Barry the Sea Bass

When You Catch

Look after the fish before you take a photo. Wet hands, keep him over the water, and decide keep or return while he’s still in it — only keep one if the law says you can.

The law — catch and release first

Under 42 cm goes back immediately. That’s the UK minimum conservation reference size for sea bass. Measure snout to the end of the tail, fish laid straight. Don’t guess. Keep a tape in the bag.

1 February to 31 March is catch-and-release only for recreational bass from shore or boat in the usual UK areas — rod and handline only. You may not keep a bass in those two months, even a big one. The rest of the year the recreational bag is currently three fish per angler per day, all 42 cm or over. Nursery areas and IFCA byelaws can be tighter. Check GOV.UK bass guidance — limits change.

If you are putting him back

Unhook in the water if you can. Barbless or crushed barbs help. Hold the tail wrist and support the belly. Face him into the current until he kicks. Don’t throw. Log it if you want the mark on the board.

If the law lets you keep him — kill quickly

Only over 42 cm, only outside Feb–March, only within the three-fish bag, and only if you will eat him. Don’t let a bass suffocate in a bucket. A priest — one or two firm blows to the top of the head, in line with the eyes. Then bleed. Ice as soon as you can. If you are not willing to do it well, don’t keep the fish.

Descaling, filleting, cook

Bass scales fly — outside, or in a bag. Scrape tail toward head. Fillet: cut behind the pectoral, along the bones, trim pins. Lean meat, hard heat, lemon. Eat it that day. This is food you earned, not a trophy.