurements is certainly very close to that fish’s actual weight.

Ultimately, does it really matter if the fish was a few pounds heavier or lighter, just so long as it was returned as soon as possible?