The complete guide to sea fishing
Sea fishing is one of the most accessible and exciting forms of fishing in Norway. With over 100,000 kilometers of coastline, countless fjords, islands, and skerries, there are endless opportunities – whether you fish from land, a pier, rocks, or a boat.
One of the reasons sea fishing is so popular is its variety. On a single fishing trip, you can catch mackerel, saithe, pollack, cod, or sea trout, and you rarely know which species will take the bait next. At the same time, sea fishing requires a slightly different kind of knowledge than freshwater fishing. Tides, currents, weather, and equipment choice often play a larger role.
Fortunately, you don't need advanced or expensive equipment to get started. With a suitable fishing rod, a few selected lures or jigs, and a little knowledge of where the fish are located, you can experience excellent fishing along much of the Norwegian coast.
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about sea fishing – from choosing equipment and bait to the most common fish species, how to find fish, and which techniques work best under various conditions.
The goal is to give you the knowledge you need to get more bites, land more fish, and enjoy your fishing trips along the coast even more.
Contents
- What is sea fishing?
- Equipment for sea fishing
- Choosing a fishing rod and reel
- Fishing line and leader
- The best baits for sea fishing
- Lures, jigs, and pilkers
- Natural bait for sea fishing
- Fishing from land
- Fishing from a boat
- Tide, current, and weather
- Where do you find the fish?
- The most common fish species along the Norwegian coast
- How to choose the right bait for each species
- Seasons for sea fishing
- Safety during sea fishing
- Common mistakes in sea fishing
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary
What is sea fishing?
Sea fishing is fishing in saltwater, either along the coast or out at sea. Unlike freshwater fishing, where you often fish for one specific species, in sea fishing, you can catch many different species on the same fishing trip.
It is precisely this variety that makes sea fishing so exciting. Depending on where you fish and what equipment you use, you can catch everything from small wrasse to large cod or strong pollack.
Sea fishing can be done in many different ways:
- from rocks
- from piers
- from breakwaters
- from beaches
- from a kayak
- from a boat
Each method has its advantages, but the basic principles are the same: find areas where the fish are located, use the right equipment, and adapt your fishing method to the conditions.
Why is sea fishing so popular?
There are several reasons why many people choose sea fishing.
Among the advantages are:
- great species diversity
- many accessible fishing spots
- fishing all year round
- opportunity for both small and very large fish
- suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers
In addition, fishing in the sea from land is free in many places, making the hobby easily accessible to most people.
Which fish species can you catch?
Along the Norwegian coast, there are a large number of fish species.
Some of the most common are:
- cod
- saithe
- pollack
- mackerel
- whiting
- flounder
- wrasse
- sea trout
- herring
- garfish (seasonal)
Which species you encounter varies with the season, region, water depth, and fishing method.
When is sea fishing best?
Sea fishing can be good all year round, but activity and species vary with the season.
For example:
- Spring often offers good fishing for cod and saithe.
- Summer is peak season for mackerel and pollack, among others.
- Autumn can provide very good fishing for many predatory fish.
- Winter can be a great time for deeper fishing for cod and saithe, among others.
By adapting both equipment and bait to the season, you increase your chances of good catches.
Is sea fishing difficult?
No. Sea fishing is one of the easiest forms of sport fishing to get started with.
Many start with:
- an all-round fishing rod
- a suitable reel
- some lures
- a couple of jigs
- a simple tackle box
As your experience grows, you can expand your equipment and try new fishing methods.
The most important thing is to get out there and learn through practical experience.
💡 Tips from Utmarksliv
Many beginners think they have to go far out by boat to catch fish. The truth is that many of the best fishing spots are found along the shore. Piers, breakwaters, rocks, and headlands can provide excellent fishing if you choose the right time and adapt your equipment to the conditions.
Equipment for sea fishing
The right equipment makes sea fishing both easier and more effective. You don't need the most expensive equipment to succeed, but it's important that your fishing rod, reel, line, and bait are adapted to the fishing method and the species you want to catch.
Sea fishing often places greater demands on equipment than freshwater fishing. Saltwater can cause rust and wear, and many sea fish are both stronger and heavier than the most common freshwater species.
