The search for big barbel and where to catch them can be very difficult, which is why we have compiled a list of some of the best rivers within the north of England to catch them
NORTH
River Aire, Bingley, W Yorks
The Myrtle Park section holds fish to over 10lb and it has been re-stocked with more barbel by the Environment Agency. Fairly shallow runs and deep pools provide fish-holding features to look out for.
Prices: £4 a day Bingley AC, Contact: 01274 59557400
Website: www.bingleyanglingclub.co.uk
River Don, Denaby Main, S Yorks
The big pool where the Dearne meets the Don is full of barbel. Luncheon meat fished over hemp always produces here.
Prices: £25 a year, Rotherham DUAA
Contact: 01709 862558
Website: www.facebook.com/rotherhamanddistrictunitedanglingfederation
River Goyt, Stockport, Cheshire
Virtually the whole river is fishable for barbel with double-figure specimens landed every season. Try the weir in Vernon Woods.
Prices: £19 a year, Stockport Federation of Anglers
Contact: 0161 366 7253
Website: www.facebook.com/Stockport-Federation-Of-Anglers-270431096491636/
River Ribble, Ribchester, Lancs
Two kilometres of single bank fishing extending from the Village to Red Bank containing plenty of barbel to around 13lb. Hair-rigged pellet on a running lead rig is a good tactic to employ on this stretch.
Contact: Something Fishy, 01524 792696
Prices: £5 from the Spar shop, Ribchester DAA
Website: www.radac.org.uk
River Rother, Beighton, S Yorks
This free to fish stretch holds plenty of fish in the 8-10lb bracket. Both trotting and leger tactics account for plenty of specimens here using baits like meat or big pellets.
Contact: Pauls Tackle, 01709 862558
Prices: Free fishing
Website: www.paulstacklecentre.com
River Wharfe, Tadcaster, N Yorks
The club holds the rights above and below the town containing some big barbel well into double-figures. The pegs below the bridge where there is cover are a good place to try.
Contact: Tadcaster APA, 01937 833262
Prices: £2.50 a day from Chocolate Box newsagents, Tadcaster Angling & Preservation Association