Going down to Torquay area this weekend.

[Phil s]

Wrasse are very a slow growing fish and very bold. This combined makes them not an ideal target morally. Apparently can be ok to eat but with a fair bit of prep. I have never shot at one, even when frustration kicks in and a large one swims directly into my spear tip. Although they are legal and the choice is yours to make.

 

[Anthony Duke]

Yes it seems suspiciously easy to take one. Thanks for setting me straight. I like a struggle, I'm not into instant satisfaction sports.
Just as well really

 

[Phil s]

Good to hear it. After hiding in a gulley for ages on my last trip i turned my head to find one of the biggest wrasse ive seen had been stalking me, made me jump.

 

[Phil s]

Also how did you find the dive at blackpool, ive been there but never dived. Looks like it could be pretty decent at the sides following the rocks round? Good choice of gun too. I have a commanche and wish i spent a bit more on the geronimo.

 

[Anthony Duke]

Well I don't have much experience in finding good spots but I have to say it was great fun. I went to the right side as the current was pushing to the left. Plenty of kelp around, It goes quite far out too, more than 50m I would say. I found more fish closer to the rocks though which makes sense. It was only a quick dive before heading home. My dive buddy brings his wife and child so the restaurant café will
be great to alleviate any boredom. It will be the first place to go back to when we dive again I think.

Still haven't seen any real sizable fish, I don't know if its just not hot enough yet, I'm not diving out deep enough, or
its just bad luck. Maybe if I could hold my breath for half and hour my chances will increase

 

[Mr. X]

...
I would like some guidance on the size of fish I am allowed to take without feeling guilty. Im sure there is some .gov website but would rather just be told. Gauging size underwater is tricky.

Here at DeeperBlue.com, we recommend minimum size 45cm for bass - last time I checked Minimum UK landing size was 38cm (or was it 36cm) & for Cornwall 1cm more than UK limit i.e. pretty darn small, too small really.

You can eat Ballan Wrasse and but really only worthwhile for big ones (e.g. 3lb+-8lb+). The flesh on really big ones can be firm & steak like & can be BBQ'd as fish steaks - much like salmon. Alternatively cut into large chunks & put in a Bouillabaisse (tomato-fish stew) with other seafood leftover & shellfish - yum! Take them only occasionally & in moderation.

If in doubt, hold back - that gut feeling is probably right.