FAQs
Can I use king prawn as bait for sea fishing in the UK?
Yes. King prawns are a popular bait for a variety of UK saltwater species, especially when targeting flatfish, bass, cod, and wrasse. Both raw and cooked prawns can catch fish, though raw tends to stay on the hook better.
Do I need to peel king prawns before using them as bait?
It depends on the presentation. Some anglers peel the prawn to release more scent into the water, while others leave the shell on for durability. If crabs are stripping your bait quickly, leaving the shell on can help.
How do I hook a king prawn for sea fishing?
Thread the hook through the tail and out through the body for a secure hold. For larger baits, you can use elasticated bait thread to keep the prawn firm on the hook.
Are shop-bought prawns as good as specialised bait prawns?
Supermarket prawns are often pre-cooked and deshelled. Pre-cooked prawns lose much of their natural scent, in some pre-packaged King Prawn, enzymes or mild chemical baths are used to soften the shell and make peeling easier which makes them less effective as bait especially if they are marinated in chilli and garlic, cod don’t respond well to them...
