The Dab (Limanda limanda) is a small, right-eyed flatfish, meaning both eyes are on the right side of its body. It has a thin, rounded body with a sandy-brown back adorned with dark spots and occasional faint orange spots. The underside is white, sometimes with a bluish tint. Dabs have rough skin and a noticeable curve to their lateral line just above the pectoral fin.
Dab Fish Habitat
Dabs are commonly found in the shallow waters around the UK, particularly abundant in the North Sea. They prefer sandy, muddy, and occasionally shingle seabeds, living at depths up to 100 meters. They are often found in estuaries but avoid areas with low salinity. During severe winter weather, dabs migrate to deeper waters.
Dab Fish Behaviour
Dabs are bottom-dwelling fish that feed on marine worms, small crustaceans, prawns, and mollusks. They can also consume dead or rotting fish. They are not picky eaters and will feed on various baits if available. Dabs are most active during the spring when they spawn, and their young take about ten days to hatch.
Best Locations for Dab Fishing in the UK
When targeting dabs, the location can make all the difference. Here are some prime spots around the UK:
- North Sea: This is the most abundant area for dabs in the UK. Coastal regions along the North Sea, such as Norfolk and Suffolk, are ideal.
- Irish Sea: Coastal areas like Cumbria and Lancashire offer good dab fishing opportunities.
- Bristol Channel: This region is known for its sandy and muddy seabeds, perfect for dabs.
- South Coast: Areas like Sussex and Kent are also popular spots for catching dabs.
In these regions, focus on shallow sandy bays, estuaries, and small sandy outcrops in rocky areas. Dabs often gather around gullies or indentations in the seabed where debris and small creatures accumulate.
Tips on Catching Dab
Fishing for dabs can be a rewarding activity. Here are some tips:
- Best Locations: Look for dabs in shallow sandy bays and estuaries. They often gather around gullies or indentations in the seabed where debris and small creatures accumulate.
- Gear and Bait: Use small hooks (sizes 2-6) due to the small size of their mouths. Effective baits include ragworm, lugworm, cockles, hermit crabs, sandeels, peeled shrimps, and razorfish. Dabs are known to prefer stale baits, so slightly aged black lugworm or smelly fish strips can be particularly effective.
- Techniques: Both leger rigs and two-hook paternoster rigs are suitable for dab fishing. These rigs help present the bait on or just above the seabed, where dabs are actively feeding. Short casts can be effective, especially when dabs move into shallower waters under the cover of darkness.
Can you eat Dab fish?
Dab is a highly regarded food fish. Although small, it has a delicate flavour and can be prepared in various ways including grilling, baking, or frying. Due to its size, dab is often cooked whole with the head and fins attached, which adds to its flavour and makes preparation easier compared to filleting.
UK Laws and Regulations on Dab Fishing UK
Currently, there are no specific restrictions on recreational fishing for dab in the UK. However, anglers should always check local regulations as rules can vary by region and over time. The Marine Conservation Society encourages the consumption of species like dab to alleviate pressure on overfished species such as cod and haddock.
Fun Fact About Dab Fish
Did you know that the UK shore-caught record for a dab dates back to 1936? Mr. M. L. Watts caught a dab weighing 2lb 9oz 8dr off the coast of Port Talbot in Wales, and this record still stands today.
For more on fishing in the UK, check out our other Spotlight Series posts on zander, gudgeon, chub, pike, bream, tench, roach, and mackerel. Each post offers detailed insights into the appearance, habitat, behaviour, and tips for catching these fascinating fish. Happy fishing!