This golden crescent of sand probably attracts more attention as a surfers paradise than a fishing Mecca. However at the right time and under the right conditions it’s an area well worth a visit. Pure sand for its entire length there is absolutely no rough ground within casting distance at all, even at low water. However, it can be a dangerous beach to those not familiar with the tidal conditions that prevail. Perhaps here more than at any other Gower location there are fierce undertows that can sweep an unsuspecting angler, or bather, away. If you visit the beach from Hillend Caravan Park there are plenty of signs indicating these dangers. Pay heed to them - it really can be a perilous beach. More than one person has drowned here -make sure you don’t add your name to the list.

Burry Holmes is another tidal island. There is less rock at low water than at Mumbles but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty of opportunity for the rock fishing enthusiast to practise his art. On the seaward side of the island fine surf conditions can be found. Enjoy Burry Holmes - but don’t forget that it is tidal and you can be stuck there for a couple of hours if you’re not prepared and alert! Never be tempted to try and swim or wade the sort distance to the mainland should you become stranded - the current is far too powerful even for the strongest of swimmers.

SPECIES

Perhaps some of the healthiest, cleanest bass to be found anywhere! Dabs, plaice, a few flounders and don’t rule out the prospect of turbot or brill.

BEST METHOD: BEST BAIT

If beach fishing in its purest form is your speciality then this is the place for you. This is beach casting country where the only limitation is you and your outfit. There’s no real need to wade out for yards and yards - just as long as you can get your bait out behind the second or third breaker. But if you do need to show everyone that you can cast to the Devon coast then do so - you’ll catch more flats than bass though!

A two hook terminal rig is trouble free and does give you scope to fish for bass or flats. If it’s bass you’re after then keep the hooks above the weight and flowing in the swill behind the surf. If you prefer flatfish put your hooks on the bottom below the weight. A fairly long terminal hook trace will have a better chance of attracting the turbot and brill - these fish do like to see some movement in their prospective dinner. bait is straightforward enough. A good bunch of lugworm will produce bass from the surf while ragworm will attract the flats as well. This is also a good venue to try some small clams on the hooks with your worms. Cockles too should never be overlooked when you dig your bait. I always collect a few and it’s surprising how many times their addition has made the difference to an otherwise blank day. Razorfish and sandeels are also quite successful, perhaps because they can be found here naturally though not in great quantities. Always worth a try though.

Whichever fish you choose to try for, whatever bait you decide to use please do not overlook the warning I gave at the start of this section on Rhossili. This can be an extremely dangerous beach at all stages of the tide. It is definitely risky to wade out too far to try and gain those extra few yards which, as previously stated, aren’t necessary anyway. Be sensible, be safe. Respect the sea - and enjoy your fishing again tomorrow!