Dab

Dab Fishing Guide – Best Baits, Rigs & Techniques (UK)

What is a Dab Fish?

The dab is a small flatfish species commonly found around the UK coastline and is often one of the first flatfish caught by shore anglers. Dabs are part of the flatfish family and are easily recognised by their diamond-shaped body, sandy-brown colour, and rough skin texture.

Dabs rarely grow larger than 2lb, but they are very common and provide great sport, especially for beginners, winter anglers, and those fishing mixed ground.

Where Will I Catch Dabs?

Dabs are widely distributed and are found in:

• Sandy and muddy seabeds

• Estuaries and bays

• Sheltered beaches

• Clean ground close to shore

They are present all year round, but numbers peak during autumn and winter, when they move inshore in large shoals.

Best Baits for Dab Fishing

Dabs are not fussy feeders but prefer small, natural baits presented close to the seabed.

Top Dab Baits

• Lugworm (black or blow lug – top choice)

• Ragworm

• Peeler crab (small sections)

• Squid strips

• Mackerel slivers

• Shellfish

• Prawns

Tip: Smaller baits often out-fish larger ones when targeting dabs specifically.

Best Rigs for Dab Fishing

Dabs feed tight to the seabed, so simple rigs work best.

1. Two-Hook Flapper Rig (Most Popular)

• Size 2–1/0 hooks

• Long flowing snoods

• Ideal for shore fishing

• Covers a wide area of seabed

2. One- or Two-Down Boat Rig

• Size 2–1 hooks

• Beads or small attractors help

• Perfect for drifting or at anchor

3. Pulley Rig (Mixed Ground)

• Useful when fishing rougher ground

• Helps lift the fish clear when retrieving

Best Techniques for Catching Dabs

Shore Fishing Techniques

• Cast short to medium range (often 30–70 yards)

• Fish on the ebb and flood tides

• Keep baits static on the seabed

• Dabs often give small rattly bites

Boat Fishing Techniques

• Drift fishing across sandy ground

• Light leads improve bite detection

• Keep rigs simple and close to the bottom

Best Time to Catch Dabs

• Autumn & winter – peak season

• Daytime fishing works well

• Cold, calm conditions are ideal

Dabs remain active in colder water, making them a reliable winter species.

Tips for Better Dab Fishing

• Use smaller hooks and baits

• Long snoods increase bite rates

• Fresh worm baits out-fish frozen

• Add small beads or sequins for attraction

• Keep tackle light for better bite detection

Dab Fishing Summary

Dabs are a perfect species for anglers of all levels. With simple rigs, small baits, and clean ground, they can be caught consistently from both the shore and boat around the UK.