By choosing equipment that suits the conditions, you get longer casts, better control over the bait, and a greater chance of landing the fish when it bites.
Fishing rod
An all-round sea fishing rod is well-suited for most people fishing from land.
For general coastal fishing, often works well:
length of 8–10 feet
casting weight of approximately 15–50 grams or 20–60 grams
medium or medium-heavy action
This type of rod is well-suited for, among other things:
lures
spinners
jigs
smaller pilkers
If you primarily fish from a boat or in deeper waters, a shorter and more powerful rod might be a better choice.
Reel
A spinning reel is the first choice for most people fishing from land.
Choose a reel that:
has a smooth drag
is saltwater resistant
has good line capacity
matches the size of the fishing rod
A reel in size 3000–4000 covers the needs for most types of sea fishing from land.
For heavier boat fishing, larger reels or baitcasting reels are often used.
Fishing line
The choice of line has a significant impact on both casting distance and sensitivity.
The most common options are:
Braided line
Advantages:
long casting distance
high breaking strength
excellent contact with the bait
low stretch
This is the first choice for many who actively fish with lures or jigs.
Monofilament
Advantages:
affordable
easy to handle
more elastic
more forgiving of errors when fighting fish
Many beginners prefer monofilament because it is easy to use.
Leader
A leader protects the main line from wear from:
rocks
shells
fish teeth
Fluorocarbon is a popular choice because it:
is durable
withstands abrasion well
is less visible underwater than many other materials
Lures
Lures are among the most versatile baits for sea fishing.
They work well for, among others:
saithe
cod
pollack
sea trout
mackerel
It's smart to have several weights available so you can adapt to wind, current, and fishing depth.
Pilkers
Pilkers are mainly used when fish are deep or you are fishing from a boat.
They are often the first choice for:
cod
saithe
ling
tusk
Heavier pilkers quickly reach the bottom even when the current is strong.
Jigs
Jigs are very popular both from land and boat.
They are well suited when:
the fish are near the bottom
you want a lifelike presentation
the fish are not very active
Choose jig size and jig head according to depth and current conditions.
Swivels and snap swivels
A good swivel reduces the risk of the line twisting.
Snap swivels also make it easier to change baits quickly without having to tie new knots every time.
Always keep a few extra in your tackle box.
Landing net
A landing net makes it easier to land fish, especially if you are fishing from:
a pier
rocks
a breakwater
a boat
A net with rubberized mesh is often a good choice because it is gentle on the fish and reduces the risk of hooks getting snagged.
Tackle box and fishing bag
Good organization makes the fishing trip more efficient.
A tackle box protects your baits from damage and makes it easy to find the right lure or jig when conditions change.
A practical fishing bag provides space for:
extra lines
leaders
pliers
spare hooks
tackle boxes
other necessary equipment
Pliers and hook removers
Many sea fish have sharp teeth or strong hooks that can be difficult to remove.
Good fishing pliers make it easier to:
remove hooks
cut line
change split rings
handle fish safely
Remember maintenance
Saltwater is far more demanding on fishing equipment than freshwater.
After each fishing trip, you should:
rinse the rod and reel in fresh water
dry the equipment thoroughly
check hooks and split rings
look for rust or wear on the line
store the equipment dry
Regular maintenance extends the life of your equipment and ensures that it performs optimally on your next fishing trip.
💡 Tips from Utmarksliv
You don't need to buy everything at once. A good all-round rod, a reliable reel, braided line, some lures, and a couple of jigs are enough to get started with sea fishing. As you gain more experience, you can expand your equipment with pilkers, leaders, and specialty baits for different fish species.
Fishing line and leader
The choice of fishing line and leader has a significant impact on how well you feel bites, how far you cast, and how likely you are to land the fish. Many focus most on the rod and reel, but the right line can make a big difference – especially in challenging conditions with current, wind, or large fish.
In sea fishing, two main types of fishing line are used: braided line and monofilament. Both have their advantages, and which one you should choose depends on your fishing method and personal preferences.
