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How to Rig for Plaice

Pleuronectes platessa

Plaice are orange-spotted flatfish of clean sand and shell ground around the UK and Ireland, moving inshore to feed in spring after spawning. They are attracted by movement and colour, which is why anglers add bright beads and sequins above the bait. A slow drift or a slow retrieve that lifts the bait off the sand often triggers bites.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
High-Low Rig
Best bait
Ragworm, lugworm, or peeler crab, with a few bright beads or sequins above the hook as an attractor
Where
surf, pier, boat
Typical size
10–20 in
Season
Peak season: spring, summer
#1 Best Matchbeginner

High-Low Rig

Two hooks sit above a bottom weight so bait hovers just off the sand. Simple to tie and easy to re-rig on the beach, which makes it the standard starting point for surf and pier fishing.

Main line
12-15 lb monofilament
Leader
15 lb fluorocarbon
Hooks
#2 - 1/0 long-shank hook
Weight
Grip lead, 3 - 5oz
Leader length
8in from main line to each hook
Sinker drop
4-6in from bottom swivel to sinker
Open complete guideSee alternatives
Bait guidance
Ragworm, lugworm, or peeler crab, with a few bright beads or sequins above the hook as an attractor
High-Low surf fishing rig visual guide showing line, swivels, hooks, sinker, bait, target species, and recommended tackleView full visual guide →
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
Fish-Finder Rig
The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance.
View rig →
Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗GOV.UK / local fisheries authorities ↗Inland Fisheries Ireland ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Plaice?

The High-Low Rig is the top recommendation for Plaice. Two hooks sit above a bottom weight so bait hovers just off the sand. Simple to tie and easy to re-rig on the beach, which makes it the standard starting point for surf and pier fishing.

What bait works for Plaice?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Plaice.

When is the best time to catch Plaice?

Peak season: spring, summer. Typical size runs 10–20 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Plaice?

Plaice is caught while surf, pier, boat fishing. Plaice are orange-spotted flatfish of clean sand and shell ground around the UK and Ireland, moving inshore to feed in spring after spawning. They are attracted by movement and colour, which is why anglers add bright beads and sequins above the bait. A slow drift or a slow retrieve that lifts the bait off the sand often triggers bites.