Chasing bass in North Wales during December is always something I look forward to. The winter months here bring their own charm, and yet again, I’ve had another fantastic session on these beautiful coastlines. With the temperature dropping, the bass seem to be moving in closer, and this has been one of the most rewarding Decembers so far. This time, I landed a solid fish weighing just over 5 pounds along with three other bass around the same weight a good start to the season, but I can’t help feeling that those double-figure bass are within reach if the conditions hold up.
My go-to technique for bass fishing has always been the trusty pulley rig paired with ragworm as bait. There’s something about this combination that just works wonders for me. The pulley rig’s efficiency in dealing with snags and presenting the bait naturally is perfect for the rocky North Wales seabed, while ragworm has consistently proven to be irresistible to the bass around here. It’s a simple setup, but it delivers results time and time again. The thrill of casting out, feeling the line tighten, and then experiencing that unmistakable surge of energy from a bass strike is what keeps me coming back.
People often ask, “Why not chase cod instead?” To be honest, it’s a fair question. December is traditionally prime time for cod fishing in many parts of the UK. But here in North Wales, things are a bit different. Over the years, cod numbers have sadly declined, making them much harder to come by. For me, it just doesn’t make sense to spend hours chasing a dwindling population when the bass fishing here is absolutely phenomenal.
There’s a certain magic to targeting bass. They’re such powerful, aggressive fighters, and every catch feels hard-earned. Standing on the shore, casting into the cold December waves, and waiting for that telltale tug on the line—it’s an experience like no other. Bass fishing isn’t just about the catch for me; it’s about the whole process. The rugged beauty of the North Wales coast, the crisp winter air, and the anticipation of what might be lurking beneath the surface all come together to create something truly special.
This season has already shaped up to be one of the best, and it feels like the bass are well and truly making their presence known. I’ll always have a soft spot for cod as part of North Wales’ angling heritage, but with bass like these around, it’s no contest. December here is all about embracing the incredible bass fishing opportunities on offer—and I can’t wait to see what the next session will bring.
Tight lines, and best of luck with your next session—here’s hoping for that double-figure bass!