Braided line
Braided line is the first choice for many anglers because it has high breaking strength and almost no stretch.
Advantages of braided line:
Excellent contact with the bait.
You can feel even light bites.
Better control when fishing in deeper waters.
Thin diameter allows for longer casts.
High strength relative to its thickness.
This makes braided line particularly well-suited for:
lure fishing
jig fishing
pilking
fishing in strong currents
fishing in deeper waters
The disadvantage is that it has little stretch. Therefore, greater demands are placed on the reel's drag and on how you play the fish.
Monofilament
Monofilament has been used for many years and is still a good alternative.
Advantages:
Affordable price.
Easy to tie.
More elastic than braided line.
More forgiving of mistakes when fighting fish.
Good abrasion resistance against rocks and shells.
Monofilament can be a good choice for beginners or for certain types of bottom fishing.
The disadvantage is that it has more stretch, which gives slightly poorer contact with the bait and makes it harder to feel subtle bites at greater depths.
What thickness should you choose?
There's no definitive answer, but the thickness should be adapted to the fishing method and the size of the fish you expect to catch.
For general sea fishing from shore, the following often works:
-
braided line of approximately 0.12–0.18 mm
-
monofilament of approximately 0.25–0.35 mm
If you're fishing for larger fish or in challenging conditions, a stronger line might be necessary.
The most important thing is to find a balance between strength, casting distance, and sensitivity.
Why use a leader?
A leader is a short length of line between the main line and the bait.
It has several important functions:
-
protects the main line from wear and tear
-
reduces visibility near the bait
-
makes it easier to change bait
-
absorbs strain if the line chafes against rocks or shells
Although braided line is strong, it tolerates sharp edges less well than a good leader.
Fluorocarbon or monofilament?
The most common materials for leaders are fluorocarbon and monofilament.
Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon is very popular for sea fishing.
Advantages:
-
high abrasion resistance
-
less visible in water
-
sinks faster than monofilament
-
tolerates rocks and shells well
This makes fluorocarbon a good choice when fishing for species that often stay near the bottom.
Monofilament as a leader
Monofilament also works well as a leader.
It is:
-
affordable
-
easy to tie
-
readily available
Many anglers use monofilament when fishing with lures or natural bait in normal conditions.
How long should the leader be?
The length varies depending on the fishing method.
As a rule of thumb, the following often works:
-
0.5–1 meter for lure fishing
-
1–2 meters for jig fishing
-
0.5–1 meter for jigging
-
longer leaders may be appropriate when fishing with natural bait
You can adjust the length based on conditions and your experience.
Knots are as important as the line
Even the best line is of little help if the knots don't hold.
A good fishing knot should:
-
be strong
-
be easy to tie correctly
-
withstand high strain
-
not unnecessarily weaken the line
Always test the knot by pulling firmly on it before you start fishing.
Check the line regularly
Sea fishing puts a lot of strain on both the main line and the leader.
After each fishing trip, you should:
-
feel for nicks and wear
-
replace the leader if needed
-
cut off damaged parts of the line
-
check the knots
-
rinse the line if it's full of salt and sand
A few minutes of maintenance can save you from losing a big fish on your next trip.
💡 Tip from Utmarksliv
A combination of braided main line and a fluorocarbon leader is a popular choice among many sea anglers. You get the good sensitivity from the braided line, while the leader provides extra abrasion resistance against rocks, shells, and other obstacles on the bottom. This setup works well for lure fishing, jig fishing, and much of sea fishing from shore.
The best baits for sea fishing
The choice of bait significantly influences how successful your fishing trip will be. Different fish species have varying hunting instincts and feeding habits, and what works excellently one day might be less effective the next.
There is no universal solution that suits all situations. Therefore, it pays to have several types of bait available, so you can adapt to the conditions, fishing depth, and the species you want to target.
Generally, baits can be divided into two main groups:
-
artificial baits
-
natural baits
Both have their advantages, and many experienced sea anglers use both depending on the fishing method and conditions.
Artificial baits
Artificial baits are designed to imitate baitfish, shrimp, sandworms, or other organisms that sea fish eat.
