Barbus Barbus, commonly known simply as barbel is a freshwater fish found in waters all over Europe. Fishing for barbel is very popular. They are known as real fighters and having one on the hook is pure enjoyment. In the article that’s in front of you, I’ll cover some of the techniques I am using to find the best spot where barbel bites can be expected. So read on and find out where to fish for barbel, once you are through with this text, you’ll be able to call yourself a real barbel hunter!
Understanding the Behavior of Barbel
Barbels are bottom feeders, they use their four barbels to feel and smell food before taking it. They forage in the river bed, typically facing the current to stay in the same position. Their downward-curved mouth helps them in their feeding habits, allowing them to easily sift through the river bed for food.
When it comes to spawning, barbel typically breed during the warmer months, with the peak spawning season occurring in late spring to early summer. They prefer to spawn in shallow water with fast currents, often over gravel or rocky areas. During this time, male barbel will vigorously defend their spawning territories, which can lead to aggressive behaviors towards other fish. Understanding the spawning habits can help anglers locate barbel hotspots where they may be congregating during this time. Just remember, if you catch them during spawning season, ensure that you follow all catch and release rules.
In their day-to-day habits, barbel are often found near structures such as weeds, overhanging trees, and gravel patches where they can find cover and food. They are known to be most active during low light conditions, such as early morning or late evening, making these ideal times for fishing. Barbels are highly adapted to fast-flowing rivers, so targeting areas with faster water and good oxygenation can increase your chances of a successful catch. By observing and understanding all of the above, you can improve your chances of landing this prized fish.
4 Ultimate Locations Where You Should Fish for Barbel and Why
Why Fish for Barbel In Weirs
Barbels are attracted to weirs because the weir sills provide them with cover and plenty of oxygen. These areas create a washing machine effect where bits of food get trapped under the sills, making it easy for the barbel to feed. While the current on the surface may appear strong, the current underneath the weirpool sills travels in the opposite direction, making it an ideal feeding spot for barbel.
Anglers often overlook these areas, but they are fantastic locations to target barbel due to the balance between food and cover that they provide. Weirs offer a perfect environment for barbel to thrive and grow. This makes them popular hotspots for anglers seeking to catch these prized fish.
Why Fish for Barbel In Undercut Banks
Barbel fishing in undercut banks is a good because these areas provide natural cover and protection for the fish. Barbels are known to seek out areas with overhanging vegetation or undercut banks where they can hide from predators and ambush their prey. By targeting these spots, anglers have a higher chance of encountering barbel and enticing them to take the bait. Additionally, undercut banks often create eddies and slower-moving pockets of water where barbel can conserve energy while remaining in a prime feeding position. This makes it easier for anglers to present their barbel bait effectively and attract the attention of ones nearby.
Moreover, fishing in undercut banks allows anglers to take advantage of the natural flow of the river. Barbels adapt to living in strong-flow waters. Undercut banks often create turbulent and oxygen-rich environments that attract these fish. By positioning themselves strategically along the bank and casting their rigs into these areas, anglers can capitalize on the natural feeding behavior of barbel.
Why Fish for Barbel In Shallow Glides
As previously mentioned, barbels adapt to fast-flowing rivers and often inhabit low, clear water conditions near shallow areas. By targeting these speedy shallows, you have a higher chance of locating barbel, especially when there is cover provided by weeds or overhanging trees.
Furthermore, targeting weed and gravel patches in shallow glides can attract barbel. They can sit in these areas without expending much effort while still having access to oxygen and food. By using a mix of particle baits and ground bait to draw barbel into the swim, anglers can increase their chances of success. Both of these have shown to be effective bait for barbel. At least when it comes to drawing them and keeping them at the one feeding spot
Why Fish For Barbel In Deep Pools
Fishing in deep pools of water can be a good idea when targeting barbel because these areas can provide shelter and security for the fish. Barbel may seek refuge in deep holes, especially during colder months or when water levels are higher than usual.
Deep pools of water can also be beneficial for barbel fishing as they can act as natural feeding grounds. Barbels are known to be bottom feeders, and deeper pools may accumulate a variety of food items such as insects, crustaceans, and other natural bait sources. Fishing in deep pools can increase the chances of attracting barbel to your bait and hook, as they may be actively searching for food in these areas. Of course, this can result in some memorable catches.
5 Barbel Tips for Landing Your Biggest Catch
- Use Luncheon Meat, Pellets, and Maggots as Hook Baits
Using luncheon meat, larger pellets, and maggots as hook baits is effective because they are all high in protein and have strong smells that can attract barbel to your hook. The different textures and flavors can appeal to a variety of tastes, increasing your chances of catching fish - Use Feeders
Use feeders for barbel fishing to attract them to your bait and keep them in the swim. Feeders help distribute your bait effectively and consistently, increasing your chances of catching a barbel. They also allow you to present your bait close to the bottom. That’s where barbel like to feed, making it easier for them to find and bite on your hook. - Use Strong Hooks
When fishing for barbel, it is important to use strong hooks to ensure a successful catch. Barbels are powerful fish. Once hooked, they impress with their remarkable resistance. Thus I encourage using strong hooks, such as sizes 10-14, which can help prevent them from breaking free. Strong hooks also provide the durability needed to handle the strength and force of a barbel bite. Since hooks are one of the most important pieces of fishing gear, learn how to keep fish hooks from rusting. - Look for Tree Roots as Well
When targeting barbel, be sure to look for them near tree roots in the water. Barbels are known to seek shelter and cover in these areas, making them prime feeding spots. By fishing near tree roots, you increase your chances of hooking into a trophy-sized barbel. - Water Temperatures Between 6 and 10 Celsius are Best
When water temperatures range between 6 and 10 degrees Celsius, it is the ideal time for barbel fishing. During this period, barbel are more active and willing to feed, making them easier to catch. The cooler water temperatures encourage the fish to be more active and search for food. Of course, this will result in more successful fishing trips.