Barbel

This species is found in fast stretches of rivers, usually in shoals over hard beds, feeding on bottom invertebrates. Recognisable by its long body, with prominent snout and ventral mouth flanked by 2 pairs of barbules. During spawning from April to July barbel often migrate upstream to gravelly shallows. The eggs stick to stones or lodge in crevices and hatch after about 2 weeks.

The current UK record is 17 lb 4 oz 0 drm, and anything over around 10 lb is considered to be a specimen. The barbel is the hardest fighting fish found in UK rivers, often known as the "kings of the river" they shoot off upstream close to the river bed when hooked. For this reason special consideration must be given to tackling up when targeting this species. As barbel are bottom feeders and prefer fast running water then legering is the best method to use. A powerful feeder rod is essential, with a main line around 6 lb and a strong specimen hook. Use a bomb or flat lead where loose offerings can be delivered by hand or a feeder when fishing at a greater distance. Enlarge the holes in the feeder when fishing hemp to allow it to flow out easily. The best baits include : meat, sweetcorn, bunches of maggots, caster and hemp.

Tip : Stalk the fish. Walk the bank looking for signs of barbel, bait likely looking spots and return later. If your earlier offerings remain untouched then move on. Travel light when adopting this approach.