Ballan wrasse

Labris bergylta 

A beautifully coloured fish, Ballan wrasse are the biggest and most common wrasse around the Welsh coastline, but there are many similar species. 

Wrasse are daytime feeders and they can grow to around ten pounds in weight although the average is 1-4lb from the shore. Wrasse take a wide variety of baits, including ragworm, but crab is a favourite. Baits such as limpet will also work. You need to be prepared to lose your rigs as wrasse love rocky and mixed ground areas, so fish rotten bottom rigs. Wrasse are more common in West Wales, Manobier near Tenby is a noted mark with perfect wrasse habitat.