Garfish

Garfish Fishing Guide – Baits, Rigs & Techniques (UK)

What is a Garfish?

The garfish (Belone belone) is a long, slender, silver fish with a pointed beak filled with small sharp teeth. They are a popular target for shore anglers in the UK due to their fighting ability and the challenge of catching them on light tackle.

Garfish are shoaling, coastal fish, often found near the surface and inshore waters during warmer months. They rarely exceed 2–3lb, but their speed and aerial acrobatics make them exciting for anglers of all levels.

Where Will I Catch Garfish?

Garfish are coastal migratory species. In the UK, they are commonly found:

• Southern and south-east coasts (Sussex, Kent, Dorset)

• Harbours, bays, and estuary mouths

• Around piers, jetties, and rocky outcrops

• Shallow inshore waters in summer (May–September)

They often move inshore with warmer water and are usually caught in large shoals.

Best Baits for Garfish

Garfish are surface feeders and prefer small, oily, and visible baits. Top baits include:

• Mackerel strips

• Shrimp / Prawns

• Sandeel / Launce pieces

• Squid strips

• Lugworm or ragworm (small pieces for shore fishing)

Tip: Garfish feed near the surface, so light, fresh baits work best. Small, colourful baits can increase visibility in clear water.

Best Rigs for Garfish

Garfish are delicate biters, so light tackle and subtle rigs are essential.

1. Sabiki / Garfish Rig

• Small size 10–12 hooks

• Multiple hooks (2–4 per rig)

• Small beads or flash attractors

• Excellent for catching multiple fish at once from pier or boat

2. Float Rig

• Light 1–2lb line

• Small float to keep bait just below surface

• Single hook with tiny bait

• Ideal for estuary or bay fishing

3. Single Hook Bottom Rig (Shore)

• Size 10–12 hook

• Short snood, light lead

• Works well when casting to shoaling garfish over sand or gravel

Techniques for Catching Garfish

Shore Fishing

• Cast near shoals or surface activity

• Use light, sensitive rods to detect subtle bites

• Keep baits near the surface or just above bottom depending on water depth

Boat Fishing

• Drift along shoals or anchor near structure

• Use sabiki rigs to catch multiple fish

• Target surface-feeding fish during calm conditions

Tips

• Best during spring and summer (May–September)

• Look for jumping or splashing fish — a sign of shoals

• Garfish are best caught with light lines and sensitive tackle

Garfish Fishing Summary

Garfish are fast, fun, and exciting to catch. Using small, fresh baits, light rigs, and targeting inshore shoals during summer months will give consistent results from both shore and boat.