Abu – Swedish based tackle manufacturers, known for their shore reels.

Adipose Fin – A small fleshy lump which appears behind the dorsal fin on game fish such as salmon and trout.

Aeration tank – A tank or container used to keep bait alive by pumping a supply of air or fresh sea water into it. Also known as a livebait tank or well or vivier.

Amnesia – A low memory fishing line which recovers from twists when tensioned particularly good for hook snoods.

Anadromous – Fish that hatch and rear in fresh water then migrate to the sea to grow and mature. They then return to fresh water to spawn and reproduce. The salmon is the most common of this type of fish.

Anal fin – The fin behind the vent.

Angler – Anyone who uses a rod and line for fishing. Those who fish for sport in saltwater are known as recreational sea anglers.

Angling Trust – The governing body for sea angling in England. Selects international teams for Home Internationals and CIPS events.

Anti-kink – A device which helps to prevent line twist when spinning.

Artificial – Any bait which is man-made, may be plastic, wood or metal.