Night Fishing from Irish Shores: Complete Guide

Why night fishing produces more fish

Shore fishing after dark consistently produces better results than daylight sessions for most Wicklow species. Bass lose their caution in low light and move into very shallow water they would avoid during the day. Whiting, dogfish and rockling are predominantly nocturnal feeders. Even at busy marks like Greystones Harbour, the crowds disappear at dusk and the fish move in. If you have only ever fished during daylight hours, fishing your first proper night session will be a revelation.

Species to target at night

Essential night fishing gear

Safety at night

Night fishing requires more care than daytime sessions. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Never fish alone on rock marks at night, the combination of darkness, swell and slippery surfaces makes this genuinely dangerous. On beaches, set up well above the high water mark and be aware of where the tide is heading. Check the tide times before you go and know your exit route.

Railway crossings on marks like Kilcoole and Greystones South Beach require extreme care at night, trains run through the night and the lights and sound can be disorienting in the dark. Always stop, look and listen before crossing, and close the gates behind you.

Best night marks on the Wicklow coast

Greystones Harbour is the best starting point for night fishing, well lit, accessible, safe and productive for bass, whiting and dogfish. Kilcoole Beach on an autumn night tide (falling bite on this shingle stretch) is the premier night bass mark. The Murrough produces consistent whiting and dogfish on winter nights. Brittas Bay evening sessions from September onwards regularly produce bass and smoothhound into the dark hours.