Compton Bay

This bay, noted for its Bass fishing sweeps from the chalk cliffs in the west to Hanover point in the east.It is a shallow,gently shelving beach mainly of sand,although the bottom changes regularly and at times is scoured clean,revealing ridges of hard bedrock.
Fishing at Hanover point or beneath the chalk cliffs,amongst the rocks and using ragworm or crab bait will produce small wrasse,rockling and school bass.Using a large fish bait will tempt a better bass.
Towards the centre of the bay is where most of the larger bass are caught.This area will also produce painted rays during the summer and autumn.Sandeel,mackerel and cuttlefish are popular baits amongst the locals.Best results usually come when conditions are fairly rough and on a flooding tide.
During the summer this bay is very popular with bathers and surfers,so fishing is best left until after dark when the crowds have departed.