STAR QUESTION

PF says: Without any hesitation, I would certainly advise using a two-hook flapper rig with size-2 hooks. They’re simple to construct and will catch lots of different species around the UK.

Bait choice is not such an easy question to answer because many venues differ. The popular choices are definitely lugworms and peeler crabs, with possibly squid too.

Q: When fishing in an estuary targeting flounders, should I fish a flood tide? IS it best to cast on to the ridges of sand, shingle and mud or target the gullies between them?

DAVE HOLLINGBROOK, BY EMAIL

PF says: I grew up fishing the River Wear estuary in Sunderland targeting flounders, and always found my best sport in a moving tide – whether it be the flood or the ebb. It was also really noticeable that when the tide stopped, so did the bites.

Regarding where to cast, I’ve often found that a plain lead allows the bait to move and search out features like those you mention.

In addition, flounders love a chase, and a moving bait can often bring an aggressive take. If a cast doesn’t result in a bite within 10 minutes, try moving the baited rig just a few inches and leave it to fish again.

Q: I have been experimenting with PVA string to clip down my multi-hook rigs when casting off-the-ground. It dissolves really quickly, but is it environmentally friendly and is there anything better that I could use?

WILL SUDBURY, BY EMAIL

PF says: PVA is used a lot in coarse fishing for distributing groundbait over a particular area, and I’ve never heard of it being harmful to the environment.

As for clipping down hookbaits in sea fishing, I would personally use proper bait clips for this. I can envisage a lot of problems with PVA string and powercasting styles, especially if it’s raining.