The advantages of artificial baits include:
-
can be reused
-
easy to switch between different models
-
covers large areas quickly
-
available in many sizes and colors
-
works for many fish species
Artificial baits are often used when the fish are active and hunting.
The most common types are:
-
spoons/lures
-
jigs (pilker)
-
soft plastic jigs
-
wobblers
-
spinners (in certain situations)
The next chapters will thoroughly explain how each of these bait types is used.
Natural baits
Natural baits are food that fish recognize from nature.
This can be very effective, especially when fish are less active or staying near the bottom.
Common natural baits include:
-
shrimp
-
mackerel strips
-
herring
-
mussels
-
sandworms
-
crab
-
squid
Natural baits are often used for:
-
bottom fishing
-
fishing from a boat
-
fishing for flatfish
-
fishing for cod
-
fishing for whiting
-
fishing for wrasse
How to choose the right bait?
When choosing bait, you should consider several factors.
Which species are you fishing for?
Some species prefer fast and moving baits, while others are more interested in scent and taste.
For example:
-
Pollock and mackerel often attack fast lures and jigs.
-
Cod take lures, jigs, and natural bait.
-
Flatfish usually prefer natural bait on the bottom.
-
Wrasse are often caught with shrimp or crab.
The better the bait imitates the fish's natural prey, the greater the chance of a bite.
Depth
Fish can be found at completely different depths.
Therefore, the bait must be fishable where the fish actually are.
Examples:
-
Spoons work well from the surface down to medium depths.
-
Jigs can be fished at almost any depth.
-
Pilker (heavy jigs) are designed to quickly reach greater depths.
-
Natural bait is often used right at the bottom.
Weather and water conditions
Conditions affect which baits work best.
In clear water, natural-looking baits and more subtle colors can be effective.
In murky water or poor visibility, bright colors and baits that create more movement can make it easier for fish to spot them.
Active or passive fish?
When fish are actively hunting, it often pays to cover a lot of water.
In such cases, artificial baits like:
-
spoon/lure
-
soft plastic jig
-
pilker (heavy jig)
-
wobbler
work very well.
If the fish are less active, natural bait resting quietly on the bottom can often trigger a bite.
Bring several options with you
Conditions can change quickly at sea.
It's therefore smart to bring:
-
several spoons/lures of different weights
-
some jigs of different sizes
-
a couple of pilkers if you're fishing deep or from a boat
-
natural bait if you plan bottom fishing
This allows you to quickly adapt if the fish aren't biting what you started with.
💡 Tip from Utmarksliv
Don't be afraid to change bait if it's quiet for a long time. Many anglers spend too long with the same setup. A change in size, color, or bait type can be what it takes to trigger a bite. Experimenting a bit along the way is often an important part of successful sea fishing.
Spoons, Pilkers, and Jigs
Spoons, pilkers, and jigs are the three most commonly used artificial baits for sea fishing. Although all can catch many of the same fish species, they are designed for different fishing methods and conditions.
By knowing when each bait works best, you increase your chances of more bites and bigger catches.
Spoons
Spoons are among the most versatile baits you can bring for sea fishing. They can be used both from shore and boat, and work for a wide range of species.
A spoon moves through the water with an enticing action that imitates an injured or fleeing baitfish.
Spoons are well suited for:
-
pollock
-
coalfish
-
cod
-
mackerel
-
sea trout
When should you use a spoon?
A spoon is a good choice when:
-
you are fishing from shore
-
you want to cover large areas
-
the fish are actively hunting
-
the water is not too deep
By varying the retrieve speed and adding small pauses, you can often make the spoon even more attractive.
Pilkers
Pilkers are heavier than regular spoons and are designed to sink quickly through the water column.
They are mainly used when fishing from a boat or when fishing at greater depths.
Pilkers are well suited for:
-
cod
-
pollock
-
ling
-
tusk
-
coalfish
The pilker is often fished with gentle lifts and controlled drops towards the bottom, where many predatory fish reside.
When should you use a pilker?
A pilker is a good choice when:
-
you are fishing deep
-
the current is strong
-
you are fishing directly below the boat
-
the fish are near the bottom
Choose pilker weight according to depth and current. A pilker that is too light can drift far from the area you want to fish.
