BOOST YOUR CHANCES

■ Keep a diary and notes of your sessions and catches so you can look for patterns developing to help build a picture of what the fish might do.

■ It’s essential to hold the rod. You must feel for bites when touch legering, and it’s important to set the hooks as soon you get a solid bite. Putting the rod in a rest may result in missed bites.

■ Don’t be put off by wild, windy, wet weather. There’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.

■ Watch the weather forecast and check your tide charts. You are looking for that perfect combination of time, tide, conditions and weather.

■ Fish close in because bass come much closer than you would think, especially at night.

■ Love the darkness – become nocturnal in your fishing habits.

■ Don’t give up if you suffer a few blanks. They are steps closer to success and a potential fish of a lifetime. The more you go, the more you’ll learn and the more likely you’ll find success.

■ Stay safe. Fishing on reefs and surf beaches in wild weather in the dark comes with its risks, so play it safe. Go fishing with a friend and always let someone know when and where you are going.

■ Enjoy it! Bass fishing provides adventure and joy. Get out there and catch yourself a whopper.