(Merlangius Merlangus)

The whiting is the most common sea fish around the British Isles. It rarely grows to be longer than 70cm or to weigh more than 2lb. Whiting are silver with a very distinctive black spot near the base of each pectoral fin and it has a pinkish-brown sheen across its back and the silver flanks lead to a whitish belly. Some fish have small 'black dots across the back. Whiting have three dorsal fins and two anal fins and occasionally a small barbule is visible under the chin. It has a protruding upper jaw and an array of small teeth which it uses to feed on smaller fish close to the sea bed. The whiting spawns between the months of March and June and larger females can lay many thousands of eggs. Growth in the young fish is prolific and it can double its size in two years, reaching 15-18 inches by the fourth year.

Where To Find Them

All through the coastal waters of Britain. They are also found in the North Sea and the English Channel. Whiting are usually more at home in shallower water and are caught from the shore in greater numbers than from a boat. However, boat-caught species tend to be bigger and may reach weights of 3lbs and upwards. The best spots around the UK are the Norfolk and Suffolk coasts, especially around Aldeburgh and fish to 4lb can be caught from boats in the English Channel.

When To Find Them

August through to January.

Towards the end of August the whiting start to move inshore to feed for the winter, and the best sport can be had during late evenings on a high tide from the beach or a pier. Shallow, sandy storm beaches and bays are good places for whiting in the winter.

Natural Food and Best Baits

The whiting feeds on practically any small fish but especially on sprats. Mackerel strip-baited feathers are excellent from a boat, while lugworms tipped with either squid or mackerel strip work best from the shore.

Tips and Tactics

Mackerel strip-baited feathers are excellent from a boat, while lugworms tipped with either squid or mackerel strip work best from the shore.

UK Records

Shore: 4lb

Boat: 6lb 12oz