Jigs
Jigs consist of a soft rubber body mounted on a jig head.
They move very naturally through the water and can imitate small fish, shrimp, and other prey.
Jigs work well both from shore and boat.
They are often used for:
-
cod
-
pollock
-
coalfish
-
sea trout
-
flatfish (with certain techniques)
When should you use a jig?
Jigs are well suited when:
-
the fish are near the bottom
-
the fish are cautious
-
you want a slower presentation
-
you are fishing over rocky or sandy bottoms
Small lifts with the rod tip combined with pauses often create a natural movement that can trigger a strike.
Which bait should you choose?
There's no definitive answer, but these rules of thumb often work well:
Choose a spoon if:
-
you are fishing from shore
-
you want to cast far
-
the fish are actively hunting
-
you want to cover a lot of water
Choose a pilker if:
-
you are fishing from a boat
-
you are fishing deep
-
the current is strong
-
the fish are close to the bottom
Choose a jig if:
-
you want a natural presentation
-
the fish are sluggish
-
you are fishing slowly along the bottom
-
you want to vary the retrieve
Many experienced sea anglers have all three bait types available and switch between them according to conditions.
Which colors work best?
The choice of color depends on factors such as light conditions, visibility, and water quality.
Generally, the following work:
Clear water
-
silver
-
blue
-
natural colors
-
white
Murky water or overcast weather
-
orange
-
red
-
yellow
-
chartreuse (yellow-green)
The most important thing is to try different colors if the fish aren't biting. Some days, small changes in color can be enough to trigger a bite.
💡 Tip from Utmarksliv
Always carry multiple weights of spoons, pilkers, and jigs. Weather, current, and depth can change quickly, and the right weight makes it easier to maintain contact with the bait. Many anglers focus only on color, but weight often has just as significant an impact on how effectively you fish.
Natural Baits for Sea Fishing
While artificial baits are very popular, natural baits are often the most effective choice when fish are less active or staying near the bottom. The scent, taste, and natural presentation make it difficult for many species to resist a real bait.
Natural baits are used both from shore and boat, but are especially common for bottom fishing.
Why use natural bait?
Natural baits have several advantages:
-
emits natural scent in the water
-
looks like the fish's usual food
-
can stay on the bottom for a long time without losing effectiveness
-
works well when fish are cautious
-
can be very effective for large bottom-dwelling species
It often requires a bit more preparation than artificial baits but can yield excellent results.
Shrimp
Shrimp are among the most common baits in sea fishing.
They work well for, among others:
-
cod
-
wrasse
-
whiting
-
flatfish
-
various wrasse species
Carefully thread the shrimp onto the hook so it sits securely but still looks natural.
Fresh or thawed shrimp often work best.
Mackerel strips
Mackerel is a classic bait for many predatory fish.
Cut the mackerel into narrow strips that move naturally in the water.
Mackerel strips are well suited for:
-
cod
-
pollock
-
ling
-
tusk
-
whiting
Its strong scent helps fish find the bait more easily.
Herring
Herring is used in the same way as mackerel.
It can be fished whole, in pieces, or as fillet strips.
Herring is well suited for:
-
cod
-
pollock
-
ling
-
tusk
Ragworms
Ragworms are a natural food source for many fish species along the coast.
They are particularly effective for:
-
flounder
-
whiting
-
cod
-
sea trout
Ragworms are often used when fishing from shore, especially on sandy and muddy bottoms.
Mussels
Mussels are naturally found in many places along the Norwegian coast.
They can be used as bait for species such as:
-
ballan wrasse
-
flounder
-
various bottom-dwelling species
Since mussels are soft, it might be a good idea to secure them with bait elastic if they tend to come off the hook easily.
Crab
Small crabs or crab pieces are very popular for certain species.
Crab works particularly well for:
-
ballan wrasse
-
certain larger bottom fish
Use firm parts of the crab so that the bait stays securely on during casting and when it rests on the bottom.
Squid
Squid is often used because it stays well on the hook and can withstand many casts.
