Species · Coarse · Silurus glanis
Catfish (Wels)
The biggest freshwater fish in the UK. Wels catfish grow to well over 100lb and are increasingly found in major rivers and large lakes. A night-fishing species with a reputation for sudden, powerful strikes.
Where and when
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Large rivers, lakes, slow deep water |
| Best time | Night |
| Category | Specimen |
Baits and tactics
- Tactics: Leger, Bomb
- Baits and flies: Chicken livers, Mackerel strips, Eel pieces, Salmon skin
Tackle that suits
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Hooks | 8-12. Strong forged wire. Wide gape or circle |
| Mainline | 0.25-0.30mm. 12-15lb. Mono or braid - strong for heavy tackle |
| Hooklength | 0.25-0.30mm. 8-12". 20-30lb heavy mono trace |
| Shotting | Heavy flat leads 100-200g to hold bottom in deep, slow water. |
| Field notes | Night is the time - catfish feed hard after dark; Big baits: chicken livers, mackerel strips, eel pieces; They strike suddenly and hard - be ready to set the hook; Use strong tackle - 12-15lb mainline and heavy traces; Fish deep, slow water near snags and walls; Catch and release is the norm - they are non-native in the UK |
More coarse species
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