Best Baits for Catching Thornback Rays from the Shore in the UK
- Big Fish Fishing
- Feb 3
- 3 min read
Thornback rays are a prized catch among UK shore anglers, known for their strong fights and impressive size. Targeting them successfully requires the right bait and rig setup. Over the past 12 months, many double-figure rays have been caught using a combination of Bait Butcher pulley rigs and Dave’s Special Sauce, with the Raymondo variant proving especially effective for this species. In this guide, we’ll break down the best baits and rigs for maximising your chances of landing a trophy thornback ray from the shore.
Best Baits for Thornback Rays
1. Bluey
Bluey is a top-choice bait for thornback rays, thanks to its high oil content and strong scent. This oily fish leaves a powerful scent trail in the water, drawing rays in from a distance. A chunk or fillet of bluey mounted on a large hook provides an irresistible meal for these bottom-feeders.
2. Squid
Squid is a go-to bait for many ray anglers, offering durability and excellent scent dispersion. Whole squid or large strips fished on a pulley pennel rig is an effective method. For extra attraction, tipping squid baits with a slice of bluey or mackerel can increase their appeal.
3. Sandeel
Sandeel is another highly effective bait, particularly when targeting thornbacks in sandy or mixed-ground areas. Hooking a whole sandeel on a pennel rig ensures a natural presentation that mimics their natural prey.
4. Mackerel
Mackerel is a classic bait that consistently produces results for thornback rays. Whether using a fillet, head section, or even a mackerel and squid cocktail, this bait’s high oil content makes it a prime choice.
5. Peeler Crab
Peeler crab can be a deadly bait for thornbacks, particularly in estuary marks where crustaceans make up a large part of their diet. Cracking the shell slightly helps release scent and make the bait more attractive.
Best Rigs for Thornback Rays
Pulley Rig
The pulley rig is one of the best setups for targeting thornback rays. This rig ensures that once a fish is hooked, the weight lifts off the seabed, reducing the chance of snagging. It also provides excellent bait presentation and maximises hook-up potential.
Pulley Pennel Rig
For bigger baits and improved hook-ups, the pulley pennel rig is an excellent choice. Using two hooks in tandem allows anglers to secure larger baits like whole squid or bluey sections, making it harder for rays to steal bait without getting hooked.
Bait Butcher Pulley Rigs – The Ultimate Choice
Recently, Bait Butcher pulley rigs have gained popularity among serious ray anglers, with many double-figure thornbacks being landed over the past year. These rigs are designed for optimal bait presentation and durability, making them the perfect choice for fishing rough ground or strong tidal conditions.
Dave’s Special Sauce – Raymondo Variant for Thornback Rays
A key secret weapon for many ray anglers is Dave’s Special Sauce, with the Raymondo variant specifically tailored for thornback rays. This powerful bait additive enhances the scent trail, making baits even more attractive to foraging rays. Anglers who have used a combination of Bait Butcher pulley rigs and Raymondo sauce have reported a significant increase in catches, particularly of larger fish.
Final Tips for Targeting Thornback Rays
Fish Over Clean or Mixed Ground – Thornbacks prefer sandy or mixed seabeds where they can forage for food.
Use Strong Hooks and Line – Rays put up a tough fight, so using a strong mainline and a shock leader is essential.
Time Your Sessions – Fishing around high tide and during dusk or night often produces the best results.
Fresh Bait is Key – While frozen bait works, fresh bluey, squid, or peeler crab can make a big difference.
By using the right bait, the best rigs, and enhancing your setup with proven additives like Dave's special sauce, you’ll be well on your way to landing a trophy thornback ray from the shore. Tight lines!
コメント