It is suitable for, among others:
-
cod
-
saithe
-
ling
-
tusk
Many combine squid with other baits to get both scent and extra movement.
How to store natural bait?
Proper storage ensures that the bait stays fresh and attractive.
Some simple tips:
-
store bait in a cool place
-
use a cooler bag or box on warm days
-
avoid direct sunlight
-
keep different bait types separate
-
discard old bait that smells unusual or has gone bad
Fresh bait generally yields better results than bait that has been stored for a long time.
Which fishing methods are suitable for natural bait?
Natural bait is most often used for:
-
bottom fishing from shore
-
bottom fishing from a boat
-
fishing from piers
-
fishing from breakwaters
-
fishing for bottom-dwelling species
Although natural bait can be used in many conditions, it is usually less effective than artificial bait when the goal is to cover large areas or fish quickly for active predatory fish.
💡 Tips from Utmarksliv (Outdoor Life)
If you are planning a longer fishing trip, it can be smart to bring both artificial and natural bait. Start by using a lure or jig to search for active fish. If there is little activity, you can switch to natural bait and fish more slowly near the bottom. This way, you are prepared no matter how the conditions develop.
Shore Fishing
For many, shore fishing is the easiest and most accessible way to fish in the sea. You don't need a boat or advanced equipment to have good experiences. Along the Norwegian coast, there are thousands of fishing spots where you can fish directly from land.
Many of the most popular sea fish can be caught from piers, breakwaters, rock slabs, and beaches if you choose the right fishing spot and fish at the right time.
Where can you fish from shore?
There are many good fishing spots along the coast.
Some of the best are:
-
breakwaters
-
piers
-
rock slabs
-
headlands
-
beaches
-
fjord edges
-
deep straits
-
areas with strong currents
Places where the bottom quickly drops into deep water are often particularly interesting, as fish can come close to shore.
How to find good fishing spots
Fish gather where they find food and good hiding places.
Look for areas with:
-
abrupt depth changes
-
rocky bottoms
-
seaweed and kelp
-
current edges
-
underwater reefs
-
inlets and outlets of fjords
Such areas often attract small fish, which in turn attract larger predatory fish.
Which fish species can you catch from shore?
You can catch many different species without leaving land.
Among the most common are:
-
cod
-
saithe
-
pollack
-
mackerel
-
sea trout
-
flounder
-
ballan wrasse
-
whiting
Which species you catch depends on the season, region, and the type of fishing spot you choose.
Which baits work best?
The choice of bait depends on both the fishing method and the species.
Common options include:
-
lures
-
jigs
-
wobblers
-
spinners (especially for sea trout)
-
natural bait for bottom fishing
It pays to have several options available in case conditions change.
Casting technique
A good cast is not just about distance.
Try to:
-
vary the casting distance
-
fish in different directions
-
let the bait sink to different depths
-
vary the retrieve speed
-
take short breaks during retrieval
Small changes can often be enough to trigger a bite.
Fish different water layers
Fish are not always at the same depth.
Therefore, try fishing:
-
just below the surface
-
in the middle of the water column
-
near the bottom
If you don't get a bite, the fish might be higher or deeper than you expect.
When is fishing best during the day?
Although fish can be caught all day, there are often periods of higher activity.
Many species are most active:
-
early in the morning
-
late in the afternoon
-
in the evening
-
around sunrise and sunset
Overcast days can also provide good fishing, as fish often feel safer when the light is dimmer.
Pay attention to tides and currents
Along large parts of the coast, tides affect fishing.
When the water moves, small fish and other food often follow the current.
This can make predatory fish more active.
In a later chapter, we will look closer at how tides and currents affect sea fishing.
Respect nature
When fishing from shore, it is important to take care of both nature and the fishing spots.
Remember to:
-
take all trash home
-
do not leave lines or hooks behind
-
show consideration for others using the area
-
follow local rules and conservation regulations
-
handle fish you intend to release gently
A clean and tidy fishing area enhances the experience for everyone.
