From
old warships in Scapa Flow to Freighters offshore, the diverse range
of wrecks, locations and superstructure makes Orkney an excellent
wreck fishing destination. Double Figure Cod roam around the bigger
wrecks easily tempted by baited feathers, or to pick out the larger
fish by working artificial eels or jelly worms, retrieved slowly
using the Flying Collar rig. For the angler who is looking for something
a bit different a trip to some of the deeper outside wrecks can
produce rare UK species such as the Torsk and Catfish.
Conger eel fishing is potentially some of the best in the entire
UK. The wrecks are writhing with Congers and although it takes time,
patience with the smaller fish will eventually lead to some monster
Conger eels in excess of the current Boat Scottish Record of 48lbs
(21.7kg)! Catching the bigger eels requires some specialist techniques
from the boat skipper, namely being able to anchor close to the
wreck. The angler can then entice the Conger to leave its wreck
home briefly to take the bait. These techniques enable you to land
Conger whilst minimising the risk of snagging in the Wreck.
Not only is the Conger, Cod and Pollack fishing exceptional, but
the Ling fishing is also well worth pursuing. Pirking with baited
pirks will result in some large ling approaching the 20lb (9kg)
mark. Not only do the wrecks produce but the sand and shingle surrounding
the wrecks yields other species, with Turbot common, as well as
large Plaice and Brill.