◀ Locations

Long Strand

West Cork (Castlefreke) · shore · ⭐ Beginner-friendly

Fish you'll catch here

FlounderBass

How to fish it

Surf FishingSpinning

Gear & bait

Bass BeachcasterBeginner spinning setup LugwormRagwormPeeler CrabMetal lures

When to go

Spring–autumn (April–October) · Low water and the first of the ebb

Long Strand is one of the most scenic beaches on the West Cork coast, a broad arc of sand backed by the Castlefreke woodland estate. The main beach is an accessible and enjoyable surf fishing mark from spring through to autumn, and a pleasant choice for families and novice anglers willing to keep safe distance from heavy surf. Flounder are the most reliable species, taken on lugworm or ragworm at low water and on the early ebb as fish push into the surf wash; bass feed through the surf on the flooding tide with peeler crab and worm, and anglers should check current bass regulations with IFI before keeping any bass.

The western end of the strand transitions to rock, and it is here that spinning becomes an option at low water — elevated positions above the rock faces allow metal lures to be worked across the tide for bass that hug the rock edges as the water drops. This section requires a short walk along the strand and a more careful approach than the open beach, with wet rocks underfoot and the need to assess conditions before committing to any exposed position. In calm weather it provides a useful complement to the main beach fishing, extending the range of techniques and species available at a single venue.

Where it is