Because August is just the start of the webfoot octopus season, you must pinpoint the timing and conditions of the outing to avoid loss. In particular, the key points across the West Sea—Ocheon, Namdang, and Anmyeondo—have near‑optimal temperature and depth, making them the most favorable for a first outing.

01First webfoot octopus season – when is it optimal?

webfoot octopus are active in water temperatures of 14 ~ 18 °C and depths of 30 ~ 80 m. The average August temperature ranges from 15 ~ 17 °C depending on the area, a pre‑season stage approaching the peak season of September ~ November. Therefore, when the temperature rises above 16 °C by late August, the golden time begins.

Temperature range
14–18℃
Depth range
30–80m
Recommended line sizes
3 ~ 5‑go (PE)
Recommended hook
8 ~ 12‑go (carbon)
⏱ webfoot octopus golden time
Sunset − 2 h
Temperature reaches its low point and begins to rise slowly
Sunset ± 1 h
Temperature hits its peak, activity spikes dramatically
Sunset + 2 h
Temperature gradually declines, catch efficiency drops

02Key point‑by‑point tide and rig strategy

At Ocheon, Namdang, and Anmyeondo, weak currents during dawn and dusk tides stimulate webfoot octopus feeding activity. Boat eging drifts a small bait on the surface to attract fish eyes, while boat down‑shot drops the bait directly near the bottom.

⚠ Common Mistakes
  1. Boat slip prevention When the water is calm, stand on the footboard and replace the eging hook.
  2. Eging hook injury: Wearing gloves is recommended when changing hooks.

03Safety checklist and pre‑outing preparation

Boat slip accidents are caused by sudden wave changes and water flow. Before heading out, verify life‑jacket wear, vessel mooring condition, and hand‑protection gear for hook changes.

Also, monitor wave‑height and wind‑speed information from the Korea Meteorological Administration in real time to prepare for rapid weather changes.

West Sea overall
Ocheon · Namdang · Anmyeondo
30–80m
August

04Practical application examples and expected yields

In early August, a 4‑hour eging session at Namdang yields an average of 1.5 kg per m², or 2 ~ 3 webfoot octopus. Adding boat down‑shot can bring an extra 0.8 kg per m², or 1 ~ 2 webfoot octopus per hour.

The highest efficiency occurs when the temperature is 16 °C, depth 45 m, and the tide is within two hours of sunset.

Before heading out, always check the latest notices on the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Fisheries Information Portal for area‑ and year‑specific regulations, and comply with closed seasons and minimum size limits.