Whiting/Merlangus merlangus
Average Size – 8oz-1lb
British Record – 4lb
The whiting is a member of the cod family and has the distinctive three fins running along its back that are characteristic of all members of this family of fish. They are easily identified by the small dark spot at the base of their pectoral fins. Also, unlike other members of the cod family, they do not have a barbule underneath the chin. These fish generally have silvery white flanks with a green golden back. Larger specimens sometimes have numbers of small dark spots speckled across their backs. The whiting’s mouth is full of small, sharp teeth and care must be taken when unhooking the fish to avoid your fingers getting cut.
Whiting are commonly caught encountered in the autumn and winter months. They frequent all types of venues, except well up estuaries, and can be caught on most baits and rigs. Night fishing is certainly the best time to catch them when vast shoals come close to the shore. Worms, fish or a cocktail of baits are best, use a 2/3 hook flapper with smallish yet strong hooks for the best results. If the whiting are feeding double and triple shots of fish are not uncommon. In recent years whiting have increased in numbers and size. The bigger specimens make excellent fillet for the frying pan. Gut them as soon as possible to ensure the flesh is fresh.
British Record – 4lb
The whiting is a member of the cod family and has the distinctive three fins running along its back that are characteristic of all members of this family of fish. They are easily identified by the small dark spot at the base of their pectoral fins. Also, unlike other members of the cod family, they do not have a barbule underneath the chin. These fish generally have silvery white flanks with a green golden back. Larger specimens sometimes have numbers of small dark spots speckled across their backs. The whiting’s mouth is full of small, sharp teeth and care must be taken when unhooking the fish to avoid your fingers getting cut.
Whiting are commonly caught encountered in the autumn and winter months. They frequent all types of venues, except well up estuaries, and can be caught on most baits and rigs. Night fishing is certainly the best time to catch them when vast shoals come close to the shore. Worms, fish or a cocktail of baits are best, use a 2/3 hook flapper with smallish yet strong hooks for the best results. If the whiting are feeding double and triple shots of fish are not uncommon. In recent years whiting have increased in numbers and size. The bigger specimens make excellent fillet for the frying pan. Gut them as soon as possible to ensure the flesh is fresh.
