SPECIES PROFILE
Tope
Tope from Wicklow surf beaches, how to approach rare but memorable autumn shark sessions with safe tackle, fresh baits and strong conservation.
Eric, Greystones · Reviewed Apr 2026 · IFI-aligned
See if tope are worth targeting todayIn season
Oct to Nov
Typical size
7 to 12 kg from deep surf beaches
Conservation
Release advised
Season on the coast
Peak and catchable months from the catalogue season window, parsed for Wicklow shore fishing.
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F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
- Peak
- Catchable
- Off season
- Now
Where they live
Deep sandy ground close inshore during autumn when whiting and herring shoals run tight to beaches and channels.
What to use
Fresh whole or half mackerel · Fresh herring · Large sandeel
How to fish them
Present large, freshly caught baits on strong wire traces and heavy shore gear, allowing fish to run freely before tightening into them on big autumn tides.
Suggested gear
Starter searches matched to tactics above
Amazon UK affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See the fishing calendar for month-by-month targets.
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13ft beachcaster rod
A solid all-rounder for surf, casting and tide runs.
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6000 to 8000 fixed spool sea reel
Balanced line capacity for beach and mixed ground.
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Pulley rig ready-made pack
Fast setup for clean ground and snag avoidance.
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Crab fishing lure
Realistic crab lure for bass, works from piers, beaches and rock marks.
Wicklow marks
Bray Head Rocks, The Brandy HoleRock
Serious rock mark below Bray Head. Quality pollock and wrasse for experienced anglers only, never alone.
Greystones South BeachBeach
Accessible competition-grade town beach with reliable winter codling and close-in plaice in calm weather.
Kilcoole BeachBeach
Flat shingle beach, great for beginners. Reliable flatfish year-round; codling and coalfish through the colder months.
The MurroughBeach
Remote wild beach between sea and lagoon. Bass, mullet, sea trout in the right conditions; specialist mullet fishery on the Vartry side.
Wicklow Head, Lighthouse RocksRock
Lighthouse rocks at Wicklow Head. Deep water and severe tide rip, experienced rock anglers only. Autumn herring brings tope and conger.
Wicklow Town PierPier
Deep-water working-harbour pier. Pollack, coalfish, winter whiting; rare connection to autumn shore-tope traffic on big distance baits.
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Target tope on today's plan
Ranked marks, species windows, and gear for the Wicklow shore.