💡 Tips from Utmarksliv (Outdoor Life)
Don't stay in the same spot all day if there's little activity. Feel free to move 30–50 meters and try a new area. Small differences in depth, current, or bottom conditions can be enough for the fish to be right there. Many experienced sea anglers spend more time finding the fish than on the actual fishing.
Boat Fishing
Fishing from a boat opens up entirely different possibilities than fishing from shore. With a boat, you can reach deeper waters, explore more fishing spots in a short time, and fish over areas inaccessible from land.
At the same time, boat fishing places somewhat different demands on equipment, techniques, and safety. The choice of method depends, among other things, on water depth, current conditions, and which species you want to fish for.
The most common methods are:
-
casting with lures or jigs
-
jigging
-
bottom fishing with natural bait
Advantages of boat fishing
There are several reasons why many prefer to fish from a boat.
Among the advantages are:
-
access to more fishing spots
-
ability to fish at greater depths
-
easier to follow the fish if it moves
-
better opportunities for larger species
-
easier to adapt to weather and current conditions
By using a chartplotter or fishfinder, you can also more easily locate underwater peaks, edges, and other areas where fish often gather.
Casting from a boat
Although many associate boat fishing with jigging, casting with lures or jigs is also very effective.
This is well suited when fishing:
-
along the shore
-
around skerries and islets
-
over shallows
-
along kelp forests
-
by steep rock faces
Common baits are:
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lures
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jigs
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wobblers
By letting the boat drift slowly with the wind or current, you can cover large areas without having to constantly move the boat.
Jigging
Jigging is one of the most popular methods in boat fishing and is used when fish are deeper in the water.
A jig is dropped straight down beneath the boat before being lifted and lowered with gentle movements.
Jigging is particularly suitable for:
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cod
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saithe
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pollack
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ling
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tusk
Choose the right jig
How heavy the jig should be depends, among other things, on:
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water depth
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current
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wind
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boat drift
The goal is for the jig to quickly reach the desired depth and maintain as much contact with the bottom as possible.
How to jig?
A simple and effective technique is to:
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Drop the jig to the bottom.
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Reel up one to two meters.
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Gently lift the rod.
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Lower the jig in a controlled manner.
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Repeat the movement at a steady pace.
Feel free to try different rhythms if the fish are not active.
Bottom fishing from a boat
Bottom fishing is a calmer fishing method where the bait lies on or just above the bottom.
Here, often used are:
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shrimp
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mackerel strips
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herring
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ragworms
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squid
Bottom fishing is well suited for species such as:
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flounder
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cod
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whiting
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ling
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tusk
A sinker keeps the bait in place even when there is a current.
Use a fishfinder if you have one
A fishfinder can make boat fishing much more efficient.
It can help you to:
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find schools of fish
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see bottom types
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detect underwater peaks
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find steep drop-offs
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see how deep you are fishing
Even without a fishfinder, you can find good fishing spots by studying nautical charts and looking for areas with significant depth variations.
Weather and current affect boat fishing
Wind and current determine how the boat drifts.
A fast drift can make it difficult to:
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maintain contact with the bottom
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present the bait correctly
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fish effectively
On some days, it may be necessary to use heavier jigs or sinkers to keep the bait where the fish are.
Safety always comes first
The sea can change quickly.
Before you go out, you should:
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check the weather forecast
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check wind conditions
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wear a life vest
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have a mobile phone in a waterproof bag
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ensure the boat is in good condition
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let someone know where you are going
If the weather turns worse than expected, it is always best to end the fishing trip and return to shore.
💡 Tips from Utmarksliv (Outdoor Life)
Don't stick to just one fishing method when you're out on the boat. Start by casting a lure or jig along shallows and skerries. If you find fish in deeper waters, you can move the boat and try jigging. If the fish are inactive, bottom fishing with natural bait might be what yields the best catch of the day. Flexibility is often the key to successful boat fishing.
Tides, Current, and Weather
Many underestimate the significant impact of tides, current, and weather on sea fishing. Even with the right equipment and good bait, fishing can be slow if conditions are not favorable.
When the water is in motion, nutrients and small fish follow the current. This often makes predatory fish more active, as they have better access to food. By understanding how these factors affect fish, you can plan your fishing trips to increase your chances of a catch.
