Winter Whiting Fishing at Holyhead Marina: The Ultimate Cold-Season Guide

By Kyle from AnglerApproved.co.uk

Winter in North Wales hits hard — icy winds, dark afternoons, and that unmistakable chill that creeps into your bones. But if you’re an angler, you know winter isn't just a season… it’s whiting season. And there are few better places to target them than Holyhead Marina.

Holyhead Marina is a sheltered, convenient, and incredibly productive venue for winter fishing. When the temperatures drop, the whiting move in thick and fast. If you’re chasing numbers, steady bites, and the chance of the odd bonus codling or pollack, this spot delivers.

Why Holyhead Marina Is a Winter Whiting Hotspot

Holyhead Marina offers a unique mix of features that suit whiting perfectly:

• Deep water right under your feet – No need to cast far.

• Sheltered from harsh conditions – You can fish even in bad winter weather.

• Consistent baitfish presence – Lights from the marina draw in food sources, and whiting follow.

• Easy access – Parking, flat surfaces, and plenty of safe fishing positions.

On many winter nights, anglers report non-stop action, with triple-shots of whiting being common.

Best Times to Fish

Whiting in Holyhead Marina are most active during:

• Dusk through night – Lights attract them.

• Flood tide – The incoming tide pushes fish into the marina.

• Colder months (November–February) – Peak season.

If you want the highest chances, aim for 2 hours before high tide to 2 hours after.

The Best Rigs for Winter Whiting

Whiting aren’t fussy — but the right rig helps you turn a busy session into a haul.

1. 2–3 Hook Flapper / Paternoster

The go-to rig for Holyhead Marina.

• Size #2 to #4 hooks

• 20–30lb mono rig body

• Small beads added for attraction (optional)

2. Mini Hokkai or Sabiki Rigs

Perfect if you want fast-paced action.

3. Small Boom Rigs

Helps stop tangles when the tide run picks up.

Bait: What Works Best in Winter

Whiting are scavengers and will smash almost anything, but these baits stand out:

• Fresh black lugworm – The king winter bait.

• Frozen black lug – Still excellent.

• Mackerel strips – Cheap and super effective.

• Squid slivers – Stays on the hook well.

• Ragworm – Great for daylight sessions.

Tip: At Holyhead Marina, a cocktail of lug + mackerel often out-fishes any single bait.

How to Fish the Marina for Maximum Success

1. Don’t cast far

Most whiting are literally 10–25 yards out.

2. Keep rigs moving

Retrieve slightly every couple of minutes – the movement triggers hits.

3. Strike quickly

Whiting are notorious for biting fast and dropping baits. Stay alert.

4. Try weighting down your rod tip

The marina can bounce in windy conditions. A slightly heavier rod tip helps spot bites.

5. Fish two rods if possible

Winter whiting are all about numbers — double rods = double fun.

Other Species You Might Catch

While whiting dominate winter sessions, Holyhead Marina also produces:

• Codling (especially after storms)

• Pollack (on small lures or baited rigs)

• Coalies

• Dogfish

• Occasional conger eels

Codling often take lugworm baits intended for whiting — keep a heavier rod handy just in case!

Safety Tips for Winter Sessions

Holyhead Marina is generally safe, but winter conditions can be harsh:

• Wear non-slip boots

• Bring plenty of warm layers

• Keep your gear organised to avoid tripping in the dark

• Check tides — the marina can rise quickly

• Bring a headtorch with spare batteries

And always let someone know you're fishing there.

Final Thoughts

Winter whiting fishing at Holyhead Marina is perfect for anglers of all levels. Whether you're looking for a fun family session or a fast-paced solo night, the marina delivers reliable, exciting winter sport. With the right rigs and a few lugworm in the bait tray, you can expect constant bites and a real bend in the rod.