Fresh Salt Guiding

"Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing for Pollack: Hotspots, Tactics & Top Flies"

Pollack (Pollachius pollachius): A Global Predator

"Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing for Pollack: Hotspots, Tactics & Top Flies"

Explore the worldwide distribution of pollack through our interactive map, revealing prime fishing locations across continents and coastal waters.

Prime Fly Fishing Destinations for Pollack
Target rocky coastlines in the UK, Ireland, Norway, and Iceland—ideal habitats where pollack thrive near kelp beds and underwater structures. Key hotspots include:

  • UK: Cornwall, Welsh coasts, and northern Scotland
  • Ireland: The prolific west coast
  • Scandinavia: Southern Norway and Iceland’s fertile waters

Pollack vs. Pollock: Know the Difference
Don’t mix up pollack (with an a) and pollock (with an o). While both belong to the cod family, pollack are larger, tastier, and inhabit the North Sea and eastern Atlantic—perfect for the dinner table!

Top Flies to Hook Pollack
Outsmart these sharp-eyed predators with proven patterns:

  • Clouser Minnow (mimics baitfish)
  • Bunny Leech & Sand Eel (irresistible movement)
  • Shrimp/Crab Patterns (for bottom-feeding strikes)

Leader Setup for Stealthy Fishing
Pollack are leader-shy—opt for 2–3m of fluorocarbon (0.35–0.45mm). A tapered leader helps turn over heavy flies in windy conditions.

Gear & Tactics for a Hard Fight
Arm yourself with a 9–10 weight rod and sinking line to reach feeding zones near the bottom. Speed-retrieve baitfish imitations to trigger explosive strikes!

Bonus: Cod & Haddock Synergy
Pollack tactics overlap with cod and haddock—expect to hook all three when targeting these aggressive bottom-dwellers.

(馃槈 Pro tip: Keep the catch fresh for a delicious seafood feast!)

"Jason Bethune: The Trout Whisperer of New Zealand’s Hidden Waters"

Born and raised in Taupo, Jason Bethune honed his fly-fishing skills after school, transforming a childhood passion into a lifelong expertise. With three decades of navigating Taupo’s rivers and lakes, he knows every secret spot where trophy trout lurk. In 2010, he turned his dream into reality by founding TroutBeck Fishing Lodge, where he now shares his mastery as a guide.

More than just a fishing expert, Jason is a storyteller of the river—patient, engaging, and dedicated to crafting unforgettable adventures. While he guarantees you’ll land fish, his real mission is to teach you the how and why behind each cast, revealing tricks and tactics honed over years. His custom fly patterns and instinct for reading water—season to season, dawn to dusk—set him apart. A true wilderness explorer, he thrives in remote backcountry streams where trout remain untouched by human pressure.

Clients don’t just leave with fish tales—they leave calling him the "Trout Whisperer."

Credentials & Expertise:

  • Member, New Zealand Professional Fly Fishing Guides Association – Committed to ethical angling and elite guiding standards.
  • Alps-to-Sea Adventures – Guiding across rivers, lakes, and high-country waters for all skill levels.
  • Species Specialist – Mastery in targeting wild brown and rainbow trout with tailored techniques.

Whether you’re tying your first fly or chasing trophy fish, Jason’s passion ensures a journey as remarkable as the catch.

"Jason Bethune: The Trout Whisperer of New Zealand’s Hidden Waters"

"Reel in Adventure with Brian Russell: Ireland’s Premier Fly Fishing Guide & Champion Angler"

Brian Russell, a celebrated Northern Ireland Fly Fishing Guide and three-time National Rivers Champion, calls Ulster province home—a paradise of pristine streams teeming with wild brown trout and Atlantic salmon. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Brian crafts unforgettable fly fishing experiences across Ireland’s most legendary waters.

From the Rivers Bann and Mourne to Donegal’s Finn and Owenea, Brian’s expertise spans decades. Need gear or logistics? He handles it all, ensuring seamless adventures—whether a full holiday or an evening escape after business. Explore hidden gems like Lough Erne or the Colebrooke River, where salmon, dollaghan, and sea trout await.

Want more than fishing? Pair your angling with coastal sightseeing along Antrim’s Giant’s Causeway or tee off at Portrush’s Royal Golf Course. With deep knowledge of Ireland’s east coast rivers—from the Liffey to the Slaney—Brian tailors every trip to your dreams.

Why Choose Brian?

"Reel in Adventure with Brian Russell: Ireland’s Premier Fly Fishing Guide & Champion Angler"

🏆 3x National Rivers Champion
🎣 40+ years mastering Ireland’s waters
🌊 Exclusive access to prime salmon & trout spots

Ready for the ultimate fly fishing adventure? Contact Brian Russell today—where championship skills meet Irish hospitality.

"Reel in Adventure: Queenstown’s Premier Fly Fishing Experience"

Embark on an unforgettable fly fishing journey with Queenstown Fishing, where passion meets expertise. Guided by Trevor and Simon, a father-son duo with 80+ years of combined experience in the Southern Lakes, every trip blends skill, laughter, and the thrill of landing trophy trout.

Whether casting from a drift boat, trekking via 4WD, or soaring to remote waters by helicopter, we tailor your adventure in New Zealand’s iconic adventure capital. Target brown and rainbow trout with insider tips from pros who know these waters like home.

Your dream catch awaits—let’s make it legendary. 馃ゥ馃嚭

"Reel in Adventure: Queenstown's Premier Fly Fishing Experience"

"Unlock the Art of Fly Fishing: Northern Fishing School’s Ultimate Outdoor Escape"

Discover the thrill of fly fishing at Northern Fishing School, where expert-certified guides and instructors lead unforgettable experiences for all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned anglers, corporate groups, and even schoolchildren.

A Premier Fishing Destination
Nestled within North Yorkshire’s breathtaking Swinton Estate, our school offers access to stunning fishing spots, including a casting tuition lake, Leighton Reservoir, and the pristine Swinton River Ure and River Burn beats. Guests can also enjoy the luxury of Swinton Park Hotel, Swinton Bivouac, and Swinton Country Club & Spa, all part of the 20,000-acre estate.

Passion Meets Purpose
Founded in 2019 by Marina Gibson, the school is dedicated to sharing the joy of fishing as an accessible, stress-relieving escape from modern life. Whether you’re young or young at heart, fishing offers a chance to reconnect with nature and unwind.

"Unlock the Art of Fly Fishing: Northern Fishing School’s Ultimate Outdoor Escape"

Our Commitment to Inclusivity
We’re on a mission to make fishing a sport for everyone—breaking barriers and fostering a love for the outdoors. Our immersive experiences go beyond the catch, from planning your trip to reliving the day’s adventures. It’s the perfect family activity, teaching kids not just fishing skills but also a deeper respect for nature.

Tailored Experiences Await

  • Expert-guided fly fishing across diverse locations
  • Unique "Catch & Cook" packages on the Swinton Estate
  • Personalized bookings—contact Sam at +44 (0)7 984692045

Dive into the world of fly fishing with Northern Fishing School—where every cast tells a story.