Firstly, it is illegal to dig bait for commercial use and therefore in commercial quantities. A special license is required for this activity. Otherwise, for the majority of us who are just collecting for our own use, here are some thoughts when setting out to dig :

There may be local bylaws in place regarding bait collecting and also access to certain areas of the coast - find out what bylaws if any, are in place before your trip and adhere to them.

Bear in mind that any bait you dig has its place in that natural habitat and the food chain and removing creatures for bait causes a certain amount of disruption. Avoid disrupting this natural habitat any more than you have to by removing only what you need and carefully returning any unused bait if possible.

For the same reason, back fill all holes and carefully replace upturned boulders. By leaving boulders overturned the natural habitat of the animals and plants that reside on and around it is seriously disrupted and it is likely that they will die.

Do not take green spawning worms or those under 100 mm long, Razor fish under 100mm and mussels under 45mm. These, as far as we are aware, are the current minimum legal size limits for using these species as bait.

Don't dig for bait around moorings, slipways or sea walls not only for safety reasons but it is very likely to upset other shore users and property owners in that area.

Avoid disturbing birds whenever possible