How do tides affect fishing?
Tides are caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and sun, causing water levels to rise and fall several times a day.
When the tide moves the water masses, it creates currents that transport:
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small fish
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shrimp
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crabs
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ragworms
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other prey
This often attracts larger predatory fish.
Many therefore find that fishing is best when the tide is moving, whether the water is flowing in or out.
Where is the current strongest?
The current is rarely equally strong everywhere.
It often increases in areas such as:
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narrow straits
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narrow fjord openings
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around skerries
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by headlands
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over shallows
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along steep underwater edges
These areas often serve as natural feeding stations where fish gather.
How does current affect the bait?
The current affects how the bait moves through the water.
Strong current can:
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carry the bait away from the fish
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lift light baits off the bottom
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make it difficult to maintain contact with the bait
Under such conditions, it may be necessary to use:
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heavier lures
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heavier jigs
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heavier jig heads
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larger sinkers for bottom fishing
The goal is to keep the bait at the correct depth throughout the fishing session.
The importance of wind
Wind affects both the water surface and how the boat or bait moves.
A moderate wind can actually improve fishing by:
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creating waves that hide the angler
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gathering nutrients towards shore
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pushing small fish into bays and headlands
Strong wind, however, can make it more difficult to:
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cast precisely
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maintain contact with the bait
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control the boat
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fish safely
Safety should always come first if the wind picks up.
Air Pressure and Weather
Many anglers believe that weather changes affect fish activity.
Although conditions vary, many experience good fishing:
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before a change in weather
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on overcast days
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when the wind is light to moderate
On days with strong sun and completely still water, some species may become more cautious, especially in shallow waters.
This doesn't mean fishing will be bad, but it might be necessary to fish deeper or use more realistic bait.
How to Find the Best Conditions?
There's no single right answer, but many experienced sea anglers plan their trips according to:
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tide tables
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weather forecast
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wind direction
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wind strength
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current conditions
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time of day
By combining these factors, you often increase your chances of hitting periods when fish are most active.
Adapt Your Fishing Method to the Conditions
Conditions at sea change quickly, and it pays to be flexible.
Examples:
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In strong currents, heavier bait may be necessary.
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In weak currents, lighter bait can provide a more natural presentation.
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On overcast days, fish may be more active in shallow water.
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In clear water and strong sun, fish may move deeper.
The better you become at reading the conditions, the easier it will be to choose the right method.
💡 Tips from Utmarksliv
Don't plan your fishing trip only around your free time. Take a quick look at the weather forecast and tide table first. A fishing trip under good conditions can often yield much better results than several hours at sea when the water is still and the fish are inactive. Over time, you will also learn which conditions work best at your local fishing spots.
Where to Find the Fish?
One of the most important skills in sea fishing is learning where the fish are. Many believe it's mostly about what bait or lure they use, but in reality, location is often even more important.
Fish are constantly moving in search of food, the right temperature, and safe areas. By understanding how different fish species use their surroundings, it becomes easier to find good fishing spots.
Look for Depth Edges
The transition between shallow and deep water is often highly productive.
This is where you'll often find:
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small fish
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shrimp
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crabs
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other prey
Predatory fish often patrol along such edges in search of food.
Steep drop-offs and depth changes are therefore good places to start fishing.
Current Edges
Where water masses meet or the current changes direction, current edges often form.
These areas act as natural feeding grounds because the current carries nutrients.
Current edges can be found, among other places:
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at headlands
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in narrow straits
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between islands
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at fjord mouths
Here you can often find species such as:
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coalfish
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pollack
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cod
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mackerel
Kelp Forests and Rocky Bottoms
Areas with a lot of seaweed and kelp provide shelter for both small fish and crustaceans.
This makes such areas attractive to predatory fish.
Rocky bottoms are also a good choice because they provide many hiding places for prey.
Here you can find, among others:
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cod
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pollack
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ballan wrasse
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sea trout
Sand and Mud Bottoms
Not all fish species prefer rocks.
Sand and mud bottoms are well-suited for species that live near the bottom.
Here you can, among other things, catch:
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flounder