Scabbacombe Sands Fishing

Last updated: 1 week ago

Scabbacombe Sands Fishing Map

A secluded sand-and-shingle cove between Brixham and Kingswear with kelp-fringed rocks at both ends. Mixed ground offers float and lure fishing along the rocky margins and ledgering onto sandy patches from the beach. Best on a flooding tide into dusk; summer brings mackerel, scad and garfish, while wrasse and pollack are reliable around the rocks. A small stream can draw in thick-lipped mullet. Access is via a steep coast path (National Trust), so travel light and watch swell on the rock ledges.

Ratings

⭐ 6.5/10 Overall
Catch Potential 6/10
Species Variety 8/10
Scenery & Comfort 9/10
Safety 5/10
Accessibility 4/10

Fish You Can Catch at Scabbacombe Sands

🐟 Bass 8/10
🎯 Tip: Work lures or crab baits along surfy gutters on a flooding tide; best at dawn/dusk after a blow; short casts from the sand.
🐟 Ballan Wrasse 8/10
🎯 Tip: Fish crab or worm baits tight to kelp-covered rocks at either end; mid-tide up in summer-autumn; use strong gear and abrasion leaders.
🐟 Pollack 7/10
🎯 Tip: Cast soft plastics or metal jigs from the rocky points at dusk into dark; retrieve midwater; best on the flood.
🐟 Mackerel 7/10
🎯 Tip: Feathers or spinners from the points on clear summer evenings; follow the flood; stay mobile to find shoals.
🐟 Pouting 6/10
🎯 Tip: Small worm or fish baits into rough ground at dusk/night; short casts near the rocks; fish the flood to high.
🐟 Lesser Spotted Dogfish 6/10
🎯 Tip: Small fish or squid baits cast onto the clean sand at night; 1-2 hours either side of high water.
🐟 Scad (Horse Mackerel) 6/10
🎯 Tip: Tiny metals or sabikis tipped with mackerel at dusk/night in late summer-autumn; work midwater from the rocks.
🐟 Garfish 6/10
🎯 Tip: Float small slivers of mackerel or sandeel over weed lines on the flood in clear water; summer into early autumn.
🐟 Whiting 5/10
🎯 Tip: Night sessions in late autumn-winter; small fish or squid baits to the sand; best around high water on the flood.
🐟 Conger Eel 5/10
🎯 Tip: Big fish or squid baits lowered into rocky gullies at night; hold the rod; low to mid tide into the flood.

Scabbacombe Sands Fishing

Summary

Scabbacombe Sands is a secluded, south-coast cove between Brixham and Kingswear in South Devon, reached via the South West Coast Path. Clear water over sand with rocky flanks makes it a versatile mark for bass, rays, huss, wrasse and summer pelagics. It rewards the fit, patient angler with quiet sessions, light-tackle sport and quality night fishing.

Location and Access

Tucked between Sharkham Point and Man Sands, Scabbacombe is best approached via the National Trust car park at the end of Scabbacombe Lane near Hillhead. The final access is on foot: a steep countryside path and steps lead down to the beach, so travel light and plan your return in daylight if you can.

Seasons

This cove fishes differently by season, with sandy-bottom species in the middle and rock species off the flanks. Expect small stuff by day and better fish at dusk into darkness.

Methods

Fish the sand for bass, rays and flatfish, and the rocks for wrasse and pollack. Clear water rewards finesse; a bit of colour invites bigger baits for predators.

Tides and Conditions

Like many South Devon coves, Scabbacombe fishes best on a pushing tide into dusk, with a modest onshore ripple. Too much swell can pin you back; gin-clear, flat seas call for finesse or lures.

Safety

This is a wild, unlifeguarded beach with a steep access path and rocky margins. Treat it like a remote mark and plan conservatively.

Facilities

There are no on-beach amenities, which helps keep Scabbacombe quiet. Go self-sufficient and allow time for the walk back.

Tips

A little local knowledge goes a long way here—read the beach and adjust to the conditions.

Regulations

Shore angling is permitted at Scabbacombe Sands. Always follow national and local bylaws, and check for updates before your trip.