Sea defence work has created nine offshore granite boulder reefs along this sandy beach on the rapidly eroding coast of northeast Norfolk. Sand has filled behind these reefs forming large pools and now these are quite deep.

Although access on to the reefs is mostly impossible, the first one that was built, that’s the more northerly one, can be accessed. Warning signs are erected, but some anglers still fish the seaward side when they are spinning for bass in the summer.
Located between Cromer and Hemsby, this venues can produce lots of bites.

SPECIES

Codling sometimes arrive early in September, especially if the wind goes north for a few days, but October to April is the best time. They sometimes move into the pools when the sea is really rough.

Casting from the beach to the reef ends is a good tactic for bass. Flatfish frequent the pools, with some big flounders in August and September and dabs from May to December. Expect plenty of bass from May to October, although netting is a problem.

BAIT AND TACKLE

At low spring water you can pump some yellowtail lugworms around the pool edges and these are good for flatfish and codling.

Standard beach rods and reels are required either side of the reefs where the bottom is clean sand.

Peeler crabs work for bass, with squid a close second. Because the pools are sheltered from the tide you can use bass rods and smaller reels loaded with 12lb mainline and 30lb shockleaders and 100g sinkers.

Spinning and fly-fishing will catch bass in the pools when the sea is clear. Carp rods can be used for spinning. A fly rod, sinking line and streamer fly will catch school bass and even flatfish.

GETTING THERE

The village of Sea Palling is on the B1159 and the turning is signposted. Take the B1151 from Stalham through Ingham to the B1159 junction, then turn right and it is two miles to Sea Palling. There is a pay and display car park at the end of the road by the café.

TACKLE SHOPS

Broadland Angling & Pet Centre, 24 High St, Stalham, tel: 01692 580959.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm.
Bait: Fresh lugworms and ragworms, plus frozen bait.

Lathams of Potter Heigham, Bridge Rd, Potter Heigham, tel: 01692 670080.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm. Sunday 9am-4pm.
Bait: Frozen lugworms, squid and mackerel.
Web: www.lathams-fi shing.co.uk.